By Megha M. Nair
Rooted in the heart of Tripunithura, the majestic Hill Palace stands gracefully, surrounded by lush greenery and the calmness of nature. As you step through its entrance, there’s a sudden sense of serenity—as if the atmosphere itself is inviting you to pause and take it all in. The red-tiled buildings, the open courtyards, the royal touch in every corner, and the gentle breeze brushing past the trees feel like a cozy hug from nature, softly reminding you of the history it holds.
The Hill Palace, established in 1865 in Tripunithura, Ernakulam was once the official residence of the royal family of Cochin (now Kochi). Constructed by Rama Varma, the Maharaja of Cochin, it was strategically built on a hill to offer both better views and added security, thus earning the name Hill Palace. Spread across 54 acres, the complex includes 49 buildings designed in the traditional Kerala architectural style, including the classic naalukettu (a quadrangle-style structure). In 1980, the palace was handed over to the Department of Archaeology, Government of Kerala, and opened to the public as a museum in 1986.
Image Courtesy: Kerala Tourism
Today, it stands as a treasure trove of royal heritage, preserving ornaments, ancient manuscripts, murals, coins, sculptures, and weapons once belonging to the Cochin royal family. One of its most iconic pieces is a solid gold crown embedded with precious stones. Beyond its artefacts, the palace also features a heritage museum, deer park, prehistoric park, and ethno-archaeological exhibits, making it a cultural and historical landmark of Kerala. The palace is often visited by architecture and archaeology students, as well as cultural historians, who come to explore its distinctive Kerala-style design and immerse themselves in its vast collection of historical artefacts.
Over the years, Hill Palace has also become a popular shooting location for Malayalam cinema. One of the most iconic films shot here is Manichitrathazhu—a psychological thriller considered a cult classic in Indian cinema. Its success inspired remakes in several languages, including the popular Bollywood adaptation Bhool Bhulaiyaa. The grandeur of the palace and its timeless charm provide a visually rich backdrop that continues to captivate both filmmakers and audiences alike.
Image Courtesy: Travel Beat
A walk through Hill Palace feels like flipping through an old diary where each page shares a story quietly. It’s a place where history and heritage come together in a way that’s easy to connect with. Whether you’re there to learn, explore, or simply spend a peaceful afternoon, Hill Palace leaves you with a sense of curiosity and quiet respect for everything it holds.
Megha M. Nair
About the Contributor: As someone who has spent over two decades in Delhi while holding on to my Keralite roots, I have grown up surrounded by contrast and that has deeply shaped my perspective. Rooted in culture and driven by curiosity, I find joy in shaping ideas and have long been drawn to the power of language and storytelling. Writing, for me, is a way to connect, reflect, and give meaning to thoughts and experiences.
My goal has always been to write in a way that makes people pause, think, and remember and create a lasting impact.
