Kerala Government Secretariat
Historic neoclassical state government building, once the Durbar Hall of the Travancore Kingdom, set in verdant gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Experience the buzz of governance
Kerala Government Secretariat
Best Time
Experience the buzz of governance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic neoclassical state government building, once the Durbar Hall of the Travancore Kingdom, set in verdant gardens.
"A blend of colonial-era charm and functional governance makes it a remarkable place, both in purpose and presence."
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the grandeur, but be mindful of it being a working government office. Avoid intrusive photos of staff.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The surrounding gardens offer a pleasant walk and great photo opportunities of the building's exterior.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Darbar Hall
Main Secretariat Building
Admire the elegant architecture of this historic hall, reflecting Kerala's rich administrative legacy.
Secretariat Gardens
Surrounding the Secretariat
Stroll through the well-maintained verdant gardens, offering a peaceful respite and scenic views.
Neoclassical Architecture
Exterior of the Secretariat
Appreciate the Indo-Saracenic design with Roman and Dutch influences, a testament to its 19th-century origins.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand Its Dual Role
Be Aware of Protests
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the grandeur, but be mindful of it being a working government office. Avoid intrusive photos of staff.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The surrounding gardens offer a pleasant walk and great photo opportunities of the building's exterior.
⏳ Allow Extra Time
Protests and political activities are common, which might affect access or create crowds.
🏛️ Appreciate the History
This building has witnessed over 150 years of Kerala's administrative history.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the grandeur, but be mindful of it being a working government office. Avoid intrusive photos of staff.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The surrounding gardens offer a pleasant walk and great photo opportunities of the building's exterior.
⏳ Allow Extra Time
Protests and political activities are common, which might affect access or create crowds.
🏛️ Appreciate the History
This building has witnessed over 150 years of Kerala's administrative history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are impressed by the Kerala Government Secretariat's historical significance and striking neoclassical architecture, often describing it as a symbol of the state's administrative legacy and democratic heritage. While the building and its gardens are appreciated, some reviews note that maintenance could be improved, with occasional issues like posters detracting from its appearance.
"I visited the Kerala Secretariat to pay tribute to the late CM, Sri V.S. Achuthanandan. The solemn occasion brought me to this historic and beautifully designed structure. The Darbar Hall, with its elegant architecture, truly reflects Kerala’s rich administrative legacy. Surrounded by a well-maintained garden, the Secretariat stands as a symbol of the state's democratic heritage—once housing the old Legislative Assembly. The blend of colonial-era charm and functional governance makes it a remarkable place, both in purpose and presence. A visit here evokes a sense of respect, not just for leaders past, but for the enduring spirit of public service."
Nipun Hanna K
"It is the administrative seat of the Kerala government and a prominent landmark in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram. It was officially built as the Durbar Hall of the erstwhile Travancore Kingdom by HH Ayilyam Thirunal in 1869. The structure was designed in Indo-Saracenic architecture with Roman and Dutch influences.
After the formation of the State of Kerala, two additional buildings were constructed on either side of the Secretariat. While they were designed to remain faithful to the original architecture, the two sandwich blocks detracted from the Secretariat’s aesthetic appeal.
The Secretariat is also a focal point for political activities, including protests, speeches, and demonstrations.
However, its maintenance is inadequate, as numerous posters from political parties and other groups are frequently pasted on its walls, making the area look unkempt. Additionally, cleaning does not take place even when there is a court order."
Nandu
"Went to Trivandrum Secretariat. Big building, full of history and government power. Saw the hustle and movement—officers, files, people everywhere. Felt like the heart of the city’s decisions.
It was a short visit, but nice to see the place in real. One more spot ticked off in Trivandrum."
Anand Thomas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Secretariat is centrally located in Thiruvananthapuram city. You can easily reach it by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or local bus. It's a prominent landmark, so most drivers will know the way.
