Pandalam Palace

The Pandalam Palace (Pandalam Kottaram) is a royal residence situated on the banks of the Achankovil River, displaying a unique blend of architectural styles from the Pandyas and Keralites. It holds historical significance, as it was where lord Ayyappa spent his childhood.

The palace predominantly uses mud, bamboo, stone, and wood in its old structures. Despite facing damages from fires and floods over time, certain structures like the Valiyakoikkal temple, Kaipuzha temple, and Thevarappura have endured, preserving the ancient history and archaeological significance of the palace. These enduring structures serve as cultural landmarks, perpetuating the rich heritage of the Pandalam Palace for generations to come.

The Legendary Pandalam Dynasty

The Pandalam dynasty, a prominent royal lineage in Kerala, originated from a branch of the Pandya kingdom. Seeking refuge from the attacks of the Nayaks of Madurai, they settled in various places before establishing their capital in Pandalam. The dynasty’s connection with the revered deity Lord Ayyappa played a pivotal role in their history and legends.

At the heart of their kingdom stood the distinguished Pandalam palace, constructed with a blend of mud, bamboo, stone, and wood. This architectural marvel served as the royal residence and bore witness to the rich historical and cultural significance of the dynasty. The Valiyakoikkal temple, located within the palace grounds, held special importance as the family temple and marked the starting point for the annual Thiruvabharanam procession to Sabarimala.

Throughout their reign, the Pandalam dynasty had its unique customs and beliefs, with the royal members enjoying certain privileges during the Sabarimala pilgrimage. Notably, the dynasty produced esteemed personalities, including writers and artists like Pandalam Kerala Varma and V.S. Valiathan, adding to the dynasty’s legacy and contributions to Kerala’s cultural tapestry.

Plan Your Visit

The captivating Pandalam Palace is located in Pandalam, just 13 kilometers from Adoor, in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. You can reach it by road or rail. The nearest railway station is Chengannur, located 14 kilometers away. From there, taxis or buses are available. If traveling by road, take the MC Road connecting Thiruvananthapuram and Angamaly and get down at Pandalam Junction, where taxis and buses await. The nearest Airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, located 103 kilometers away.

[Image source|CC BY-SA 3.0]