Visit the Bygone Days of Feudal Kerala and More
Kerala has its name in history of the country for various reasons. Today, we know the state for its literacy rate, enchanting backwaters, scenic beauty, and many more reasons. However, Kerala is also one of the states that started business with other countries during 3000 BCE. The state has always been a major exporter of spices. Kerala was also ruled by Chera dynasty, and the reminiscence can still be seen in various nooks of the South Indian state. Some of the best historical places to visit in Kerala whenever you are in the state are mentioned herein below:
10 Best Historical Places to Visit in Kerala
- Mattancherry Palace
- Fort Kochi
- Bekal Fort
- Bolgatty Palace
- Edakkal Caves
- Thalassery Fort
- Palakkad Fort
- Hill Palace
- Shakthan Thampuran Palace
- Kanakakunnu Palace
1. Mattancherry Palace
Mattancherry Palace in Kochi, also popularly called as the Dutch Palace, was built by the Portuguese. In 1555, they gifted the palace to the King of Cochin. Later in 1663, some renovations were done by the Dutch at this palace. The palace showcases the beautiful Kerala style architecture. The embellishments and artifacts of the palace are irreplaceable. You will see many murals that depict the Rajas of Kochi.
Timing: 10 am to 5 pm (Saturday to Thursday)
2. Fort Kochi
Located in the south-western part of Kochi, the old world colonial charm of Fort Kochi is simply mesmerizing. The influence of Portuguese and Dutch culture can still be seen in Fort Kochi. You will also witness British architecture in various parts in this area. The old churches and buildings will take you to the era of colonial rule here.
Timing: Day time
3. Bekal Fort
Bekal Fort was constructed around 300 years ago. The fort is surrounded by beach and you can have a splendid view of the Arabian Sea from here. The structure was erected by Shivappa Nayaka of Bednore in 1650. The shape of the fort resembles a keyhole.
Timing: 8 am to 5.30 pm
4. Bolgatty Palace
Located at Bolgatty Island in Kochi, Bolgatty Palace is a Dutch palace that was built in Kerala style architecture. The palace was built by the Dutch traders in 1744. The lush green gardens and the scenic beauty enhance the charm of this palace.
Best time to visit: October to March
5. Edakkal Caves
Located in Wayanad, Edakkal Caves are something that you must visit once you are in Kerala. These are naturally occurring alcoves which have been there since pre-historic times. The length and width of the caves are around 99 feet and 22 feet, and are perched at a height of 1200 metres from the sea level. To reach the entrance of the cave, one has to trek for at least one and a half hour, and to reach the mouth of the cave, another 45 minutes would be required. If you are a history buff, you will love this place for the carvings in the caves that date back to the Neolitihic period. As you enter the caves, you will find several stone works, which are from 5000 BC or 1000 BC.
Timing: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm
6. Thalassery Fort
Thalassery Fort is located at Tellicherry in the Kannur district of the state. The fort was established by the East India Company in 1703. The fort was used for military as well as commercial activities by the British rulers during the colonial period in India. Presently, the Archeological Survey of India supervises the fort. When you are in this fort, you can also take a tour of the nearby attractions like St. Rosary Church and Brennen cemetery. The shape of this fort is square with huge walls. The doors have intricate carvings.
Timing: 8 am to 6 pm
7. Palakkad Fort
Palakkad Fort is a famous monument in Kerala that was constructed by Hyder Ali in the 1766 AD. The fort is now taken care of by the Archaeological Survey of India. Covering an area of 60,702 square meters, the fort is well liked by visitors for its unmatched architecture. The architecture reveals how efficient the French craftsmen were.
Timing: 8 am to 6 pm
8. Hill Palace
Hill Palace is located in Tripunithura, and now is the largest archeological museum in the state. Constructed in the year 1865, it was used by the Maharaja of Cochin as the Imperial Administrative offices and official residence. There are 49 buildings in the premises of the Palace Complex and you will see traditional architectural designs in all the buildings. Now, many Malyalam movies are shot here.
Timing: NA
9. Shakthan Thampuran Palace
Shakthan Thampuran Palace is the regal residence of the king of Cochin. The palace was named after the king of Cochin, Rama Varma Shakthan Thampuran, and dates back to 1795. The palace has a blend of Kerala and Dutch style architecture. There is a shrine of God of Serpents in the palace, and you can find many flora and fauna in the premises.
Timing: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)
10. Kanakakunnu Palace
Kanakakunnu Palace is one of the historical places in thiruvananthapuram that was constructed during the period of the Travancore King. The red-coloured building with authentic Travancore facades, regal furniture, and the one of a kind chandeliers make the palace stand out till date.
Timing: NA
The best time to travel in Kerala and explore all the historical places in the state is between October and March. To make the most out of your trips to these various places, you can take Revv car rental services and take tours at your convenience and with ease.
