ARCHEOLOGICAL HERITAGE

Protected Monuments

District	Name of the Monument
Thiruvananthapuram	Madavoorpara Rock Cut Temple
	Thirunarayanapuram Vishnu Temple
	Trivikramangalam Temple (Thamalam)
	Neeramankara Temple
	East Fort, Vettimurichkotta, Pazhavangadikotta, West Fort, Sreevarahamkotta
	Vizhinjam Bhagavathi Temple
	Vishnu Temple, Aruvikkara
	Ammachi Plavu, Neyyattinkara
	Koyikkal Kottaram, Nedumangadu
	Pandavanpara
	The Fort walls around SreePadmanabha swami Temple, the Fort gates and the sites in which they stand.
	Ayyippilla Asan & Ayyini Pillai  Asan Smaraka Mandapam (Kovalam)
	Birth place of Sri.Vidhyadhi Raja Chattampi Swamikal at Kannamoola
	Travancore Military HQ.Palayam
	Iornvilla, Vanchiyoor
	Vadkke Nambi Madam
	Pushpanjali Swamiyar Madam
	Nityachelavu Bungalow, Rangavilasam Palace, Rangavailasam Palace Out house
	Rangavilasam Palace Annex
	Thevarapura
	Koppupura
	Sundara Vilasam Palace
	Chokkathal Mandapam
	Chellamvaka
	Utsavamadam
	Ramanamadam
	Navarathry mandapam
	Krishnavilasom Palace
	Peshkar Office
	Kuzhimalika
	Bhajanapura Malika
	Ananthavilasom Palace
	Kuthira Malika
	Anandavilasom Palace Out house
	Moodathu Madam
	Sreepadam Palace
	Kilimanoor Palace
	Saraswathy Vilasom Palace
	Kawdiar Palace
	Perattil Vazzhiyambalam
	Dr. Palpu's Birth House
Kollam	Rock Cut Cave Temple at Kottukkal, Chadayamangalam
	Chennamathu Temple near Chathannoor
	Punalur Suspension Bridge
	Madankavu
	Building within which Sreevidyadhiraja Chattambi Swami Monument situate
Pathanamthitta	Megalithic Burial Site, Poothamkara
	Trikakudi  Temple, Kaviyoor
	Kampithan Kalmandapam, Adoor
Alappuzha	Buddha Image, Karunagappally
	Buddha Image, Mavelikkara
	Sree Kumaramangalam Subramanya Swamy Temple, Muthavazhi
	Buddha Image, Karumadikuttan
	Buddha Image Bharanikavu
	Narasimha Temple, Chathankulangara
	Krishnapuram Palace, Kayamkulam
	Excavated yatch and its surroundings, Kadakkarappally
	Sri Karthiyayini Temple, Kuttemperoor
	Varanad Naduvilay Kovilakam
	St. Raphel's Church and Compound
	Sri Itti Achuthan Vaidyar Kuriala, Oushada Sasyakavu
	Trikkuyrutty Mahadeva Temple, Mannar
Kottayam	Pundareekapuram  Devaswam
	Thrikkodithanam Sri Mahavishnu Temple
	Old Seminary
	House of freedom fighter Chembilarayan
	St. Mary’s Church, St. Augustian’s Church & Two storied building in which Thoma Kathanar was residing
	Menhir, Kottayam
	Venniamala Sree Rama Lakshmana Swami Temple, its Pond & Cave
	Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, Poonjar
Idukki	Karikkodu Annamala Natharu Devaswam Temple
	Ezhuthupura, Marayoor
	Mangaladevi Temple, Thekkady
	Thittavayal Kovilkadavu, Marayoor
	Kannakayam, Hill Pulaya settlement, Kovilkadavu Market
Ernakulam	Stone inscription, Chennamangalam
	Pallippuram Fort, Kochi
	Manjapra Temple, Aluva
	Kallil Temple, Aramannoor
	Kottayil Kovilakam, Chennamangalam
	Vaipikotta Seminary, Chennamangalam
	Stone inscriptions, Paravur
	Old Kacherry building (Union Christian College, Aluva)
	Pazhoor Perumthrikovil SivaTemple
	Uliyannur Mahadeva Temple, Aluva
	Mattacherry palace which was used for performing ceremony of ‘Ariyittuvazhcha’ by the Maharajas of erstwhile Cochin Kingdom
	Ooramana Temple, Moovattupuzha
	Thirunayathodu Sivanarayana Temple
	Thirumarady Sri Mahadeva Temple
	Jewish Synagogue,  North Paravur
	Bastian Bungalow (Now Residence R.D.O Fort Kochi)
	Hill Palace Archaeological Museum, Thrippunithura
	Jewish Centre
	St.George Church, Puthenpally
	Thirumarayikulam Mahadevakshetram
	Kadmattam Church
	Kaippattoor Narasimha moorthi Temple
	St. Sebastian Church
	Thekkumbhagam Synagogue
	Ooramana Sree Dharma Sastha Temple
	Paliyam Kovilakom
	Paliyam Nalukettu
	Black Jewish Synagogue
Thirssur	Porkalam Dolmens
	Kizhthali Temple
	Images of nagaraja and nagayakshi under a Saptaparna tree in the Vadakkechira palace compound
	Three Monuments in Palace Toppu (Vadakkechira Palace compound)
	Palace site - Palace of the Chermaan Perumal portion around the state monument
	Arryanur Temple
	Nedudumkotta or Travancore line
	Monolithic  Monument
	Western  Gateway & Eastern Gateway, Vadakkechira Palace
	Tipu's flag staff and land around it, Vadakkechira Palace
	A Dolmen in Anapanthen, Kodassery Forest range
	A Dolmen in Puthupara in Kothermuzhi
	A Dolmen in South of Tram line in Puthupara
	One Muniyara with side rooms near Myldappan
	An idol of Ganapathi at Elicode
	A ruined temple deducted to Vishnu in Bharathamala in Thrikkur beat
	An idol of Shiva & a circular well in Bharathamala
	Munipara at Kodassery
	Various Muniyara's at Chendrayi, Konnamkuzhinkara, Adirapilly, Vailathu thandu, Erappanpara, Velathumpara, Thoduikadu,  Adukkalappara, Vettilapara, Vaniyampara road, Kapikad, Perumthumba, Thalikuzhi
	Rock cut cave near Irumban, Nenmara
	A dilapidated Shiva temple in the Athanad Hill
	Site of Bana's fort and Shiva temple Panancheri
	Two Muniyaras in Kudanthodu in assigned
	One  Shiva Temple in Elanad village
	One Shiva temple in reserves in Chelakkara beat
	Muniyaras in the reserves in Pullanparatha in Vazhani beat
	Muniyaras on the ridge top in Mukkunnipara reserve in Kallampara beat
	Muniyaras on the ridge top in Cheppara reserves in Kallampara beat
	A dilapidated Sastha temple in Ayyappankunnu
	Vattazhuthu  inscriptions at Thazakkad Church, Kalletukara
	Mukundapuram temple including the Fort ditches and foundations of ancient buildings within the area
	Menhir
	Prehistoric cave, Kottappuram
	Megalithic Monument, Puzhakkal
	Port hole cist, Karlom
	Trikkur Rock Cut Mahadeva Temple
	Kottappuram Fort
	Irunilacode  Rock Cut Siva Temple
	Old Fortification, Vadakkechira
	Megalithic Monument near the T.B. Hospital site
	Sakthan Thamburan Palace
	Ancient House of Arnos Pathiri Veloor St. Francis  Xavier and Forance Church
	Kothalikunnu Cave
	Thalinedumprayoor Siva Kshetram &  Kshetrkulam
	Chettuvakotta, Chavakkad
	Kodungalloor Valiya Thamburam  Kovilakam Kottaram
	St.Mary's Church, Kalparambu
	Kollamcode Palace
	The Birth house of Freedom fighter Muhammad Abdul Rahman Sahib
	Chirakkal Palace
	Erattachira Kovilakam
Palakkad	Kattilmadam, Ottappalam
	Thunchan Guru Madam, Chittur
	Rock Cave, Kunnathoor Village
	Tholante Kattil, Kunnathoor Village
	Nannangadi, Kunnathoor Village
	Panniyoor Varahamoorthy Temple
	Thirumittacode Anchumoorthy Kshethram
	Rocket Caves & Post holes, Anakkara
Malappuram	Sri.Venkitta Thevar Temple (Siva Temple,  Kottakkal)
	Changanpally Kalari, Pazhukkamandapam, Nilapad Thara, Marunnara & Manikkinar at Thirunavaya
	Eravimangalam Sri Subrahmanya Swami Kshethram
	Tirurangadi Taluk Office Building
	Willam John Dunckown Rawls Tomb
	Sub Registrer Office Tirurangadi
	Triprangode Maha Siva Kshesthram
	Sri Karikkad Subramanya Swami Temple
	Perumpadappu Valiya Kinar, Ponnani
Kozhikode	Monuments indicating the first arrival of Vascoda Gama at Kappad
	Kottakal Kunjali Marakkar’s House
	Tipu Sultan Fort (Paramukku Kottastnalam)
	Kalpathoor Paradevatha Temple
	Kunjali Marakkar Juma Palli, Kottakal
	Cave, Maniyoor
	Lokanarkavu Bhagavathy Temple
	Old Sub Registrar Office Building Kuttiady
Wayanad	Tomb of Pazhassi Raja
	Edakkal Caves and its surroundings
	Ambalavayal Military Barracks
	Palliyara Sree Bhagavathi Temple
Kannur	Ezhimala Fort at Ettikulam
	Kannavam  Thodeekulam Siva Temple
	Arackal Kottaram
	Payyannur Old Police Station
Kasargod	Poyilkotta
	Chandragiri Fort
	Pilikode Cave
	Arikkady Fort
	Puthiya Kotta, Hosdurg
	Udinoor Kshethra Palaka Kshethra   Kottaram
	Banthadukka Fort

