Tamil Nadu UNESCO Sites: 2025 Guide to Must-See Heritage Destinations

Tamil Nadu, often called the “Land of Temples,” is a treasure trove of history, culture, and architectural marvels. Among its many historical gems, some have earned global recognition as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making them must-visit destinations for history lovers and travelers alike.

1. Great Living Chola Temples in Tamil Nadu

Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur

Built in 1010 AD by Raja Raja Chola I, Brihadeeswarar Temple is an architectural masterpiece. Its 216-foot Vimana (tower), built entirely out of granite, remains one of the tallest temple towers in the world. The temple’s Nandi statue, carved from a single stone, and the stunning frescoes inside make it a must-visit.
📍 Location: Thanjavur
⭐ Why Visit? Architectural brilliance, intricate sculptures.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram

Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, constructed by Rajendra Chola I, was meant to rival Brihadeeswarar Temple. The deity inside is a massive Shiva Lingam, and the temple walls have some of the finest stone carvings from the Chola period.

📍 Location: Ariyalur District
⭐ Why Visit? Stunning Dravidian architecture.

Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram

Smaller than the other two, this temple is known for its musical steps—when tapped, they produce different sounds. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it reflects the exquisite artistry of the Chola period.

📍 Location: Near Kumbakonam
⭐ Why Visit? Unique musical steps, intricate carvings.

2. Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram: The Pallava Wonder

Dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries, Mahabalipuram (or Mamallapuram) is home to incredible rock-cut temples and sculptures built by the Pallava kings. This site, located along the Coromandel Coast, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a favorite among history and photography enthusiasts.

Five Rathas

These monolithic rock temples are each carved from a single stone, dedicated to different Hindu gods. They are named after the Pandavas from the Mahabharata.

Shore Temple

One of the oldest structural temples in South India, the Shore Temple stands against the backdrop of the sea. The temple has withstood centuries of storms and continues to be an architectural marvel.

Arjuna’s Penance & Krishna’s Butter Ball

These are two of the most famous rock carvings in Mahabalipuram. Arjuna’s Penance is a massive open-air relief, while Krishna’s Butter Ball is a giant rock that mysteriously balances on a slope.

📍 Location: Mahabalipuram | ⭐ Why Visit? Rock-cut temples, beachside views.

3. Nilgiri Mountain Railway: A Scenic UNESCO Ride

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR), part of the UNESCO-listed Mountain Railways of India, is one of Tamil Nadu’s most scenic travel experiences. This toy train, which connects Mettupalayam to Ooty, runs through lush tea plantations, misty hills, and charming tunnels.

Built in 1908, it still operates with steam and diesel locomotives, making it a nostalgic journey for train lovers.

📍 Route: Mettupalayam – Coonoor – Ooty
⭐ Why Visit? A historic train ride with breathtaking views.

Other Notable Heritage Sites in Tamil Nadu

Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai

One of India’s most visited temples, the Meenakshi Temple is famous for its towering gopurams (gateway towers) decorated with thousands of colorful sculptures.

Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal, Madurai

A stunning 17th-century palace built by King Thirumalai Nayak, blending Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles. The light and sound show in the evening narrates the history of the palace.

Chettinad Mansions, Karaikudi

The Chettinad region is famous for its ornate mansions, built by the wealthy Chettiar community. These palatial homes feature Italian marble, Burmese teak, and intricate Athangudi tiles.

Preserving Tamil Nadu’s Heritage

Tamil Nadu’s heritage is not just about monuments—it’s about the stories, traditions, and culture that have been passed down for centuries. The UNESCO recognition helps in preserving these sites, but it’s also important for travelers to respect and protect these places.

How can you contribute?

• ✔️ Follow eco-friendly travel practices.
• ✔️ Respect temple rules and dress codes.
• ✔️ Support local artisans and traditional crafts.

Final Thoughts

From the grandeur of Chola temples to the intricate carvings of Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu’s heritage sites are windows into the past. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or a curious traveler, exploring these UNESCO-listed wonders will leave you awe-inspired.

