Kerala, often referred to as God’s Own Country, is a land of charm. The past of this state is present in Kerala forts and palaces deeply rooted in history. Firstly, Kerala boasts lush green vistas, serene backwaters, and a vibrant culture.
Beyond its beauty of nature, Kerala is also steeped in history. These ancient landmarks stand as silent proofs to the rise and fall of ancient dynasties. On a Kerala historical monuments trip you may know about the arrival of colonial powers. Meanwhile, tell you about the growth of rich culture.
You may be a history lover and seek to explore the intriguing tales of Kerala’s past. Then planning for Kerala forts and palaces trip from Surat. It will further take you on a joyful journey through time and space.
1: Beginnings in Kochi
Your historical trip commences in the vibrant city of Kochi, also known as Cochin. This bustling port city holds a special place in the annals of history. Above all, it had attracted traders, explorers, and settlers from around the world.
A) Mattancherry Palace: A Glimpse of Royalty
The first stop on journey is the iconic Mattancherry Palace. Firstly, this is commonly known as the Dutch Palace.
It was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later renovated by the Dutch. This building marvel meanwhile reflects a unique blend of Kerala and European styles.
The palace’s interiors are filled with ancient murals portraying Hindu divine tales. It meanwhile offer a window into the cultural aspects of the region.
As you traverse the palace’s corridors and courtyards, You will be transported back in time. It will further take you to an era of opulence and royalty.
B) Fort Kochi: Where History Meets the Sea
At a short distance away from the palace. The ancient Fort Kochi area lies there. It has served as a prominent trading center for centuries. The streets are further lined with charming Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial style buildings.
These buildings further narrates the stories of cultural assimilation and the region’s multicultural past. The Chinese Fishing Nets is an unique attraction in the area. They stand as a proof to the maritime history of Kerala. Above all, they attract people with their unique design and scenic backdrop.
2: Seeing the Timeless Padmanabha Puram Palace
From Kochi, your journey takes you southward to Trivandrum. It is the capital city of Kerala. Just beyond the city limits, in nearby state of Tamil Nadu, lies the Padmanabha Puram Palace.
Firstly, it was built in the 16th century by the rulers of the Travancore dynasty. This wooden palace is a master piece of ancient Kerala designs. The palace’s minute carvings, softly made courtyards, and ancient murals narrate stories of a glorious past. Above all, it leaves tourists in awe of its grandeur.
The Padmanabha puram Palace further houses a group of rosewood and teakwood furniture. Some of which dates back to hundred of years. They give tourists an insight into the rich lifestyle of the erstwhile rulers of Travancore.
3: Journey Through Time in Tripunithura
As you travel a short distance from Kochi, You will arrive in the town of Tripunithura. It is home to the great Hill Palace. This was once the official house of the Maharajas of Kochi.
The sprawling complex now stands as the largest archaeological museum in Kerala. This museum further houses a good number of ancient artifacts, royal heirlooms, and exquisite artwork. Above all, it offers a glimpse into the lives of Kerala’s erstwhile royalty.
Stroll through the palace’s opulent rooms and well maintained gardens. During that, you will find yourself transported to an era of grandeur and splendor.
4: Kozhikode: An Ancient Port of Exploration
Head north from central Kerala. Your historical journey leads to Kozhikode. It was known as Calicut in ancient times.
This coastal city meanwhile holds immense values. It is the place where the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama firstly stepped India in 1498. That has open up a new chapter in Indian times.
Kozhikode offers a pleasant blend of history and beauty of nature. It contains attractions like Kappad Beach, where Vasco da Gama is believed to have landed.
The beach is an ideal spot to soak in the ancient era. Meanwhile, also enjoy the beauty of the Arabian Sea.
5: Embracing the Dutch Legacy in Kannur
Continuing your journey northward, You will reach Kannur. It is a district steeped in history and culture. Here, you can firstly witness the Dutch impact at St Angelo Fort. It was originally made by the Portuguese in the 16th century.
The fort later came under the control of the Dutch and after that the British. This fort’s impressive walls and bastions stand tall along the Arabian Sea. Further, it provide stunning views of the coastline. It serves as a reminder of Kerala’s strategic value in maritime history.
Firstly, stroll through the ancient chambers and hidden passages of St Angelo Fort. It will further transport you back in time, evoking images of past battles and trade activities.
6: The Great Bekal Fort
Your historical journey ends at the awe inspiring Bekal Fort. The Bekal Fort is further situated along the northern coastline of Kerala.
Known to have been built in the 17th century by the rulers of the Kadamba dynasty. Above all, Bekal Fort is a great example of military building and strategic planning.
Firstly, perched atop a hillock over looking the Arabian Sea. The fort’s tall walls, watch towers, and deep moats conjure images of ancient maritime things. They further tells about the ancient events.
It’s great grandeur and building brilliance make it must visit for history and architecture lovers. Explore the under ground passages, climb up the towers, and witness the sunset over the sea. They are few exciting things that transport tourists back in time of great ancient values.
Conclusion
This journey to the ancient landmarks of Kerala is a charming journey through time. Uncover the great history of Kerala forts and palaces through a journey from Surat. It offers the colonial impacts in Kochi and the opulence of the Travancore rulers in Trivamndrum.
After that, explore the culture of Tripunithura to the tales of exploration in Kozhikode. It takes you from the Dutch legacy in Kannur to the greatness of Bekal Fort. In short, each ancient site has a unique story to tell.
Kerala forts and palaces further serve as living witnesses to the rise and fall of dynasties. They are proofs of the arrival of colonial powers, and the thriving of rich culture.
As you walk in the footsteps of the past, You will uncover the history of Kerala. It will also forge a deeper bond with the diverse culture that defines God’s Own Country.
The journey from Surat to Kerala’s forts and palaces promises to be an enriching experience. It will further leave you with lasting joys of an incredible voyage through time and space. So, pack your bags, embrace the allure of history, and embark on this historical odyssey.
Meanwhile, reveal the charming tales of Kerala’s forts and palaces. Let the charm of the past blend seamlessly with the beauty of the present. Meanwhile, immerse yourself in the cultural treasure troves of Kerala.
