Kuthiramalika Palace literally translated as “The palace of horses”, features 122 smiling wooden horses crafted onto the pillars of the mansion. The palace was built by Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma, in the 1840s. It is a typical example of Kerala architecture and structures built on teakwood, rosewood, marble, etc. The palace is also a museum that displays wood carvings, paintings, Belgian mirrors, Kathakali mannequins, musical instruments, marble made idols etc.
The two royal thrones: one made of Bohemian crystals, and the other with ivory are among the famous attractions of the palace. There is also a display of the ethnic jewellery worn by the kings and queens of ancient Kerala that will induce admiration in the minds of the visitors at the richness of our ethnicity.
A barefoot walk through the palace is yet another sort of experience altogether. The wonderful art pieces, structures and grandeur will let you travel back into the ancient centuries of Kerala life. Kuthiramalika palace is also famous for Swathi Sangeetholsavam, which is an annual music festival that is conducted every year between 6 January and 12 January in the premises of the palace. Thousands of people arrive to attend the music festival performed by the famous, classical musicians from different parts of Kerala.
The exquisite charm of the palace is further enriched with an illusion painting of Sree Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma created by Svetoslav Roerich. The characteristic feature of the painting is that no matter which angle or direction you look at the painting, you could feel the eyes and feet following you. Visit Kuthiramalika Palace, also known as “Puthenmalika Palace” adjacent to Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple for the astounding experience it offers.
