Sakthan Thampuran Palace:
Sakthan Thampuran Palace, Thrissur The town that is, Thrissur owes much of its rich legacy as a tourist destination to its architect, Sakthan Thampuran. Situated close to the legendary Vadakkumnathan Shiva Temple, opposite the Northern Bus Stand and a short walk from the railway station, lies the recently renovated Sakthan Thampuran Palace. For those who are unfamiliar with Kerala, the short span of 15 years from 1790 to 1805 under the rule of Maharaja Rama Varma Sakthan Thampuran is considered as the golden era of Cochin and its royal family. His foresight, outstanding administrative skills and smart diplomacy, earned him accolades for spearheading achievements in key sectors. In his lifetime, the ruler is reported to have maintained cordial with European powers such as the British and also with rulers of neighbouring kingdoms, such as the Samoothiri kings of Kozhikode, the rulers of Mysore and Travancore. Within the palace, there are adequate references alluded to the rulers o