Nalknad Palace
A historic 18th-century palace, Nalknad Palace offers a glimpse into Kodava royalty and architecture, serving as a refuge and a testament to Coorg's p...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Nalknad Palace
Best Time
Best for viewing details
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 18th-century palace, Nalknad Palace offers a glimpse into Kodava royalty and architecture, serving as a refuge and a testament to Coorg's past.
"A quaint palace with beautiful history, sadly not maintained to its utmost care, nonetheless very interesting and unique."
🚶 Walk from Parking
A short 100m walk from the parking lot is required to reach the palace entrance. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Free Entry
There is no entry fee, making it an affordable historical stop in Coorg. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kodava Architecture
Throughout the palace
Admire the traditional Kodava style with carved pillars, wooden structures, and ornate ceilings.
Royal Durbar Hall
First floor
Explore the former royal assembly hall with its detailed ceiling and wall paintings.
Historical Significance
Palace grounds
Discover its role as the last refuge of the Kodagu king before British rule.
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Timing Your Visit to Nalknad Palace
Understanding Nalknad Palace's Condition
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Walk from Parking
A short 100m walk from the parking lot is required to reach the palace entrance. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Free Entry
There is no entry fee, making it an affordable historical stop in Coorg. :moneywithwings:
🎨 Natural Dye Paintings
Look for paintings inside the palace made using natural dyes, a unique artistic detail. :art:
🌿 Serene Surroundings
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere surrounded by lush greenery, enhancing the historical feel. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Walk from Parking
A short 100m walk from the parking lot is required to reach the palace entrance. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Free Entry
There is no entry fee, making it an affordable historical stop in Coorg. :moneywithwings:
🎨 Natural Dye Paintings
Look for paintings inside the palace made using natural dyes, a unique artistic detail. :art:
🌿 Serene Surroundings
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere surrounded by lush greenery, enhancing the historical feel. :evergreen_tree:
⚠️ Mind Narrow Passages
Be cautious of narrow entry and exit points within the palace structure. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nalknad Palace is a historically significant site with unique Kodava architecture, offering a glimpse into Coorg's royal past. Visitors appreciate its free entry and serene surroundings, though many note that maintenance could be improved, with some areas showing signs of neglect. Despite this, it remains a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts and those en route to Tadiandamol.
"Build in 1792, the Nalknadu Palace is a spot to stop by on the way to Tadiandamol. The palace has been restored few years back but the maintenance of the palace is not upto the mark with weeds growing on the roof and on the Kalyana Mantapa.
The palace is 2 storied structure with pillars and the first floor made with solid wood. Lots of heavy wooden pillars adorn the palace. There are stairs leading to the first floor. First floor served as the Darbar hall and the ceilings here are ornate, also few paintings on the wall. There are also 2 bathrooms on the top floor.
It would have been great if the palace is converted to a museum otherwise the emptiness of the palace doesn't serve as much of an attraction."
Sajeev Thomas
"Nalknad Palace is a beautiful historical site with rich heritage, but unfortunately, its condition is not well-maintained. The paintings and interiors are deteriorating, and there are no visible restoration efforts. The palace has great potential as a tourist attraction, but it needs urgent attention from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for preservation. If properly restored, it could be a true gem of history. Worth a visit for history lovers, but be prepared for signs of neglect."
Uday S Andewadi
"Nalknadu Palace in Coorg is indeed a hidden gem, rich in history and architectural beauty. Built in the 1790s, it showcases traditional Coorg architecture and offers a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage. The palace is surrounded by lush greenery, enhancing its serene atmosphere.
Visiting during the day is ideal for exploring the intricacies of the palace. Just be mindful of the narrow entry and exit points inside. With no entry fee, it’s a great spot for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike."
Adithya Pradeep C K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nalknad Palace is located about 35 km from Madikeri town. You can hire a taxi or drive your own vehicle. It's often visited as a stop on the way to Tadiandamol Peak.
While public transport might be challenging to reach the exact location, local buses can take you to nearby towns like Virajpet or Kakkabe, from where you might need a local taxi or auto-rickshaw. 
There is a parking lot available near the palace, from where you'll need to walk a short distance to reach the entrance.
