"Explore royal heritage in vibrant Kerala."
The Dutch Palace, also known as Mattancherry Palace, is a historical landmark located in Kochi, Kerala. Built by the Portuguese in 1555, it was later renovated by the Dutch in 1663, giving it the name Dutch Palace. The palace is a fine example of Kerala's traditional architectural style with its sloping roofs, wooden ceilings, and intricate carvings.
The Dutch Palace is open to visitors from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on all days except Fridays and national holidays.
The entry fee for the Dutch Palace is INR 5 for Indian nationals and INR 100 for foreign tourists.
It takes about 1-2 hours to explore the Dutch Palace. Visitors are not allowed to carry cameras, mobile phones, or any electronic devices inside the palace.
The Dutch Palace features Kerala-style architecture with a courtyard in the center. The walls of the palace are adorned with beautiful murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and other Hindu mythological stories. The wooden ceilings are intricately carved with floral motifs and geometric patterns.
The best time to visit the Dutch Palace is during the winter months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing.
The Dutch Palace is located in the Mattancherry area of Kochi, easily accessible by road. Visitors can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or public bus to reach the palace. The nearest railway station is Ernakulam Junction, about 10 kilometers away.
The Dutch Palace was originally built by the Portuguese as a gift to the King of Kochi. It was later taken over by the Dutch East India Company and renovated into its current form. The palace served as the residence of the Cochin Maharajas for many years.
Inside the Dutch Palace, visitors can admire the stunning murals on the walls that depict scenes from Hindu mythology, portraits of the Rajas of Kochi, and other historical events. The palace also houses a collection of royal artifacts, weapons, and furniture.
It is advisable to wear comfortable clothing and footwear as visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the palace. It is also recommended to carry a bottle of water and sunscreen as there is limited shade inside the palace.
Some of the hotels near the Dutch Palace in Kochi are: 1. Taj Malabar Resort & Spa 2. Forte Kochi 3. Old Lighthouse Bristow Hotel 4. Old Courtyard Hotel 5. The Brunton Boatyard Hotel
Some of the nearby tourist spots that visitors can explore after visiting the Dutch Palace include: 1. Jew Town and Synagogue 2. Santa Cruz Basilica 3. St. Francis Church 4. Chinese Fishing Nets 5. Kerala Folklore Museum
