Palakkad

Palakkad

Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Western Ghats, Palakkad—fondly called the “Gateway to Kerala”—is a haven for nature lovers. Known for its lush greenery and fertile landscapes, this serene district is also celebrated as the “Granary” or “Rice Bowl of Kerala” thanks to its abundant paddy fields.

Beyond its scenic charm, Palakkad is steeped in history, rich cultural traditions, classical music, and the distinctive Malabar way of life. Its tropical climate and natural bounty make it a must-visit stop on Kerala’s tourism map, offering something for history buffs, wildlife enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike.

Main Highlights

  • Palakkad Fort: An 18th-century architectural marvel built initially by Tipu Sultan and later restored by the British. Its well-preserved structure offers a fascinating look into the region’s past.

  • Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: A wildlife sanctuary teeming with tigers, elephants, and diverse flora, perfect for safaris and nature photography.

  • Malampuzha Dam: One of Kerala’s largest reservoirs, surrounded by gardens, a rock garden, and scenic parkland.

  • Pothundi Reservoir: Enjoy a tranquil boat ride with the Western Ghats as your backdrop.

  • Kerala Kalamandalam: A renowned cultural institution dedicated to traditional performing arts like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam.

  • Nelliyampathy Hills: A serene hill station with cool weather, tea estates, and panoramic valley views.

  • Ayodhya Hill: Known for its natural beauty and historical significance, it offers peaceful vistas of the countryside.

Travel Tips

  • Due to its strategic location, Palakkad is a convenient stop for travellers arriving from Tamil Nadu.

  • Book safaris at Parambikulam Tiger Reserve in advance, especially during busy tourist months.

  • Wear comfortable shoes and carry drinking water when exploring forts, hills, or trekking spots, as the terrain can be warm and uneven.

Interesting Facts

  • Palakkad’s fertile plains have earned it the nickname “Rice Bowl of Kerala.”

  • The Palakkad Fort stands as a historic reminder of Tipu Sultan’s era and British colonial influence.

  • The Malampuzha Dam was among the earliest multipurpose dams built in Kerala, serving irrigation, hydroelectric, and flood control purposes.

Best Time to Visit
July to March

Top Tourist Attractions
 Palakkad Fort, Silent Valley National Park, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Mayiladumpara Peacock Sanctuary, Malampuzha Dam & Gardens, Attappadi, Kava View Point, Rock Garden, Siruvani Reservoir, Kanjirapuzha Reservoir, Dhoni Forest (Trekking), Kalpathy Heritage Village & Temple Complex, Nelliyampathy Hills, Pothundi Dam & Reservoir, Mangalam Dam, Tipu's Fort, Thiruvalathur Randu Moorthy Temple, Jain Temple, Vadakkanthara Temple, Manapullikaavu, Kalpathy Agraharam & Vishwanathaswamy Temple, Kumarapuram Temple, Emoor Bhagavathy Temple, Thiruvalathoor Shiva Temple.

Nearest Airport: Peelamedu Airport (Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) – 43 km; Kochi International Airport – 96 km
Nearest Railway Station: Palakkad Junction (Broad Gauge), Palakkad Town Railway Station (Narrow Gauge)

Weather:

  • Summer: February – May

  • Winter: November – March

  • Monsoon: June – October