Kuthira Maliga Palace Museum

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum or Puthenmalika Palace Museum was built by Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma in 18th century is located a few yards away from the eastern entrance of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The palace got its name from the figures of 122 horses carved in teak wood in a unique pattern that support the southern roof.

It’s a large complex of royal buildings was left unoccupied for more than a century, following the demise of Maharaja Swathi Thirunal in 1847. Now just 20 rooms of palace are opened for public as museum. All the rooms have different types of ceilings, carved in wood, small beautiful floral decorations are made along the upper edges of the walls. The roof of the palace on the ground floor is supported by granite pillars and the floor of the palace is made of egg whites, black charcoal of coconut shell and slaked lime, which make it cool and smooth even in hot summer.
The exhibits of the museum constitutes mainly wooden Kathakali figures, Portraits of the Travancore royalties, Paintings (by Raja Ravi Varma and other renowned artists) Dozens of Swords, daggers, darts, knives, spears, weapons made of horns of antelopes with metal tips, shield made of rhinoceros skin, Ivory throne of Swathi Thirunal, Crystal-glass throne of Visakom Thirunal (gift received from Czekoslovakia), Bronze sculptures of Chola styles which belongs to 10th to 14th century AD. Idols of Krishna, Rama and Anjaneya. Very rare Wooden/ marble/ stone sculptures of different styles and period, made in various parts of our country and ivory cradles, large number of non-Indian exhibits are also included in the fabulous collections.
Kuthiramalika palace also has a unique Navarathri Mandapam in front of the palace, which hosts many concerts, and other important events. Makers of the palace - Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma was the King of Travancore, who happens to be a great poet, musician, social reformer, and statesman. The palace has a unique architecture with wood carvings, a typical Travancore style of architecture. In the palace, there's a museum which displays paintings and various priceless collections of the royal family.

The Kuthirika Malika Palace, situated near the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, showcases beautiful traditional Kerala-style architecture, reflecting the grandeur of the royal era. The palace is known for its vast expanse, providing visitors with ample space to explore. If you find yourself in Kerala, a visit to this regal palace is highly recommended. The palace roof is creatively carved into a horse face, inspiring its name "Kuthirika Malika. "

The palace boasts stunning Kerala-style architecture, showcasing intricate wooden carvings, ornate ceilings, and exquisite frescoes that highlight the opulence of the Travancore rulers. The entry ticket is priced at Rs70 per person for Indian nationals and Rs200 for foreigners. This fee includes a guided tour of the palace. Additionally, there is an art gallery within the palace premises, requiring an additional Rs30 per person for entry. Visitors can buy tickets on the spot. While the palace comprises 80 rooms, only 25 rooms are accessible to visitors. It's important to note that photography inside the palace is not allowed. Also, no chappals are allowed inside. There is a separate place to keep them safely with a nominal charge. It takes about 2 hours to see, the palace will be closed by 5: 30 p.m ensure you are there by 3 p.m. The place is open from 9.00 am

The museum's location itself exudes historical charm, situated in the heart of a Trivandrum city near padmanabha Swami temple. The museum's collection was an eclectic mix of artifacts, personal belongings, and interactive displays, creating a comprehensive portrayal of the Swati thirunal maharaja's life.

The place was a good place to visit and good insight on the kings lineage and the things available at that time frame

Entrance just beaide the east temple nada.
Interesting guided tour & interesting collections and beautiful wooden interiors
Ticket prive-70Rs
50Rs for photo taking outdoors (no photography allowed inside)

A Captivating Journey into History: Kuthira Maliga Palace Museum

Located in Trivandrum, Kerala, the Kuthira Maliga Palace Museum offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. This majestic palace-turned-museum features intricate architecture, captivating exhibits, and knowledgeable guides. While amenities for visitors could be improved, the overall experience is unforgettable. Highlights include royal memorabilia, vintage costumes, and well-maintained gardens. Enhancements in signage and accessibility would further enhance the visit. Despite these minor shortcomings, Kuthira Maliga Palace Museum is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, offering a captivating journey through Kerala's past.

This is an old palace spread across 5 acres! Only a few sections are accessible to public, the part converted to a museum. Full of artifacts, fotos and paintings of the Royal era. Entry fees are nominal, but photography fees are Rs. 500. Takes at least 2.5 hrs approximately to tour completely at a leisurely pace. Guides will help understand the context of the curios.

Place is awesome, I think they are not maintaining outdoor looks very scattered.guides are only focussed non keralites because they got some tip. I asked to explain about the materials used in one of the roof.

When the North Indian came they explained all the points they only I realised that it was library area.

You shoul mind all the people are visiting after making good amount of money.

We were short of time when we visited this place, it is breathtakingly beautiful and I would recommend people have more time at hand to let it soak in. It is well-maintained and not just the art, even the engineering and the construction details are worth noticing.

It is must visit place in Trivandrum. Good collection of old things which belongs to Royal family.

Nice palace. Will take you to the pre independance life.gets more info on Royal family of Travancore

Exceeded our expectations! Wonderful place filled with amazing architectural styles! A must visit place

Kuthira Malika is a fascinating palace in Trivandrum, known for its unique architecture and historical significance. It's definitely worth a visit if you're interested in the history and culture of the Travancore kingdom.

