Kuthiramalika Palace Museum Thiruvananthapuram
Historic palace showcasing Kerala's royal grandeur, intricate wooden architecture, and artifacts from the Travancore dynasty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Kuthiramalika Palace Museum Thiruvananthapuram
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic palace showcasing Kerala's royal grandeur, intricate wooden architecture, and artifacts from the Travancore dynasty.
"Wandered through the timeless corridors of Kuthira Malika Palace Museum, where every teakwood beam whispers tales of Travancore’s royal legacy."
👟 Remove Shoes Outside
Be ready to leave your footwear at the entrance; the ground can get very hot.
💰 Understand the Fees
Entry, mobile, and camera use all have separate charges. Some find the photography fee steep.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Horse Motifs
Exterior and interior
Admire the 122 intricately carved wooden horses adorning the palace, giving it its unique name.
Royal Artifacts
Museum exhibits
Explore a collection of antique royal treasures, including Kathakali mannequins and historical items.
Traditional Kerala Architecture
Entire palace structure
Marvel at the exquisite wooden architecture, elaborate carvings, and murals showcasing Kerala's craftsmanship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Footwear Fiasco & Fees
Timing is Key for History Buffs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Remove Shoes Outside
Be ready to leave your footwear at the entrance; the ground can get very hot.
💰 Understand the Fees
Entry, mobile, and camera use all have separate charges. Some find the photography fee steep.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
Enhance your visit with a guide to learn the rich history and details of the artifacts.
🐎 Admire the Horse Motifs
The palace is named for its 122 wooden horse carvings – don't miss them!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Remove Shoes Outside
Be ready to leave your footwear at the entrance; the ground can get very hot.
💰 Understand the Fees
Entry, mobile, and camera use all have separate charges. Some find the photography fee steep.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
Enhance your visit with a guide to learn the rich history and details of the artifacts.
🐎 Admire the Horse Motifs
The palace is named for its 122 wooden horse carvings – don't miss them!
📸 Photography Rules
Photography inside is prohibited, but outside photography fees are sometimes questioned.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the palace's stunning traditional Kerala architecture and the historical artifacts from the Travancore royal family. The intricate wooden carvings and the unique horse motifs are frequently praised. However, some find the entry and photography fees excessive, and the requirement to remove footwear on hot ground can be uncomfortable.
"Th only thing you will like is the palace architecture.. there is an entry fee fo adults and even a mobile phone and camera. The palace is empty from inside, the rooms are empty without any artifacts except for some old furniture and 10 odd paintings.. the worst part is that management expects visitors to remove their footwear outside at the entry gate and no arrangement are made for their comfort.. the floor is very hot and my kids for skin burns.. request to management, you are taking a user convenience fee, pls think about visitors comfort."
Vishal Pandita
"Stepped into Royalty at Kuthira Malika 🐎🏛️
Wandered through the timeless corridors of Kuthira Malika Palace Museum, where every teakwood beam and intricate carving whispers tales of Travancore’s royal legacy. The 122 wooden horse motifs, the traditional Kerala architecture, and the antique royal treasures made it a walk through history—majestic and serene. A must-visit for anyone drawn to heritage, art, and regal charm."
Aesthetic Traveler
"I visited there on weekday. Less crowded than usual, and it kept really need clean. Staffs and helpful, they kept the place beautiful with grass and plants. Guide available and they'll tell you about everything. The ticket cost 70/- and with chithralayam ticket it's 100. Old sculptures, guns, decorative items and things used in the palace iss kept here. Some of them is over 1000 years old and it's really exciting to visit to such a place. Overall enjoyed a lot. The inside photography cost 500 and I think that's reasonable, if all the items is real!! And I don't understand why 50 rupees for outside photography. Because you can click photos without a ticket, there's no one there to question it or asking ticket for photography outside. So I think that's not necessary at all. Overall a good experience. You can visit there sometime while visiting sreepadmanabha swmy temple, it situated nearly, especially if you're an history buff."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kuthiramalika Palace Museum is conveniently located near the East Fort area in Thiruvananthapuram, adjacent to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. You can reach it by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or local bus from various parts of the city.
The palace is situated in a central location, making it accessible. However, be prepared for the requirement to remove footwear at the entrance, which can be a consideration for some visitors.
Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available for convenient travel within Thiruvananthapuram. Local buses are also an option for budget-conscious travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are separate entry fees for adults, mobile phones, and cameras. Some visitors have noted that the photography fee, especially for outside shots, might not be necessary.
Advance booking is generally not required, but visiting on a weekday can help avoid crowds. Check the official website or inquire locally for any specific booking recommendations.
The palace museum is typically open from morning to evening. It's advisable to check the latest timings before your visit, as they can vary.
Yes, there is often a combined ticket option that includes entry to the Chithralayam, which can be more economical if you plan to visit both.
Information on concessions is not widely available in online discussions. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival for any applicable discounts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a museum showcasing artifacts from the Travancore Royal Family, including Kathakali mannequins, antique furniture, paintings, and historical items.
Photography is generally prohibited inside the museum to protect the artifacts. However, outside photography might have a separate fee.
The palace is a prime example of traditional Kerala architecture, featuring intricate wooden carvings, murals, and distinctive roof designs. 
A thorough exploration, especially with a guided tour, can take over an hour and a half to appreciate all the exhibits and architectural details.
While the palace offers historical insights, the hot ground when removing footwear can be uncomfortable for children. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities within the palace museum itself. However, numerous eateries and restaurants are available in the surrounding East Fort area.
You can find a variety of local Kerala cuisine, snacks, and beverages in the vicinity. Explore the bustling streets around the East Fort for authentic dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum. There is a separate fee for photography outside the palace, though some visitors question its necessity.
The exterior of the palace, with its unique architecture and horse motifs, offers excellent opportunities for photography. The surrounding areas near the Padmanabhaswamy Temple also provide scenic backdrops.
Some visitors find the ₹500 fee for inside photography (if permitted) or ₹50 for outside photography to be excessive, especially given the nature of the exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
+1 The museum's collection of royal artifacts provides valuable insights into the Travancore dynasty's legacy. Opting for a guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical context and the stories behind the exhibits. 📸 Photography Lovers
+1 Be mindful of the photography fee for outside shots, which some visitors find questionable. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Name and the Horses
+2These horse motifs are not just decorative; they are integral to the palace's aesthetic and historical narrative. Visitors often marvel at the craftsmanship and the sheer number of these carvings, which contribute significantly to the palace's unique identity. The presence of these horses is a constant reminder of the palace's regal past and the artistic heritage it represents.
A Glimpse into Royal Life
Exploring the museum, especially with a guided tour, allows visitors to understand the historical significance of each item. The guides often share engaging stories and facts, making the experience more immersive and educational. While photography inside is restricted, the visual experience of seeing these heirlooms in their original setting is captivating and offers a tangible connection to Kerala's rich history.
Architectural Marvel of Kerala
+1The design emphasizes harmony with nature and functionality, featuring spacious courtyards and well-ventilated rooms. The distinctive horse motifs are seamlessly integrated into the architectural elements, further enhancing its unique aesthetic. Walking through the palace feels like stepping back in time, with every beam and carving telling a story of heritage and artistry.
+1
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