Ariyanur Temple

Ariyannoor Temple is located in Kandanisseri Panchayat of Thrissur district In Choondal – Guruvayoor route. It dates back to the 14th Century. The main deity is Goddess Hari kanya (Bhagavathi). The shrine is having two-storied. Its granite Adhishtana has ornate walls made of laterite. A traditional Namaskara Mandapam, Nalambalam, Thidappalli, Balikkalppura are also there. The temple with its walls, ruined Gopurams, two storied shrine, broken idol, other constituent portions, two Dwarapalakas and wooden images on the Namaskaramandapa are declared as protected by the State Department of Archaeology of the erstwhile state of Cochin in 1936. The Department of Archaeology has undertaken conservation works in 2004.

Aruvikkara Vishnu Temple

Aruvikkara Vishnu temple is located at Maranallur in Thiruvananthapuram district. The antiquity of the temple dates back to 16th century. There are three shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Siva and Lord Sastha. The architecture styles of these temples are simple. The temples of Lord Lord Vishnu and Lord Siva are circular and that of Lord Sastha is in apsidal (Gajaprishtakara) style). The temple is a protected monument of the Department of Archeology.

Chennamathu Temple

Chennamathu Temple, a rare stone built temple of medium size of medieval Kerala type is dated to the 13th century C.E. is a historically important temple at Chathannoor in Kollam District of Kerala. The temple is situated at Meenad village in Kollam district Built in the 13th century. This old Siva temple has circular vimana. It is ekathala alpavimana of sandhara type. The presiding deiy is Lord Siva. The Vattezhuthu inscription of the temple dates back to 1237. Two armed dwarapalakas in stone work is seen here on the flanks of the main door entrance. The Balipita is on the open outside the prakara door on the eastern side. The windows are set with in the plastered divisions of the wall. The Vattezhuthu inscriptions seen on the Adhishtana of the Srikovil state that the construction of the temple had been started in 446 M.E.(1271 C.E.) and completed in 448 M.E.(1273 C.E.) Its construction was headed by 'Chathannur Varian Devan Uzhuthiran'. The amount spent for the construction excluding the Peedam and the idol was 105 'achu', a coin circulated during that period. The construction was supervised by Koyilpalli Sankaran Chathan. The temple had been originally managed by the landlords of Mamballi Madom belong to Chengannur. At present, the temple is owned and managed by the N.S.S. Karayogam of the same locality. The Department of Archaeology has scientifically conserved the conical shaped superstructure of the temple.

Dharma Sastha Temple, Poonjar

Sree Dharma Sastha Temple is located at Poonjar, 42 km from Kottayam. The temple is owned by the Poonjar Koyikkal Swaroopam (Poonjar Royal family). The temple is dedicated to Lord Sastha. Historical evidences show that the temple was constructed in 1165 A.D. Sabarimala pilgrims visit this temple and many start their pilgrimage to Sabarimala from here. The temple is one of the few temples in Kerala where the chuttuvillakku (lamps around the outer wall of the temple) is carved out of stone instead of wood and metal as in other temples. It is believed that the idol of Goddess Meenakshi installed here is of 800 years old..

