Weather: 25°C - 35°C
Label: Historical Landmark
Tags: Palace, Royal Heritage, Architecture
Category: Cultural Heritage, Architecture
Overview of Kowdiar Palace, Trivandrum
Located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), Kowdiar Palace stands as an epitome of historical and architectural significance in Kerala. Built in 1934, this grand palace served as the royal residence of the Travancore royal family. It was constructed as a wedding gift from Maharaja Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma to his sister, Princess Karthika Thirunal Lakshmi Bayi.
The palace's design is a perfect blend of traditional Kerala architecture and European styles, showcasing the grandeur and cultural richness of the Travancore kingdom. The sprawling gardens surrounding the palace add to its allure, offering a glimpse of the royal life that once graced the area. Although the palace is not open to the public and remains a private residence of the royal family, it is often admired from the outside due to its striking façade and historical importance.
Kowdiar Palace holds great political and cultural significance, as it was once the seat of the Travancore monarchy, which played a crucial role in the region’s history, including the integration of Kerala into the Indian Union. The palace remains a symbol of the region's royal legacy, and its majestic presence continues to attract tourists and history enthusiasts.
How to Reach Kowdiar Palace
Kowdiar Palace is located just a short distance from the city center of Thiruvananthapuram. To get there, visitors can easily hire a cab or take a local auto-rickshaw from anywhere in the city. The palace is well-connected by public transport, with frequent bus services to the Kowdiar area. For those traveling by train, the Trivandrum Railway Station is about 5 km away, and a cab ride to the palace will take just 10-15 minutes.
Though you may not be able to enter the palace itself, the impressive exterior and lush gardens make it a fascinating stop for anyone interested in Kerala's royal history and cultural heritage.
