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Introduction
Kuthiramalika Palace is situated in close proximity to the East Fort in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. An exemplary specimen of the ancient architecture of Kerala, Kuthiramalika lies adjacent to the well-known Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The magnificent palace, with its exquisite inscriptions and architectural structures, is sure to cast a magical spell over you on your tour to Kuthiramalika. The word 'kuthiramalika' indicates 'Horse Palace'. The castle was named so because of the 122 horse carvings adorning the exterior walls.
Kuthiramalika Palace was built by Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma - the king of Travancore (1813-1834 AD). The Maharaja (king) himself was a great patron of art and music and a great social reformer. He was a music composer par excellence and contributed significantly to Carnatic and Hindustani classical music. Thirunal Varma spent quite a lot of time in this palace, composing many musical masterpieces.
The palace was built in traditional Travancore style of architecture and bears some exquisite wood carvings. Kuthiramalika houses two huge thrones, one made of 25 elephant tusks and the other made from Bohemian crystals. The palace houses a museum which exhibits paintings and other invaluable memento of the royal family like ornaments, personal artifacts and weapons of former Kings. A visit to the palace museum is a must on your tour to Kuthiramalika.
The palace is open on all days (except Mondays) between 0830 to 1230 and 1530 to 1730 hrs.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 6 km.
By Rail: Nearest railhead is Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 1 km.
Tourist Attractions
East Fort - The historic East Fort is located at the heart of Thiruvananthapuram City and is a must-visit monument for visitors to the region. This ancient fort was built by the erstwhile kings of Travancore and it got its name from the eastern entrance to the fort.
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple - This is the most famous temple in Thiruvananthapuram and was built by combining the Kerala and Dravidian style of architectures. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu most interesting temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is considered an important religious destination for tourists on tour to Kuthiramalika.
Shankhumugham Beach - This beach destination lies near the Trivandrum Airport and Veli Tourist Village, at a distance of just 8kms from Thiruvananthapuram city. A favorite spot among tourists, Shankhumugham beach houses an indoor recreation club, the matsya kanyaka (a gigantic, 35 m long sculpture of a mermaid) and a restaurant shaped like a starfish.
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