Irunilamcode Rock cut temple

Located at Mulloorkkara in Thrissur district, Irunilamcode rock cut temple pertained to the 8th-9th century C.E. It is one of the old and important temples in Kerala dedicated to Lord Dakshinamurthy, Lord Vishnu, Lord Siva etc. The chief deity Dakshinamurthy is carved out of the same rock in sitting posture. The linga is seen adjacent to the chief deity. It is in a cave. This hillock lays spread in an area of more than hundred acres with solid rock. It was declared as protected monument in 1966 by the State Department of Archaeology.

Kallil Temple, Asamannoor

Kallil Temple is e located at Asamannoor Panchayat, 12 km away from Perumbavoor. Kallil in Malayalam means 'in stone'. It is one of the most ancient Jain temples in Kerala, which was later transformed as a Hindu temple consequent on the decline of Jainism and insurgence of Aryans in the 9th century. The idol which was worshipped here was that of Jain Goddess Padmavathy. Vardhamana Mahaveera was also worshipped. Now these two idols are worshipped as Goddess Bhagavathy and Lord Siva. The boulder of the cave is a huge one. The rock cut temple has three rooms. In the first room Lord Siva and Goddess Bhagavathy (Durga) are consecrated. All the three rooms have separate entrance. The temple was owned by Kallil Pisharam. Now it is governed by Sri Ramadas Mission, Chenkottukonam, Thiruvananthapuram on behalf of the Pisharam. It is one of the protected monuments in Kerala under Archaeological Survey of India.

Kalpathoor Paradevatha Temple

Kalpathoor Paradevata Temple is located at Nochad in Koyilandi (Kozhikode district). The antiquity of the temple can be dated to 14th century A.D. The temple was were declared as protected monument by the department of Archaeology in 1995 considering its sculptural importance.. The ancient temple is having granite adhistana with laterite wall. Dwarapalakas are of wood. Pranala is usual ornate type with a gana support on its tip. The Ceiling of the 'Mukhamandapa' and the 'Balikalpura' has beautiful wooden carvings. Almost dilapidated eastern padippura carries splendid carvings of miniature figures on its cealing, depicting different puranic scenes like 'Sree Rama Pattabhisekam', 'Ananthasayanam', 'Siva Parvathi Parinayam' etc. The chief deity Paradevata (Vettakkorumakan) is facing the West. The idol of Paradevata is about five and a half feet in height and of wood (jack fruit tree).

Kannavam Thodeekulam Siva Temple

Thodikalam temple, a 16th century Siva Temple is at Kannavam near Koothuparamba of Kannur District. The temple is of dwithala chathurasra vimana, with copper sheet roof. It had been owned by the rulers of northern Kottayam celebrated as Pazhassi Kovilakom. This temple was renovated by Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja in the last quarter of the 18th century. During the war with the British East India Company, Pazhassi Raja often used this temple as a protecting shield. The British army stormed the temple with cannons. The structures of the temple except Sanctum Sanctorum were destroyed in the war. The ornate wall of the Garbhagriha is of laterite with plaster coating on which auspicious murals are portrayed. The chief deity is Lord Siva. A granite Nandi is mounted on the square-shaped Namaskara Mandapa. The upper storey of the Srikovil is smaller than the ground floor. The Department of Archaeology declared this temple and the surrounding area as a protected monument in 1993.

Karikkodu Annamala Natharu Devaswam Temple

Annamala natharu Temple is a ruined granite temple believed to have been constructed 1800 years ago. However, experts are of opinion that it might have been constructed during 10th century. The temple’s ancient structures except the rectangular Srikovil have degenerated. The rectangular Garbhagriha (Plinth part) has a rectangular veranda in front of it. The roof of the Garbhagriha and the veranda are covered with granite slabs. These granite slabs of the veranda supported with ornate granite pillars having exquisite carvings. A number of antique objects had been kept in the temple including bronze and stone sculptures and utensils made of copper and bronze, were acquired and housed in various Archaeological Monuments under the Department of Archaeology. The temple is situated at Karikodu ( 3 km from Thodupuzha town) in Idukki district dedicated to Lord Siva. Built in the Chola style of architecture, the temple has a window with nine lattices pointing to the Navagrahas (nine planets).

Karikkad Subramanya Swami Temple

The Karikkad Subramanya Temple complex is situated near Manjeri in Malappuram district. There are three important shrines having great historical past, datable to 11th or 12 century. Two shrines are dedicated to Lord Subramanya, one at southern portion and the other at northern side of the complex, both facing east. The other shrine is dedicated to Lord Sastha. Sub-shrines are dedicated to Lord Ganapathy, Goddess Durga and Lord Daksbinamoorthy. All the three deities command equal respect and have separate sopanam, Mughamandapam, and vathil matam and also Dhwajasthambham and Balikkal. The southern shirine is the oldest one having square Eka-thala srikovil with granite adhishtanam and Mukha mandapa of sandhara type. The Namaskara mandapam has sixteen wooden pillars. The northern side shrine is a Dwi-thala srikovil of sandhara type with granite adhishtanam andNamaskara mandapam in front of it. The shrine dedicated to Lord Sastha is apsidal of nirandhara type with granite adhishtanam. Namaskara mandapam has four pillars. All the shrines are enclosed with a compound wall with the shape of elephant’s back on the top. Wood carvings are there on the ceiling of namaskara mandapas.

Karthiyayini Temple, Kuttemperoor

Karthiyayini Temple is located in Mannar Panchayat of Alappuzha district. The presiding deity is Goddess Karthiyayini. Lord Siva, Lord Ganapathy, Lord Sastha, Nagar are other deities. The temple is believed to have been worshipped by "Kroshtamuni" during "Krita yuga". The sreekovil of the temple is circular type with copper roof. It also consists of Nalambalam, Balikkal, Nadapanthal, Mathrusalala, Kodimaram etc. The inscriptions in the temple are of ancient writings in vattezhuth and kolezethu. The temple is a protected monument of the Governmetn of Kerala.

Kizhthali Temple

Kizhthali Temple, one of the eighteen Tali temples in Kerala dedicated to Lord Siva is dated to the early 13th - 14th century C.E. It is made out fully of laterite blocks and faces the East. This old Sandhara type temple is now in ruins. Originally it was a large complex. Its outer walls have fallen down and the inner walls stand in the middle of the Adhishtana like a cubical tower. Its original construction had included a square Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum) having a narrower Mukhamandapa with three flights of steps on the three sides. The Mukhamandapa is assumed to have four functional doors. The adhishtana (plinth part) of the Garbhagriha and Mukhamandapa are continuous and also similar in type too. But the Adhishtana of the Garbhaagriha has recesses and projections. Both the Sanctum Santorum and the Mukha mandapa have Pranala (stone pipe to letting out lustral water) made of granite on the northern side. Kizhthali Siva temple is assumed to be of Dwitala Vimana with a square griva (neck of the dome) and pyramidal Sikhara (cupola); eliminating the Namaskaramandapa. The Vattezhuthu inscriptions dug out from this temple complex has also been kept in the epigraphic gallery of the Archaeological Museum, Thrissur.

