Palakkad, often referred to as the “Gateway of Kerala,” is a beautiful district located in the foothills of the Western Ghats. Known for its lush green landscapes, historical landmarks, and rich cultural heritage, Palakkad offers a blend of nature, history, and tradition. The district is famous for its scenic beauty, wildlife sanctuaries, and ancient temples, making it a popular destination for travelers. Here are some of the best places to visit in Palakkad:
Best Places to Visit
1. Palakkad Fort
Palakkad Fort, also known as Tipu’s Fort, is a well-preserved fort built by Hyder Ali in 1766. The fort is an important historical monument and offers a glimpse into the region’s colonial past. The fort is surrounded by a large moat and houses a Hanuman temple, an open-air auditorium called Rappadi, and a martyr’s column. The fort’s architecture is a blend of French and Indian styles.
- Key Attractions: Historical architecture, Hanuman temple.
- Activities: Exploring the fort, photography, attending cultural events.
- Location: Palakkad town center.
2. Silent Valley National Park
Silent Valley National Park is a pristine rainforest located in the Western Ghats. It is one of the last undisturbed tracts of tropical rainforest in India and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The park is known for its rich biodiversity, including rare species like the lion-tailed macaque, Malabar giant squirrel, and Nilgiri tahr. The park offers trekking opportunities and is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Key Attractions: Rich biodiversity, trekking trails.
- Activities: Wildlife spotting, trekking, nature walks.
- Location: 70 km from Palakkad town.
3. Malampuzha Dam and Garden
Malampuzha Dam is the largest reservoir in Kerala, built across the Malampuzha River. The dam and its surrounding gardens are a popular tourist attraction. The Malampuzha Garden features a beautiful rock garden, a rose garden, and a snake park. The garden also has an amusement park, boating facilities, and a ropeway that offers panoramic views of the dam and the Western Ghats.
- Key Attractions: Scenic dam, Malampuzha Garden.
- Activities: Boating, enjoying the gardens, ropeway rides.
- Location: 10 km from Palakkad town.
4. Nelliyampathy Hills
Nelliyampathy Hills, also known as the “Ooty of Kerala,” is a picturesque hill station located in the Western Ghats. The hills are known for their cool climate, lush green tea and coffee plantations, and stunning viewpoints. Nelliyampathy offers excellent trekking and hiking opportunities, with trails leading through dense forests and scenic landscapes. The hill station is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and deer.
- Key Attractions: Scenic viewpoints, tea and coffee plantations.
- Activities: Trekking, nature walks, wildlife spotting.
- Location: 60 km from Palakkad town.
5. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is a protected area located in the Western Ghats, known for its rich biodiversity and dense forests. The reserve is home to a significant population of tigers, along with other wildlife such as elephants, leopards, and various bird species. The reserve offers guided safaris, trekking, and camping opportunities. The picturesque Parambikulam Dam and Thoonakkadavu Dam are also located within the reserve.
- Key Attractions: Tiger reserve, guided safaris.
- Activities: Wildlife safaris, trekking, camping.
- Location: 80 km from Palakkad town.
6. Dhoni Waterfalls
Dhoni Waterfalls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Dhoni Hills near Palakkad. The waterfall is accessible via a short trek through lush green forests, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The waterfall is known for its serene ambiance and crystal-clear waters. The trek to the falls offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Key Attractions: Scenic waterfall, trekking.
- Activities: Trekking, nature exploration, photography.
- Location: 15 km from Palakkad town.
7. Meenkara Dam
Meenkara Dam is a picturesque dam built across the Meenkara River, a tributary of the Bharathapuzha River. The dam is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a tranquil environment for visitors. The area around the dam is ideal for picnics and leisurely walks. The Meenkara Reservoir is also a popular spot for fishing and boating.
- Key Attractions: Scenic dam, tranquil environment.
- Activities: Boating, picnicking, fishing.
- Location: 32 km from Palakkad town.
8. Kalpathy Heritage Village and Temple Complex
Kalpathy is an ancient Brahmin village known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The village is home to the Kalpathy Vishwanatha Swamy Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The annual Kalpathy Ratholsavam (chariot festival) is a major attraction, drawing thousands of devotees and tourists. The heritage village is also known for its traditional agraharam-style houses and serene ambiance.
- Key Attractions: Ancient temple, chariot festival.
- Activities: Offering prayers, attending the festival, exploring the heritage village.
- Location: Palakkad town.
