Kanyakumari, a city that boasts of captivating landscapes and spellbinding architecture, is home to one of the most fascinating palaces in the country – Padmanabhapuram Palace. Nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats, this palace is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the erstwhile kingdom of Travancore. With its awe-inspiring architecture, intricate carvings, and exquisite craftsmanship, the Padmanabhapuram Palace is a must-visit destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
History of Padmanabhapuram Palace
The history of the Padmanabhapuram Palace dates back to the 16th century when it was built by the then ruler of Travancore, Iravi Varma Kulasekhara Perumal. The palace was later renovated and expanded by several rulers of the Travancore kingdom, including Ravi Varma and Marthanda Varma.
Architecture of Padmanabhapuram Palace
The Padmanabhapuram Palace is a perfect example of traditional Kerala architecture. The palace complex is spread over an area of 6.5 acres and consists of several buildings, each with its own unique architectural style. The most notable structure within the complex is the main palace, which is made entirely of wood and boasts of intricate carvings and beautiful murals.
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Highlights of Padmanabhapuram Palace
The Padmanabhapuram Palace is a treasure trove of fascinating sights and sounds. Some of the highlights of the palace include:
Mantrasala (King’s Council Chamber)
The Mantrasala, also known as the Durbar Hall, is the most impressive structure within the palace complex. This grand chamber was used for conducting official meetings and ceremonies by the kings of Travancore.
Thai Kottaram (Mother’s Palace)
The Thai Kottaram, also known as the Queen’s Palace, is another impressive structure within the palace complex. This palace was exclusively reserved for the queen and her female attendants.
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Natakasala (Performance Hall)
The Natakasala, also known as the Hall of Performance, is a large hall that was used for conducting cultural events and performances.
Clock Tower
The Clock Tower is one of the most iconic structures within the palace complex. This tower houses a large clock that was imported from England in the 19th century.
Kannadi Thattu (Hall of Mirrors)
The Kannadi Thattu, also known as the Hall of Mirrors, is a small chamber that boasts of several mirrors placed at strategic angles. These mirrors reflect images in such a way that they appear to be infinitely multiplied.
How to Reach Padmanabhapuram Palace
Padmanabhapuram Palace is located in Thuckalay, about 35 km from Kanyakumari. The palace can be easily accessed by road, and there are several buses and taxis available from Kanyakumari.
Best Time to Visit Padmanabhapuram Palace
The best time to visit Padmanabhapuram Palace is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and mild. The palace is open to visitors every day from 9 AM to 4:30 PM.
Conclusion
The Padmanabhapuram Palace is a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Travancore kingdom. With its awe-inspiring architecture, intricate carvings, and exquisite craftsmanship, this palace is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and architecture. So, plan your visit to the Padmanabhapuram Palace and experience the grandeur of Kerala.
FAQs
- Is photography allowed inside the Padmanabhapuram Palace?
- Yes, photography is allowed inside the palace, but there may be restrictions in some areas.
- Are there any guided tours available inside the palace?
- Yes, guided tours are available inside the palace, and they can be arranged at the entrance.
- Can we buy souvenirs inside the palace complex?
- Yes, there are several souvenir shops inside the palace complex where you can buy souvenirs.
- What is the entry fee for visiting the Padmanabhapuram Palace?
- The entry fee for visiting the palace is INR 50 for adults and INR 10 for children.
- How much time does it take to explore the entire palace complex?
- It takes around 2-3 hours to explore the entire palace complex, depending on your pace and level of interest in the history and architecture.
