Thirumalai Nayak Palace
Madurai, the city of temples, was once the capital of the glorious Pandyas who were one of the three greatest Tamil dynasties. This city was the heart of the Sangam literature and Tamil flourished here under its rulers. The Pandyas ruled Madurai from 300 BCE to 1650 CE. After the reign of King Kulasekara Pandian the city was taken over by the Delhi Sultanate. Later it went under the rule of the Nayaks.
Thirumalai Nayak Palace - Madurai
The most popular Nayak ruler in Madurai is said to be Thirumalai Nayakar who won the hearts of his people through the reforms he made in the city. Many of his works are still in use in the city and he was responsible for completing the construction works in the Meenakshi Amman temple.
One of a very popular tourist place associated with Thirumalai Nayakar is the Thirumalai Nayakar palace built during his reign. When you visit the palace during the mornings, it is open for visits by tourists where one can see the huge pillars and the beautifully color adorned ceilings in the main room of the existing palace. Further when you go inside is the museum where ancient pots, jars, statues, coin collections, tools and inscriptions are showcased.
When you take a visit in the evenings, the palace is decorated with colorful lights and a light – musical show is put on which depicts the legendary tale of Kannagi. This palace is one among the most visited place in South India and has many ancient secret pathways which are restricted to visitors.
As you take a walk along the streets of Madurai you can witness numerous shop vendors and kiosks where you can get intricately designed crafts which make good souvenirs. During your visit to the city you will come to know that the entire city was built around the Meenakshi Amman temple and aligned in the shape of a lotus
During your South India trip never miss the monumental Madurai which is filled with historical richness and traditional culture. The monumentous Meenakshi Amman Temple which is one of the World Heritage site is located near the palace and a century old church, St. Mary’s is a few minute walk from the palace. Take a stroll along the streets of the city and get an insight into the lives of the locals and take back cherished memories.