The Horse Mansion

Built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma of Trivandrum

, the Kuthiramalika Palace Museum is the epitome of the Kerala architecture and culture. Although referred to as Kuthira Malika, which means Mansion of Horses in honour of the 122 wooden horse face sculptures depicted on the southern roof brackets, the palace is actually the Puthen Malika Palace or New Mansion.

The museum section of the palace is only a small portion of the vast Palace complex spread out close to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Following the death of the Maharaja or King of Travancore in 1846 the mansion was left unoccupied for more than 100 years.

However, now visitors are able to wander through the complex admiring the attention to detail in the architecture and the various possessions of the Travancore Royal Family. Elaborate carvings adorn the walls of the palace and its sloping roofs, pillared verandahs and overhanging eaves create a picturesque site.

Perhaps most astounding amongst the collection of royal assets are the two thrones, one of which is made of ivory and the other Bohemian crystal. The conch emblem of the Travancore Royalty adorns the backrest. Other prized possessions include Belgian mirrors, Kathakali mannequins, crystal chandeliers, traditional furniture, weapons and armaments, jewellery, various sized ivory cradles and sculptures and idols made of white marble. Paintings, musical instruments and other artistic assets are a special attraction due to the Maharaja's undisputed contribution towards the literature and artistic movement of the time. In fact the first floor houses the rooms in which the Maharaja composed his famous music, poems and other compositions.

The palace courtyard is used for an annual music festival named Swathi Sangeethotsavam in honour of the contributions made by Swathi Thirunal.

The palace with all its attractions and awe inspiring collections is considered a Heritage Site in Kerala. If you are considering visiting Kerala then you may do well to consider one of the many Kovalam luxury hotels in the area. The Leela Kovalam is one such magnificent accommodation option that will take your breath away with its simplistic yet luxurious comfort. It is a much sought after Kovalam beach resort.

by: Roland Lefevre

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