The 18th century Krishnapuram Palace is a splendid monument located in Kayamkulam, 47 km. from Alappuzha (Alleppey), Kerala. Built during the reign of the Travancore ruler, Marthanda Verma, Krishnapuram Palace is an exemplary specimen of Kerala architecture. Its gabled roofs, narrow corridors and dormer windows are reflective of the typical Kerala style.
Recently, the Palace has been renovated and it now features as a protected monument under the Archaeology Department. A must-visit monument in Kerala, Krishnapuram Palace today houses a fascinating archaeological museum which exhibits rare collections of antique paintings and bronze sculptures.
The 49 sq.m. 'Gajendra Moksham' Mural - one of the largest mural paintings in Kerala, is a major attraction of the Palace museum. Literally, the term ' Gajendra Moksham' means 'the salvation of the elephant king (Gajendra)'.
The mythological theme of this mural depicts an elephant saluting Lord Vishnu in devotion while the other gods, goddesses and saints are watching.
It is believed that Lord Vishnu was the family deity of the Kayamkulam rajas (kings) residing at Krishnapuram Palace. The Gajendra mural was positioned at the entrance to the palace from the pond so that the rajas could worship the deity after taking bath.
Other attractions worth viewing on visit to Krishnapuram Palace include the immaculately landscaped garden sporting a wide variety of flora within the palace complex, and a recently built Buddha mandapam, with a recently recovered statue of the Buddha within it.
Visiting hours: Everyday 9.00 am to 5.00 pm (Except Mondays).
How to reach:
Nearest railway station: At Kollam, about 39 km away.
Nearest airports: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 103 km; Cochin International Airport, about 132 km.
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