The Shimoga district in Karnataka is famous not just for the exquisite beauty of nature, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries, but also for places with historical significance. One such place of attraction is the Shivappanaika Palace cum Museum.
The Shivappa Nayaka Palace cum Museum named after the popular 17th-century king Shivappa Nayaka of the Keladi Nayaka dynasty is located in Shivamogga city the district headquarters of the Shivamogga in the Karnataka state Though named after the Nayaka king, according to art historian George Michell, the palatial bungalow was actually built by the 18th century Mysore ruler Hyder Ali The building is a protected monument under the Karnataka state division of the Archaeological Survey of India
The two storied building comprises a Durbar hall (“nobel court”) with massive wooden pillars and lobed arched panels. The living chambers on the sides are at the upper level and have balconies and look down into the hall. Numerous antiquities collected from near by temples and archeological sites, such as sculptures, inscriptions and hero stones from the Hoysala era and later periods are on display at the palace grounds.
The history of the palace dates back to the 17th century. The palace was completely constructed out of rosewood by Keladi King Shivappa Nayaka. The Archaeology Department of Karnataka is now administering this palace. There is also a museum in this building which reflects the rich history and heritage of the Keladi Kingdom. You can see an interesting collection of antiques, stone carvings, inscriptions and sculptures in the Shivappanaika museum. The Palace is located on the banks of the Tunga river. As the palace is in the centre of Shimoga city, road transportation is obviously the most convenient and quickest means of transport. There are local bus services available in plenty to the palace. You can even reach Shivappanaika Palace by taxis and auto rickshaws from anywhere in the Shimoga city within minutes.