Padmanabhapuram Palace: 25 kms. from Nagercoil. This one time capital of Travancore until 1798 A.D., is known for its fort which encloses among other buildings, a palace and a temple. The two exquisite monuments are the contribution of Kerala to Tamilnadu. The splendid fort and the Pagoda style palace were frequented by the Maharaja of Travancore for retreat. The palace has now been converted as a museum containing a fine collection of stone sculptures, wooden carvings, ancient furniture and epigraphical records. This palace is worth visiting for its fine mural art and carved panels. The Navarathri Mandapam, Nalukettu and Neerapura (bathing place) are worth seeing for their functional design. Adjoining the palace is the Ramaswamy temple where the Ramayana story scenes have been carved in 45 panels.