Navigating History: Mattancherry Palace Visiting Time and Schedule (2024)

Discover the rich heritage of Mattancherry Palace with our detailed guide on visiting times and schedules. Don’t miss out on this historical gem – plan your trip efficiently with our comprehensive Mattancherry Palace visiting time and schedule insights.

Plan your visit strategically as we unravel the timings and schedule, providing you with insights to make the most of your journey through time at Mattancherry Palace. Explore the exquisite architecture and cultural treasures during the ideal visiting hours, enhancing your connection with the palace’s fascinating history.

A spontaneous visit to Mattancherry Palace unfolded during a stroll through Fort Kochi. A chance encounter with an auto-rickshaw driver became a serendipitous discovery as he shared insights about the historical gem. Emphasizing my belief that locals hold the key to the best experiences, this impromptu conversation underscored the wisdom in engaging with the community to glean authentic information about a place.

PIN for later reference – Mattancherry Palace Visiting Time and Schedule

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About Mattancherry Palace

Recognized as the Dutch Palace, Mattancherry Palace is a Portuguese architectural marvel in the Mattancherry district of Kochi, Kerala. Transformed into a museum, it offers a captivating journey through the lives and portraits of the Kings of Kochi, adorned with an impressive collection of Kerala murals. Among its treasures are 17th-century paintings depicting episodes from the Ramayana, providing a glimpse into the historical and cultural tapestry of the region.

The palace boasts a distinctive quadrangular design, following the traditional Kerala architectural style known as the Nalukettu style. While showcasing elements influenced by European aesthetics, it harbours a fascinating secret within its walls. The floor, resembling polished black marble, is crafted from a blend of burned coconut shells, egg whites, charcoal, lime, and plant juices – an ingenious composition that adds to its allure.

Within the complex, three temples stand as silent witnesses to the palace’s historical grandeur:

• Firstly, a shrine devoted to the Goddess Pazhayannur Bhagvati,
• Secondly, an ode to Lord Krishna,
• And lastly, a sanctuary dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Situated behind the palace, the complex features a charming small pond. Surrounded by numerous coconut trees, this picturesque pond adds to the overall beauty of the surroundings.

History of Mattancherry Palace

In 1545, the Portuguese bestowed the Mattancherry Palace as a gift to the King of Kochi, Raja Veera Kerala Varma. Subsequent renovations and extensions by the Dutch led to its moniker, the Dutch Palace.

Also, Read – Landmarks of Fort Kochi

The domain later fell under the rule of Hyder Ali, marking a transition in ownership. Ultimately, the British East India Company assumed control of the area, solidifying the palace’s place in a rich tapestry of historical transitions.

How to Get to Mattancherry Palace?

• The most convenient airport for reaching Mattancherry Palace is Kochi International Airport. Airlines such as Air India and Indigo operate frequent flights connecting major cities in India to Kochi, and the airport is approximately 40 kilometres away from the palace.
• Ernakulam station is the nearest for those arriving by train, about 10 kilometres from the palace. To obtain the latest train information, you can visit the IRCTC website.
• Kochi has a well-established bus network with private and government-owned buses connecting various cities and towns. RedBus is a reliable platform for checking routes and making bookings.
• Located around 4 kilometres from Kochi city, Mattancherry Palace is easily accessible. Auto-rickshaws are a popular choice for navigating within Mattancherry, including the palace. Although an auto ride may cost around INR 150, the convenience and service skilled auto drivers provide make it a worthwhile investment.

Mattancherry Palace Visiting Time and Schedule

The Mattancherry Palace welcomes visitors during two time slots daily, from 9:45 AM to 1 PM and from 2 PM to 4:45 PM, excluding Fridays and Saturdays.

An incredibly nominal entrance fee of INR 5 per person grants access, and tickets can be conveniently purchased at the museum’s entrance. It’s essential to note that the museum is situated at an elevated level, requiring the ascent of a few steps to reach the entrance. Allocate at least one to two hours for a comprehensive exploration of the exhibits and to delve into the historical narratives on display.

Is Kochi and Mattancherry Palace Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Embarking on a solo journey to Kochi proved to be a delightful experience for me. Throughout my visit, I encountered a warm and friendly atmosphere, and I didn’t encounter any issues. Kochi, in my experience, stands out as one of the safest places in India for solo female travellers. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and be aware of your surroundings, particularly during the evenings.

If you’re new to solo travel or have questions about it, explore our frequently asked questions section dedicated to solo travelling. Whether you seek advice or insights, we’ve got you covered.

Closing Notes

Exploring historical sites and delving into their rich narratives is a passion of mine. Mattancherry Palace, nestled in Kochi, is undeniably a must-visit, boasting a wealth of history. It stands out as one of the most captivating museums I’ve had the pleasure of exploring in India.

Are historical places your cup of tea as well? If so, I’d love to hear about your top recommendations. Feel free to share your favourites by reaching out to me at Solopassport@gmail.com. I’m always eager to discover new gems with intriguing stories to tell.

PIN for later reference – Mattancherry Palace Visiting Time and Schedule