Kuthiramalika Palace Museum

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum also called as Puthenmalika palace is one of the important tourist attractions of Thiruvananthapuram. Kuthiramalika Palace Museum was made by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma in the year 1800, to promote the traditional art forms of India. Kuthira Malika is most popularly Museum also known as the name Puthen Malika Palace. The palace gets its name from the 122 horses that are carved into the wooden wall brackets that support the southern roof. The palace museum displays paintings and various priceless collections of the royal family and is located near the Padmanabha Swamy Temple. A musical tree that reproduces the seven ‘swards’ or notes of Carnatic music when tapped is a major draw. The Kuthira Malika palace has been visualized in many films.

Visiting hours: Open 8.30 -1:00 PM and 03:00 PM to 05:30 PM.Closed on Mondays.

Kuthira Malika is a fine example of traditional Kerala architecture with its typical sloping roofs, overhanging eaves, pillared verandahs and enclosed courtyards. The palace has a large collection of idols and sculptures made from white marble.The palace has on display two royal thrones, one made of ivory and the other of Bohemian crystal with the Tranvancore emblem ‘conch’ adorning the top of the backrest. The collection includes Kathakali mannequins, Belgian mirrors, crystal chandeliers, paintings, armaments, musical instruments, traditional furniture and other artifacts.Intricate carvings adorn the wooden ceilings with each room having a distinctive pattern.The courtyard of Kuthira Malika is the venue for Swathi Sangeethotsavam, a yearly music festival commemorating the legacy of Swathi Thirunal.

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum Map