Kanakakunnu Palace

Kanakakunnu Palace

Thiruvananthapuram, India

Rating: 7/10
Best time to visit: All-Day days
Recommended time to spend: 2 hr
Activities to do:
  • Attend cultural events
  • Explore the palace gardens
  • Relax amidst nature
  • Take photographs
  • Visit the Napier Museum nearby
Known for:
architectureculturegardenhistoryphotography
Description:

Kanakakunnu Palace is a stately, sprawling palace compound in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. Located near the Napier Museum and zoo, the grounds are a popular venue for cultural events and exhibitions. The palace gardens offer a tranquil escape with lush greenery, manicured lawns, and flower beds. Visitors can admire the palace architecture, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy the occasional art or music performance. It's a great place to experience a bit of history and local culture in a peaceful setting.

History:

Kanakakunnu Palace was built by Sri Moolam Thirunal, the Travancore king, in the late 19th century as a royal guest house and recreational space. It hosted numerous royal banquets and ceremonies. Later, it served as the venue for the first All India Women's Conference in 1927. Post-independence, the palace and grounds were handed over to the government and are now managed by the Kerala Tourism Department. Today, the palace is mainly used for cultural programs, exhibitions, and festivals, while the grounds remain a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists.