Krishnapuram Palace - Kayamkulam Palace

The 18th century Krishnapuram Palace was built during the rule of the Travancore monarch ‘Marthanda Varma’. It is a double storied structure that displays typical characteristics of Kerala architecture like gabled roofs, dormer windows, narrow corridors etc. At the time when the building was occupied by the royal family, it was a large complex consisting of many units. However, most of the smaller units were later devastated and now only the main structure has survived. The present existing portion is now looked after by the Kerala State Department of Archaeology. It is a 3 storey building that houses heirlooms of the royal family and other objects of historical interest. Famed for its mural paintings and architecture, the major attraction of this palace is that it houses one of the biggest mural paintings in the entire Kerala.

Known as the Gajendra Moksha, this mural painting has the story from Hindu mythology of the lord saving the elephant from the mouth of a crocodile. It covers an area of around 53 sq ft. In addition, there is a museum also located within the palace. The museum houses bronzes, stone, wood sculptures, coins, megalithic remains and copies of mural paintings. A double edged sword known as ‘Kayamkulam Vaal’, a Sanskrit Bible, bronze statues, an antique Buddha of the 10th century, stone inscriptions, megalithic specimens, Panchaloha (a combination of five metals) figurines, magnificent oil lamps and ceremonial utensils are some of the other exhibits here.