History tells us tales of mighty kingdoms that ruled over many empires through centuries. The land that is Kerala today was also under the control of different kingdoms from north to south. Of these, Travancore reigned as the biggest and most powerful royal house. One of the unique features of many of the Maharajas of Travancore were the simple lifestyle they led despite having access to immense wealth. Even the residential palaces they built reflect this simplicity as opposed to the opulent and extravagant palaces of most other princely states from the past.
The Kowdiar Palace is one such residential palace that was built in 1934 by the last ruler of Travancore Sree Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma on the occasion of the marriage of his sister. For years, it has been serving as the official residence of the royal family of Travancore, the members of which are living there to this day. One of the most beautiful palaces in Kerala, Kowdiar Palace consists of 150 rooms. The palace was constructed as a fusion of the traditional Kerala and Dravidian architectural styles. Though located in a prime spot in Thiruvananthapuram city, the surroundings of the palace are covered in lush greenery, offering a stunning visual treat.