Kottukal cave Temple

Kottukkal Cave Temple, also known as Kaltrikkovil in Malayalam, is an existing example of rock cut architecture, built between 6th and 8th centuries CE. It is situated in the village of Kottukkal, near Anchal, Kollam district, Kerala, India. The name Kottukkal (which means Kothiya Kallu- carved rock) is a reference to rock cut shrine. Kottukkal rock cut temple is a typical example of rock-cut temples of Kerala. Tthere are two rock-cut caves facing the east, excavated out from one single rock. Of them, the larger cell has a four-sided Garbhagriha, an Ardhamandapa and a pillared facade. A monolithic bull (Nandi) and Sivalinga can be seen in both the caves. The Mukhamandapa of the big cell has two pillars carved in rock. The wall of the Mukhamandapa is beautified with a figure of Ganapathi. A standing figure of Hanuman is seen in one of the niches of the small cell along with the idol of Nandi The state Department of Archaeology declared it as a protected monument in 1966.

Lokanarkavu Bhagavathy Temple

Lokanarkavu Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, popularly known as Lokaranarkavilamma. Apart from the shrine of Goddess Bhagavathy, the temple complex has two more shrines dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu and Lord Siva. The temple of Lord Maha Vishnu is very ancient and is believed to have been consecrated by Lord Parasurama. The installation of Lord Siva is believed to have been made on the first day of Malabar Era (ie. 825 AD). Temple of Goddess Bhagavathy has been built during eleventh century. Near to the temple, there are three rock caves having mural paintings and carvings. Historical evidences point out that animal sacrifice was offered in olden days before men going to the battlefield. A peculiar folk dance known as Thacholikali that resembles the martial art Kalarippayattu is presented during festival season. Kalaripayattu artists used to seek the blessings of deity before their first appearance. Legends and folklore give the details of this temple. It is said that Kadathanadu Rajah once owned the temple. An old palace of Kadathanadu Rajah situated near to the temple gives support to this contention. One of the legends say that some members of the royal family of zamorin proceeded to Kadathanad due to some internal quarrels and annexed their kingdom there had built the temple. Another story tells that the Puduppanam Vazhunnor brought an invoked idol from Kodungallur and installed the deity there. Yet another legend says that a Nair clam from Kollam came to north centuries back and settled near the temple site. In order to worship, they brought their family deity of Sree Kokamaleswarathamma and named as Lokamalayal Kavu which has been shortened later as Lokanar Kavu. There is no reliable record available to prove the antiquity of the temple. Some believe that the temple is 1500 years old. Some are of opinion that the temple was built by Aryans who migrated to Kerala from North. The Aryans still have some importance in the temple.

Madavoorpara Rock Cut Temple

The antiquity and origin of the temple can be determined based on legends and hearsay. One of the legends about the origin of the cave temple says that the shrine was built by a Buddhist monk centuries ago. Some believe that the temple was built by Jains. Rock cut temples are one of the main styles of Kerala architecture during ancient period and it is believed that the temple was constructed during 7-9 century AD. This cave temple is found at the mid portion of the rock. To reach the shrine, one has to climb more than 200 steps. The images and idols are carved on the walls in relief style. There is an ancient vattezhuth inscription near the shrine. The Madavoorpara temple is managed by Sree Rama Dasa Mission, Thiruvananthapuram. The temple premise is declared as a protective area by the Archeology Department, Government of Kerala.

Manjapra Vishnu Temple

Located at Manjapra in Eranakulam district, this Vishnu Temple is also known as Puthurppilli Vishnu Temple. It has a unique Square Sikhara type shrine is known for its structural elegance. The base, walls and the roof of the Srikovil are made out of dressed granite rock. The roof is set with granite slabs. The principal deity Maha Vishnu holding Varadamudra faces the east. There are sub shrines for Lord Ganapathy, Lord Sastha, Goddess Bhadrakali and Nagar. The idol of Mahavishnu belongs to the 10th century C.E. The temple is now functioning under the Travancore Devaswom Board. The State Department of Archaeology declared this temple as a protected monument in 1996.

Mangaladevi Temple

Mangaladevi Temple is situated 15 km from Kumily of Idukki district at the top of a mountain of 5000 feet above sea level. This is an important ancient temple that believed to have been constructed in 11th century. Some believe that the temple is datable to 8th or 9th century A.D. Built in the Pandya style of architecture, the temple remains closed for the entire year except for the annual Chithra Pournami festival, celebrated in the month of April- May. Visitors are allowed only on the festival day in the month of Medam (April-May), for which permission has to be obtained from the Wildlife Warden of the Forest Department. In olden days, the temple was also known as Mangaladevikottam, Pathinikottam etc. The temple complex consisted of four shrines of different sizes with Gopura, Garbha Griha, Ardhamandapa, sub-shrines open courtyard etc. Now only remnants of the temple complex are there. Considering the historic and architectural value, the Department of Archaeology declared it as a protected monument in 1983.

Narasimha Temple, Chathankulangara

Chathankulangara Narasimha Temple is famous for its sculptural art of chaturasra alpavimana fronted by a Namaskaramandapa. In this Nirandhara Type temple (Shrine without circumambulatory passage inside) of 14th century, Adhishtana (plinth part) is of manchaka type. The roof of the main shrine is covered with copper sheets and that of Namaskaramandapa is a tiled pyramidal one. The entire temple complex is surrounded by the Nalambalam. The square-shaped Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) has its own octagonal Griva (neck of the done) and Sikhara (cupola) crowned by a Stupi. The temple has four functional doors with Dwarapalakas, and each of them has Durga figure as the Lalatha bimba. The chief deity Narasimha is facing the West. The sub shrines are Sastha, Ganapathy, Nagar and Rashas. The wood carvings of the wall are excellent and arranged generally in horizontal registers. The walls of the temples portrays various mythical scenes. The entire temple complex is now managed by the Temple Trust. The stone inscriptions engraved at the entrance are in Vattezhuthu, the old Malayalam script. This inscription may be attributed to the 14th century. It states that Devan- Sankaran of Melkkadu executed repairs in the temple and re-congregated it and a list of lands given to the temple.

