Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Poonjar Palace



Poonjar Palace located on the Pala-Erattupetta route in the Kottayam district of Central Kerala. Poonjar is truly stands as a glorious proof to the regal magnificence of a bygone era. The palace stands tall with all its majesty and magnificence, narrating the stories of the past. Poonjar is a royal place that was once inhabited by the royalties of Kerala. The palace is an explicit example of traditional Kerala architecture with its sloping roofs and carved walls, adorned with paintings and artifacts. Inside the palace walls is an amazing royal collection of antiques and exquisite furniture, comprising of a palanquin, huge chandeliers, a thoni carved out of a single piece of wood for Ayurvedic massages, jewel boxes, palm leaf engravings which were considered sacred and were used during major pujas, varieties of lamps, sculptures of Nataraja, dancing Siva, grain measures used by the cooks, statues, and weapons. A distinctive conch is preserved at the Poonjar Palace which is removed once in a year for ritualistic purposes, as it is blown to announce the start and end of the ritual.


Nearby to this palace lies a replica of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple. The temple walls have sculptures that depict scenes from the Puranas. The most beautiful thing is the Chuttuvilakku that are carved in stones. Tourists come here in large groups and are fascinated by the glory of the palace.

How to Reach: 
Poonjar Palace is at Poonjar on the Pala-Erattupetta route, Kottayam district, central Kerala.
Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam, about 30 km from Pala
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 76 km from Kottayam town

No comments:

Post a Comment