Spread over 54 acres of land and consisting of 49 buildings, Hill Palace Museum, Kochi, is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala. Steeped in history and adorned with architectural marvels, the Hill Palace Museum offers you a captivating journey through time, showcasing a diverse array of artifacts, artworks, and treasures from Kerala’s past.

Let me take you on a virtual tour of this museum, explaining its history, architecture, and artifacts. In order to help you plan your visit to this museum, I have included the latest details on entry fee, visiting time, and some pro-tips.

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Entry Fee and Timing

The entry fee for Indian adults at Hill Palace Museum in 2024 is Rs. 35 per person and for children between the age of 5-12 is Rs. 15. For foreign nationals, the entry fee is Rs. 70. Entry is free for children below the age of 5.

If you are traveling in a car, you will need to pay a parking fee of Rs. 30. If you wish to take photos inside the museum, you will need to pay an additional photography charge of Rs. 20.

Pro Tip: Once you enter the compound, take your vehicle as higher up closer to the main building as possible. Otherwise, there will be a lot of walking in the sun.

Timing

The museum is open to public from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm and then in the afternoon from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The children’s park is open until 6:00 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays.

Additional Information

You are not allowed to wear footwear in the main building. So, once you get to the entrance of the main building, you will be asked to remove your footwear and leave them at the cloakroom. Once you come out of the main building, you can explore rest of the museum with your footwear on.

History

The Hill Palace, originally built in 1865 by the Maharaja of Cochin, holds a significant place in the history of Kerala. Situated in Thripunithara, it stands as a testament to the region’s royal heritage. The decision to establish the palace in Thripunithara was influenced by the city’s status as the official capital of the Kingdom of Kochi since 1755.

Prince Rama Varma, who later became the king, was raised in Thripunithara, further solidifying the city’s importance. The palace complex initially served as a royal office, court building, and administrative center, accommodating various functions of the royal household.

Over time, the palace underwent expansions and additions, including the construction of an imperial residence for the king and his immediate family. Despite these developments, Thripunithara remained the preferred residence for the royal family, fostering the growth and significance of the palace within the city. Eventually, the palace transitioned into the possession of the Kerala State Government, marking a shift in its purpose.

In 1980, the government entrusted the Hill Palace to the Department of Archaeology, signaling its transformation into a museum. This transition aimed to preserve and showcase the rich cultural heritage of Kerala, reflected in the palace’s vast collections of artifacts and historical treasures. The museum officially opened its doors to the public in 1986, inviting visitors to explore its galleries and gardens.

Architecture

The architecture of the Hill Palace Museum in Thripunithara is a captivating blend of traditional Kerala style with influences from European architecture, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. Situated amidst 50 acres of beautifully landscaped terraced land, the palace complex presents a grand and imposing facade that commands attention.

To understand the culture and art of Kerala visit the Kerala Folklore Museum, Kochi.

The main structure of the palace is characterized by its sprawling layout and intricate detailing, showcasing the craftsmanship of Kerala’s traditional artisans. Elaborate wooden carvings adorn the ceilings and doorways, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and local folklore. These intricate motifs are a testament to the skilled craftsmanship that flourished during the era of the Cochin royal family.

Adding to the grandeur of the palace are its majestic courtyards and spacious halls, which served as venues for various royal ceremonies and gatherings. The architecture seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor spaces, with verandas and open pavilions offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to its traditional elements, the Hill Palace also incorporates architectural features inspired by European design. This fusion of styles is evident in the use of arches, columns, and symmetrical layouts, reminiscent of colonial-era palaces found elsewhere in India.

What to Expect at Hill Palace Museum

Hill Palace Museum offers you quite varied experiences. At its core, it is a history museum, narrating the life and times of people of Kerala, its dynasties, various invaders, and its evolution. As you walk past its many halls where the history unravels, you reach a stairwell that leads you to a hall with several royal carriages and historical artifacts from the 17^th and 18^th centuries.

The main highlight of the Hill Palace Museum is the heritage hall displaying the crown gifted to the Cochin Raja by the Portuguese ruler, King Manual. This crown, made of gold and embedded with precious stones weigh 1.7 kg. This hall also houses the jewels owned by the royal family.

A gallery outside the main building houses stone sculptures of gods and goddesses, dating 16^th to 18^th century. I didn’t find this very interesting as the sculptures did not display the skills of a fine craftsman.

If you take the narrow passage down to the large bathing pond, you will find two more galleries. These display some interesting cultural artifacts.

Other than the galleries, there is plenty more to explore here if you are visiting the museum with children. You can spend some quality time in the children’s park and watch deer in the deer park.

The museum also has a food joint offering juice and light snacks.

How to Reach Hill Palace Museum

Hill Palace Museum is located 15 km for the city center, but is easily accessible by road. You can easily reach the museum by own car, tuktuk, or public transport.

Thripunithara Railway Station is the closest railway station to the Hill Palace Museum.

Conclusion

From its beginnings as a royal residence to its transformation into the largest archaeological museum in Kerala, the Hill Palace stands as a beacon of Kerala’s heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into its illustrious past. As we wander through its halls and gardens, we’re reminded of the enduring legacy of the Cochin royal family and the vibrant traditions that continue to shape the fabric of Kerala society.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, art lover, or simply seeking a moment of serenity amidst the chaos of modern life, the Hill Palace Museum beckons with its timeless charm and treasures waiting to be discovered.