Napier

The Napier museum is located in Thiruvananthapuram and was built in the 19th century. The 150 years old museum was established by Maharaja of Travancore in 1855. In 1874, a new building was constructed and was named after Lord napier, the then governor of Madras Presidency. The Architectural masterpiece was designed by Mr. Chisoln, the consulting Architect of the Madras Government and the construction completed in 1880. This 120 year old structure is a landmark in the city with its unique ornamentation and architectural style with gothic roof and minarets. The Napier museum has a natural air-conditioning system and it houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings. This museum is named after the former Madras Governor General John Napier. The Napier Museum is also called the Government Art Museum. The Museum building is a combination of the Kerala, Mughal, Chinese and Italian architectural styles. The Sree Chitra Art Gallery features a rare collection of paintings by Raja Ravi Varma and Roerich among others, and fascinating works from the Mughal, Rajput and Tanjore schools of art. An oriental collection consisting of paintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali offers a visual treat and are a tribute to the art and culture of these countries. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts of artistic, cultural and antique importance, which comprises sculptures in bronze and stone, carvings of wood and ivory, lamps, textiles, Kathakali models, handicraft items, Kuftgiri works, traditional musical instruments, a treasure of numismatic collections representing Chera, Chola, Pandya dynasties of Southern India.

Visiting hours: 10:00 – 16:45 hrs

Road: Thiruvananthapuram is well connected by a wide network of roads.

Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram central, about 2 kms

Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 6 kms from the city.