Poonjar Palace
Historical Legacy: The Poonjar Palace is a magnificent testament to the opulence of the Poonjar royal family, who trace their lineage back to the Pandya Kings of Madurai. Built entirely out of wood, this palace is hundreds of years old and serves as a living museum of Kerala's regal history. The pal ace contains a mind-blowing collection of antiques, including a massive Palanquin, grand chandeliers, and a unique Ayurvedic massage bed (Thoni) carved out of a single piece of wood. The royals were known for their patronage of the arts and their deep religious ties, which is evident in the private temple located within the premises. Walking through the corridors of Poonjar Palace is like stepping back into the 18th century, with every corner whispering stories of bravery, tradition, and architectural brilliance. The palace is currently maintained by the descendants of the royal family, who have preserved the artifacts with great care for the public to witness. Cultural Hub: It stands as a symbol of the cross-cultural influences between the Pandya kingdom and the local Kerala traditions.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 - 2 HoursPlace Type:
Heritage / PalaceEntry Fees:
Special Events:
Annual Rituals: The palace temple hosts specific annual rituals where the Royal Couch is brought out for public viewing and ceremonial use, usually in the month of Meenam (March/April). ...Annual Rituals: The palace temple hosts specific annual rituals where the Royal Couch is brought out for public viewing and ceremonial use, usually in the month of Meenam (March/April).Best Photo Spots:
Palace Façade: The grand wooden entrance with its sloping tiled roofs is a classic photography subject.
The Courtyard: The central open courtyard provides excellent natural light for architectural shots. ...Palace Façade: The grand wooden entrance with its sloping tiled roofs is a classic photography subject.
The Courtyard: The central open courtyard provides excellent natural light for architectural shots.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Museum Tour: Explore the vast collection of royal antiques and understand their historical context.
Admire the Temple: Visit the Meenakshi Temple replica and study the stone carvings.
View the Weaponry: Check out the ancient swords and shields used by the royal guards.
Ayurvedic Bed: Marvel at the single-wood carved Thoni.
Photography: Take photos of the palace exterior and the intricate wooden gables.
Walk the Courtyard: Experience the cool micro-climate of the traditional Nalukettu courtyard.
Talk to Guides: Learn about the Pandya lineage from the local caretakers. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
A Treasure Trove of Antiques: It is famous for housing a rare collection of royal artifacts that are not found anywhere else in the state. The Jewelry boxes, palm leaf engravings, and ancient weapons are major draws.
Ayurvedic Heritage: The...A Treasure Trove of Antiques: It is famous for housing a rare collection of royal artifacts that are not found anywhere else in the state. The Jewelry boxes, palm leaf engravings, and ancient weapons are major draws.
Ayurvedic Heritage: The palace is renowned for its Medicinal Bed, a Thoni carved from a single tree, used by the kings for rejuvenation treatments. This highlights the ancient roots of Ayurveda in the royal household. -
Architecture:
Wooden Craftsmanship: The palace architecture is a classic example of the Nalukettu style, primarily constructed using high-quality teak and rosewood. The dimensions of the main hall are roughly 60x40 feet.
Temple Replication: Within the co...Wooden Craftsmanship: The palace architecture is a classic example of the Nalukettu style, primarily constructed using high-quality teak and rosewood. The dimensions of the main hall are roughly 60x40 feet.
Temple Replication: Within the compound lies a replica of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple, featuring intricate stone carvings and sculptures that are rare in traditional Kerala architecture. The wooden ceilings are adorned with floral patterns and mythological scenes. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Cochin International (COK) (85 kms).
By Train: Kottayam Station is 45 kms away.
By Road: Drive via Erattupetta-Pala road from Kottayam.
By Local Trans... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Vagamon (25km) 2. Illikkal Kallu (18km) 3. Marmala Falls (12km) 4. Pala (15km) 5. Aruviyapuram (30km) 6. Malankara Dam (35km) 7. Bharananganam (20km) 8. Teekoy (10km) 9. Ayyampara Hills (15km) 10. Erattupetta (8km)
Tourism Tips
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Safety: Be careful while walking on old wooden floors.
Packing: Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Cash: Entrance is usually cash-only; ATMs are available in nearby Poonjar town.
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