Back to the roots of Travancore Kingdom.a lot of saw and enjoy.
Entry fee 25/-
We can't capture photos of interior museum.
Mostly 1 hour
Free guide facility and explain very well
We have to pay additional RS 1 for chappal keeping.
Near by we can saw a photo gallery of Travancore Prince and their rituals.
Monday holiday

Kuthiramalika Palace is one of the architectural wonders in the vast complex of royal buildings situated near the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. Built by Sri Swathi Thirunal, Kuthiramalika or Puthenmalika is named after the 122 horsesthat are carved into the wooden wall brackets that support the southern roof. It is a perfect example of the traditional Kerala style of architecture, and impresses visitors with its intricate carvings, huge pillars and traditional style of flooring. A guided tour is available inside the palace. Kuthiramalika is a perfect venue for those in search of places with historical and architectural significance.

I liked the place very much. You can get tickets at the entrance. A guide will accompany you, usually a group and take you around the palace. The guide explains about the palace and the various articles used by the royal family. There are about 84 rooms, but only 24 rooms are open for public viewing. The rest are closed. It takes about 2 hours to see. The palace will be closed by 5: 30 p.m. Ensure you are there by 3 p.m.
You can take photographs of the palace exterior with permission. No photography is allowed inside the palace. Also, no chappals are allowed inside. There is a separate place to keep them safely with a nominal charge.

Parking is limited inside. Around 8 to 10 cars.

It's a great museum. It's has some of interesting items on display used by the kings. There are some items gifted by other countries to the kings as well which are on display. Overall it's a very interesting place to visit and would recommend anyone who wants to explore Trivandrum.

Beautiful and well maintained. You find Valuable thrones of Maharajs, Ivory Statues, Elephant tusks, Bronze Statues and Articles formerly Owned by Royal Family. Don't forget to view the picturesque view of this Palace of Maharaja Swati Thirunal just outside Padmanabha Swamy Temple.

Very nice and beautiful palace to visit in Thiruvananthapuram. Located in central area has good access by local transport. The ticket is INR 50 for palace and INR 20 for art/photo gallery. They also took INR 50 for mobile camera which I feel is unnecessary and should be included in palace ticket. Photography inside palace is not allowed even though you have Rs 50 ticket which is only for outside palace photography.

Great experience! We got a volunteer guide tour that could really explain the architecture and engineering of the palace, the way it was designed and why, how each part was used and all the Royal family history together with the offerings and treasures.
I would definitely recommend

പുരാതന ശൈലിയിൽ നിർമിച്ച കൊട്ടാരം. സ്വാതി തിരുന്നാൾ ന്റെ കാലത്തു നിർമിച്ചു. കലയുടെ മഹത്തായ ആവിഷ്ക്കാരം.

Nice place, Royal belongs plenty here ticket charge Rs 60/- for Indian adult and Rs 20/- for children, staff were very friendly and have help us to know the history of Royal family.

Must visit place.guides are available in the palace. They provide all the information about each and every items in the palace. Got lot of surprising information.

This is a beautiful wooden structure complex. The architecture is simple yet elegant. Entrance fee is charged. Well maintained tourist location. If you happen to visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple, this is a must visit destination to experience the subtle grandeur in wood.

Built by Sri Swathi Thirunal, The palace is a must see place to understand the history of the Travancore royal family. The palace is well maintained and showcases the rich heritage of the royal family. It's a perfect example of the traditional Kerala and Thanjavur style of architecture. A guided tour is available inside the palace and I would really recommend to utilise this facility to understand the historical architectural significance. Entrance fee - Rs 50.

122 horses carved into the wooden wall brackets, the palace is known as Puthen Malika (New Mansion). If you happen to visit thr Padmanabhaswamy Temple, this is a good tour and visit to the subtle grandeur in wood.

Nice place. Must visit atleast once. There is the kuthira maliga - Horse mansion and a museum with paintings and photos.
Chappals need to be left outside.
For photography you need to take a separate ticket. Photography is not allowed inside where all the kings possessions are displayed.

Guides are available for free.
They give you lot of knowledge on the travencore dynasty and palace of last king.

We can see the palace is mix of British, Chinese and indian architecture.

Not all the rooms in palace are accessible for tourists most of them are kept for themselves by the royal family

There is a way to padmanabeshwara temple from the palace's first floor

Overall when you come out of this palace you will come to know many things about travencore dynasty and royal family. Must watch for tourists visiting tiruvananthapuram

This is a beautiful, mostly wooden structure. Like most Kerala architecture it is simple yet elegant. The carvings made of either high quality teak or rose wood are spectacular. There is a modest entrance fee for the museum. There are lush gardens and lawns around the palace. The palace gets its name from the 122 horses that are carved into the wooden wall brackets that support the southern roof. The Travancore Royal Family occupied the approximately 80 rooms of the palace. However currently only 20 are open for the general public. A guided tour is available inside the palace. I would rate this 5 stars for its architecture and historic significance.

