Architecture of Thirumalai Nayak Palace, Madurai

Thirumalai Nayak Palace, which was built with the intention of creating a masterpiece for the then King to stay is undoubtedly one of the best architectures of ancient times. Designed by an Italian architect, this palace is a blend of Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles. The interiors of this palace mesmerises everyone with its intricate paintings and sculpting. Paintings on the roof of the palace are worth noticing.

Currently only a few parts of the palace has remained. Most of the parts of this magnificent palace was distorted and taken away during various reigns with changing times. This palace was built with foliated brickwork, while the polished texture of the palace came from the use of chunnam which is a combination of shell lime with egg white. This palace is known for its majestic pillars, with height of about 82 feet and width of almost 19 feet. As you enter the palace through its grand gates, you will reach a central hall with many massive pillars. This central courtyard is about 41,979 sq ft and has a circular shaped garden which is one of the major attractions here. Along with courtyard, the dancing hall of the palace is also worth exploring.

Swarga Vilasam and Ranga Vilasam are two major sections in which Thirumalai Nayak Palace can be divided. These two sections comprises of royal residence, quarters of workers, auditorium, religious places, ponds and gardens, queen’s harem, etc. Swarga Vilasam or the Celestial Pavilion was used to be the throne room. One can also see the decorated throne of Nayak King. It has an arcaded octagon which is covered by a dome of about 70 feet which is supported by huge columns of circular shape and stone ribs. These columns are linked by arches and an arcaded gallery.

Timings of Thirumalai Nayak Palace, Madurai

Thirumalai Nayak Palace timings are from 9 AM to 5 PM. It is open for tourists on all days of the week. The lunch break at the palace is from 1 Pm to 1.30 PM.

Light & Sound shows at Thirumalai Nayak Palace, Madurai

The light and sound show at Thirumalai Nayak Palace is one of the most attractive features of this palace. Every evening, light and sound show about the story of Silappathikaram is organized at the palace. The show is held in English and Tamil language.

Thirumalai Nayak Palace Sound and light show timings for English show is from 6.45 PM to 7.35 PM. The show in Tamil is held from 8 PM to 8.50 PM.

Reaching Thirumalai Nayak Palace, Madurai

Located at a distance of only 1.2 km from the Madurai Meenakshi Temple, this palace is easily accessible via road. Thirumalai Nayak Palace is situated about 3 km away from Madurai railway station while from Madurai airport, it is about 10 km away. Tourists can either hire a cab or take one of the locally run auto rickshaws to reach this palace. They can take buses that run at regular intervals.