Memorable history of Krishnapuram Palace

Krishnapuram Palace, Alappuzha

Krishnapuram palace is located near Kayamkulam in Alappuzha district of Kerala. Krishnapuram palace is a place of great historical significance. According to historical records, this palace was built by the krishnapuram kings who ruled Alappuzha in the 18th Century. The palace was built near the Srikrishna swamy temple in krishnapuram village. But today the palace has been turned in to a museum, At a distance of 47 km from Alappuzha.

From here, the princely state of Kayamkulam, also known as Odanad, was ruled by king in the early days. By the 15 th century , the capital of Odanad was shifted to Eruva near Kayamkulam. The Dutch and the Portuguese had good trade relations with this native land. In the early 18th century Marthandavarma invaded the country, defeated it in battle, annexed the area to Travancore, and demolished the palace grounds.

The present palace was built between 1729-1758 under the direction of Marthandavarma under the supervision of of Ramayyan Dalava. Later, Ayyappan Marthandapillai renovated the palace but didn't make much changes in it's originality. It was later used by the kings of Travancore as their resting areas. The palace is built in the traditional architectural style of Kerala. The main structures are narrow corridors, solid framed doors, dormer windows, and low ceilings. It is made in the style of sixteen knots. The palace is maintained by the Kerala state Archaeological Department.

The palace house a number of historical objects. Chief among them is the tall paintings depicting the story of Gajendra-Moksha. He comes to earth to save an elephant who is a great devotee of lord Vishnu. 

The Kayamkulam sword, the Sanskrit Bible, the bronze statues, the stone inscriptions, panchaloha statues, the proud oil lamps, the ceremonial utensils and the ancient Buddha of the 10th century are important.

Another important attraction is the unique pool of antiquity which is a cool sight to the mind. But there is no permission to go down to the pool. There is an entrance fee to enter the palace and there will be security checking.  There is an opportunity to visit the palace every day except Monday.....