One of the most popular museums in Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), Napier Museum lies in the middle of the city, close to the zoological park. It is one of the earliest museums in India and was built in 1855 by the Maharaja of Travancore in Indo-Saracenic structure.
The museum has an amazing collection of ivory carvings, historical artefacts, archaeological objects, a temple chariot, bronze idols, old ornaments, and Buddhist sculptures. Japanese shadow leather figurines are a popular display here. These objects are a description of events of the two great Hindu epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Napier museum is also known as the Government Art Museum. An architectural masterpiece, it is named after John Napier, the former Madras Governor General. A visit to the museum lets visitors enjoy a glimpse into the cultural and heritage possessions of the Kerala state.
After its construction in 1855, the old building of the museum was brought down in 1874. The foundation of a new building was laid down at that time, named after Lord Napier, the Governor of Madras presidency. This new building was designed by Robert Chisholm, who was the consultant architect of the Madras Government. Its construction got completed in 1880 and then the museum was open to public.
Location:
Around 6 km from Trivandrum
Timings:
10:00 AM – 16: 45 hours (Closed on Monday, Wednesday, 26th January, 15th August, Thiruvonam and Mahanavami)
Getting there
Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station (2 km)
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport (6 km)
