In the heart of Thiruvananthapuram city lies the great Napier Museum and the Natural History Museum in the Museum compound, close to the Zoological park. Built in the 19th century, it has its own natural air-conditioning system. It contains a host of historical artefacts including bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings. People are especially impressed by the Japanese shadow-play leather that is used to depict the epics of the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
Kerala's rich cultural heritage is in full display here. The museum was named after the former Madras Governor General, John Napier. Also known as Government Art Museum, the architectural style of museum is a mix of Indian, Chinese, Kerala and Mughal Schools of Architecture.