The name Kuthira Malika refers to the 122 carved wooden horses that adorn the brackets supporting the roof.
The mansion was built in 1844 using locally sourced teak, rosewood, and sandalwood.
The palace houses a collection of rare Belgian glass, crystal chandeliers, and traditional Kathakali masks.
The Swathi Sangeethotsavam festival held here honors the musical compositions of the king.
The building was designed without the use of modern cement or steel reinforcement, relying on traditional lime-plaster and timber joinery.
Kuthira Malika, or the Palace of Horses, is a 19th-century palace built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma. The structure is celebrated for its traditional Travancore architectural style, featuring 122 wooden horse carvings that support the roof eaves. It currently functions as a museum showcasing the royal family's collection of artifacts, including weaponry, crystal, and musical instruments. The palace is constructed primarily from teak, rosewood, and sandalwood. It is situated within the larger Fort complex adjacent to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The Swathi Sangeethotsavam music festival is held on the palace grounds annually in his honor. The palace was built in the mid-1840s and served as a residence for the royal family.
The main entrance courtyard showcasing the symmetrical roofline and the wooden horse carvings.
Remove your footwear at the entrance as per local custom.
Hire a guide at the entrance to explain the significance of the wooden carvings and royal history.
Visit during the annual music festival in January for authentic classical performances.
Do not attempt to touch the wooden carvings or furniture, as the historic materials are fragile.
Closed on Mondays.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required; footwear must be left outside.
