On the way to Kanyakumari, at Thuckalay, just 64 Km away from Trivandrum district of Kerala, situates the famous Padmanabhapuram Palace, a wooden marvelous feat. Displaying an indigenous Kerala style of architecture and designs, the Padmanabhapuram Palace was once a flourishing capital of the powerful Venad Kingdom which later became popular as the erstwhile princely state of Travancore.

The palace is believed to have been built around 1601 CE by Iravi Varma Kulasekhara Perumal who was the ruler of the Venad Kingdom and it was again rebuilt by King Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma. Padmanabhapuram Palace is owned by the Government of Kerala despite the region comes under the State premises of Tamil Nadu. The intricate rosewood carvings, astounding sculptures and murals of this Palace makes it an outstanding wonder made up of wood. Offering splendid sights, the Padmanabhapuram Palace is an extraordinary place to visit that upholds the culture and tradition of Kerala. The Durbar Hall whose floors are made of a mix of egg white, jaggery, lime, burnt coconut, charcoal and river sand, hanging brass lanterns that have been continuously lit since the 18th century, the temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi, the famous medicinal bed in the King’s bedroom, the secret underground passages, mural paintings, pictures of Lord Krishna, and open-air swimming baths, are some of the splendors of this palace.

What is Special

• Padmanabhapuram Palace, a magnificent 16th century old wooden architectural marvel is the pride of Kerala.
• Padmanabhapuram Palace served as the royal seat of the erstwhile rulers of Travancore.
• Padmanabhapuram Palace is a unique masterpiece that maintains the traditional culture and values of Kerala architecture.
• The black granite floor with excellent floral carvings is simply mind-blowing.
• Padmanabhapuram Palace houses amazing murals that date back to the 17th and 18th century.
• There is a small temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi in the vicinity of Padmanabhapuram Palace.

What you will experience

The magnificently built wooden mansion reflects the typical Kerala style architecture at the very first sight of it. A brass lamp hung from the beautifully carved wooden ceiling with a knight on horseback is the first thing you notice as you enter the great Padmanabhapuram Palace. At the hall or the Poomukham of the Palace, you can see a bed built of seven pieces of polished granite, a Chinese chair and "Onavillu". The ceilings of the Padmanabhapuram Palace are adorned with intricate carvings of about 90 varieties of flowers. You will be amazed at the murals of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna embellishing the prayer hall. The Navarathri Mandapam astonishes everyone with its unparallel architecture. The glossy black floor of the Durbar hall, though looks like a granite floor, is really a surprise to know that it was made of a mix of jaggery, egg white, lime, burnt coconut, charcoal and river sand.

Best time to visit

November to May is regarded as the best time to visit Padmanabhapuram Palace.

Visiting Information:

Timing: 9 AM to 12:30 PM and 2 PM to 4:30 PM.
Closed on Mondays and national holidays.

Way to Reach

 By Air - Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport to Padmanabhapuram Palace which is situated at a distance of 56.2 Km.

 By Rail - Nagercoil Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Padmanabhapuram Palace which is situated at a distance of 16.6 Km.

By Bus: Nagercoil Bus Station is the nearest bus station to Padmanabhapuram Palace which is situated at a distance of 15 Km.

FAQs about Padmanabhapuram Palace

Where is Padmanabhapuram Palace located?

Padmanabhapuram Palace is situated in Thuckalay, on the way to Kanyakumari, approximately 64 km from Trivandrum district in Kerala.

What is the historical significance of Padmanabhapuram Palace?

Built around 1601 CE, Padmanabhapuram Palace was once the capital of the Venad Kingdom and later became associated with the princely state of Travancore. It reflects the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.

What architectural style is Padmanabhapuram Palace known for?

Padmanabhapuram Palace showcases traditional Kerala architecture, featuring intricate rosewood carvings, murals, and a unique design that emphasizes local craftsmanship.

What are some notable features of Padmanabhapuram Palace?

Key highlights of Padmanabhapuram Palace include the Durbar Hall with its unique flooring, a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi, beautiful murals depicting Hindu deities, and secret underground passages.

Is Padmanabhapuram Palace accessible to visitors?

Yes, Padmanabhapuram Palace is open to visitors, allowing them to explore its rich history and architectural beauty.

Is there an entry fee to visit Padmanabhapuram Palace?

Yes, there is an entry fee to visit Padmanabhapuram Palace. The fees are as follows:
• Adults: ₹ 35
• Children: ₹ 10
• Foreign citizens: ₹ 300 for adults and ₹ 100 for children