It is a major tourist destination and palace in Thiruvananthapuram. The palace is also known as Puthan Malika because of the fact that the horse's head is carved in various places inside the palace.

Visit along wth guide. Gives us good idea of the minute things which we will miss in the abs of guide.

Built in the 1840s by the great Maharaja Swathi Thirunal, the Kuthira Malika Palace stands as an iconic monument that gives you a curious insight into the glorious history of Kerala. 'Kuthira Malika' literally translates to 'Mansion of horses', and it has been named so because of the 122 horses that adorn the many pillars that support the southern roof of this majestic structure. The main idea behind building this palace was to preserve and promote the many traditional art forms of India, mainly the south.

A must visit if in Trivandrum. The ticket price included a guided tour of the palace. Only 1/4th of the palace is open to public. The rest is closed and not maintained. The artifacts were well maintained and mind blowing. Parking is limited in the street, therefore advisable to take taxi or autorickshaw.

A must visit place in TVM. Reccomend everyone who visit Tvm to see this marvelous archiceture treat to our eyes

Located right outside the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, it is a part of the Kuthiramalika Palace and was constructed by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma in 19th century who wanted to showcase the traditional Indian art forms. As you enter, you would see the typical Kerala-style architecture (Travancore) adorning portraits of the royal family and some beautiful wooden carvings.  

Entrance Fee
INR 10 (Adult), INR 3 (Child) ; INR 15 (Camera for exterior walls only)
nb;Entre fee can be vary

The words Kuthira Malika means ‘mansion of horses’ and the uninitiated may think that the palace is a grand stable built to house horses. In reality, the building gets the name from the row of horses that are sculpted into the brackets that support the roof. The palace, also known as Puthen Malika Palace, is adjacent to the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. It was built by Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma, the ruler of the former Kingdom of Travancore who was a social reformer and poet and musician. It was built in the traditional Kerala style in the 1840s, with pillared verandahs and overhanging eaves.

One part of the palace is a museum that houses many valuable objects and relics owned by the royal family. The celebrated Navarathri Mandapam, which is the venue of famous music concerts, is located just in front of Kuthira Malika Palace. The mandapam has got unique sound reflectors in the form of hanging earthen pots. This sound arrangement has won acclaim because of the excellent acoustic effect it produces.

The word kuthira maliga means 'palace of horse'
More than hundred wooden horses welcome you there It is a two-storied palace near the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. Built by Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma, who was Maharaja of the Kingdom of Travancore in British India

Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 1 km

Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 6 km

Very informative museum
Paintings and photos are really good
The wooden carvings of the palace is beautiful

The palace gets its name from the 122 horses that are carved into the wooden wall brackets that support the southern roof. The official name of the palace is Puthen Malika (New Mansion). The palace forms part of a vast complex of royal buildings in the vicinity of Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The building was left unoccupied for more than a century, following the demise of Swathi Thirunal in 1846.
On the first floor are rooms that once served as the audience chamber, the library and an alcove that Swathi Thirunal used for meditating and for conceiving many of his famous musical compositions. This place offers a direct view of the Padmanabhaswamy temple gopuram. The small wooden stair there contains carvings of peacock, elephant, and dragon. Ceiling of the rooms contain paintings of parrot, peacock, and elephant. One of the rooms displays an illusion portrait of Sree Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, painted by Svetoslav Roerich. The face and the shoes of the king appear facing the onlooker from every corner of the room.

One of the Palace built by Keralities. Fabulous. Im really proud to see the art work inside. And with respect. I wanna live there for at least a day. Wish to be. But not for living here only to visit. Just or the memorys. ️️️️️

If you are visiting the famous Padmanabhswami temple in Thiruvananthapuram, definitely make it a point to visit this museum. It is located in in the temple premises itself. This palace of the royal family of Trivancore is now converted into a museum. The artefacts in the museum include objects used by the royal family, furniture, thrones, ivory objects, Chola bronzes, Chinese pottery, paintings, wooden statues of traditional dancers and much more. It takes roughly about 1 hour to see the museum in detail. There are guided tours in the museum that occur every 20 minutes. For intrigued minds, it is advised to see the museum once with the guide at his super fast speed, and then by oneself at your own speed and understanding.
Medium of speech: English/ Hindi/ Malyali.
Alongside the museum, there is another Art gallery in the same premises showcasing pictures of the royal family at various occasions. Entry ticket palace is Rs. 50/- per head for Indian adult, Rs. 15/- per head for Indian child, and Rs. 150/- per head for foreigners. One needs to deposit luggade and footwear outside. Photography inside the museum is not allowed, but one can photograph the exterior at a fee of Rs. 20/-
It is an exceptionally well maintained museum.

The rare 5 star for exceptional collections, fair curation and solid historical information. Would not have found this without our guide. No photos, unfortunately, because there is far more here than you can remember and many, many ideas you’d like the capture. Only perhaps 1/4 or 1/3 of the palace rooms are open to the public. Just around the corner from the Vishnu temple, easily accessed (if you are Hindu) from the palace’s rear exit.