Krishnapuram

Krishnapuram palace is located in Kayamkulam, 47 km from Alappuzha. This palace is a rare specimen of the Kerala style of architecture with gabled roofs, narrow corridors and dormer windows. Residence of the rulers of Kayamkulam kingdom, the age of the palace is unknown. It has been renovated sometime in the 18th century and the palace is today a protected monument under the Archaeology department. Recently it has been renovated again according to the scientific techniques prescribed for the protection of heritage buildings. The palace is now an archaeological museum, and the most fascinating exhibit here is the 49 sq m - Gajendra Moksham - the largest single band of mural painting so far discovered in Kerala. The literal meaning of Gajendra Moksham is the salvation of the elephant king Gajendra. The theme of the mural is mythological and depicts an elephant saluting Lord Vishnu in devotion while the other gods, goddesses and saints look on. It is said that Lord Vishnu was the family deity of the Kayamkulam rajas. This mural was placed at the entrance to the palace from the pond to enable the rajas to worship the deity after their bath. Other attractions here are the beautifully landscaped garden in the palace compound 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.

Railway Station: Kollam about 39 kms

Airports: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 103 kms and Kochi International Airport, about 132 kms