The Royal palace of Pandalam, situated on the banks of the Achankovil River, is an ancient palace built and once resided by Lord Ayyappa along with his Royal family of Pandalam during 900AD. This palace is famous for 2 reasons- one being its connection with one of the most valued pilgrimage destinations in Kerala, Sabarimala, and the other being its unparalleled Kerala Style Architecture during the 900-1100AD showcased here. Lord Ayyappa, the main deity of this temple is believed to be the son of a king of the Pandalam Royal Family. Even though the two-storeyed palace is small in size, it is proof of Kerala’s incredible architectural style combining mud, wood, stones, and bamboos. Even though this place has archeological importance, due to many reasons, the palace is getting deteriorated day by day. As of now, only the Valiyakoikkal Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, Kaipuzha Temple, and the Theverappura(the prayer rooms) are left in the palace compound to add scenic beauty to the area, along with the beautiful garden surrounding it.
History
The Pandalam Palace was originally built by the Pandya Kings of that time. Due to some reasons, they vacated the palace and after a few years, the Pandalam kings occupied the palace. It is that place where Lord Ayyappa spent his childhood, as per history.
Getting there
Nearest railway station: Chengannur, about 14 km
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 144 km away
