Kuthiramalika Palace Museum

Also known as Puthenmalika

Kuthiramalika Palace or Puthenmalika (the new mansion) is situated on the south-eastern side of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. This wooden architectural delight was built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal, the ruler of the erstwhile princely state of Travancore. Kuthiramalika, which literally means Horse Bungalow, takes its name from the roof beams that are carved to resemble the faces of horses.

This rare specimen of workmanship in traditional Travancore style of architecture has exquisite woodcarvings. A portion of the palace is converted into a museum which has on display paintings, ornaments and artifacts of the royal family. Swathi Thirunal’s ivory throne, marble idols, Chinese artifacts and rare musical instruments are kept in the museum. The 16 rooms in the palace feature 16 different patterns.

The Swathi Sangeethotsavam (a 7-day music festival), conducted in the front courtyard at Kuthiramalika, is regarded as one of the best music festivals in South India. Navratri concerts are also held in the nearby mandapam complex. A private discrete passage is believed to connect the Padmanabhaswamy Temple with this palace.

The palace is open all days except Mondays between 8:30 am – 12:30 pm and 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm.

Location

Near Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, East Fort, Thiruvananthapuram
Tel: 0471-2473952

Nearest Bus Station:Thiruvananthapuram Central Bus Station
Nearest Railway Station:Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station
Nearest Airport:Trivandrum International Airport