The Koyikkal Palace, also known as the Koyikkal Palace Museum, is a historical museum located in Thiruvananthapuram district. It is situated in Nedumangad, which is about 18 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. The Koyikkal Palace is renowned for its architectural and historical significance.

History: The Koyikkal Palace was constructed during the 17th century by Umayamma Rani of the Venad royal family. During the reign of the queen, a Muslim warrior named Mukilan came to Manakad with a plan to attack Thiruvananthapuram and at that time the queen shifted her headquarters from Thiruvananthapuram to Nedumangad and settled there.

Architecture: The palace features a blend of traditional Kerala architecture and influences from Chinese and Dutch styles. It was initially a traditional Kerala-style Nalukettu mansion, characterized by its architectural features, including a central courtyard and wooden pillars. Later, it was expanded and renovated. It has sloping roofs with wooden tiles, intricately carved wooden ceilings, and ornate gables. The architecture is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.

Museum: Today, the Koyikkal Palace functions as a museum that showcases a wide range of artifacts related to the history and culture of Kerala. The museum is divided into two sections:

• Folklore Museum: This section of the museum displays a diverse collection of traditional tools, utensils, and artifacts used in daily life, as well as masks, sculptures, and costumes used in Kerala’s traditional art forms and rituals.
• Numismatics Museum: The numismatics section houses a collection of ancient coins from various dynasties that ruled over Kerala and other parts of India. It provides insights into the monetary history of the region.

The palace is rich in treasures. The palace also houses a musical instrument called the Chandravalayam which can be described as one of the most unique musical instruments used in Kerala at that time as well as models of folk art, costumes of the artists and everyday items. Koyikkal Palace is the only place in Kerala where a musical instrument called Chandravalayam is on display. The Sarangi made of wood is one of the highlights of this Folklore Museum.

The Koyikkal Palace Museum is open to the public, and it serves as a valuable educational and cultural center for those interested in Kerala’s history and heritage. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits and learn about the traditions and lifestyles of the past.

Koyikkal Palace is a notable historical and cultural site in Kerala, preserving the legacy of the region and offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and traditions. Please note that visiting hours and other details may change, so it’s advisable to check the latest information before planning your visit.