The Padmanabhapuram Palace, a magnificent wooden palace of the 16th century, is situated at Thuckalay, 60 km from Thiruvananthapuram, in Kanyakumari District. This old palace of the Rajas of the erstwhile Travancore (1550 to 1750 AD) is a fine specimen of Kerala's indigenous style of architecture. Padmanabhapuram Palace, actually a complex of 14 palaces, is spread over 6.5 acres. The antique interiors are replete with intricate rosewood carvings and sculptured decor. The palace also contains 17th and 18th century murals.

The ancient and majestic Padmanabhapuram Palace, an epitome of Kerala architecture, is housed in a small idyllic town set against a backdrop of hills. The Palace was the seat and capital of the rulers of Travancore, a princely state, for over 400 years, which included a good part of present day Kerala and parts of western Tamil Nadu. A heritage museum has been opened within the premises of this spacious and antique palace. The walls of its central hall are extravagantly decorated with mural paintings. The themes of paintings are various episodes and moments drawn from Hindu epics.

The museum, even though it is geographically in Tamilnadu, is managed by the government of Kerala. The palace, known for its exquisite architecture and fine woodwork, is maintained by Kerala Archaeology Department.