Historical Places in Kerala

Popularly known as the Dutch Palace, the Mattancherry Palace is a Portuguese palace in Mattancherry, Kochi. The Mattancherry Palace was originally built by the Portuguese who later gifted it to the King of Cochin in 1555. It is now a museum displaying paraphernalia belonging to the rajas of Kochi. Visit this destination to learn about the fascinating history of Kerala through the medium of irreplaceable artefacts and embellishments.

Fort Kochi is a seaside town in the south-western part of Main Kochi which is known for its old-world colonial charm. This quaint city is dotted with European structures and has an overall ambience that keeps reminding you of the colonial powers that once ruled over the place.

Built almost 300 years ago, Bekal Fort is considered one of the largest and most preserved forts in Kerala. It is surrounded by a beautiful beach offering an enchanting view of the Arabian Sea from its high observation tower where once the cannons were placed. The fort was featured in the popular A R Rahman song ' Tu hi re'.

Famous for its exquisite rock and wall carvings, the pre-historic Edakkal Caves are two naturally occurring alcoves located in the Wayanad district of Kerala. The Edakkal caves are of historical and archaeological significance as it has carvings that date back to the Neolithic era, the late Stone Age. The stonework in the interior of the cave is estimated to be as old as 5000 BC to 1000 BC.

One of the most well-preserved forts in the state of Kerala, the Palakkad fort was built in 1766 AD by Hyder Ali and is now a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India. It is famous for its architecture, which displays the efficiency of the French craftsman. The Palakkad fort also houses some other smaller attractions such as the Hanuman temple, Martyr's column, Anjaneya Swami Temple (a small shrine), Vatika Shilavatika (a garden) and a sub-jail.

Shakthan Thampuran Palace situated in Thrissur marks the royal residence of the king of Cochin. Popularly known as Vadakkekara Palace, it dated back to the time of the King of Cochin named Rama Varma Shakthan Thampuran and was constructed in 1795. The beautiful palace with an amalgamation of Kerela and the Dutch style of architecture.

Bolgatty Palace is located in Bolgatty Island of Kochi and is one of the oldest existing Dutch palaces that is situated outside Holland. It is an exquisite example of the Kochi style of architecture. Owing to its picturesque surroundings and rich history, the building has also served as the Governor's palace for the commander of Dutch Malabar and was the home of the British. Today, it has re-established itself as a luxury hotel and is a favourite among couples.

Formerly known as Ganapativatom; Sulthan Bathery, located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, is a quaint and peaceful town. The place came to be known by its new name after the great ruler, Tipu Sultan of Mysore, invaded the region and used the Jain Temple located here as a battery.

Matri Dei Cathedral, built in Roman style of architecture is one among the older churches of Malabar. It traces back its history to 1513 AD and houses a 200-year old Portrait of St. Mary. It is also referred to as Mother of God Cathedral.

Thalassery Fort is an ancient monument in Thalassery also known as Tellicherry. The fort is now supervised by the Archaeological Survey of India and comprises a large gateway as well as a lighthouse. Near the fort also lies the bungalow of the sub-collector, St. Rosary Church and Brennen cemetery.

Known For : Thevally Palace Amritapuri Mahatma Gandhi Beach and Park

Steeped in a rich past, entangled with a unique culture and attributed with nature divine, Kolam is one of the oldest ports in the Arabian Sea. Chinese, Arab, Portuguese, Dutch and British, all have tried their hands on trading spices and cashew crops from this famous port. Popularly known as Quilon, it is often regarded as the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala.

Best Time: September to February

41 Kollam Attractions

Located at Tripunithura, The Hill Palace is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala. It was built in the year 1865 and was once the Imperial Administrative offices and official residence of the Maharaja of Cochin.  The complex has an archaeological museum, a heritage museum, a deer park, a pre-historic park and a children's park.

The Krishnapuram Palace is a palace and museum that is located in Kayamkulam, at a distance of 47 km from Alappuzha. This magnificent palace was built during the reign of a Travancore King, Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma and is well known for its mural paintings and architecture. Known as the 'Gajendra Moksha', this mural painting covers an area of around 53 square feet and has a rich historical value attached to it. 

Pazhassiraja Museum located on East Hill has been named after the great Pazhassiraja Kerala Varma of the Padinjare Kovilakom of the Kottayam Royal Family. The museum is famous for its various archaeological ruins such as antique bronzes, ancient paintings and the historical umbrella stones etc.

The Pallippuram Fort is located in Pallippuram, on the northern extremity of the Vypeen Island in the Ernakulam district. The mighty fort was built by the Portuguese in 1503 and is the oldest European fort that exists in the country. Today, it stands majestically as the oldest surviving European monument in India amidst the lush greenery and the glistening skies.

At a distance of about 15 km from Kannur is the town of Peralassery, known for its Peralassery Subrahmanya Temple. It is believed that on their way to Lanka to free Goddess Sita, Lord Ram and Lord Laxman, stopped at the temple for a while and they left a bangle here.

Anjengo Fort, situated 12 km off Varkala at Anjengo, is believed to have been built in the 17th century. Presently the fort is protected by the National Heritage monuments. The cemetery in the fort shelters the deceased occupants of the fort. The popular Muthalapuzhi Lake is situated very close to the Fort. Autos or cabs can be taken to reach the fort.

A huge majestic palace bounded by a boundary of massive walls is Poonjar Palace situated in Meenachil Taluka. The palace is adorned with a fascinating collection of various types of furniture and antiques which includes grand chandeliers, jewellery boxes, statues, grain measurer, weapons and palm leaf engravings.