Ooramana Sree Dharma Sastha Temple

Ooramana Dharma Sastha Temple is located 13 km south-west of Muvattupuzha in Eranakulam district. The temple is an ancient one. The structures of the temple consist of sreekovil, chuttambalam, agramandapam and deepastambham apart from compound wall. The sreekovil is of nirandhara type and has granite adhistanam. The sopanam has four direct steps with motifs of vyali face and the pranalam has multi-faceted sundu supported by a pillar. The chuttambalam with agramandapam has entrances from all sides. The principal deity is Lord Ayyappa. There are no subsidiary deities.

Ooramana Narasimhamurthy Temple, Moovattupuzha

Ooramana Narasimhamurthy Temple is located at Ramamangalam Panchayat of Eranakulam district, some 13 km away from Moovaatupuzha. The temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimhamoorthy. The temple is of Circular Vimana with granite Adhishtana and plastered walls. The complex consist sreekovil, namaskara mandapam, chuttambalam, agra mandapam, balikkal, oottupura, gopuram and compound wall. The principal deity Narasimhamurthi is facing the East. Dwarapalakas are painted on the walls. Its Ardhamandapa is square in shape. The ornate Pranala is of the mediaeval type. The walls of the Srikovil are beautified with enchanting murals. They are based on stories like Gajendra Moksham, Sivathandava, Sastha on hunting, Sree Rama Pattabhishekha and the war between Rama and Ravana. The wooden carvings adorn the ceiling of its Ardha mandapa. This temple may date back to 12 - 13th century C.E. The murals of this temple had been scientifically conserved by the Department of Archaeology.

Palliyara Sree Bhagavathi Temple

The Palliyara Porkkali Bhagavathy Temple is located at Edavaka Panchayat near Mananthawadi in Wayanad District. The Principal Deity is Goddess Bhagavathy. It dates back to 14th century. The temple has rectangular Eka-thala srikovil. It is a protected monument of the Government of Kerala.

Panniyoor Varahamoorthy Temple

Panniyoor Varahamoorthy Temple is located at Anakkara Panchayat in Malappuram district. It is believed that this temple is the oldest one in Kerala more than 3000 years old. According to an inscription found from Panniyoor, there existed a cultural form about a millennium ago with the name Panniyoor ‘sahasra’ (Panniyoor ‘aayiram’). It is believed that Perunthanchan built the earliest structures of the temple and inspite of his all out efforts he could not complete it in time and he had to quit the work leaving his tools there. Thereafter there is a saying that ‘panniyoorambalam pani mudiyilla’ (the construction of panniyoor temple would never be completed). The temple complex had all the typical structures such as twin Srikovil os sandhara type made of granite adhistanam dedicated Lord Varahamoorthy and Lord Lakshminarayana, Namaskara mandapam, Vatil-madam, Balikkals, Vilakkumaatam, Koothambalam, Gopuram, Deepasthambham, Thidappalli, Mulayara, subshrines, Well and compound wall. A separate shrine for Lord Siva with Mukha mandapa, valiyambalam and thidappally is also there. The srikovil of this shrine is square dwi-tala of sandhara type with granite adhishtanam.

Pazhoor Perumthrikovil

Pazhoor Perumthrikkovil is located in Piravam of Eranakulam district on the bank of River Muvattupuzha. It is one of the biggest circular shrines. This Siva temple ascribed to the 12th century with c circular Adhishtana and conical roof covered with copper sheets is of Sandhara type. The granite Adhishtana consists of the mouldings like Upana, Jagathi, octagonal Kumuda, Kanta with Kampas and Pattika. The walls are plain and a Ghanadvara is marked at the centre. Two rows of alternate square and octagonal pillars in circular alignment are set around this inner square shrine which is possible of laterite. The main entrance is through a flight of steps having bannisters bearing Purna - Kumbha motif. On either side of the Sopana there is a column. The Dwarapalakas made of wood are near the door leading the shrine - interior. The Pranala on the northern wall comes out of the Kapota is a fluted shaft lipped at the end without ornamental bands. The Namaskaramandapa is square in shape. There are Nalambalam, Valiyambalam and Balikkalppura.The curved end of Pranala is held by a Bhuta figure in standing posture. Other deities are Goddess Parvathi, Lord Sastha, Lord Sreekrishna, Lord Ganapathy and Nagar.

Pundareekapuram Vishnu temple

Pundareekapuram Vishnu Temple is located at Vadayar near Vaikom in Kottayam district. The temple is of Chaturasra Vimana, Ektatala with copper sheet roof. The plinth, as well as the wall, is made out of granite. It follows Nirandhara type; without circumambulatory passage inside. The false doors and the Dwarpalakas carefully rendered in stonework are noteworthy. Exquisite Murals are depicted on the lime plastered granite wall of the sanctum. The murals on the walls are believed to have belonged to the late 16th century C.E. The shrine is properly set within the four outer walls. The Namaskaramandapam, Nalambalam and the Agramandapam are located inside the main temple complex. The subshrine of Nagar along with hundreds of Nagar idols are kept in the open in the West of the main temple complex. The principal deity is Lord Vishnu with Satyabhama on the left lap seated on Garuda. The sub shrines are of Lord Ganapathy and Nagar.

Thirumarady Sri Mahadeva Temple

The Mahadeva temple is situated at Thirumaradi near Piravam, in the district of Ernakulam. It is a square temple with a number of wooden sculptures on the griva of the Srikovil. The temple has a namaskara mandapa and chuttambalam around the Srikovil which faces the East. The roof of the Srikovil is covered with a copper sheet. The shrine is dedicated to Shiva and the deity faces east. Lord Ayyappan and Lord Subrahmanian are the subsidiary deities.There is a Srikrishna temple in the same compound which is circular with a square namaskaramandapa. The roof of this Krishna temple is having fish scale tiles.

Thirumittacode Anchumoorthy Temple

Thirumittakkode Anchumoorthy is located 8 km south-west of Pattambi. The temple is on the bank of Bharathapuzha. This ancient temple has a great historical past. Legend says that the idols of the temple were consecrated by Pandavas. The idol at the main shrine as well as the idols of three other shrines is that of Maha Vishnu. Lord Siva is also considered as the principal deity of the temple. Lord Ganapathy, Lord Dakshinamoorthy, Lord Ayyappa and Goddess Durga Bhagavathy are the other deities. The temple consists Sreekovil, Namaskara Mandapam, Cuttambalam, Sub-shrines, Balikkal, Deepasthambam, Two Gopurams and Maryada (compound wall) and Thidappally. The circular Eka-tala Sreekovil is of sandahara type. The Chuttabalam has two entrances.

