About Thirumalai Nayak mahal

Another regal construction by the Nayak rulers (Thirumalai) is this magnificent palace built in the 1630s. With its extremely rich history, regal beauty, innumerable pillars adorned with several thousands of sculptures, the massive dome and the ancient pond, the magnificent home of the royalty becomes one of the best places to visit in Madurai and a part of every Madurai tour package.

History

It is said that just one (Swargavilasa) of the two (Rangavilasa) parts of the palace survived the interference of Thirumalai's grandson. It is said that what is left is just one-fourth of the entire palace. Just the thought of this makes one wonder about what a marvelous lineage does the palace carry and how magnificent would it have been in those times.

Major attractions

The Throne

There is a magnificent regal throne placed right inside the ancient hall of Durbar. It is believed that the royal throne was used by the extremely brave and eminent Nayak rulers right from the times of its construction.

Insides

It is believed that the palace is home to over 248 thick (five feet) pillars which go up to a height of 58 long feet. The ceiling of the palace is adorned by huge paintings of the Shiva family. 

Swarga Vilasa dome

Building and architecture enthusiasts from across the globe visit the site to witness the formation of the dome itself. It is one of the rare constructions of the world as it stands on its own to a height of twenty meters without any support from any side. The dome has gathered a lot of praise for the engineering skills of its constructors. 

Natakasala

A spectacular museum is a part of the regal palace which is home to various artifacts ranging from the Tenth to the Seventeenth-century period. With various utensils, sculptures, paintings, and photographs adorning the two-storeyed museum, the site is a major attraction of the gorgeous palace.

With all these breathtaking attractions associated with the gorgeous site, the spectacular site of the royalty becomes among the places to visit in Madurai and a prime attraction of every Madurai tour package.

Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal bus route

Periyar Bus Stand is 1 km away from Meenakshi Temple Madurai. Bus numbers 11, 11A, 17 and 38 operate from this bus stand. 

How to reach

Distance in kilometers from: Meenakshi Temple- 1 Kilometer and Madurai Railways- 3 Kilometers.