About Shivappa Nayaka Palace Museum
Shivappa Nayaka Palace Museum is a 17th-century palace located in Shivamogga, Karnataka, on the banks of the Tunga River. Built by Keladi ruler Shivappa Nayaka, it now houses the Government Museum managed by the Karnataka State Archaeology Department. Notable for its wooden architecture, carved pillars, and Durbar Hall, it displays sculptures, inscriptions, manuscripts, and artifacts from Keladi, Chalukya and Hoysala periods, reflecting regional history.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a two-storey wooden palace built in Keladi Nayaka style with carved wooden pillars, balconies and a large Durbar Hall. Inside, the Government Museum displays stone sculptures, hero stones, inscriptions, old manuscripts, coins, pottery and artifacts excavated from the Malnad region covering Chalukya, Hoysala and Keladi periods. The palace is set within a small garden compound near the Tunga River in central Shivamogga, with galleries arranged around the historic halls.
Key highlights
- 01
Historic Durbar Hall with intricately carved wooden pillars and balcony
- 02
Traditional Keladi Nayaka wooden architecture and construction techniques
- 03
Collection of stone sculptures, hero stones and temple artifacts from Chalukya and Hoysala periods
- 04
Ancient inscriptions, palm-leaf manuscripts, coins and pottery on display