Nalku Nadu Aramane regains past glory

Nalku Nadu Aramane stands on the foothills of the Thadiyandamol mountain. The majestic mountain rises in a blue-green haze giving a peaceful feeling to the palace yard. The palace has been attracting tourists from all over the state.

Nalku Nadu Aramane, located 40 kms away from Madikeri,  is two centuries old and is known for its architectural beauty and carvings. It is built in wood and has its own historical importance. For the trekkers of Thadiyandamol peak, Nalku Nadu aramane is a centre of attraction. For the historians who dig out the history of Kodagu, Nalku Nadu Aramane is treasurehouse of knowledge.

On the outset, the palace looks like a tiled roof house. But with a peep into it, and one comes to know a lot of things about history and architecture.
The palace has two doors and is two storied. The first floor is known for its architectural carvings. The pillars and its carvings attract visitors. One can enjoy the scenic beauty from the first floor. There are carvings of palanquin procession, elephant ride by the king and the such.

It is said that the palace was built by Doddaveera Rajendra and was of thatched roof in the beginning. It was during the reign of British that the roof was tiled.
Doddaveerarajendra escaped from the clutches of Tippu Sulthan in Priyapattana and reached Yuvakapadi. The palace was constructed amidst thick forest keeping the security of the region in mind. A small mantapa is situated in front of the palace. It is said that it was in this mantapa that Doddaveerarajendra married Mahadevammaji in 1796.

The palace is filled with carvings of historical events. However, during the course of time, it was neglected by the people as well as by the government and lost its glory. At one stage, the palace was on the verge of collapse. It was during this period that the Tourism department decided to protect the monument and released fund for the same. Department of Archaeology prepared an  blueprint for a n estimated cost of Rs 50 lakh to renovate the palace.

When Bangarappa was Chief Minister, the state government had released Rs 5 lakh towards the development of the palace. Later, none bothered to look into the palace. With the renovation of the palace, it has regained its past glory.  
DH News Service