Poonjar Palace

Nestled in the lush heartland of Kerala, Poonjar Palace is a hidden gem that resonates with royal grandeur, history, and cultural richness. Located in the serene town of Poonjar in Kottayam district, this majestic palace opens a gateway to Kerala’s regal past, surrounded by tranquil backwaters, rolling hills, and vibrant traditions.

This travel package is your invitation to explore one of Kerala’s best-preserved royal residences, where every wall echoes the tales of yesteryears. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, culture lover, architecture admirer, or a nature traveler, Poonjar Palace offers a unique and enriching experience unlike any other.

Tourist Attractions

Your journey to Poonjar Palace brings you face-to-face with captivating heritage and scenic beauty. Some highlights include:

  • Poonjar Palace: A 900-year-old marvel of traditional Kerala architecture, built entirely of wood with intricate carvings, antique chandeliers, palm leaf manuscripts, ancient weapons, and a unique royal cot carved from a single piece of wood.

  • Replica of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple: Adjacent to the main palace is a stone temple that houses sculptures and idols reminiscent of South Indian temple architecture, offering a spiritual aura to your visit.

  • Kottayam Backwaters: Take a short detour to the shimmering Vembanad Lake and glide through the tranquil backwaters fringed with coconut groves and paddy fields.

  • Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Located about an hour away, this sanctuary is a haven for migratory birds and nature lovers.

  • Illikkal Kallu: For those seeking adventure, this mountain peak offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and a breathtaking trekking experience.

Things to Do

This tour offers a variety of enriching and leisurely activities:

  • ✦ Take a guided heritage walk through Poonjar Palace and discover royal artifacts and folklore.

  • ✦ Attend a Kathakali or Mohiniyattam performance at a nearby cultural center.

  • ✦ Savor authentic Kerala Sadhya (feast) served on banana leaves.

  • ✦ Participate in a traditional Ayurvedic wellness session.

  • ✦ Explore local spice plantations and learn about Kerala’s spice trade legacy.

  • ✦ Enjoy a peaceful canoe ride through narrow canals lined with palms.

  • ✦ Shop for handcrafted souvenirs, wooden curios, and local textiles at village markets.

How to Reach

Poonjar Palace is easily accessible by air, rail, and road:

  • ✈️ By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (around 90 km), with regular domestic and international flights.

  • 🚆 By Train: Kottayam Railway Station (approximately 35 km away) is well-connected to major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Chennai.

  • 🚗 By Road: Private taxis and KSRTC buses are available from Kottayam, Erattupetta, and nearby towns. The scenic drive through plantations and hills makes the journey memorable.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to explore Poonjar Palace is during the cooler, pleasant months:

  • October to March: Perfect weather for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and cultural events.

  • April to June: Warm but suitable for early morning visits and indoor exploration.

  • July to September: Monsoon season adds a lush charm, though occasional heavy rains may limit outdoor travel.

Why Choose This Tour

  • ✔️ A rare opportunity to visit one of Kerala’s lesser-known but historically rich royal landmarks.

  • ✔️ Authentic experiences blending heritage, nature, and culture in a single journey.

  • ✔️ Customizable itinerary to include nearby attractions like Kumarakom and Vagamon.

  • ✔️ Expert guides with in-depth knowledge of Kerala’s royal lineage and traditions.

  • ✔️ Comfortable transportation and personalized support throughout your journey.

  • ✔️ Handpicked local experiences including cuisine, wellness, and artisan interactions.

This tour is ideal for solo travelers, families, cultural explorers, and anyone seeking a deeper connection with Kerala’s royal and rural roots.

Read More Read Less

Explore Other Packages

FAQs

Photography is generally restricted inside the palace interiors to preserve delicate artifacts. However, you can take photos in the courtyard and surrounding areas. Always check with local staff before clicking.

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended. Knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the palace’s history, architecture, and royal lineage.

Absolutely. Poonjar is well-placed for combining with trips to Vagamon, Kumarakom, or even Munnar. Custom packages can be arranged based on your preferences.

Yes. The site is accessible and the pace can be adjusted to suit families and senior travelers. However, some parts may have uneven flooring due to the palace’s age.

Comfortable, modest clothing is ideal. Light cotton wear is best suited to the climate. If visiting the temple or religious sites nearby, dressing conservatively is recommended.

A complete tour takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. If you plan to explore surrounding attractions, we recommend dedicating a full day to this trip.