Mattancherry Palace
Mattancherry Palace things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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A beautiful place full of historical remains Mattancherry Palace: A Blend of History and Charm (with a Few Catches) Unique History and Architecture Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, offers a glimpse into Kerala's fascinating colonial past. The blend of Portuguese and Dutch influences in the architecture is a sight to behold, with its exquisite woodwork and colorful murals. A Treasure Trove of Kerala Culture The palace houses a museum showcasing artifacts like royal costumes, weaponry, and archaeological finds. The highlight is undoubtedly the stunning collection of Kerala mural paintings depicting Hindu mythology and local history. Budget-Friendly Experience Entrance fees are incredibly affordable, making it an accessible attraction for all travelers. Convenient Location Situated in Fort Kochi, the palace is within walking distance of other historical sites and vibrant markets, allowing you to explore the area on foot. Not-So-Good Limited Size Compared to grand palaces in other parts of India, Mattancherry Palace is relatively small. You can explore it in about an hour. Photography Restrictions Photography is not allowed on the upper floor where the most impressive murals are housed. This can be a disappointment for some visitors. Can Get CrowdedWeekends and peak tourist season can see larger crowds, making it difficult to fully appreciate the exhibits. Consider going early in the morning for a more peaceful experience. Limited Amenities There's no on-site cafe or restaurant within the palace complex. However, there are plenty of options in the surrounding area of Fort Kochi. Overall: Mattancherry Palace is a worthwhile stop for history buffs and anyone interested in Kerala's rich culture. The unique architecture, beautiful murals, and affordable entry fee make it a compelling attraction. However, if you're expecting a vast palace complex, be prepared for its smaller size.
ABDULLA ABOOBACKERABDULLA ABOOBACKER
100
The Mattancherry Palace, renowned as the Dutch Palace, stands as a splendid testament to the unique blend of Kerala architecture infused with colonial influences. Situated approximately 12 km from Ernakulam, this architectural gem dates back to 1545 C.E. when it was originally constructed by the Portuguese as a gift for King Veera Kerala Verma of the Kochi dynasty. The palace earned its moniker, the Dutch Palace, following extensive renovations by the Dutch. A striking feature of the palace is its double-storied structure, characterized by expansive halls and a central courtyard. Notably, it serves as the abode of Pazhayannur Bhagavathy, the deity of the royal family. The palace boasts an impressive collection of murals, depicting narratives from Indian epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as revered Hindu deities like Lord Krishna from Guruvayur Temple. The works of the esteemed Sanskrit poet Kalidasa are also vividly showcased within the palace walls. Spanning an impressive 300 sq. km, the mural paintings provide a visual journey through significant aspects of Indian mythology. The palace offers glimpses into the lives of the royal family through life-size portraits of the Kings of Cochin dating back to 1864, as well as an array of weaponry including sheathed swords, daggers, axes, and ceremonial spears adorned with feathers. Additionally, visitors can explore royal caps, coins issued by the Kings of Cochin, and Dutch plans for the development of Cochin. The Mattancherry Palace welcomes visitors from 10:00 to 17:00 hours every day, except Fridays. For those traveling to this historical marvel, the nearest railway station is Ernakulam, approximately 10 km away, while Cochin International Airport is the closest airport, situated around 42 km from the palace. Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural treasures housed within the walls of this iconic Dutch Palace.
Rachita CRachita C
30
The Museum is housed in a palace which is one of the oldest buildings of the Portuguese in the oriental style, unique trom the historical and architectural point of view. This was bult around 1555 A.D. by the Portuguese and presented to Vira Kerala Varma in order to pacify him and to compensate for havingpblunder a temple in the vicinity of the palace. Since then it served as a seat of the Royal house and around 1665A.D.it under went a major repair at the hands of the Dutch and hence the Palace is also known as " Dutch Palace". This two storied quadrangular building consists oflong and spacious halls. The central courtyard enshrines the tutelary deity of the Royal family - Pazhayannur Bhagavathi". There are two more temples dedisated to I ard krishna and Siva respectively. The upper storey of the palace where the present museum is housed consists of a coronation hall, bed chambers, ladlas.chamber, Royal dining hall and enerrooms.The Palace redfesents a blending of the European and Indigenous ideas of Architecture The gler of the palace lies in its mas paintings covering a totala ea of-nearly 300sq.m. They have been done in three pha,os. The themes depict scenes from the Ramayana, besides the puranic legends connected with Siva, Vishnu, Krishna, Durga etc. The paintings reflect the contemporary arts, lterature and social graces and from a precious heirloom of Kerala's past. They also compare well win the coeval wood crafts carvings in figure -work and facial moulds and combine asthetic purpose with realism. The palace also houses museum. The exhibits are mainly oil portraits of the Cochin Rajas, their Palanquins,Dress, Weapons, umbrellas, Carpets etc..