Thirunarayanapuram Vishnu Temple

Thirunarayanapuram temple is located near Kallambalam in the National Highway between Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam. This temple is believed to be about700 years old. It is a Sikhara type having a combination of early Vijayanagara style of architecture with local features. The square Trithala type of structure cloister Namaskara Mandapa, granite foundation and walls are the main features of the temple. The carvings show the characteristics of early Vijayanagara style. The temple is owned by a Trust.

Thirunayathodu Sivanarayana Temple

Thirunayathode Siva Narayana Temple is located at Nayathod village in Ernakulam District, Kerala, India. The temple is located 3 km from Cochin International Airport. This temple is a protected monument by Archeological Department, Kerala.The deity at this temple is Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Sivanarayana temple pertained to the 11th - 12th century C.E. Besides Sreekovil there are Namaskaramandapam, Valiyambalam, Nalambalam, Gopurams at the Eastern and Western entrances, Agrasala (Oottupura), two-storeyed Devaswom malika, and an old well inside the temple complex. There is an old compound wall built of laterite surrounding the entire temple complex. The Adhishtana of the Srikovil and walls are made of granite and the walls are coated with plaster and beautified with murals. The Dwarapalakas of this Sandhara temple seen on all four sides of the Srekovil is carved out of stone. Its roof is covered with copper sheets. The Sreekovil has a Siva linga facing the East. In front of it there set the figures of Siva and Vishnu on a Peeda. Separate offerings are there for these deities. The murals on the wall of the Srikovil are scientifically conserved by the Department of Archaeology. The Srikovil along with the Eastern Gopuram (gateway) and the compound wall have conserved by the Department in 2003.

Thrikkodithanam Sri Mahavishnu Temple

Located near Changanasseri in Kottayam district, Thrikkodithanam temple dates back to the 11th century C.E. Legend says that the temple is the fifth among the sacred Pancha Pandava temples with the idol worshipped by Sahadeva, the fifth Pandava Prince. This Vishnu temple is of circular Vimana, Ekatala with a recessed Mukhamandapa by the facade of two free-standing pillars on the edge of the eastern part of the temple. Its Plinth is of granite and the rest of the temple is made of laterite plastered with lime. The roof is covered with copper sheets. Narasimhamurthy is installed on the west and Dakshinamurthi on the south of the main circular srikovil. The other sub shrines are dedicated to Lord Sastha, Lord Ganapathy,Goddess Bhadrakali, Lord Subrahmanya and Rashas. This Sandhara type (Shrine with circumambulatory passage) temple has separate sheeted roof sikhara over the Griva and its shrine is unitary. The entire walls are decorated with murals. The plinth mouldings bear many Vattezhuthu records.

Thrikkakkudi Temple, Kaviyoor

Thrikkakkudy cave temple dedicated to Lord Siva is one of the oldest cave temples of Kerala. It is believed to have belonged to the latter half of the 8th century. The entire construction resembles the Pallava art tradition. This cave temple comprises of a central shrine with a Sivalinga, an Ardhamandapa and a facade. The cave is about 20 feet wide and 8 feet high. Two pillars of 8 feet in height gave out three cave openings. A cylindrical rock cut Siva linga is enshrined in the central shrine. There is a rectangular hall in front of the sanctum. The temple was declared as a protected monument in 1965.

Trikkur Mahadeva Temple

The rock-cut temple at Thrikkur in Thrissur district dates back to the 8th century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Siva. The Garbhagraha of the temple is carved out from a huge rock. The sivalinga mounted on a rectangular linga peeda faces the east. The dwarapalakas and other deities are arranged in a peculiar way unlike that of other temples. The Namaskaramandapa with granite pillars, Agrasala, Gopuram, Nalambalam and the Thidappally are constructed in later periods. The other striking feature is that there is an evergreen small pond on the top of the rock. The Department of Archaeology declared it as a protected monument in 1966. The temple owned by the Paliyam Devaswom is now managed by the Temple Trust.

Trikkuyrutty Mahadeva Temple, Mannar

The temple is located 11 km west of Chengannur and 12 km south of Thiruvalla on Thiruvalla-Mavelikkara route. It is believed that the temple was established by Lord Parasurama. Lord Siva is the presiding deity. Lord Sastha and Lord Maha Vishnu, Lord Ganapathy, Dakshinamoorthy and Goddess Parvathy are the minor deities. The temple complex consists of Sreekovil, Namaskaaramandapam, Naalambalam, Gopuram, Balikkal, Thidappally, Anakottil etc. The sreekovil of the temple is circular saandhara type. Namaskara Mandapam is comparatively large having many sculptors. Similarly the Balikkal is also large. The temple is famous for its daru-silpas. A kalasamandapam is in front of the sanctum sanctorum is fixed on 16 granite stones.

Triprangode Maha Siva Temple

The Maha Siva Temple of Thriprangode is located in Thriprangode Panchayat near Thirur in Malappuram district. Lord Siva is the principal deity. Lord Ganapathy, Lord Sastha, Goddess Parvathy, Lord Mukunda are other deities. The temple is very ancient and its reference can be seen in Kokilasandesa of Udhanda Sasthrikal. The apsidal dwi-thala sreekovil is of nirandhara type faces west. It has granite adhistanam. Sopanam has five direct steps. Namaskaramandapam has sixteen pillars where Nandi is consecrated. The chuttambalam has three entrances. Balikal is within the agra-mandapam. There are two deepasthambhams, one at the front and the other at rear of the temple.

Trivikramangalam Temple

Thrivikramangalam Temple dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu is located near Poojappura in Thiruvananthapuram. The other deities are Lord Ganapathy, Lord Sastha and Lord Siva. The temple that dates back to the 11th - 12th century C.E is famous for its sculptural extravagance. The temple is built in combination of Chola and Kerala styles of architecture. The Sreekovil is three-storeyed and covered with tiles. Above the granite Adhishtana there exists a rare variety of superb structures made of a rare variety of laterite blocks. The panels depicting the dancing figures and the Dwarapalaka figures are also noteworthy. The central compartment contains three figurines of a dancing woman and two mothers with their kids on both sides of the dancing woman the other two panels there depicted two types of dance poses, illustrate the posture described in the Natya Sasthra of Sage Bhartha.

