- Built
- 17th century, by Thirumalai Nayak
- Timings
- 9 AM – 5 PM (break 1–1:30 PM)
- Light and sound show
- 6:45 PM (English), 8 PM (Tamil)
- Distance from Meenakshi Temple
- About 2 km
- Nearest airport
- Madurai (about 30 minutes by road)
- Nearest railway station
- Madurai Junction
History
Thirumalai Nayak, the best known ruler of the Madurai Nayak dynasty, built the palace in the 1630s as his residence and seat of government. He wanted it to outshine every other palace in the south, and his builders combined Dravidian design with Islamic arches and touches that many writers describe as Italian or European.
The original complex was roughly four times larger than what stands now. Wars, neglect and later demolition took the rest, leaving only the gateway, the great hall and the Natakasala standing. After Independence it was declared a protected monument, and the Tamil Nadu Archaeology Department looks after it.
What to see
The palace was once split into two parts, Swarga Vilasam and Ranga Vilasam, which held royal living quarters, shrines, an armoury, a market and sheds for palanquins. Today the draw is the open courtyard of about 42,000 sq ft, surrounded by massive columns that carry arches and a central dome, and the Natakasala or dance hall with its decorated ceiling.
The building is a favourite with film crews, so do not be surprised to find a shoot in progress.
Light and sound show
In the evening a light and sound programme narrates the story of Kannagi from the Tamil epic Silappathikaram, using the palace walls as the stage. There is an English show and a later Tamil show; carry a light shawl or mosquito repellent if you plan to stay for both.
Timings
The palace is open daily between 9 AM and 5 PM, closing briefly between 1 PM and 1:30 PM. Evening shows start at 6:45 PM in English (about 50 minutes) and at 8 PM in Tamil, which ends at 8:50 PM.
How to reach
Madurai airport is roughly half an hour away by car, and Madurai Junction railway station has direct trains from most major cities. From the Meenakshi temple area you can walk or take an auto for the short 2 km ride. We can add the palace to a Madurai temple-town tour so you catch the evening show without rushing.
Also nearby
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