Alpesh ChauhanAlpesh Chauhan
10
𝗢𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟮 The top floor (1st floor) of the Mattancherry palace has been turned into a small museum. It has a few historic items and the entry cost is very less. While visiting Mattancherry, you should definitely visit here. 🟢 𝐄𝐱𝐡𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐬- In this museum, I saw- • a couple of palanquins (pallak) closed ones and open ones • a Howdah 🐘 • Mural wall paintings of Ramayana events & Krishna • Old Stamps 💌 • Old Coins 🪙 • Sword presented to the raja by the British 🗡️ • Other couple of swords used during that time ⚔️ • Old maps of Travancore & Kochi 🗺️ • Portraits of Rajas 🖼️ • Outfits of a Raja & a Rani 👑 • Daily used items, like thali holders, hair pins, scissors, hanging lamps, storage boxes ✂️ • History of Travancore & Kochi written in vertical columns 📜 🟢 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐅𝐞𝐞- The entry fee is ₹5/- for one person. It's free for children under a certain age (I forgot the age) 🟢 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠- 🅿️ There is a lavish parking area inside the compound. Its written as Pay n Park, but I didn't see anyone collecting the fee. 🟢 𝐕𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞- The windows are open and you can sit beside them. It's a peaceful view of the temple outside and the inner area of the palace. 🟢 𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨'𝐬/𝐕𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨'𝐬- 🎥 You can take photos everywhere except the Mural rooms. Video's are not allowed. 🟢𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐲- It's not open on Friday's. You can enter the compound, but cant enter the museum Eventhough its called a palace, we didn't really see any places like the front area, the bedrooms, dining areas or such. The only accessible area is the first floor.
DEVADATHAN TRAVELSDEVADATHAN TRAVELS
00
Well maintained. Disciplind staff. Well behaved. Helpful. Five rupees ticket for aged more than five years. Now Mask mandate has been taken off. Certain places photo not allowed. Rather photo with tourist not allowed. One can take pic of the concerned item but not with oneself in the picture. Palanquin is one such item. I couldn't understand why. But rule is a rule and better to follow it. The attending staff politely informs so . Plenty of reading materials along with the items of the palace . It can take few hours if one is really interested in the history of Kerala royal family. Trust me it is very rewarding. Better than reading a text book. You get a real time on ground pictorial proof/ pudding along with the study material. Then one should have that much time. I stay nearby. I keep visiting multiple times. I take my time to read understand and memorise few things. Children and adults both get to know of history of Kochi and the area nearby. There is royal temple also nearby/ in the same campus. If you have relatives visiting you in Kochi for short duration and you want them to have a great time in minimal/ no expenditure, this is the place in Fort Kochi. It's very rewarding. Nearby multiple things to see like boating, synagogue, Jew town, plenty of nice food joints, Chinese fishing nets etc. One's guests will go back with fond and rich memories of Kochi.
prasenjit pandaprasenjit panda
00
Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, is a historic palace located in Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala, India. Here's a description: - Built: 1555 by the Portuguese, renovated and expanded by the Dutch in 1663 - Architecture: Traditional Kerala-style with European influences - Features: - Central courtyard with a temple dedicated to Pazhayannur Bhagavati - Murals depicting Hindu mythology and legends - Wooden ceilings, floors, and walls adorned with intricate carvings - Collection of antique furniture, artifacts, and artwork - Display of royal regalia, including crowns, ornaments, and ceremonial dresses - Significance: - Served as the residence of the Kochi royal family and the Dutch colonial administrators - Witness to the rich cultural and political history of Kochi and Kerala - Showcase of traditional Kerala architecture and artistry - Now a museum, open to the public for viewing and learning - Preservation: - Protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as a national monument - Undergone restoration and conservation efforts to maintain its original grandeur Mattancherry Palace is a testament to Kerala's rich cultural heritage and its historical connections with European powers. Its stunning architecture, beautiful murals, and fascinating history make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and art.
AmalAmal
00
Nearby Attractions Of Mattancherry Palace
Jew Town Fort Kochi
St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church
Paradesi Synagogue
Gallery OED
Antique Museum Kochi
International Tourism Police Station And Police Museum
Shri Vithoba Devasthan, Mattancherry
Jew Town Fort Kochi
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St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church
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Paradesi Synagogue
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Gallery OED
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Nearby Restaurants Of Mattancherry Palace
Kayees Rahmathulla Cafe
Hotel City Star
Ginger House Restaurant
Sri Krishna Café
Mocha Art Café
B For Biriyani
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Hotel Arafa
MeltyWay
Ambedkar Coolbar
Kayees Rahmathulla Cafe
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Hotel City Star
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Ginger House Restaurant
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Sri Krishna Café
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Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
X755+8P9, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002, India
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Website
keralatourism.org
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Reviews
Overview
4.2
(6.9K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
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Description
The Mattancherry Palace is a palace popularly known as the Dutch Palace, in Mattancherry, Kochi, in the Indian state of Kerala which features Kerala murals depicting portraits and exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi.
attractions: Jew Town Fort Kochi, St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church, Paradesi Synagogue, Gallery OED, Antique Museum Kochi, International Tourism Police Station And Police Museum, Shri Vithoba Devasthan, Mattancherry, restaurants: Kayees Rahmathulla Cafe, Hotel City Star, Ginger House Restaurant, Sri Krishna Café, Mocha Art Café, B For Biriyani, Nooriya Hotel, Hotel Arafa, MeltyWay, Ambedkar Coolbar
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