9. Pothundi Dam
Pothundi Dam is an ancient dam built across the Meenachil River, known for its unique construction using jaggery and quicklime. The dam is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and is a popular spot for picnics and boating. The area around the dam is known for its lush green hills and beautiful viewpoints. The annual Pothundi Festival, held during the Onam season, is a cultural highlight.
- Key Attractions: Ancient dam, scenic surroundings.
- Activities: Boating, picnicking, attending the festival.
- Location: 42 km from Palakkad town.
10. Jainimedu Jain Temple
Jainimedu Jain Temple is an ancient Jain temple located in the Jainimedu area of Palakkad. The temple is dedicated to Chandraprabha, the eighth Tirthankara of Jainism. The temple is known for its unique architecture, featuring beautiful granite walls and intricate carvings. The temple complex also includes a library with ancient Jain manuscripts. Jainimedu is one of the few places in Kerala with a significant Jain population.
- Key Attractions: Jain temple, unique architecture.
- Activities: Offering prayers, exploring the temple.
- Location: Jainimedu, Palakkad town.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Distance from City Center |
|---|---|---|---|
| Palakkad Fort | Historical fort with unique architecture | Hanuman temple, moat | Palakkad town center |
| Silent Valley National Park | Pristine rainforest with rich biodiversity | Wildlife, trekking trails | 70 km from Palakkad town |
| Malampuzha Dam and Garden | Largest reservoir in Kerala with beautiful gardens | Ropeway, rock garden | 10 km from Palakkad town |
| Nelliyampathy Hills | Picturesque hill station with tea plantations | Scenic viewpoints, trekking | 60 km from Palakkad town |
| Parambikulam Tiger Reserve | Protected area known for tiger population | Guided safaris, Parambikulam Dam | 80 km from Palakkad town |
| Dhoni Waterfalls | Beautiful waterfall accessible via a trek | Scenic views, trekking | 15 km from Palakkad town |
| Meenkara Dam | Scenic dam surrounded by lush greenery | Boating, fishing | 32 km from Palakkad town |
| Kalpathy Heritage Village | Ancient Brahmin village with historical temples | Kalpathy Ratholsavam, agraharam houses | Palakkad town |
| Pothundi Dam | Ancient dam with unique construction | Scenic landscapes, Pothundi Festival | 42 km from Palakkad town |
| Jainimedu Jain Temple | Ancient Jain temple with unique architecture | Jain manuscripts, Chandraprabha deity | Jainimedu, Palakkad town |
How to Reach Palakkad
By Flight
The nearest airport to Palakkad is Coimbatore International Airport, located about 62 km away. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Palakkad.
By Train
Palakkad Junction Railway Station is a major railway hub in Kerala, with regular trains connecting to cities across India. The station is conveniently located in the city, making it easy to access various attractions.
By Road
Palakkad is well-connected by road, with National Highways and State Highways passing through the district. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular bus services to and from major cities in Kerala and neighboring states. Private buses and taxis are also available.
Best Time to Visit Palakkad
The best time to visit Palakkad is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, making the landscape lush and green. The winter months are
ideal for exploring the hill stations and wildlife sanctuaries.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Palakkad offers a variety of local delicacies, including traditional Kerala dishes like Sadya, Puttu and Kadala Curry, and Kappa and Meen Curry. Don’t miss trying the local cuisine during your visit.
- Cultural Insights: The district is known for its rich cultural heritage, with various festivals, art forms, and traditional performances. Plan your visit to coincide with local festivals to experience the vibrant culture.
- Safety Tips: Palakkad is generally safe for travelers, but it’s advisable to take common precautions, especially in crowded areas and while exploring remote locations. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Palakkad Fort, exploring the historical architecture and learning about the region’s history. Have breakfast at a nearby café.
- Afternoon: Head to Malampuzha Dam and Garden for a relaxing time, enjoying the gardens, rock garden, and ropeway ride. Visit Jainimedu Jain Temple to explore the unique architecture and historical significance.
- Evening: End your day with a scenic drive to Dhoni Waterfalls, enjoying the serene ambiance and natural beauty.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with a trip to Silent Valley National Park, exploring the rich biodiversity and trekking through the rainforest. In the afternoon, visit Parambikulam Tiger Reserve for a guided safari and wildlife spotting.
- Day 2: Start the day with a visit to Nelliyampathy Hills, enjoying the scenic viewpoints and tea plantations. In the afternoon, visit Kalpathy Heritage Village to explore the ancient temples and attend the Kalpathy Ratholsavam if it coincides with your visit.
Palakkad offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring ancient forts and temples to enjoying the lush landscapes and wildlife sanctuaries. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, Palakkad promises an enriching and memorable experience.
