Padmanabhapuram Palace is one of the well known monuments in Kerala. Built in 1601 under the patronage of Iravi Iravi Varma Kulasekhara Perumal, this palace played a very significant role in the past. This palace was the centre of erstwhile rulers of Travancore. Till 18th century Padmanabhapuram Palace was treated as the capital from where the capital got shifted to Thiruvananthapuram in 18th century. Located at the foothills of Velli hills Padmanabhapuram Palace laid a perfect example of ancient architecture in Kerala Surrounded with River Valli this palace attracts the tourists towards its splendid scenic beauty. Padmanabhapuram Palace is mainly known for its construction, architecture and some minute structures including a sprawling courtyard which define the typical ancient architecture of Kerala.
Padmanabhapuram Palace largely include some important chambers like the Mantrasala (King`s Council Chamber), Thai Kottaram (mother`s palace), Ekantha mandapam (chamber of Solitude), Natakasala( Hall of Performance), the central Building and Theekee Kottaram(Southern palace).Among other structures it has a big hall, bathing pond, clock tower and secret passage. The palace is also known for some exclusive collections which include a variety of weapons, brass lamps, wood and stone sculptures, Chinese jars gifted by Chinese merchants, furniture items and large mirrors made up of polished metals and paintings, illustrating incidents from the history of Travancore.
Among the major building the palace includes a special hall for the council of ministers. In this room the king used to hold consultations with his ministers. As a splendid structure the room contains some exclusive mica windows and exquisite lattice work. With a well maintained polished floor made up of dark colour and perfect finish, this room has been considered as one of the most exclusive rooms in the palace. The second most important room is the mother`s palace which can be dated back to mid- 16th century. It designed according to ancient Kerala architecture and represents some old structure of the palace. There are some inner courtyard and slopping roofs and four pillars that support the construction.
Padmanabhapuram Palace includes some more buildings like the Chamber of solitude which is located in the southern corner of mother`s palace. The chamber has some exclusive wood curvatures with beautiful floral designs. The hall of performance was made under the direct supervision of the Maharaja which is made up of solid granite pillars and gleaming black floor. Along with this the central building of Padmanabhapuram Palace is a four storied structure situated at the centre of the palace. The topmost floor was used for the worshipping by the royal family members. The walls of the top floor are decorated with sculptures and inscriptions from Puranas. Just below the top floor there are the bedchambers of the king, and other members of royal family. Decorated with various types of gifts from the Chinese and Dutches these are some of the most attractive parts of the royal palace. With this the palace also includes a southern palace which is believed to be one of the oldest parts of the palace. Presently it is converted into a heritage museum which has an exclusive collection of number of antique pieces of decoration.
Thus as one of the well maintained and richly decorated palaces it attract a large number of tourists who grab a lot of information regarding the ancient style Kerala architecture. Along with unique murals and exquisite carvings this has been one of the most attractive sights in Kerala.
