Step into History
Discover the Story of Krishnavilas
Shri M. Krishnan Nair envisioned Krishnavilas, an architectural gem, in 1930 for his daughter Subhadra, whom he affectionately called Thangam. From the quaint village of Keezhur to the tranquil surroundings of Ramassery Village, trace the remarkable journey that led to its creation. It was said that Shri M. Krishnan Nair, on a serene evening stroll, was struck by the ethereal beauty of Ramassery, finding solace in its idyllic landscapes. Determined to create a haven for his beloved daughter, he set out to build Krishnavilas, a sanctuary that would stand as a testament to their enduring bond and the timeless allure of Kerala's heritage.
Tharavadu Architecture
Experience life in a 'Tharavadu', a traditional Nair matrilineal home. The wooden engravings and Tamil-inspired motifs adorn the veranda. Key features include a courtyard, centred between the main building and the kitchen; an open water well; a sun temple dedicated to our forefathers; and an amphitheatre where we host cultural performances. The ornate carvings on the rafters are a testament to the skilled artisans of the day, reflecting the rich tapestry of Kerala's cultural heritage.
Restoring Our Family Heritage
Driven by their deep familial connection, Myriam and Ajesh, the great grandson of Shri M. Krishnan Nair, embarked on a mission to restore Krishnavilas to its original glory. Myriam recalls the day they stumbled upon a dusty photo album in a corner of Krishnavilas. As they flipped through its pages, they were transported back in time, witnessing the grandeur and elegance of the past. To honour their ancestors' legacy, they enlisted the help of Mr. TV, an engineer and expert on Tharavadu traditions, as well as an architect, Arjun Nambisan, to ensure structural integrity. Along with traditional craftsmen, they revived every aspect of Krishnavilas, from its wooden engravings to its family temple. Today, Krishnavilas stands as a symbol of love, dedication, and a shared heritage for generations to come.
Vision for the Future
Our vision for the future revolves around preserving our heritage for future generations. Sustainable practices such as natural ventilation, water conservation, local sourcing, and eco-friendly modern amenities enable us to conserve our cultural legacy. By partnering with local communities, we ensure the preservation of traditions. Our commitment to authenticity extends beyond Krishnavilas, inspiring others to safeguard their own heritage.
Experience Krishnavilas
Experience the charm of Krishnavilas and embark on a voyage through time and tradition. As we open our doors to you, we invite you to share in our passion for heritage preservation and authentic experiences. Join us in writing the next chapter of our legacy.
Questions & Answers
Tell me more about the history of Krishnavilas.
Krishnavilas is a heritage home that has stayed in the family for almost a hundred years. Lovingly restored, it is now open to guests who share a love for history.
How long did it take to restore it?
It took 3 years of dedicated work to restore Krishnavilas, keeping in mind the traditional architecture. The team included a tharavadu expert, an architect, and skilled craftsmen.
Are there any new additions to this heritage home?
Retaining the authentic architecture of Krishnavilas, a new dining-cum-kitchen area, a large, terrace-facing bedroom, and an open air amphitheatre were added.
What sort of cultural programs do you host at Krishnavilas?
We host specially curated cultural experiences – dance performances, musical recitals, traditional feasts, and art exhibitions.
Has the restoration had an impact on the local community?
Yes, the project has put Palakkad on the map, driven sustainable practices, revived local culture, and attracted an influx of tourists to the area.