Uliyannur Mahadeva Temple

Ulliyannoor Temple is located at Uliyannoor near Aluva in Eranakulam district. The temple is dedicated to Lord Siva. Goddess Parvathi enshrined in the back is facing the West. Its sub-shrine is Goddess Durga. It is believed that the temple was originally constructed by the grand old master builder 'Perunthachan' and it is considered as his master-piece. Another wonderful construction of the Perunthachan is the temple pond which one could not determine whether its shape is circle or square. The temple complex has three shrines dedicated to Lord Mahadeva, Lord Madathilappan and Lord Ganapathy. Among these, the first one is architecturally significant having 68 wooden beams of which 12 are fixed to the crown of the roof. The shrine of Lord Mahadeva is an Eka-tala srikovil is of sandhara type with granite adhistana. The sopanam has six direct steps. The shrine of Lord Madathilappan is eka-tala of nirandhara type built on an elevated platform.

Venkita Thevar Temple

Venkitta Thevar Temple located very close to the Kottakkal Arya Vaidyasala in Malappuram district. The temple complex consists of Nalambalam, Namaskaramandapam, Agrasala and temple tanks. The indigenous style of temple architecture shows that the temple was constructed during 19th century. It is of Dwitala Vimana. The Garbhagriha and Mukhamandapa are square in shape. The principal deity is Lord Siva with Goddess Parvathi. The sub shrines are dedicated tpto Lord Ganapathy and Lord Ayappa.

Venniamala Sree Rama Lakshmana Swami Temple

Vennimala temple is in Putuppally of Kottayam district. The Principal deity of the temple is Lord Lakshmana. But Lord Rama is also worshipped with equal importance. Other deities are Lord Ganesh, Lord Krishna, Nagaraja, and Yakshi. The enrance to the temple is through a dwara gopura in Kerala style followed by an Anappandal. The temple is constructed in stone. The mukhamantapa has ornamented wooden panels. The sanctum sanctorum is considered as unique of its kind in South India. Inside of the Srikovil is in hexagaonal shape. Exterior of the temple has beautiful daru silpas (wooden idols). The Srikovil and mukhamantapa are surrounded by pillars enclosing a small walk-way around. There is a namaskaramantapa and balikkal in front of the shrine. The temple pond is located about 100m from the temple and it is said that the sacred channel of the temple opens to this pond. There is a huge cave on one side of the hill located barely one kilometer from the temple. It is said that the cave runs up to the banyan tree in front of the temple, but it is closed today by big boulders fallen in that place. The cave can accommodate nearly ten people at a time. Both the pond and cave are protected by the Archeological Department.

Vizhinjam Bhagavathi Temple

Vizhinjam Cave Temple is the earliest rock cut temple of 8th century BC. It is located at Vizhinjam, in Trivandrum district. Vizhinjam was the headquarters of the Ay kings who ruled the southern parts of Kerala in 8th century. The granite cave encloses a one-celled shrine with a loose sculpture of Vinadhara Dakshinamurti. The outer wall of the cave depicts unfinished reliefs of Siva as "Tripurantakara" on the left and as "Nataraja" with Parvati on the right. The temple is one of the smallest rock-cut shrines in South India. The shrine has a central cell with an independent sculpture of Dakshinamurthy and on either side of the cell are unfinished sculptures of Siva and Parvathi. This rock cut cave is a protected monument of the Archaeological Survey of India.

Ananthavilasom Palace

Ananthavilasam palace is located at the south east side of Sri Padmanabha Temple at Thiruvananthapuram. It was constructed by Sri Visakham Thirunal, Maharaja of erstwhile Travancore (1880-85) for his residential purpose. It is a double storey building constructed in Kerala style of architecture using burned bricks and rib tiles. The building owned by the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple Trust has been leased to the State Bank of India.

Ananthavilasom Palace Out house

Ananthavilasam palace is located at the south east side of Sri Padmanabha Temple at Thiruvananthapuram. It was constructed by Sri Visakham Thirunal, Maharaja of erstwhile Travancore (1880-85) for providing accommodation to the security guards of the royal family. It is a double storey building supported by stone pillars and has corridors on either side. The building has been leased to the State Bank of India.

Arackal Kottaram

Arakkal Palace is located 2 km from the city of Kannur. The palace is now a museum owned by the Arakkala family trust. The Arakkal family was the only ruling Islamic dynasty in Kerala. Also known as Arakkal kettu, the building is a complex of residential buildings, mosques, administrative block, trade centre etc. There are two traditional mosques, one gate way with an imposing bell tower and some residential buildings. The double storey traditional style administrative block in the complex was constructed during the eighteenth century. A large courtyard in the center of a complex of large interconnected buildings. This yard is used for prayer. The buildings were built according to the local architectural style of stone and wood.. The exhibits of the museum shed light on the maritime trade relations of the ancient Arakkal family. The exhibits contain evidence of a connection between Europe and colonial times. These include treasure chests, basic chests, old telephones, swords, daggers, telescopes and versions of the Quran.

Bhajanapura Palace

The building was constructed by Swathi Thirunal Maharaja (1829-1847) of the erstwhile Travancore. The palace was formerly used for bhajan during Navarathri festival and other festivals. Members of royal family used to stay in this palace during festival days. The elongated building is a fine piece of Kerala style of architecture. The palace is located on the southern side of Sri Padmanabha Swami Temple.

Chirakkal Kovilakam

The Kodungallur Royal Family had two branches, at Chirakkal Kovilakam and at Puthen Kovilakam. Chirakkal palace also known as Kodungallur Kovilakam is a palace of the royal family of the erstwhile Kingdom of Kodungallur. The Chirakkal Kovilakam has two nalukettu structures. The Kovilakam complex consists of three old buildings; a water, the family temple (dedicated to Hindu goddess Talattil Bhagavati) and Sarpakkavu. The Kodungallur Kovilakam was a renowned centre of learning. Scholars from across present day Kerala used to live in the palaces and study Sanskrit and Vedic science. The kovilakam gave birth to eminent scholars and litterateurs who contributed to Malayalam and Sanskrit literature.

Erattachira Kovilakam

Erattachira Koviakam has significant link to erstwhile Kochi Kingdom as it was the venue to the coronation ceremonies of the kings of erstwhile Kochi kingdom. This has equal importance as that of the palace of Sakthan Thampuran at Chembukavu. The Kovilakam was constructed in 17th century. The Kovilakam belongs to the wife of Sakthan Thampuran. The building got its name as there are two water bodies (eratta chira) in front of this mansion

Kawdiar Palace

Located at the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, Kawdiar Palace was built in 1934 by Sree Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, the last prince of erstwhile Travancore, in connection with the wedding of his sister Karthika Thirunal Lakshmi Bai. Thereafter, the royal family has been residing in this palace. The palace is a double storey building with tile roofing and having lot of segmental arch openings. It is a fusion of Kerala western styles of architecture.

