Thirumalai Nayakar Palace in Madurai was built in 1636 AD by the great King Thirumalai Nayak, this palace is a stunning masterpiece that showcases a unique blend of Dravidian and Rajput styles of architecture.
It’s one of the most spectacular monuments of Southern India, and it continues to stand tall even today!
Now, before we dive into the details, let me tell you something funny. This palace was originally four times bigger than what you see today. But don’t worry, it’s still massive enough to blow your mind away! The palace has a whopping 248 pillars, which are as tall as a five-story building! And that’s not all, folks. The palace also has a courtyard surrounded by circular pillars and a circular garden. It’s like a mini city in there!
The palace is divided into two sections, Swargavilasa and Rangavilasa, which have various sections of the royal residence, theatre, shrine, apartments, armoury, royal bandstand, pond, and garden. It’s like a never-ending maze that’ll leave you awe-struck at every turn! Oh, and did I mention that the palace was also a shooting location for many movies and songs?
The palace also has a magnificent dancing hall that’ll make you want to dance like nobody’s watching (even though everyone is). The entire structure of the palace is adorned with excellent stucco work done on the arches and domes. It’s like a fairy-tale castle come to life! And the best part? You can enjoy a sound and light show at Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal every evening! The show narrates the rich culture and history of the kingdom, and the makers have incorporated various details to make it even more engaging and entertaining for the audience.
Now, I know you’re itching to visit this palace, and I don’t blame you! So, here’s some information you’ll need to plan your trip. The palace is located in the eastern side of the city, about 2 km southeast of the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple. It’s well connected using railways and other means of transport, so you won’t have to worry about getting there. And, the best part? The entry fees for the palace and the light and sound show are super affordable! Adults pay only INR 50, while kids and students pay INR 25! So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, and let’s go on a trip to the grandest palace of South India!