The Kuthiramalika (Puthenmalika) Palace Museum in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, showcases traditional Kerala architecture. Constructed in the 1840s by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma, the palace was intended to preserve and promote Indian traditional art forms. Featuring sloping roofs, overhanging eaves, pillared verandahs, and enclosed courtyards, the palace is crafted from teakwood, rosewood, marble, and granite. It is renowned for its detailed carvings, grand pillars, and traditional flooring.
The palace is known as “Horse Bungalow” due to the 122 horse carvings on the wooden wall brackets supporting the southern roof. The palace museum exhibits a variety of idols and sculptures made from white marble, Kathakali figures, Belgian mirrors, and paintings. Additionally, it features the Navarathri Mandapam platform, which is used for hosting music concerts and other artistic events.
The palace is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday through Sunday, and is closed on Mondays. Admission fees are INR 10 for adults, INR 3 for children, INR 20 for foreign nationals, and INR 15 for photography.