Ammachi Kottaram

In the heart of a snow-covered forest path, amid towering trees, lies a place of intrigue and history – the Ammachi Kottaram in Peermade, Kuttikkanam in the Idukki district of Kerala. This remarkable structure, which is over two centuries old, once served as the summer residence for the Travancore dynasty. Today, though bearing the name of a palace, it stands in a state of disrepair, its grandeur faded with time.

A Glimpse into the Historic Palace

During the reign of the Thai dynasty in Travancore, the title of “queen” was bestowed upon the king’s sister, while the king’s wife was given the honorific title of “Ammachi.” Thus, the palace where the king’s wife resided became known as Ammachi Palace. The palace complex comprises a spacious durbar hall, the Maharajah’s mantra mandapam, stables, underground roads, a playground, and a stone pool. It was within these walls that crucial decisions were made during the British occupation.

One intriguing feature of the palace is the existence of underground tunnels, one of which extends to the Major Sree Krishnaswamy Temple in Peerumedu, miles away. The remnants of these tunnels can still be found near the Chidambaram Pillai Memorial School. The palace also played a pivotal role in the establishment of tea cultivation in the high range, thanks to John Daniel Monroe, a British man who used it as his base.

From Luxury to Desolation

Once a symbol of opulence, the palace now stands in a state of disrepair. The memories of silk carpets, priceless portraits, and ornate wooden fixtures are etched in the minds of the older generation. Today, the only surviving relic of its former grandeur is a marble washbasin.

Interestingly, the palace has served as a backdrop for numerous films, attracting tourists following the shooting of movies like “Carbon” and “Lucifer.” However, these cinematic ventures have added an eerie aura to the palace’s ambiance.

The demand for government intervention to protect this historical treasure trove is growing stronger by the day. The palace, steeped in historical relics and memories of a bygone royal era, has faced ownership disputes in the past. At present, it is owned by a company based in Bengaluru.

Ammachi Kottaram: A Forgotten Relic

In the picturesque hill station of Kuttikkanam, Ammachi Kottaram stands as a forgotten relic of a bygone era. This 210-year-old historical palace, once the summer home of the Travancore king’s wife, is nestled amid a serene forest area. Despite its age and historical significance, it remains poorly maintained and inaccessible from the inside.

The palace has garnered attention not only for its historical importance but also as a filming location for movies like “Lucifer” (2019). Although it has found its place in the world of cinema, the palace’s origins remain somewhat mysterious, with records suggesting it was constructed sometime in the 19th century.

Getting to Ammachi Kottaram

To reach Ammachi Kottaram, one must take a left turn before reaching the Kuttikkanam junction. However, it’s worth noting that the palace is not well-maintained and not easily accessible from the inside. Visitors are allowed entry for a fee, but it’s been noted that the caretakers may not always be welcoming.

Despite its undeniable charm, Ammachi Kottaram has fallen into disrepair and currently resides in private ownership. While its history and allure are undeniable, the palace’s overgrown surroundings and lack of maintenance have relegated it to the status of a hidden attraction in Kuttikkanam.