Poonjar Palace

Poonjar Palace is situated in Meenachil taluk at Poonjar on the Pala-Erattupetta route, 47 km away from Kottayam district. The palace is a glorious testimony to the regal opulence of a bygone era. Within the palace walls is an extraordinary royal collection of antiques and exquisite furniture which include a palanquin, a thoni ( carved out of a single piece of wood) for Ayurvedic massages, huge chandeliers, palm leaf engravings, jewel boxes, different varieties of lamps, sculptures of Nataraja (dancing Lord Shiva), grain measures, statues and weapons. A unique conch preserved here is taken out once a year for ritualistic purposes. There is a wonderful model of Madurai Meenakshi Temple near the palace. The walls of the temple are decorated with carvings depicting stories of puranas.