Kanakakkunnu Palace
A serene colonial-era palace with lush grounds, offering a peaceful retreat and hosting cultural events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fresh air
Kanakakkunnu Palace
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fresh air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene colonial-era palace with lush grounds, offering a peaceful retreat and hosting cultural events.
"A great place to vibe and chill with family friends or even alone. The atmosphere is really relaxing and peaceful."
🚶♀️ Morning Walk Haven
Enjoy a refreshing morning walk amidst clean paths and greenery. Great for connecting with nature. :athletic_shoe:
🎭 Catch a Cultural Show
Check for dance performances or other cultural events at the Nishagandhi Auditorium. :performing_arts:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Palace Grounds & Gardens
Surrounding the main palace structure
Expansive, well-maintained grounds with lush greenery, shady trees, and walking paths. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Nishagandhi Auditorium
Adjacent to the palace
A renowned venue hosting cultural events, including captivating dance performances.
Architectural Vestige
The palace building itself
Admire the colonial-era architecture, a testament to Travancore's royal past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Parking Pointers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Morning Walk Haven
Enjoy a refreshing morning walk amidst clean paths and greenery. Great for connecting with nature. :athletic_shoe:
🎭 Catch a Cultural Show
Check for dance performances or other cultural events at the Nishagandhi Auditorium. :performing_arts:
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking can be limited. Be prepared to search or use alternative transport. :car:
📸 Photo Opportunities
The palace and its grounds offer beautiful backdrops for photography. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Morning Walk Haven
Enjoy a refreshing morning walk amidst clean paths and greenery. Great for connecting with nature. :athletic_shoe:
🎭 Catch a Cultural Show
Check for dance performances or other cultural events at the Nishagandhi Auditorium. :performing_arts:
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking can be limited. Be prepared to search or use alternative transport. :car:
📸 Photo Opportunities
The palace and its grounds offer beautiful backdrops for photography. :camerawithflash:
🌳 Relax Under Trees
Find a shady spot to sit and relax, enjoying the peaceful ambiance. :tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kanakakkunnu Palace for its serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and leisurely walks, even in the heart of the city. The well-maintained grounds and proximity to other attractions are highlights. However, limited parking and occasional closures for events can be a drawback.
"This is a great place to vibe and chill with family friends or even alone. The atmosphere is really relaxing and peaceful, perfect for a calm evening out. There are some functions that happen here occasionally, which adds to the lively feel. You can walk around, sit and rest in quiet spots, or just enjoy the greenery and open space. There’s also a restaurant where you can grab something to eat and refresh yourself. A perfect spot to take a break from the busy city and spend time relaxing or hanging out."
Adityan R
"It's very calm and peaceful, although it is right in the heart of the city. A good place to be alone or with family or friends. I don't think the palace itself is accessible to visitors. But the area surrounding the palace is vast with lot of seats under shady trees. Best time to visit would be mornings and evenings. The famous Nishagandhi Auditorium is right next to the palace..,.."
Nithin P
"We went just before two days of Onam. Palace was closed. Onam preparation was going on.
They told that the palace will be open after the inaugural function of Onam celebration.
It have beautiful surroundings. It's a perfect spot to hangout with friends and family.
Limited parking space."
varsha varghese
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kanakakkunnu Palace is centrally located in Thiruvananthapuram, near the Napier Museum. You can easily reach it by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or local bus. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with the nearby Napier Museum and Zoo.
Parking can be a significant challenge, especially during events. While some limited parking might be available, it's often restricted. Reddit users have noted the lack of dedicated parking spaces, so consider using ride-sharing services or public transport.
Yes, Kanakakkunnu Palace is within walking distance of the Napier Museum and the Trivandrum Zoo, making it easy to explore these attractions together.
Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available and a convenient way to get around the city. For budget-conscious travelers, local buses are also an option.
