The palace is situated 2kms south east of Meenakshi Temple. The palace was built in 1636 by Thirumalai Nayakar. A classic example of the Indo-Saracenic style, the piece de resistance of this mahal is its carved dome outsoars without the support of girders or rafters.

History Of Thirumalai Nayakar

This Palace was built in 1636 by King Thirumalai Nayak with the help of an Italian Architect. The building we see today was the main Palace where the King lived. The original Palace Complex was four times bigger than the present structure. This palace consisted mainly of two parts, namely Swargavilasa and Rangavilasa.

The stucco work on its domes and arches is remarkable. The gigantic pillars and structures represents the amazing architectural mastery of Nayak Kings. The courtyard and the dancing hall are being the center of attractions. There are around 248 pillars of each 58 feet toll and 5 feet diameter.

Furniture and utensils used by the kings have been exhibited inside the palace. The palace is equipped to perform Light & Sound shows depicting the story of Silappathikaram in both Tamil and English languages.
The thousand pillar mandapam is supposed to have been built by Arya Natha Mudaliyar.

• Air
  Madurai has an airport and flights from Chennai, Mumbai,Trichy and Coimbatore arrive here.
  
  
• Rail
  Tamil Nadu by both the meter gauge and broad gauge of the Southern Railway.
  
  
• Road
  Buses are available from Chennai, Thanjavur, Dindigul, Palani, Rameshwaram, Tiruneveli, and Kanyakumari to Madurai. Tourists can also hire a taxi from Chennai.
  
  
• Local Transport
  Taxis, tourist cabs, auto rickshaws are available in plenty. There are no standard rates except tourist cabs. Town buses are also available to all important places.