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Nalaknad Palace

Coorg, Karnataka, India
Nalaknad Palace is a historical gem located at the base of the Tadiandamol Peak. Built in 1792 by the Haleri ruler Dodda Vira Rajendra, it served as a royal refuge and a hunting lodge. Unlike the grand palaces of Mysore, this structure is a modest two-story building that reflects the practical need s of the era—security and shelter from the elements. The palace is renowned for its beautiful murals, intricate wood carvings, and a unique architectural style that blends local traditions with defensive features. It was the last refuge of the last king of Coorg, Chikka Vira Rajendra, before he was exiled by the British. The interiors are surprisingly colorful, with well-preserved paintings on the ceilings and walls depicting royal life and mythological themes. It offers a somber yet fascinating look into the history of the Kodava royalty.

General information

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    Ideal Duration:
    1 to 2 Hours
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    Place Type:
    Heritage / History
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    Entry Fees:
    Free Entry: There is currently no entry fee for Nalaknad Palace. It is maintained by the Department of Archaeology. Small donations for the upkeep are sometimes welcomed. ...
    Free Entry: There is currently no entry fee for Nalaknad Palace. It is maintained by the Department of Archaeology. Small donations for the upkeep are sometimes welcomed.
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    Timing:
    Regular Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days.

    Ideal Visit Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM when the light is best for seeing the indoor murals. ...
    Regular Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days.

    Ideal Visit Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM when the light is best for seeing the indoor murals.
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    Special Events:
    Archaeology Day: Occasionally, the ASI conducts awareness programs or guided history walks for students and tourists on heritage days to highlight the importance of the murals. ...
    Archaeology Day: Occasionally, the ASI conducts awareness programs or guided history walks for students and tourists on heritage days to highlight the importance of the murals.
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    Best Photo Spots:
    The Main Entrance: With the sloping roof and the green hills behind.

    The Wooden Pillars: Up-close shots of the intricate carvings.

    The View from the Balcony: Capturing the vast landscape of the Kakkabe vall...
    The Main Entrance: With the sloping roof and the green hills behind.

    The Wooden Pillars: Up-close shots of the intricate carvings.

    The View from the Balcony: Capturing the vast landscape of the Kakkabe valley.

Photo Gallery

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Darjeeling
Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens

Things To Do

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    Historical Tour: Explore the rooms and read about the Haleri dynasty.

    Mural Viewing: Admire the ancient paintings on the ceilings and walls.

    Photography: Capture the rustic wooden architecture and the hill backdrop.

    Trekking: Use it as a base to start the Tadiandamol hike.

    Nature Walk: Walk around the surrounding dense forests.

    Village Exploration: Visit the nearby Yavakapadi village for local culture.

    Picnic: Relax in the quiet gardens outside the palace. ...

Resturants

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Information

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    Why Famous:
    Historical Significance: It is famous as the last stand of the Coorg kings against the British. The palace is an ASI-protected monument known for its rare Murals and the fact that it survived numerous battles. It is also the starting point for the famous Tadiandamol Trek....
    Historical Significance: It is famous as the last stand of the Coorg kings against the British. The palace is an ASI-protected monument known for its rare Murals and the fact that it survived numerous battles. It is also the starting point for the famous Tadiandamol Trek.
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    Architecture:
    Traditional Kodava and Kerala Style: The palace is a two-story structure made of wood and laterite stone. It features a sloping roof with red tiles to withstand the heavy Coorgi rains. The dimensions are relatively compact, focusing on a deep, wooden-pillared veranda. Th...
    Traditional Kodava and Kerala Style: The palace is a two-story structure made of wood and laterite stone. It features a sloping roof with red tiles to withstand the heavy Coorgi rains. The dimensions are relatively compact, focusing on a deep, wooden-pillared veranda. The upper floor has intricately carved windows and a balcony. A unique architectural feature is the Nagamandala (snake motifs) on the pillars and the hidden dark rooms in the basement used as escape routes or hiding spots.
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    How To Reach:
    By Air: Kannur Airport (75 km).

    By Train: Mysore Junction (120 km).

    By Road: Drive from Madikeri via Napoklu and Kakkabe.

    By Local Transport: Buses are available to Kakkabe...
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    Near Tourist Places:
    Tadiandamol Peak (2km), Chelavara Falls (12km), Kakkabe (4km), Padi Igguthappa Temple (8km), Madikeri (35km), Napoklu (15km), Choma Kund (10km), Kabbe Hills (15km), Bhagamandala (30km), Talakaveri (38km).

Tourism Tips

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    Health and Safety: Be mindful of leeches in the surrounding grass during damp weather.

    Packing: Carry a camera with a good low-light lens for the indoor murals.

    Cash and Connectivity: No ATMs nearby; carry...

Reviews

Note:-

Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.

All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.

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