When you want to describe a "palpable presence," there are several synonyms to choose from. One of the most commonly used words is "tangible," which means something that can be felt physically. "Evident" is another suitable synonym, conveying the meaning that the presence is clear and obvious. If you want to express a sense of nearness or closeness, "proximate" is a good choice. Other options include "perceptible," "noticeable," and "discernible." Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a word that accurately conveys the feeling you're trying to express, whether it's a sense of physical presence, emotional impact, or something else entirely.