Kerala Secretariat, the seat of administration of the state, is a mighty whitish Victorian structure located at
Statue Junction in
Thiruvananthapuram. The construction was started during the period of His Highness Ayilyam Tirunal, the then
Maharaja of Travancore and was completed in 1869.
The building is a classical example of British décor and was designed by Barton, a British chief engineer. The crowning of His Highness Chithira Tirunal, the last king of Travancore, was held at the Secretariat. The assembly hall, now a historical monument, attached with the Secretariat complex was inaugurated in 1936. Visitors are allowed only after 15.00 hrs with an entry pass.
Trivandrum International Airport is at Shanghumugham, 7 km from the city and Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station is in the heart of the city. British Library, University College and VJT Hall are nearby.
