The Kanakakunnu Palace, situated near the Napier Museum in Thiruvananthapuram, is one of the last vestiges of the colonial era. Kanakakunnu Palace is a testimony to grand times and the resort of kings. This palace was constructed during the reign of His Highness Sree Moolam Thirunal. Swati Tirunal, one of the most popular rulers, of the erstwhile princely state of Travancore, modified the palace and constructed tennis courts in the palace premises. He once used it as a summer retreat. This stunning piece of architectural excellence was used by the Travancore royal family to entertain their guests in the earlier days. The interiors are decorated with large crystal chandeliers and exquisite pieces of royal furniture.

A major renovation project which was taken up by the State Government gave Kanakakunnu Palace a fresh lease of life and much of its lost glory has been restored. The palace and its sprawling grounds, now under the control of the Tourism department, are ideal venues for cultural meets and programmes. The serene palace grounds are an ideal location for a family to spend an evening very much within the city. For hundreds of city dwellers, the palace grounds also serve as an ideal place for jogging and workouts. The Indian National Trust for Arts and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) has documented the palace as a heritage monument.

The Nisagandhi open-air auditorium, within the Kanakakunnu Palace compound, is now one of the most sought- after venues for conducting stage shows and cultural extravaganza. A week long festival of Indian classical dances is organised at the Nishagandhi open-air auditorium. Leading artists of Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak, Odissi, modern ballet and other folk dances participate in this dance festival. The Sooryakanthi auditorium is a popular venue for staging exhibitions, trade fairs and cultural programmes. A week long international food festival is also held at the Kanakakunnu Palace grounds in which renowned hotels from across Kerala take part.