One of Kochi's (Cochin's) most entrancing sights, the two-story Mattancherry Palace (keralatourism.org; adult/child ₹5/free) was created by the Portuguese in the mid-16th century and gifted to the Raja of Kochi, Veera Kerala Varma (1537–65), before being rebuilt under Dutch rule in the 1660s (it's also known as the Dutch Palace). The building's graceful mix of European and Kerala-style nalukettu architecture is a delight, but the highlights are the intricate Hindu murals depicting stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Puranic legends. Dating from the 17th to 19th centuries, they were created using vibrant natural dyes – and many remain astonishingly well preserved, particularly in the royal bedchamber, which includes scenes of Hanuman the monkey-god rescuing Sita from Lanka. Other standouts to look for are Vishnu's 10 avatars and his consort Lakshmi, and Tripura Sundari, one of the 10 mahavidyas (Hindu wisdom goddesses).
Visiting the palace (closed Fridays) with a guide who can unveil the murals' stories is highly recommended, though English-language panels outline key details so you can also explore independently for an hour or two. Braille signs and an outdoor staircase lift have increased accessibility in recent years.
