Padmanabhapuram Palace

Padmanabhapuram Palace is a historic palace located in the town of Padmanabhapuram in the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, India. It was the erstwhile capital of the Travancore kingdom. The palace complex is known for its architectural elegance and traditional Kerala style. The palace is famous for its extensive use of wood in its construction. The entire palace complex, including its ceilings, walls, and floors, is made of exquisite rosewood and teak. One of the most notable sections of the palace is the Mantrasala, a council chamber adorned with intricate wood carvings. The room was used for important meetings and discussions. This structure within the palace complex is built entirely of granite and is a fine example of traditional Kerala architecture. It was the queen mother's palace. The palace has a Nataksala with a wooden ceiling that is decorated with beautiful carvings. It was used for cultural events and performances. The palace features a large central courtyard with a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. The courtyard is surrounded by corridors and rooms. The clock tower in the palace complex is a prominent feature and is believed to have been installed in the 18th century. The palace is adorned with ancient murals depicting scenes from the Puranas, showcasing the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the region. Legend has it that there is a secret underground passage from the palace that leads to the Padmanabhapuram River, providing an escape route for the royal family during emergencies.