Limited parking might be available, but it's advisable to use public transport or drop-off services due to its central location and potential for crowds during events.
Auto-rickshaws and ride-sharing apps are convenient for getting around Thiruvananthapuram. Local buses are also an option for budget travelers.
Yes, the Secretariat is well-connected by local bus routes within Thiruvananthapuram.
Depending on your starting point, walking might be feasible. It's located in the heart of the city, near other administrative buildings and landmarks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, you do not need a ticket to visit the exterior grounds and admire the architecture. Access to specific offices or interiors may be restricted.
As it's a working government building, there are no specific 'visiting hours' for the public to enter offices. The grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours.
Public access to the interior offices is typically limited. Visitors can usually admire the architecture from the outside and explore the surrounding gardens.
There are no entry fees to walk around the exterior and the gardens of the Kerala Government Secretariat.
No prior booking is required for a general visit to view the exterior and grounds of the Secretariat.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the historic neoclassical architecture, explore the well-maintained gardens, and feel the pulse of the state's administration.
Yes, the building's architecture and the surrounding gardens offer excellent opportunities for photography, especially during the golden hours.
Originally built as the Durbar Hall of the Travancore Kingdom in 1869, it has been the administrative center of Kerala since its formation.
Official guided tours for the public are not commonly advertised. You can explore the grounds independently.
Dress modestly and comfortably, as it's a government building. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the grounds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no public restaurants or cafes within the Secretariat building itself. However, numerous dining options are available in the surrounding areas of Thiruvananthapuram.
The area around the Secretariat has many eateries, from local snack joints to restaurants offering Kerala cuisine. The Lulu Mall is also a short drive away with diverse food options.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's best to consume food and drinks away from the main building to maintain the cleanliness and decorum of the area.
Yes, you can find local 'thattukadas' (small roadside eateries) and budget-friendly restaurants offering traditional Kerala meals in the vicinity.
You'll find a variety of South Indian and Kerala specialties, including seafood, vegetarian thalis, and local snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
The front facade, the Darbar Hall entrance (if accessible), and the surrounding gardens offer picturesque views.
Drone photography is generally prohibited in and around government buildings for security reasons. Always check local regulations.
The building is often illuminated at night, making it a beautiful subject. You can photograph the exterior from the surrounding public areas.
Photography inside the administrative offices is strictly prohibited. Focus on the exterior architecture and grounds.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for capturing the building's details and avoiding harsh shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining your visit with nearby attractions in Thiruvananthapuram that are more explicitly child-focused, such as the Napier Museum or the Zoological Park, to create a well-rounded family day out. Pack snacks and water, as dining options directly within the Secretariat grounds are unavailable.
🏛️ History Buffs
Read up on the history of the Travancore Kingdom and the formation of Kerala state before your visit to gain a richer understanding. The building's longevity and continuous use as a center of power make it a living monument to the region's administrative evolution.
📸 Photographers
+1Be mindful of security and avoid intrusive photography of government employees. Focus on capturing the grandeur of the building and the serene beauty of its grounds. The contrast between the historic architecture and the vibrant political activity often seen here can also make for compelling shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
Following the formation of Kerala state, two additional buildings were constructed on either side of the original structure. While these were designed to complement the existing architecture, some visitors feel they detract slightly from the overall aesthetic appeal. Nevertheless, the complex as a whole represents a significant piece of Kerala's administrative and architectural history, embodying a blend of colonial-era charm and functional governance.
A Hub of Governance and History
Beyond its administrative role, the Secretariat is also a focal point for political activities. It frequently hosts protests, speeches, and demonstrations, reflecting the dynamic political landscape of the state. This makes the area around the Secretariat a place of constant activity and a symbol of democratic expression.
Maintenance and Public Perception
Despite these concerns, the building's historical significance and its role as the heart of Kerala's governance continue to draw visitors. The blend of its architectural beauty and its active administrative function makes it a unique and important site in Thiruvananthapuram.
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