Tirumalai Nayakkar Mahal – the magnificent Palace of the XVII century, was built in 1636 at the request of the representative of the Nayak dynasty named Thirumalai the ruler of Madurai. In the structure of the combination of Dravidian and Islamic styles of architecture, so it mixes elegance and ostentatious splendor of the East.

Tirumalai Nayak was an outstanding ruler, known for its modern looks and innovative solutions. In the days of his reign were built many beautiful buildings, among which stands out above the Palace, which was conceived as the Central building of the city, attracting everyone's attention.

Tirumalai Nayakkar was a huge Palace complex, part of which is separated and turned into separate buildings. So at the moment, the Palace presents only the main "body", which is called Svara Vilasam and several adjacent structures.

Zwagra Vilasam is a vast octagonal room, whose main attraction is the audience chamber, decorated with columns and 12-meter high arches and crowned by a huge dome. Special admiration in it cause wonderful carved borders with floral ornaments.

In addition Zwagra Vilasam the Palace had many other noteworthy places: the Royal bedchamber, the theatre, the weapon room, pond, garden, dance hall.

After India's independence, the Palace of Tirumalai Nayakkar Mahal was declared a national monument and became a major attraction in the state. It is open almost daily from 9am to 5pm.