British Residency

The British Residency in Kollam was a British colonial mansion in the city of Kollam (formerly Quilon) in the Indian state of Kerala. It was built by Colonel John Munro in the early 19th century and served as the residence of the British Resident in Travancore, who was the representative of the British government in the princely state of Travancore. The building has a mix of British and traditional Indian architectural styles and is considered an important historical and cultural monument in Kollam. Today, the building is used as a government guest house and is one of the well-known landmarks of Kollam, like the Chinnakada Clock Tower.

A Glimpse into Colonial History and Architectural Grandeur

The core of the building boasts a rounded facade, embellished by a grand gable design. A lion sits atop the structure, atop a crown. The entrance doors are ten feet tall and feature glass panes. The palace’s conference room includes a small antechamber with a movable partition-like door, and the two rooms are separated by an enormous fanlight arch.

The upper story of the building has luxurious wooden flooring. The conference hall’s walls are adorned with cornices, dentils, and intricate designs featuring festoons, urns, and floral patterns. Over the main doorway, there is an impressively large arch with a decorative keystone, supported by pillars. The mansion is also home to the famous Edward Rose garden.

The Asramam Ground is located in front of the British Residency and on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam. It is the largest open area in the state that is used for various events and functions, including cultural programs, sports events, and political rallies. The ground was the first airport in Kerala during the British colonial period. The ground is also a popular recreation area and a gathering place for the local community.

Plan Your Visit

The British Residency is open for visits every day of the year, however, tourist access is limited as it is currently being used as a government guest house. The British Residency is located 4.5 kilometers away from the city of Kollam and can be reached by various modes of transportation.

The nearest airport to Kollam is the Trivandrum International Airport, located about 68 kilometers away. From there, taxis and buses are available to take you to Kollam city. Kollam is well-connected by train, with a railway station offering services to major cities in India. From the station, you can easily reach the British Residency by taxi or auto-rickshaw.

The town is also accessible by bus, with frequent services from nearby cities. Once at the bus station, a taxi or auto-rickshaw can take you to the residency. If you’re driving, parking facilities are available near the British Residency. It’s recommended to check local transport options and schedules before your trip.

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