The magnificent Istana Lama, a black hardwood palace, was built at the beginning of the 20th century as a temporary replacement for an even older palace that was razed by British soldiers during the Bukit Putus War. Inside you can see the king and queen’s bedchambers, the children’s playroom, a large dining room and huge dining table, as well as kris weaponry and royal regalia.
Arranged over four floors, with long galleries, and a distinctive gabled tower in the centre, the palace was famously fashioned without the use of nails. It’s elevated on 99 pillars, many of them carved with foliated designs, with each post said to represent one of the legendary 99 luak (clan) warriors of Negeri Sembilan. Climb to the top floor for views over the gardens.
In 2014 renovation work began on the palace to replace a number of ageing supports. Work is expected to last at least three years. Visitors can still tour the grounds and the outside of the palace.