Kilimanoor Palace

The Kilimanoor Palace was built in the year 1728 by the royal family of Kilimanoor. The palace gave birth to many distinguished personalities in the field of art and literature. Artist Raja Ravi Varma, internationally renowned artist is foremost among them. Rajaraja Varma Koyithampuram, Artist Mangala Bai, Dr.Godavarma, Artist Bhavani Thampuratti were his successors. Palace compound spread over an area of 15 acres. The palace, small and large buildings, ponds, sidewalks, wells and old buildings are all part of it. Raja Ravi Varma's Art Gallery and Puthen Malika are some of the historical sites preserved here.

Kollamcode Palace

Vasudeva Raja, the last crown prince of the Kollengode dynasty, built the palace in 1904 at Chempukkavu in Thrissur. The palace was built in traditional Kerala architecture with western design Indo-European style palace was built with the help of the British. The floor is paved with imported from England. The Department of Archeology acquired the property and declared as a protected monument. It houses the Mural Art Museum, the only museum dedicated to mural arts in Kerala. In addition to mural arts, the museum preserves a rare treasure of Veera kallu, temple models, manuscripts written on palm leaves, life-size statues of eminent personalities, a megalith collection consisting of earthen pots, Nannangadi (urn burials) black and red wares, black wares russet coated wares, stone age tools, excavated materials from Indus Valley Civilisation and Harappa and Cheraman Parambu, Kodungallur.

Koyikkal Kottaram, Nedumangadu

The Koyikkal Palace is locaoted at Nedumangad,18 km north-east of Thiruvananthapuram. It was built between 1677 and 1684 by Queen Umayamma of the royal family of erstwhile Venad kingdom. The Palace is a four-story building with a central floor and triangular forepart. It shows the general characteristic of medieval architecture style known as ‘Nalukettu’ with gabbled roof, corridors, and wooden characters. Today, the building is owned by the Department of Archeology. The Folklore Museum and the Numismatic Museum are functioning in this palace. The numismatic repository is a unique center due to its exceptional coin collection and knowledge of Kerala's past trade relations with various countries. There are some of the oldest coins of more than 2500 years old and old razi coins (smallest in the world) and some other coins of Kerala such as Ottaputhan, Erattaputhan, and Kaliyugarayanapanam. A rare piece dedicated to Jesus Christ, Amida, is also kept here. Coins from the Roman Empire and coins used by various dynasties throughout India are also exhibited here. The Folklore Museum was founded in 1992.

Krishnapuram Palace, Kayamkulam

Krishnapuram Palace at Kayamkulam belonged to the erstwhile Travancore Kingdom. The palace was renovated in the 18th Century using scientific techniques to protect the listed buildings. The palace is built in typical Kerala style of architecture. The complex also houses many other buildings which have a blend of traditional and Western architecture. Krishnapuram Palace is a traditional Pathinarukettu with 22 rooms and four Nadumittams, the courtyard at the centre of the traditional houses of Kerala. This two storey edifice comprises of the Poomukham, Kovenithalam, Neerazhikettu, Nellara, Madappally, compound wall and the Padippura, The Poomukham, Kovenithalam, Neerazhikettu, Nellara, Madappally are located on the ground floor. The Manthrasala, guest room, and other bedrooms are on the first floor. The drainage system using stone pipes, the wooden works and elegantly designed ceilings of the palace are some other special features. Today the palace is an archeological museum. The largest mural of Kerala that belongs to the 18th century has been exhibited at the entrance of the palace. This famous mural 'Gajendra Moksha' drawn in the ' Thevaramuri' is the most rear of its kind and based on the story of Gajendra Moksha found in the Ashtamaskantha of the Maha Bhagavata Other collections in the museum include rare antique bronze sculptures and paintings.

Krishnavilasom Palace

The palace was constructed by Sri Moolam Thirunal Rama Varma, Prince of erstwhile Travancore during 1885. Located at the south-east side of Sri Padmanabha Swami Temple, Thiruvananthapuram, the palace is owned by the royal family. The palace is of two storey tiled roof building blending colonial and Kerala style of architecture.

Kuthira Malika

Kuthira Malika otherwise known as Puthenmalika is one of the oldest palaces of Thiruvananthapuram. Located within the Fort, the palace was constructed by Swathi Thirunal Maharaja of Travancore during his reign (1829-1847). The palace is a two storey building having outer verandas. Most of the interior decorations are made in wood and wooden pillars are in Lonic and Corinthian style with exemplary artistic work. The palace is now a museum.

Kuzhi Malika

Kuzhi Malika is a part of Kuthira Malika palace museum. The palace was the residence of female members of the royal family of erstwhile Travancore. The two storey building with decorative wooden ceiling and large varandas on all sides is constructed in Kerala style of architecture.

Mattanchery palace

The Mattanchery Palace also known as Dutch Palace is a Portuguese palace located in Mattanchery, Kochi. The Palace was built and gifted by the Portuguese as a present to the king of Cochin in 1545. The Dutch carried out some extensions and renovations in the palace in 1663, and thereafter it was popularly called Dutch Palace. The palace is an architectural masterpiece showcasing the blend between colonial and Kerala architecture. The restoration aims at showcasing its true grandeur.. The palace is a quadrangular structure built in Nalukettu style, the traditional Kerala style of architecture, with a courtyard in the middle. In the courtyard there is a small temple dedicated to 'Pazhayannur Bhagavati', the family goddess of the Kochi royal family. There are two more temples on either side of the Palace, one dedicated to Lord Krishna and the other to Lord Siva. The Dining Hall has carved wooden ornate ceiling decorated with a series of brass cups. The palace also contains rare examples of traditional Kerala flooring, which looks like polished black marble but is actually a mixture of burned coconut shells, charcoal, lime, plant juices, and egg-white. The king's is noteworthy with its low wooden ceiling and wall surface covered with about 48 paintings. The upper staircase rooms notably that of the coronation hall was extended under Dutch patronage. On the opposite side of the coronation hall is the staircase room or Kovinithalam with a descent to the lower storey. Today, it is a portrait gallery of the Cochin Rajas and notable for some of the best mythological murals in India. In 1951, Mattanchery Palace was declared a centrally protected monument.

Rangavilasam Palace

Located within the Fort of Thiruvananthapuram, Rangavilasam Palace was a centre of performing arts. Though Swathi Thirunal Maharaja started its construction it was completed during the reign of his successor, Ayilyam Thiirunal Rama Varma I (1860-1880). The two storey palace was built following both the colonial and Kerala styles of architecture. Floors are covered with glazed tiles, the palace has rooms with high roof, large windows with glass pane and iron grills. The ‘Natyasala’ (theatre for staging performing arts) having 50 m length is a special feature of this palace.