Introduction

On the way to the Ponmudi hill station and the Courtallam Waterfalls, about 18 kilometers (11.25 miles) from Trivandrum at Nedumangad you will come across a lovely two-storied palace. Koyikkal is a quaint 17th century palace built for Umayamma Rani of the Venad royal family (1677 to 1684) in the traditional Nalukettu style with gabled roofs and a sprawling inner courtyard. Worth a stopover, the palace today is home to Asia’s biggest folklore museum and a numismatic (coin collection) museum set up by the Department of Archaeology.

Browse the museum for its fascinating collection of ancient musical instruments and models of folk art. Look out for the ‘Chandravalayam’ – a rare percussion instrument used in epics such as Ramayana, and the many oddball household utensils of brass and copper used in ancient times. At the Numismatics Museum, the motley array of coins from different eras is very impressive. You will find coins used during the reign of Nizam of Hyderabad, Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan and the royal family of Gwalior. If you fancy numismatology, you will be intrigued by the collection of Roman coins from 14 to 180 AD. Rasi - world’s smallest coin - an ancient coin from the Venetian era, is truly the most priceless piece. If legend is to be believed, the coin was presented to Jesus Christ.

Special Attributes

The museum has a collection of Roman coins from 14 to 180 AD, including Rasi - an ancient Venetian coin and the smallest in the world.

Nuisance

The site is peaceful, and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Private taxi

Enjoyed by

History lovers, particularly someone with a passion for coin collecting

Exposure

You will be indoors.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

You can proceed straight to the picturesque Ponmudi hill station from here.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Maintain decorum. Keep your tone low and do not touch anything on display.

Type of site

Folk Art and Numismatics Museum