Pandalam Palace Travel Map

Pandalam Palace is located at Pandalam, which is at a distance of around 10 km from Adoor. At present, the palace is home to the royal family of Pandalam, who are the descendants of the Pandya Kings of Madurai. It is believed that Lord Ayyappa, the presiding deity of the region, was born as the son of the Raja of Pandalam. During his childhood, Lord Ayyappa protected the kingdom from the attacks of enemies. The enemies later disappeared in the jungle and the natives started worshipping him as God. A temple near the palace is situated on the banks of river Achenkovil and is dedicated to this deity. The temple at Pandalam is the exact replica of the one at Sabarimala. The festival of Makaravilakku is celebrated in the region and the sacred ornaments for Lord Ayyappa are carried in a procession to Sabarimala. It is believed that Lord Ayyappa himself gave specific instructions for the layout of the temple. As per his details, the Malikapurathamma is placed on left side of the idol and the images of Vavar and Kadutha are carved on the foot of the 18 holy steps.