Kandath Tharavad

Posted Date: 06 Aug 2010 Author: Roshan Salim Member Level: Gold (Rs 40)

Kandath Tharavad is one of the archeological splendors of Kerala and also a facilitated home stay.

About Kandath Tharavad

Are you in search of a place which is away from the noises and busy traffics of the city? Are you looking for a place to experience the smell of rustic villages of Kerala? Then you are hearty welcome to Kandath Tharavad. Kandath Tharavad is one of the oldest citadels in Kerala which is situated in the core of Kerala village in Palakkad. It is one of the perfect destination for the tourists who can spent their leisure time in a peaceful way. The citadel is situated in aplace known as Thenkurissi in Palakkad district. The house was built in 1794 by Mr Kuruppuvelan who was a famous landlord of Kerala in the 1970s.

Striking Features in Kandath Tharavad

Kandath Tharavad is a real archeological splendor which reveals the traditional architectural histories of Kerala. The most attracting feature here is the ‘Purathalum' or the frontal side area which is decorated with the teak woods. The pillars are designed in a beautiful manner with carvings of elephants, snakes, fishes and dragons. The members in the cital used to gather in this area for their meetings and all.

The next interesting feature is the ‘Nadumuttam' or the open courtyard. This is located in the center of the building. It was built according to the principles of Vasthu Shasthra which is an ancient science of architecture. The ‘Ettukettu' or the eight storey structure is also famous. There are also many devotional rooms which is exclusively for the ‘poojas'. We can also see many mural paintings in the walls. The doors and windows of this citadel is fully architecturally designed. The bedrooms are also having ensuit facilities. The citadel is areal showcase of ancient Kerala architecture.

Tourism in Kandath Tharavad

Beyond its archeological aspects, The citadel is now famous for its home stays. The authorities are also focusing on some tour packages. Tourists from different parts of the world are visiting here to enjoy the double benefits. The food and accommodation is also provided the citadel itself. There are four naturally ventilated rooms with all facilities, Kerala Cuisine provided with vegetarian and non vegetarian food. Telephone, laundry, bicycles, doctor on call is also available.

Some of the activities undertaken from the tourism department of Kandath Tharavad are the following.
- A visit to Kerala Kalamandalam and to the Guruvayoor
- Trekking into Silentvalley National Park
- A visit to Prambikkulam Wildlife Sanctuary
- A House Boat ride in the Back waters
- Bullock Cart ride
- Trekking at Nelliyampathy Hills
- Cooking classes on Tharavad dishes with the cook
- A session with the family Astrologer
- Toddy Tapping

The tourism department also offers sight seeing in Palakkad which include the visits in the Jain temple, Kalpathy Brahmin Village, Hyder Ali's Fort, Snake Park, Basket Weavers Colony, Shiva Temple, Ramasseri, etc. The package covers almost all tourist places in Palakkad.

Accessing Tharavad

The citadel can be accessed through roadway. First you have to go along the National Highway towards Thrissur from Palakkad and should have a turn towards a place known as Kazhchapparambu. The Kandath Tharavad is 10 kms away from here. The nearest airport is Karipur International Airport, but for those coming from Tamilnadu can land on Coimbatore Airport and can come by bus. The nearest Railway Station is Palakkad Railway Station.