Aranmula Palace

Aranmula Kottaram

Aranmula Palace (Aranmula Kottaram) is a royal palace in Kerala, India that was built over 200 years ago. ^[1] It holds significant cultural and historical importance. The palace, is also known as Vadakke Kottaram (Northern Palace) ^[2]

The palace is situated in front of the revered Aranmula Sree Partha Sarathi Temple and lies close to the holy River Pampa, adding to its spiritual significance.

Architecture and design

Aranmula Palace is a prime example of traditional Kerala architecture, specifically the Nalukettu style, ^[3] which is based on the principles of Thachu Sastra (the ancient science of carpentry) and Vastu Shastra (a traditional system of architecture focused on harmony with nature).

This palace features spacious courtyards, intricate wooden carvings, and clay-tiled sloped roofs, exemplifying Kerala's ancient craftsmanship and aesthetic. The traditional design emphasizes balance and natural ventilation, making it both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Aranmula Kottaram

The design of Aranmula palace, ^[4] with its spacious courtyards, intricate wooden carvings, and clay-tiled sloped roofs, exemplifies the craftsmanship and aesthetic of Kerala's ancient architectural traditions.

Cultural heritage

The palace is also notable for its preservation of cultural and royal heritage. It was one of the palaces of the Thekkumkur family, ^[5] and the last king of Aranmula resided there. The architectural beauty and historical significance of Vadakke Kottaram make it a valuable cultural treasure. ^[6] The palace is renowned not only for its architectural beauty but also for its preservation of the royal heritage and cultural traditions of the region.

References

1. "Kerala Heritage". keralaheritage.org. Retrieved 2025-01-08.
2. "Aranmula Ithihyavum Charithra Sathyangalum Written By K P Sreeranganadhan" . Retrieved 2025-01-08.
3. "Nalukettu Architecture". www.slideshare.net. Retrieved 2025-03-25.
4. “ചരിത്രമുറങ്ങുന്ന ആറന്മുള കൊട്ടാരം” *PTA mediaonline*. Retrieved from (https://ptamediaonline.com/2025/03/28/aranmula-palace//).
5. Pottamkulam, George Abraham (2021-06-11). Kerala A Journey in Time Part II: Kingdom Of Cochin & Thekamkoor Rajyam; People Places and Potpourri. Notion Press. ISBN   978-1-63873-514-4.
6. • Aranmula Ithihyavum Charithra Sathyangalum Written By K P Sreeranganadhan,

9°19′37″N76°41′17″E / 9.32707°N 76.68817°E / 9.32707; 76.68817