Sri Chitra Art Gallery — Attraction in Kerala

This gallery was established by the Travancore royal family in 1934–35 and sits gracefully beside the Napier Museum in the northern museum compound of Thiruvananthapuram . The building itself carries a quiet elegance and blends well into the green surroundings.

Inside, you’ll find more than a thousand paintings spanning traditional to modern styles. The collection includes original works by Raja Ravi Varma, Jamini Roy, Rabindranath Tagore, and others, as well as masterpieces from Mughal, Rajput, Tanjore, Bengal and Kerala murals . There is also a fine display of oriental art with Chinese, Japanese, Balinese and Tibetan thangkas .

One of the gallery’s biggest draws is the dedicated Raja Ravi Varma section, now in its own wing, showing off paintings, oleographs, sketches and certificates that reflect his impact on Indian art . Among these, iconic pieces like “Shakuntala” and mythological themes stand out .

The layout is calm and space is given to each painting, with benches in quiet halls where visitors can linger. Staff members are attentive though photography inside isn’t allowed . The galleries also have air conditioning and drinking water available .

A visit here usually takes around two hours, giving you enough time to appreciate the varied styles—royal portraits, mural art, Eastern scrolls, and European-influenced oil paintings . Guided tours are not standard but you can ask staff for brief explanations.

The gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from around 10 AM until late afternoon, and is closed on Mondays and public holidays . Entry fee is modest, around ₹25 for adults with separate rates for children and foreign visitors, and parking is available on site .

If you enjoy art—whether classic Kerala murals, mythological paintings, modern Indian works or rare pieces from afar—this gallery is a treasure. It offers a quiet and beautifully curated experience at the heart of the city’s...

Nestled in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, the Sri Chitra Art Gallery stands as a bastion of artistic expression and cultural enrichment, captivating visitors with its illustrious collection of masterpieces. Since its establishment in 1935, this esteemed gallery has served as a veritable treasure trove of Kerala's artistic heritage, showcasing a diverse array of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that span centuries of creative endeavor.

Step into the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, and you are greeted by a kaleidoscope of artistic brilliance that transcends time and geography. From ancient Kerala murals and intricate Tanjore paintings to avant-garde modernist works and abstract compositions, the gallery's eclectic collection offers a panoramic journey through the evolution of Indian art.

Enthusiasts of art and culture can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of exhibits, each meticulously curated to provide insight into the myriad influences and styles that have shaped the artistic landscape of Kerala and beyond. Renowned Indian artists share the spotlight with international luminaries, creating a dynamic fusion of artistic expression that resonates with visitors of all backgrounds.

Beyond its role as a repository of artistic treasures, the Sri Chitra Art Gallery serves as a vibrant hub for cultural exchange and creative dialogue. Through exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs, the gallery fosters a deeper appreciation for the arts while nurturing the talents of emerging artists and scholars.

Whether you're a seasoned art connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, a visit to the Sri Chitra Art Gallery promises an enriching and immersive experience that celebrates the boundless creativity of the human spirit. Amidst the serene surroundings of Thiruvananthapuram, this cultural oasis invites you to explore, engage, and be inspired by the timeless...

The Sree Chitra Art Gallery is a must-see for any art lover visiting Thiruvananthapuram. The gallery houses a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art from all over India. The collection includes works by some of the most famous Indian artists, such as Raja Ravi Varma, Rabindranath Tagore, and Jamini Roy. The gallery also has a significant collection of ancient paintings, including some that date back to the 10th century.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Sree Chitra Art Gallery also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions often feature the work of contemporary Indian artists, as well as artists from other countries. The gallery also offers a variety of educational programs, such as lectures, workshops, and guided tours.

The Sree Chitra Art Gallery is a great place to learn about Indian art and culture. The gallery's collection is vast and varied, and the staff is knowledgeable and helpful. The gallery also offers a variety of educational programs that can help visitors learn more about art.

Here are some of the things that I liked about the Sree Chitra Art Gallery:

The collection is vast and varied. There is something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of their taste in art.

The staff is knowledgeable and helpful. They are always happy to answer questions and provide information about the collection.

The gallery offers a variety of educational programs. These programs are a great way to learn more about art and culture.

The gallery is clean and well-maintained. The exhibits are well-displayed and easy to see.

Overall, I had a great experience at the Sree Chitra Art Gallery. I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting...