Nestled in the scenic highlands of Wayanad district in Kerala, Sulthan Bathery is the largest town in the region and a key hub for tourism, trade, and travel. Located at an altitude of about 930 metres above sea level, the town is surrounded by lush hills and is well-connected to major cities like Kozhikode (98 km), Mysore (115 km), and Ooty (100 km), lying along the Kozhikode-Kollegal National Highway.
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| Jain Temple,Sulthan-Batter |
Originally known as Ganapativattom, the town was once home to the Kidangan tribe, which is why it was also called Kidanganadu. The present name Sulthan Bathery dates back to the 18th century when Tipu Sultan of Mysore invaded the region. He used a centuries-old Jain temple here to store ammunition, leading to the town being referred to as the “Battery of the Sultan.” While no remnants of the fort built by Tipu Sultan exist today, the name remains a lasting tribute to its storied past.
Sulthan Bathery is rich in cultural heritage and is home to several historic temples and monuments. The 13th-century Jain Temple, a classic example of Jain architecture, is a major tourist attraction. Apart from being a place of worship, it also holds historical significance due to its use by Tipu Sultan during his military campaigns.
Another landmark is the ancient Ganapathi Temple, believed to be over a thousand years old. It is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is deeply revered by locals. The Mariyamman Temple, mainly visited by tribal communities, reflects the indigenous spiritual traditions of the area.
Sulthan Bathery serves as an excellent base for exploring the natural and historical wonders of Wayanad:
Edakkal Caves: Situated on the nearby Ambukuthi Hills, these prehistoric caves feature petroglyphs and carvings dating back thousands of years.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Spread across lush forests, this sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and several bird species.
Ambalavayal Heritage Museum: Displays artifacts of the region's tribal and historical legacy.
Nearby, travelers can also explore:
Chembra Peak – the highest peak in Wayanad, ideal for trekking.
Pookot Lake – a serene freshwater lake surrounded by forests.
Chethalayam Waterfalls – a hidden gem known for its natural charm.
Phantom Rock – a naturally formed rock resembling a human skull.
Kuruva Island – a riverine island rich in biodiversity.
Thirunelli Temple – an ancient temple nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills.
Pakshipathalam – a birdwatcher's paradise tucked inside dense forests.
The population of Sulthan Bathery includes a mix of tribal and non-tribal communities, with agriculture being the mainstay of the economy. The town is a bustling center for trade in spices, coffee, pepper, and other local produce. Over the years, Sulthan Bathery has grown into a popular destination for tourists, trekkers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.
Hill Palace, Tripunithura – A Royal Legacy Preserved in Time
Hill Palace, located in Tripunithura near Kochi, is a treasure trove of Kerala's regal past and cultural heritage. Originally built in 1865 by the Maharaja of Kochi, this grand structure served as the official residence and administrative office of the royal family. Today, it stands as Kerala’s first heritage museum and the largest archaeological museum in the state, attracting history lovers, scholars, and tourists alike.
Spread across 52 acres of serene, elevated terrain, the palace complex comprises 49 traditional buildings constructed in Kerala’s architectural style. These buildings are surrounded by beautifully terraced gardens, a well-maintained deer park, and even provisions for horse riding—making the site a blend of historical grandeur and natural beauty.
Hill Palace is home to an impressive Ethno-Archaeological Museum, which exhibits a wide array of rare and valuable artifacts. On display are oil paintings, stone and wooden sculptures, mural works, ancient inscriptions, coins, palm leaf manuscripts, and royal furniture, including the ornate royal throne or Simhasana used by the Maharaja of Kochi. Visitors can also see personal belongings of the royal family that reflect their opulent lifestyle and taste in art and culture.
Among the most fascinating displays are over 200 antique pieces of pottery and porcelain imported from Japan and China. The archaeological section showcases Kudakkallu (umbrella stones), Thoppikkallu (hood stones), menhirs, burial monuments, and weapons from the Stone Age. Models of wooden temples and plaster cast replicas from Indus Valley Civilisation sites like Mohenjodaro and Harappa also form part of the rare collection. The contemporary art gallery within the museum provides space for modern artistic expressions, ensuring that tradition and innovation coexist.
The palace complex also supports biodiversity, with a wide variety of flora including rare medicinal plants. The Children’s Park within the premises offers recreation for families and children visiting the site.
Visitor Information:
Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM & 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
(Closed on Mondays)
Children’s Park Timings: Open until 6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Adults – ₹30 | Children (5–12 years) – ₹10
Contact: +91 484 2781113
Getting There:
Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam – approx. 10 km
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport – approx. 33 km