📌 Planning your trip? Visit the official UNESCO website for more details.

Situated in the village of Keezhadi near Madurai, Tamil Nadu, the Keezhadi Museum, also referred to as the Keeladi Museum, is an archaeological institution with a specific focus. It is committed to presenting the remarkable archaeological discoveries unearthed at the Keezhadi excavation site. These findings have significantly contributed to our understanding of the historical and cultural heritage of the region.

Archaeological Significance of Keezhadi excavation:

The archaeological importance of the Keezhadi excavation site extends to unraveling the enigmas of ancient Tamil Nadu and the broader Indian subcontinent.

• Discoveries from the Sangam Era: Keezhadi has yielded findings that trace their origins to the Sangam era, a significant period spanning from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE in the annals of Tamil Nadu’s history. These artifacts and architectural remains offer a window into the lifestyle, culture, and societal structures of that era.
• Evidences of Urbanization and Commerce: The revelations at Keezhadi hint at an early urban civilization flourishing in the region, characterized by meticulously planned streets and well-constructed edifices. The presence of a diverse array of artifacts, including pottery, seals, and inscriptions, underscores the existence of a sophisticated society actively engaged in trade and the exchange of cultural ideas.
• Script and Language: One of the most significant findings at Keezhadi is the presence of Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions, which provide valuable evidence of early Tamil script and language. These inscriptions offer a unique window into the linguistic evolution of the Tamil language.
• Grains and Storage Facilities: The discovery of grains and storage facilities suggests that agriculture and food storage were crucial aspects of life in the region. This finding also indicates an advanced level of urban planning.
• Ornaments and Jewelry: Various ornaments and jewelry items made from materials like gold, ivory, and copper have been discovered. These items reflect the artistic and aesthetic sensibilities of the time and are indicative of the people’s craftsmanship.
• Cultural Practices: Artistic and cultural artifacts found at the site, including sculptures, figurines, and pottery, offer insights into the religious and artistic practices of the people who lived at Keezhadi during the Sangam era. These artifacts contribute to the understanding of the cultural and artistic heritage of the region.
• Historical Narratives: Keezhadi’s discoveries have prompted historians and scholars to revisit and reassess the historical narratives of Tamil Nadu. The site challenges previous assumptions about the early history of the region and underscores the need for a more comprehensive and accurate historical account.

Educational and Public Awareness:

The historical interpretation of Keezhadi is not limited to academic circles. It has generated immense interest among the public and served as an educational resource for people interested in their cultural heritage. The site has become a symbol of pride and a source of historical knowledge for the local community and beyond.

• Educational Tours: The Keezhadi Museum and the excavation site have become destinations for school and college field trips. Educational institutions organize visits to the site and museum to provide students with hands-on learning experiences in archaeology, history, and culture.
• Research and Scholarly Work: The archaeological findings at Keezhadi have piqued the interest of researchers, historians, and archaeologists. They conduct in-depth studies, write research papers, and contribute to the scholarly understanding of the Sangam era and Tamil culture.
• Tourism and Economic Impact: Increased public awareness of Keezhadi has led to a rise in tourism to the region. This influx of visitors has not only educated people about the site but also boosted the local economy.
• Online Presence: Keezhadi and the museum have a presence on the internet, with websites, social media profiles, and virtual tours. These digital platforms provide a means for people to learn about the site and its historical significance.

How to reach Keezhadi:

• By Air: Madurai Airport (IXM), situated around 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Keezhadi, is the nearest major airport. Upon landing at the airport, you have the choice of either hiring a taxi or utilizing public transportation to make your way to Sivaganga.
• By Train: For those preferring the railway route, Sivaganga Railway Station is the closest station to Keeladi. You can board a train to Sivaganga from various cities within Tamil Nadu. Upon your arrival at the station, you can proceed to Keezhadi by hiring a taxi or utilizing local transportation.
• By Road: An alternative option is to reach Sivaganga by road. Multiple buses and private vehicles offer services connecting Sivaganga to various cities across Tamil Nadu. Utilizing the road network, you can easily access Sivaganga and subsequently continue your journey to Keezhadi.

Narthamalai, a small town located 25 km from Trichy on the Trichy – Pudukottai highway in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is a place of both historical significance and natural beauty. The town is renowned for the Vijayalaya Choleeswaram temple, an ancient temple constructed in the 9th century. This hidden gem is home to ancient rock-cut temples, lush landscapes, and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.

Temples within Narthamalai cave complex – Vijayalaya Choleeswaram Temple:

• Vijayalaya Choleeswaram Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the oldest stone temples in South India which showcases the Dravida style of architecture and rock-cut architecture.
• On the way here there is a headless lion. Also there is a Kudaivara temple cut for Lord Shiva at a depth of about 15 feet. Inside this sunai there is a beautiful lingam carved in a cave in the temple of Jirahareshwarar
• In the central hall of Narthamalai, there are six impressive and meticulously carved depictions of Lord Vishnu. A life-sized portrait of Lord Vishnu within the hall is bound to astonish visitors with the extraordinary skill, painstaking effort, and the considerable time invested in its creation.
• The Sattanathar Temple, the Thayumanaswamy Temple, and the Adinathar Temple are the other temples within the Narthamalai complex.

Architecture of Narthamalai Cave Temples:

• Rock-cut temples : These temples are carved out of natural rock formations, which allows for a harmonious blend of architecture with the surrounding environment.
• Intricate Carvings: The carvings depicted various deities, mythological stories, and celestial beings is a testament to the artistic prowess of the craftsmen of that era.
• Pillared Halls: The Pillared halls with beautiful carved columns were used for various religious ceremonies and gatherings.
• Frescoes: Some of the temples also have remnants of ancient frescoes on their walls and ceilings.
• inner sanctums: Inside the temples, visitors can explore the inner sanctums, which were once the focal points of religious activities. These sanctums often house the main deity of the temple and are considered sacred spaces.
• Gopurams (Entrance Towers):While the rock-cut temples do not have towering gopurams like traditional South Indian temples, they do feature modest entrance towers that are adorned with decorative elements, including sculptures and ornamental designs.

Natural Beauty of Narthamalai:

Narthamalai, surrounded by lush greenery and gentle hills, is an ideal spot for nature lovers and trekkers. Hiking up the hills gives you beautiful views of the nearby countryside and a sense of peace and quiet, which is very different from the busy cities nearby.

How to reach Narthamalai:

Narthamalai is accessible from various nearby towns and cities. The closest major city is Trichy, which has an airport and railway station. From Trichy, it’s approximately a two-hour drive to Narthamalai. Buses and taxis are readily available for the journey.

Chitannavasal, situated near the town of Pudukottai, is a fascinating archaeological site located in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is renowned for its rock-cut cave temple complex that showcases the architectural and artistic brilliance of ancient India.

Overview of Chitannavasal Cave Temple:

• The primary attraction at Chitannavasal is the Jain rock-cut cave temple, which dates back to the 9th century CE.
• These caves served as a haven for Jain monks, providing them with a place for meditation, worship, and artistic expression.
• The site is of great historical importance as it offers insights into the thriving Jain culture that once flourished in the region.

Architecture of Chitannavasal Cave Temple:

The cave temple complex at Sithanavasal comprises a series of rock-cut shrines adorned with exquisite painting. These paintings primarily depict scenes from Jain mythology, showcasing the lives of Tirthankaras (spiritual leaders) and other important Jain figures. The use of vibrant colors and intricate detailing is a testament to the artistic skills of the period. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has taken measures to safeguard the site and its artwork from further deterioration.

Chitannavasal Paintings:

The Chitannavasal frescoes are a collection of paintings discovered in the rock-cut temple of Chitannavasal, located in the Pudukkottai district of Tamil Nadu, India. These frescoes are believed to have been created by Jain monks who lived in the temple during the 9th century AD. The frescoes depict various scenes from Jain mythology and are considered to be one of the earliest examples of South Indian mural art. Sithanavasal Paintings are unique attractions of Sithanavasal Cave Temple.

The frescoes are known for their vibrant colors and intricate details. The pigments used in these frescoes were made from natural materials such as minerals, vegetables, and animal products. The frescoes have been preserved well over time and are a testament to the artistic and cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.

Visting hour and Fee structure of Chitannavasal temple:

The temple’s visiting hours are from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The admission fee is Rs. 5/- for Indian nationals and Rs. 100/- for foreign tourists per person.

How to reach Sithanavasal Cave Temple:

The temple is conveniently accessible via buses or taxis. The closest airport is Trichy Airport, located 45 kilometers away, and the nearest railway station is Pudukkottai Railway Station, situated 18 kilometers away.

The monuments at Mahabalipuram are monolith beautiful sculptures depicting our rich history and culture. The monuments and temples at Mahabalipuram including the Shore Temple complex were collectively classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984.

The Mahabalipuram stone sculptures carved in stone have been inspired by the Pallava style of art. Each of the monuments at Mahabalipuram is dedicated to a deity or character from Hindu mythology and thereby represents Shaivism, Vaishnavism and Shaktism.

The monuments include – Rathas (chariot shaped temples), Mandapas (cave temples), Rock Reliefs, Structural Temples and Excavations.

The monuments at Mahabalipuram have lots in store for art lovers and history buffs. Mahabalipuram falls in Kanchipuram District and is well connected to all major cities through road. The nearest airport is at Chennai (around 60 kilometres away).

Situated in the heart of Vellore city is one of the most invincible forts in Tamil Nadu, the Vellore Fort. The fort was built by the rulers of erstwhile Vijayanagara Empire and was at once the seat of the Aravidu Dynasty of the Empire.

The fort is best known for its military architecture, grand ramparts and it’s deep and wide moat. The fort is spread over an area of 133 acres and is surrounded by a moat that was once home to about 10,000 crocodiles.

The fort is now maintained by the Archaeological Department of India (ASI) and is opened up to tourists.

Image Attribution : Rajaraman Sundaram

Interesting Facts about the Vellore Fort

• • During the British Empire, Tipu Sultan and his family as well as the last Lord of Sri Lanka, Sri Vikrama Rajasinha, were kept as captives inside the fortress. The tombs of Padshah Begum (Tipu Sultan’s wife), Tipu’s sons, Bakshi Begum (wife of Tipu’s son Hyder Ali) and of Sri Vikrama Rajasinha can be found inside the fort.
  • The fort was constructed out of granite brought in from the nearby districts of Arcot and Chittoor.
  • The fortress being ruled under dynasties of varying religions and faith, depicts a blend of all cultures. It houses the Jalakandeswarar Temple, the St. John’s Church and a Muslim Mosque.
  • Vellore Fort has stood the testimony of time with its ownership being passed at different points of time, shown as below:
    1. Vijayanagar Empire – built around the middle of 16th century, ruled until mid 17th century
    2. Bijapur Sultans – ruled the kingdom between 1656-1678
    3. Marathas – ruled the kingdom between 1678-1707
    4. Mughals – ruled the kingdom between 1707-1760 before it went into British hands
  • The fort also houses the Government Museum depicting historical monuments of erstwhile composite North Arcot District (present Vellore and Tiruvannamalai) and displaying objects that covers various subjects.
  • The Vellore Christian Hospital along with many other important public offices is located inside the premises of the fort.

How to reach Vellore Fort

Vellore Fort is located at a distance of 138 kilometres from Chennai. Katpadi Junction in Vellore (around 7.5 kilometres north of the fort) is the nearest railway station. Vellore is well connected by road and rail with all the major cities in South India. The nearest international airport is at Chennai, 128 kilometres east of Vellore.

The National Fossil Wood Park located in Tiruvakkarai in Viluppuram District is maintained and protected by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) since 1957. The park was established in the year 1940 and is located 1 kilometre east of Tiruvakkarai village, 35 kilometres from Puducherry on the road to Tindivanam.

The park is an archive of preserved fossilized trees that are at least 20 million years old.The place gives a glimpse of the floral composition that belonged to the ancient times. The park also has Ancient Burial Site.

Image Attribution : Paramatamil

The Wood Fossils

More than 200 wood fossils are spread over 247 acres in nine separate enclaves around Tiruvakkarai. But the portion of the park open to public is relatively small.

It is believed that the fossils were formed during the massive flooding that occurred aeons ago. Over time, the organic matter inside the trunk got replaced by silica and they got hardened and fossilized. The colour, shape, annular rings and texture was retained. The high level of perfection in petrification process and brilliantly preserved fossil forest in Tiruvakkarai is a rare sight indeed.

The fossilized trees or trunks of trees range from 3 to 15 metres in length. The trunks are scattered and are partially buried in the ground. According to GSI, the absence of roots, barks and branches indicate that the trunks were transported and fossilized in the park.

How to reach National Tiruvakkarai Fossil Wood Park

The park is located 1 kilometre east of Tiruvakkarai village and lies 155 kilometres south-southwest of Chennai following NH 45 up to Kutteripattu via Tindivanam. It is located at a distance of around 28 kilometres from Puducherry Railway Station and about 22 kilometres from Puducherry Airport.

Epilogue

The park is a geological wonder and a relic that stands as a testimony of the past. The rock formations of the woods leave a spectacular impression on one’s minds. Entry to the park and photography is not charged.

Overview & Location of Gingee Fort

Gingee Fort lies in the Viluppuram District, close to the Union Territory of Puducherry and at a distance of around 160 kilometres from Chennai. Gingee is alternately called as Senji, Jinji, Chenji or Senchi Fort.
It was called the “Troy of the East” by the British and ranked as the “most impregnable fortress in India” by the Maratha King Shivaji. The Fort is administered and maintained currently by the Archaeological Survey of India. The fort attracts a lot of tourists throughout the year.

Image Attribute : Brownycat

The Gingee Fort – Etymology

• It was called Badshabad by The Bijapur Nawabs hold the fort from about 1660 to 1677 AD.
• It was called Chandry or Chindy by their successors, the Marathas.
• It was named Nusratgadh by the Mughals, who captured the fort in 1698 AD.
• It came to be known as Gingee or Jinji by the English and the French.

The Gingee Fort – Legend

The Fort is associated with the tragic story of Raja Tej Singh who was also known as Thesingu Raasan. Young and brave Tej Singh revolted against the Nawab of Arcot and was killed in the war that followed. His life and brave but tragic end was praised in numerous ballads.

History of Gingee Fort

Gingee came into the hands of various ruling dynasties of South India starting from the Cholas.

• Gingee was the place of Jains in the beginning.
• The site of the small fort was originally built by the Chola dynasty during the 9th century AD
• The fort was later modified by Kurumbur and again by Vijayanagar Empire during the 13th century and 14th century.
• Strong and tall fort walls, temples on the plains were built using granite under the Nayakka rulers (from the end of 14th century AD for 150 years).
• Taking advantage of the frequent skirmishes between the Nayakas of Gingee, Madurai and Tanjore, the Bijapur Sultans captured Gingee.
• It was further strengthened by the Marathas under the leadership of Shivaji in 1677 AD.
• Gingee fort was then captured by the Mughal General Zulfiqar Khan.
• The fort subsequently came under the rule of the French and British.
  The rule of foreigners and their indifference towards the maintenance of the fort has left the place as a memorial for its admirers.

Architecture of Gingee Fort

The enormous structure of the fort has been built at the most strategic location making it difficult for enemies to enter the premises. The Gingee Fort complex is on three hillocks: krishnagiri to the north, Chandrayandurg to the southeast and Rajagiri to the west. The complex houses a seven-storeyed Kalyana Mahal (marriage hall), granaries, a temple dedicated to its presiding deity Chenjiamman. The fortification of the complex has a sacred pond known as Aanaikulam.

The Gingee Fort – Timings & Traveller Tips

The Fort remains open on all days from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The entrance fee is Rs. 5 per person, Rs. 100 per head for foreign citizens and free for children below the age of 15 years.

It is advisable for travelers to equip themselves with required snacks and water, umbrellas or caps to avoid the scorching heat. Visiting the fort during weekdays is advisable to dodge heavy crowd. It is ideal to visit the fort during the winter months of November to February.

Trekking to the fort makes the trip more adventurous. The fort encompasses exquisite interiors and spots worth exploring. The fort makes a good place for photography whilst experiencing its antiquity.

How to reach Gingee Fort

The fort can be easily reached by taking a cab or private buses. The nearest railway station is at Tindivanam (around 31 kilometres away) and nearest airport is at Chennai (136 kilometres away).

Vattakottai Fort is located at around 7 kilometres from Kanyakumari, the southern tip of India. It is a seaside fort with a picturesque view of the sea on one side and the Western Ghats hills on the other side.

The Fort comes under the supervision of Indian Archaeological Department and has been declared as a protected site.

History of the Vattakottai Fort

Vattakottai Fort was constructed in the 18th century by the Venad Kings of Travancore as a coastal-defense barricade. The fort was modified under the supervision of ex-Dutch naval officer of the Dutch East India Company, Eustachius De Lannoy who became the commander of the Travancore Army. De Lannoy rebuilt the fort during the rule of Travancore King Marthanda Varma.

Architecture of Vattakottai Fort

Vattakottai Fort has been restored and is now a major tourist location in Kanyakumari. The architecture of this impressive fort and its location along the coast of Bay of Bengal makes the place a must-visit.

The Fort spreads over an area of 3.5 acres and is surrounded by mighty walls of about 25 feet height. The Fort houses watchtowers, weapon rooms, and a secret path (now closed) connecting the Fort to Padmanabhapuram Palace. It is believed that the Palace could once be seen clearly from the Fort. The Fort has been constructed using granite blocks.

A small pond in the centre of the Fort is an added attraction. Tourists can enjoy a mesmerizing view of the sea and the surroundings from the parade ground at the Fort. To spend some time at the beach near the site with gleaming black sand is an enthralling experience.

Timings of Vattakottai Fort

The Fort is open on all days from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entry to the Fort is free.

Padmanabhapuram Palace is located in Padmanabhapuram near Thuckalay, Kalkulam Taluk of Kanyakumari District. It is also known as Kalkulam Palace.

Padmanabhapuram was the ancient capital of erstwhile kingdom of Travancore. The town is located at a distance of 20 kilometres from Nagercoil and 60 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram.

Padmanabhapuram comes under the State premises of Tamil Nadu but is owned by the Government of Kerala. The Palace is maintained by the Govt. of Kerala Archaeology Department.

The opulence of the royal palace and its astounding architecture makes this place a massive tourist attraction.

Origin and Historical Significance of the Palace

The construction of the palace dates back to 1601 AD under the ruler of Venad (a medieval kingdom) Iravi Varma Kulashekara Perumal. The palace was rebuilt in around 1750 AD by King Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma. The King dedicated the kingdom to his family deity Sree Padmanabha (a form of Lord Vishnu) and ruler the kingdom as a dasa/servant of Lord Padmanabha. And henceforth the palace came to be known as Padmanabhapuram or the city of Lord Padmanabha.

