Introduction

A sprawling 19th century Indo-Saracenic structure with a dash of Chinese and Mughal styles, the Napier Museum is home to a treasure trove of archaeological finds. It is an architectural landmark in Kerala’s capital city and houses a zoological garden and the popular Sree Chithra Art Gallery within its premises. The original structure was erected in 1855 by the Maharaja of Travancore. A new structure was conceived by Chisoln in 1874, the consulting architect of the Madras Government. The building was completed only in 1880, and named after the erstwhile Governor of Madras Presidency, Lord Napier. It is believed that only few museums in India, the likes of Indian Museum Kolkata and Madras Government Museum Chennai, are contemporary to Napier Museum. The roof of the museum depicts a gothic style, with the minarets adding to its grandeur.

Interestingly, the structure has been designed to condition air naturally. Little wonder, the museum remains cool even on a scorching summer day, making browsing a pleasurable experience. Pan through its impressive collection of ivory sculptures, bronze and stone figurines, ancient ornaments, carvings of wood and ivory, lamps, textiles, Kathakali models, the traditional Kuftgiri works and musical instruments, a wealth of coin collections from Chera, Chola and Pandya dynasties of Southern India, and an array of handicraft among others. Keep an eye out for the bronze display which includes idols of Lord Shiva, Vishnu, Goddess Parvathi and Lakshmi – the degree of detailing on them is truly awe-inspiring. In addition to this, there is a fascinating collection of metal images that bring about the characteristics of the South Indian sculpture style from 8th to 18th centuries. The 8th century image of Lord Vishnu brought from the Ambalapuzha Temple near Alleppey, in Pallava style is particularly impressive. Don’t miss out the 15th century woodcarving display, most of them have an interesting legend associated with it.

A fabulously designed temple chariot occupies a prominent position in the museum. The intricately engraved jewelry, traditional musical instruments, and the model of the Guruvayur temple are a reminder of the country’s glorious past. On the eastern side of the museum is the Natural History Museum home to among others the traditional residence of the popular Nayar warrior family. This painstakingly preserved wood and stucco house will leave you spellbound.

Trivandrum Zoo spread out over 55 acres is among the well designed in Asia, set amidst woodland interspersed with lakes and lush lawns. The zoo is one of the oldest in the country, and was established as an annex to the Napier Museum in 1857 by the erstwhile Maharaja of Travancore. Stroll in the sylvan surroundings and look out for wildlife such as lion tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, Indian rhino, Asiatic lion, leopard, the Royal Bengal Tiger, giraffe, zebra, hippopotamus and Cape Buffalo among other species from Ethiopian and Australian zoos.

Special Attributes

The museum is an architectural marvel with natural air-conditioning, and houses some rare collectibles from the ancient dynasties that ruled South India.

Nuisance

The site is peaceful, and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

You can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the railway station/airport to the museum located in the heart of Kerala's capital city.

Enjoyed by

Backpackers, Senior Citizens, Families, Kids, especially history lovers

Exposure

You will be indoors while exploring the museum. While touring the zoo you will be under the open sky - the path around which is, however, shaded by tall trees. It is advisable to carry your sunshades and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

You can also browse the Sree Chithra Art Gallery within the museum complex.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Do not touch anything on display, or disturb the wildlife at the zoo.

Type of site

Museum and zoological park