Nalknad Palace

Covered within dense forest at the foothills of Tadiandamol, the tallest peak of Coorg, Nalknad Palace is one of the very few places around Coorg with interesting tales to reveal.

Planning

As my parents are also very keen of visiting historical places, we thought to include Nalknad palace as well in our itinerary. The fact that the palace is just 2.5 km drive from the main route we were taking, and our prior knowledge of the beauty of this place, made us to stick to the plan to visit Nalknad palace again.

Best route

After visiting Chelavara falls, we headed back for 4.5 km to reach Virajpet – Talakaveri road and continued on the main road for another 6 km until the left diversion for Nalknad palace. Palace is just 25 km from here. Road condition is very good throughout. Even though they are narrow, they offer very scenic surrounds. Total distance from Chelavara waterfalls to the palace is just 13 km, and it will take around 20 mins to reach the place.

Nalknad Palace

Nalknad Palace is 13 Km from Chelavara Waterfalls & 35 Km from Madikeri. When we visited the place, renovation work was in progress. Unfortunately, there was no guide present at the place who can show the palace around like our last visit.

Nalknad Palace History

This Palace was constructed by the Haleri ruler Dodda Veerarajendra in 1792 after he escaped from the Tipu Sultan’s army. Local legends state that the last emperor of the Haleri dynasty, Chikkavera Rajendra also sought refuge at Nalknad after the British gained control over Kodagu. This palace also served as the final refuge for the last ruler of the Haleri dynasty, Chikkaveera Rajendra, before he surrendered to the British in A.D. 1834. It is believed that king Veerarajendra also built an underground tunnel from the palace to Madikeri as an escape route. There are two dark rooms in the basement which served as the hideout of the king.

Architecture

The palace has the Darbar hall, where meetings and entertaining events were conducted. The palace is creatively decorated with stone and wood artwork and several colorful wall and roof paintings. A decorated stage where weddings were conducted can be seen in front of the palace.

The tourism dept of Karnataka plans to convert it into a museum exhibiting the handicrafts and culture of the Coorg region.

Timings

Monday

9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Tuesday

9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Wednesday

9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Thursday

9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Friday

9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Saturday

9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Sunday

9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Tips For Travelers

• Drive carefully on the narrow interior roads.
• There are no decent food options nearby. Plan and pack the food if needed from Virajpete
• If a guide is present at the place, request him to show the mural paintings at first floor balcony of the palace.
• Please make sure to carry the trash back with you and dump it only at designated place.

Places to Visit Nearby Talakaveri

Food Options

• Grand Udupi Pure Veg

Live the Experience

We suggest you to watch our short informative video on this place before visiting.

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