Bolghatty Palace

One of the oldest existing Palace built by the Dutch in India, Bolghatty Palace is located in the scenic island popularly known as Bolgatty island in Kochi, Kerala. In 1744AD, Dutch traders built this villa and it was later extended and lush green gardens were landscaped around it. The building was then the Governor's palace for the Dutch and later in 1909 was leased to the British. It served as the home of the British Governors, the seat of the British Resident of Cochin during the British regime. In 1947, when India got her independence, the palace became the property of the state and later converted into a heritage hotel resort and is now run by the KTDC (Kerala Tourism Development Corporation).

Set amidst lush, tropical greenery, this prestigious heritage hotel with spectacular scenery of the back waters all around is a place of quiet laid back enchantment. The palace is a two-storeyed building with bath attached well-decorated bedchambers and a huge lounge wherein historical portraits are displayed. The resort offers palace and executive suits, deluxe rooms, honey moon and lake front cottages along the edge of the backwaters for stay. The guests can enjoy a beautiful calm and quite environment which facilitates a mini golf course, swimming pool, Ayurvedic center and daily Kathakali performances.

Kochi (Cochin) one of the important towns in South India, is the commercial hub of Kerala state with a natural harbour. This dynamic city known as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea' has rapidly industrialising suburbs with soaring land prices. The city has three main parts Fort Kochi, Willingdon Island and Ernakulam. Bolghatty Island which is a long narrow peninsula, is situated at the opposite side of the Ernakulam jetty across the backwaters. Frequent boat service is available from the mainland, Ernakulam to the Bolghatty island. Now there is a bridge connecting the island to Ernakulam. Kochi offers enchanting backwater boat cruises and is a shoppers paradise in her own right..

Dutch Palace

Dutch Palace is situated in Mattancherry, at a distance of approximately 10 km from Ernakulam. The palace was originally built by the Portuguese, who later gifted it to Veera Kerala Varma, the Maharaja of Kochi. Initially the palace was known as the Mattancherry Palace of Cochin. However, after the Dutch renovated it in the year 1663, it came to be known as the Dutch Palace of Kochi. Presently, the palace has been converted into a museum, where one can find paintings and murals signifying the rich tradition of the Hindus.

Dutch Palace also houses a rich compilation of the paintings and portraits of the Maharajas of Cochin. The beautiful frescoes of the palace correctly represent the Hindu temple art. The medieval charm associated with the Mattancherry Palace of Kochi definitely adds to its mystical appeal. One can find domination of the Portuguese style of architecture in the design of the palace. The entrance of the Dutch Palace is flanked by two beautiful arches, which lets one enter into its compound, a feature quite characteristic of the Portuguese style.

One thing that makes Mattancherry Palace distinct from the other palaces of Kerala is that even though it has been designed as per Portugal style, the pattern reflects traditional style of the state. Nalukettu style has been followed in the construction of the palace. In accordance with this style, there are total two stories inside the complex, which has been built around a central courtyard. Giving the Dutch Palace a European look are round-headed windows and doors, along with the typical sloping tiled roof.

The interiors of the palace reflect much gracefulness and have been beautifully decorated. The walls of the Mattancherry Palace have been adorned with large paintings as well as exquisite murals. Inside the premises of the palace, one can find two gorgeous temples. One of these temples is dedicated to Lord Krishna, while the other is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The rich collection displayed inside the Dutch Palace of India includes royal headdresses, weapons, furniture, royal robes, palanquins and other items used by the royal family..