Yes, the palace is well-connected by local bus routes within Thiruvananthapuram. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the palace building itself may not always be accessible for interior tours, the surrounding grounds and gardens are generally open to the public. Entry to the grounds is usually free, but specific events might have separate ticketing.
The palace grounds are typically accessible during daylight hours, with mornings and evenings being the most popular times to visit. The Nishagandhi Auditorium has its own schedule for events.
Access to the interior of the palace may be restricted or only available during special exhibitions or events. The main draw for many visitors is the beautiful exterior and the expansive grounds.
Generally, there is no entry fee for the palace grounds, making it a great free attraction in Thiruvananthapuram. However, always check for any updates or specific event charges.
To experience the tranquility, aim for early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays. Weekends and evenings, especially when events are scheduled, can be busier.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy leisurely walks on the well-maintained grounds, relax under the shade of trees, admire the colonial architecture, and attend cultural performances at the Nishagandhi Auditorium.
Absolutely! The palace's architecture, lush gardens, and surrounding natural beauty provide excellent opportunities for photography.
The grounds offer benches for resting and shaded areas. There might be a restaurant or cafe on-site or nearby for refreshments.
Yes, the spacious grounds are perfect for families to relax, walk, and enjoy the peaceful environment. It's a great spot for a calm outing.
It's one of the last architectural remnants of the colonial era in Thiruvananthapuram, built during the reign of the Travancore kings and once served as a guest house.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the palace itself is a historical site, there is often a restaurant or cafe within the premises or very close by where visitors can grab a bite.
You can find a variety of dining options in Thiruvananthapuram, from local Kerala cuisine to international flavors. Explore the areas around the palace for diverse choices.
The palace grounds offer ample space and shaded areas, making it a pleasant spot for a picnic, provided you clean up after yourself.
Bringing your own food for a picnic is generally acceptable, but it's important to be respectful of the surroundings and dispose of waste properly.
Thiruvananthapuram is known for its delicious Kerala cuisine. Look for local eateries serving traditional dishes like Sadhya, appam, and puttu.
📸 📸 Photography
The palace facade, the well-manicured gardens, the pathways lined with trees, and the Nishagandhi Auditorium offer picturesque settings for photos.
Photography of the exterior and grounds is generally permitted. If there are any special exhibitions inside, check the specific rules regarding photography.
Golden hours, early morning and late afternoon, offer beautiful soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the shaded areas provide some relief.
As with most historical sites and public spaces, drone usage is likely restricted. It's advisable to check with local authorities or management before flying a drone.
For professional photoshoots, especially for commercial purposes or fashion, it's best to inquire with the palace management about permits and any associated fees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with the nearby Napier Museum and Zoo for a full day of family-friendly exploration. The palace grounds provide a peaceful contrast to the more active attractions, allowing for a balanced experience.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Visit during the early morning hours to experience the utmost peace and connect with nature before the day gets busy. It's a wonderful place to read a book, meditate, or simply enjoy the calm ambiance of Thiruvananthapuram.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the Nishagandhi Auditorium, especially if there's an event happening. The surrounding trees and pathways also offer charming compositions for your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
Today, while the interior access might be limited, the palace's grandeur is evident in its exterior and the meticulously maintained grounds. The surrounding gardens are a testament to the historical importance of the site, offering a peaceful retreat within the bustling city. It's a place where history whispers through the architecture and the serene environment.
Cultural Hub: The Nishagandhi Auditorium
Attending a performance here offers a unique opportunity to experience Kerala's rich artistic heritage. The ambiance, especially during evening performances, is magical, drawing art lovers and tourists alike. Checking the schedule for upcoming events can enhance your visit to the palace complex.
Exploring the Palace Grounds
Ample seating is available under shady trees, providing comfortable spots to rest and soak in the peaceful environment. The grounds are perfect for families, friends, or solo visitors looking for a calm outdoor space. It's a place to connect with nature and rejuvenate your senses.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit