Padmanabhapuram Palace – An Ancient Architectural Magic of South India

Padmanabhapuram Palace

Padmanabhapuram Palace is India Heritage site and it is also listed on tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.Padmanabhapuram Palace is a miraculous 16 Century wood palace of former Maharajas of Travancore (1550 to 1750).It is located in the Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India. Padmanabhapuram was the old capital of former Travancore state. It is administrated by the Kerala. Padmanabhapuram is a wonderful example of craftsmanship of wood. It is the largest, oldest and well maintained ancient example of traditional wooden architecture .This palace is a real fusion of wonderful craftsmanship, archaeology and high level example of material science.

Craftswork In Padmanabhapuram

Carvings On Padmanabhapuram

Padmanabhapuram fort spread over the 200 acres. The foundation of this palace is made by the fine red stones and granite. The walls of the fort are heightening around the 30ft.The main palace lies at the center of the fort. The ultimate interior of the palace is full with the incredible rosewood carvings and sculptured decor. It is also full with the pictures and sculpture of 17^th and 18^th century murals. There are several beautiful parts of this palace.Like Durbar hall and Thaikkottaram. The Queen Mother’s palace or Thaikkottaram has a spectacular painted ceilings, teak and rose wood carved ceiling with 90 unique floral designs.

A Carved Horse Rider

Bed Of Maharaja (King)

Wonderful Design On Ceiling

Metal Lamp

Temple Entrance In Padmanabhapuram Palace

Black Polished Floor In Padmanabhapuram Palace

View Of Natakshala In Padmanabhapuram Place

Durbar Hall has a shiny black floor, which is specially made from a jaggery lime, a combination of egg white, charcoal, burnt coconut, and river sand, granite tubs to buttermilk and cool curd . The bedroom of king is decorated by the beautiful carved bed and wonderful carved ceiling. The polished floor of palace is looks like a fresh polished floor but in reality it is 500 years old. Saraswathi temple, worship rooms, large earthen urns, rooms for meeting are full with jackfruit tree columns, carved lamps, wonderful fish carvings on the ceilings, cyclopean stone and Belgian mirrors. Granite dance hall and large swimming pool are also very wonderful.

It is really very amazing that it is completely made of natural things woods, mud, leaves and flowers. It is really a magical place with amazing wooden archaeology.