Yes, Nalknad Palace is an excellent addition to a day trip in Coorg, especially if you are planning to visit Tadiandamol Peak. It's a relatively quick visit.
If you are in Virajpet, Nalknad Palace is about 15-20 km away. Hiring a local taxi or using a ride-sharing service would be the most convenient option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee to visit Nalknad Palace, making it a free historical attraction.
The palace is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to visit during the day to best appreciate its architecture and any remaining artwork.
The best time to visit is during the drier months, typically from October to March, to avoid monsoon rains and enjoy pleasant weather for exploring.
While official guided tours might not be readily available, local guides may offer insights. It's also worth exploring the palace independently to absorb its history.
The palace is generally open during daylight hours throughout the week, including weekends and holidays. However, it's always a good idea to check for any unexpected closures.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Reviews indicate that while the palace has been restored, maintenance is not always up to par, with some areas showing signs of neglect like weeds. However, its historical charm remains. +1
Key attractions include the traditional Kodava architecture, carved wooden pillars, the royal durbar hall on the first floor with ornate ceilings, and some wall paintings.
There are no widespread beliefs or concrete evidence suggesting Nalknad Palace is haunted. Visitors often describe it as peaceful.
Expect to see beautiful traditional Kodava architecture, characterized by its use of wood, intricate carvings, and a distinct regional style.
Specific facilities like restrooms or cafes are not widely mentioned. It's advisable to use facilities in nearby towns before visiting.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside Nalknad Palace, allowing you to capture its historical architecture and details.
The carved pillars, the Durbar Hall with its ceiling and paintings, and the exterior architecture surrounded by greenery offer great photo opportunities.
While not explicitly stated, it's always best to check local regulations regarding drone usage near historical sites to avoid any issues.
During daylight hours, natural light filters through, providing decent lighting. Overcast days might offer softer light, while sunny days can create strong contrasts.
Yes, the palace is situated amidst lush hills, offering scenic views that can be captured from various points around the structure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific child-focused activities, the unique architecture and the story of the king's refuge can spark curiosity. Ensure kids are supervised, especially around the older structures and any narrow passages. Pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited.
🚶 History Enthusiasts
While the maintenance might not be perfect, the palace's historical integrity and architectural details are well worth the visit. Consider researching the Haleri dynasty and Tipu Sultan's era beforehand to enhance your understanding and appreciation of the site.
🏞️ Nature Lovers & Trekkers
It serves as a perfect, brief stop to break up a journey or to appreciate the natural beauty of the Kodagu hills before or after a trek. The serene atmosphere adds to the overall experience of exploring the Coorg region's natural landscapes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Legacy of Nalknad Palace
+1The palace is also noted as the site where Dodda Veerarajendra married Mahadevammaji in 1796. Its strategic location in the hills provided a natural defense, and its architecture reflects the unique Kodava culture and building traditions of the time. The palace's history is deeply intertwined with the political landscape of 18th-century Coorg.
Despite its historical importance, the palace's current state of maintenance has drawn mixed reviews. While it has undergone restoration, some visitors note ongoing issues with upkeep, such as overgrown vegetation and deteriorating interiors. Nevertheless, for history buffs, it remains a significant site offering a tangible connection to Coorg's royal past.
Architectural Marvels and Artistic Details
The first floor housed the royal Durbar Hall, which boasts ornate ceilings and walls adorned with paintings. These murals, some of which are noted to be made using natural dyes, offer a glimpse into the artistic sensibilities of the era. The presence of two bathrooms on the upper floor also indicates a level of sophistication for its time.
While the palace's architectural integrity is largely intact, the condition of its decorative elements, like the paintings, is a concern for preservationists. However, the overall design, with its integration into the natural landscape, continues to impress visitors with its historical and aesthetic value.
+1Visiting Nalknad Palace: Practical Insights
Entry to the palace is free, making it an accessible historical site for all travelers. It's recommended to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architectural details and any remaining artwork. Be mindful of the narrow passages within the palace structure.
While the palace offers a rich historical experience, be prepared for its current state of maintenance. Some reviews mention signs of neglect, but for those interested in history and unique architecture, Nalknad Palace remains a worthwhile stop, offering a serene atmosphere amidst lush surroundings.
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