Situated at 47 km from Alappuzha at Kayamkulam on the way to Kollam. A museum of antique bronze sculptures and paintings is another attraction. The Krishnapuram Palace, which was the residence of the rulers of Kayamkulam kingdom, is a rare specimen of the Kerala style of architecture, replete with gabled roofs, narrow corridors and dormer windows.
Renovated some time in the 18th century, the palace is today a protected monument under the Archaeology department. Recently it has been again renovated according to the scientific techniques prescribed for the protection of heritage buildings.
Now, an archaeological museum, the palace has on exhibit the fascinating and huge 'Gajendra Moksham', the largest single band of Mural Painting so far discovered in Kerala. Literally, the salvation (Moksha) of the elephant king (Gajendra), the theme of the mural is mythological, which depicts the salvation of Gajendra, the king of elephants It is said that Lord Vishnu was the family deity of the Kayamkulam rajas.
As in all Keralan paintings every inch of the painting is packed with detail and the outer edges are decorated with floriate borders. A display case contains ceremonial utensils, oil lamps, fine miniature figures and small stone columns carved with serpent deities.
Other attractions here are the beautifully landscaped garden in the palace compound where one can see a variety of flora typical of Kerala, and a newly erected 'Buddha mandapam', where a recently recovered statue of the Buddha is housed. Other collections at the museum include rare antique bronze sculptures and paintings.
Museum is closed on Monday and other National Holidays. Entry Rs 10, Still camera Rs 25, Video Rs 250. Museum is 1 hour travel from Alappuzha.
How To Reach
By Air : Nearest airports are Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 103 km; Cochin International Airport, about 132 km.
By Rail : Nearest railway station: Kayankulam, 3 km to the museum.
