The popular Mattancherry Palace was built in 1557 by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch, which is why the palace is also known as the Dutch Palace. Although the facade of the building may lack the grandeur of a palace, it is still a must-visit...more
The popular Mattancherry Palace was built in 1557 by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch, which is why the palace is also known as the Dutch Palace. Although the facade of the building may lack the grandeur of a palace, it is still a must-visit attraction in the city. Built in the typical style of a Kerala mansion, the two storey building stands with the Kochi backwaters in the background. The intricately carved ceilings and the exquisite collection of murals in the rooms are considered to be the highlight of a visit to the palace. Also on display in the small museum inside the palace are an impressive collection of palanquins, weapons, ceremonial outfits, stamps, coins and many more interesting royal paraphernalia. A visit to the Mattancherry Palace offers visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of the royal family of Kochi and is therefore a definite must.
2 rupees
10am-5pm (closed on Fridays)
Around half an hour or more
Adults, senior visitors, young adults, families, children
The unique murals, the carved ceilings and the collection of exhibits displayed in the small museum
Muslim travelers visiting the Mattancherry Palace will not find prayer rooms inside the palace premises. They will be however be able to locate prayer facilities in the city of Kochi, as it is known to house a number of mosques. Muslim visitors requiring prayer facilities can ask the locals to direct them to a nearby mosque when necessary.
Kochi, like most Indian cities offers a selection of fabulous Halal restaurants. While Muslim visitors will not find food inside the Dutch Palace, they will be able to locate Halal restaurants serving not only authentic local cuisine but also other international cuisines. It is important to note that tourists will find that the local food of Kochi is quite different from the cuisine served in other parts of India.