During the reign of Avittam Tirunal Balarama Varma (successor of Marthanda Varma), the fortifications of the palace were captured and utilized by British soldiers in 1809. With the disclosure of a fortified settlement around the Padmanabha Swamy Temple in Thiruvananthpuram, Padmanabhapuram lost its prominence. The 1850’s marked an accelerated decline of the Palace.

In 1934, with the combined efforts of Sree Chithira Tirunal Balarama Varma (the last Maharaja of Travancore), the Queen Mother Sethu Parvathi Bayi and Dewan Sir. C.P. Ramaswami Aiyer, the palace was bought to the notice of the Archaeology Department. In 1935, the palace was converted into a museum complex.

The Palace & Its Unique Rooms

The Padmanabhapuram Palace, spread around an area of 6.5 acres, consists of many divisions that include:

The Reception Hall – The Poomukha Malika

The Poomukha Malika has a triangular arch that leads to other portions of the complex. The engraved wooden ceiling of the arch has 90 different flower carvings.

Mantrasala – The King’s Council Chamber

The Mantrasala is where the King conducted meetings and took administrative decisions. There are fine carvings on the ceiling and beams of the room. The room also has a single gable and eleven small windows (kilivaadhil).

Queen Mother’s Palace – The Thai Kottaram

The Thai Kottaram is the oldest structure in the complex built in the mid of 19th century. The naalukettu style structure (four halls joined together with a central courtyard open to the sky) is finely engraved.

Natakashala/Navarathri Mandapam – The Performance Hall

The rectangular Performance Hall has ornately carved monolith pillars adorned with bands of floral and geometric patterns and human figures in various Natyasastra postures. The hall is adjoined with a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi.

Central Mansion

At the center of the palace complex is the four-storeyed building that was constructed during the reign of King Mardhanda Varma. Most of the walls in the palace complex have built-in recesses for storage of weapons.

The ground floor of the mansion houses the royal treasury and first floor houses the king’s bedrooms. The second floor has the king’s resting and study rooms. The top floor also called the Upparikka Malika was used as the worship chamber and has exquisite murals decorated on the walls.

Thekke Kottaram – Southern Palace

The Thekke Kottaram is also an old structure like the Thai Kottaram. This complex houses a heritage museum with exhibits of antique household articles and objects.

The Clock Tower

The Clock Tower is situated to the north of the Mantrasala. It was built by a local blacksmith with the sound covering a 3 kilometre radius.

Other Prominent Features of the Palace

• The Palace is a masterpiece of Kerala architecture. The wooden palace with its murals, black granite flooring, intricate floral carvings and sculpted indoors transports the visitors to the ancient past.
• The palace is said to have a secret passage (now blocked) for usage by the kings and his family in case of any emergencies.
• A flight of steps that lead to a bathing pond.
• Visitors can also marvel at the antiques including old Chinese jars, a variety of weapons, furniture, wood and stone sculptures and paintings depicting the history of Travancore.
• The ornamental cot used by the King is said to have been made of about 64 wooden pieces of a variety of medicinal tree trunks.

Padmanabhapuram Palace Visiting Hours & Fee Details

It is open on all days except for Mondays from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM. The Palace is closed on National Holidays. Parking fee of Rs 50 is charged. Visitors can also buy a detailed guide book available in Tamil, English and Malayalam languages, at the ticker counter priced at Rs. 100.

The entrance fee is charged as below:

Adult	Rs. 35/-
Adult (Foreign National)	Rs. 300/-
Children (5-12 Yrs)	Rs. 10/-
Children (Foreign National)	Rs. 100/-
Still Camera	Rs. 50/-
Video Camera	Rs. 2500/-

How to reach Padmanabhapuram Palace

Padmanabhapuram Palace is located 2 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram-Kanyakumari National Highway (NH 66).

The nearest railway station is at Nagercoil (16 kilometres away) that connects the town with major cities in South India.Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport (52 kilometres away).

Epilogue

Padmanabhapuram Palace is a testimony of the traditional style of Kerala architecture. A visit to the place will surely take one to the classic era of the Travancore State.