The reign of king Rama Varma Shakthan Thampuran, popularly known as Shakthan Thampuran (AD 1790 – 1805) is known as the golden age of Kochi. Shakthan Thampuran's palace is situated in the heart of Thrissur town. It was formerly known as Vadakkechira Kovilakam and was renovated by Shakthan Thampuran. There is a serpent grove within the palace compound and a heritage garden of exotic plants and trees of Kerala. Other exhibits include a gallery of household utensils, a numismatics gallery and a history gallery.