Palakkad


Discover Palakkad: Gateway to God’s Own Country

Nestled at the foothills of the Western Ghats, Palakkad (also known as Palghat) is a lush and scenic district in Kerala. Known for its sprawling paddy fields, ancient temples, serene dams, and enchanting waterfalls, Palakkad offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture. Here's your guide to the must-visit places in Palakkad.

🏰 Palakkad Fort: A Historical Marvel

Built by Hyder Ali in 1766, Palakkad Fort is one of the best-preserved forts in Kerala. Surrounded by a moat and lush greenery, it offers a glimpse into the region’s colonial and military history.

Arial View of Palakkad Fort
  • Distance from Palakkad: 1 km

Activities: Walking tours, photography, exploring ancient architecture
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: October to March

🌴 Malampuzha Dam and Gardens: Nature’s Delight

Malampuzha Dam, the largest reservoir in Kerala, is surrounded by picturesque gardens and lush greenery. The beautifully landscaped Malampuzha Gardens include a rock garden by the renowned artist Nek Chand and a Japanese garden.

Entrance

Dam view when gate Open

Malampuzha dam canal

Malampuzha Dam Reservoir

                                       

  • Distance from Palakkad: 10 km

Activities: Boating, ropeway rides, garden walks
Entry Fee: ₹25 (Indian), ₹60 (Foreigners)
Best Time to Visit: October to March

🌿 Silent Valley National Park: Pristine Wilderness

A UNESCO-listed site, Silent Valley is a biodiversity hotspot teeming with rare flora and fauna. The dense forest and lush valleys make it a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers.

Silent Valley National Park

  • Distance from Palakkad: 60 km

Activities: Wildlife safari, trekking, birdwatching
Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indian), ₹200 (Foreigners)
Best Time to Visit: December to April

🏞️ Nelliyampathy Hills: Kerala’s Ooty

Nelliyampathy is a hill station known for its cool climate, coffee plantations, and breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.

Nelliyampathy hill station


                                                            Western Ghat in Nelliyampathy 

Sithar Kundu View point

                           
  • Distance from Palakkad: 52 km

Activities: Trekking, plantation visits, sightseeing
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: October to February

🌊 Dhoni Waterfalls: A Hidden Gem

Located in the serene village of Dhoni, this enchanting waterfall is a perfect getaway for nature lovers and trekkers. Surrounded by lush forests, the trek to Dhoni Waterfalls is as rewarding as the destination itself. The trekking will be for total 8 km to and fro journey. Advise to take food and water with you from home. there is no shop to purchase anything except some chips. One Guide will accompany with you and In waterfalls it is not allowed to take bath. You may get to see some wild animal also such as elephant and deer.

Dhoni starting point and ticket counter

Dhoni water Falls

                                      

  • Distance from Palakkad: 15 km

Activities: Trekking, photography, picnics
Entry Fee: ₹100 per person (trekking permit)
Best Time to Visit: November to February

🕉️ Kalpathy Temple and Heritage Village

The Kalpathy Vishwanatha Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is known for its annual Ratholsavam (chariot festival). The surrounding heritage village exudes old-world charm with traditional Kerala-style homes.

Viswanatha Swamy Temple Entrance
  • Distance from Palakkad: 3 km

Activities: Temple visits, heritage walks
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: November (for Ratholsavam)

🕉️ Meenkulathi Bhagavathy Temple, Ottapalam

This centuries-old temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy and is famous for its serene ambiance and cultural significance.

Meenkulathy Amman Tample
Timing

  • Distance from Palakkad: 32 km

Activities: Offering prayers, attending festivals
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: March to April (festival season)

🌲 Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: Wildlife at its Best

Located in the Western Ghats, this tiger reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and gaur. Visitors can enjoy jungle safaris and eco-tourism activities.







  • Distance from Palakkad: 85 km

Activities: Safari, trekking, birdwatching
Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indian), ₹300 (Foreigners)
Best Time to Visit: October to March

🏝️ Kava: Serenity by the Reservoir

Known as the backwaters of Palakkad, Kava is a tranquil spot near the Malampuzha Dam. Surrounded by hills and lush greenery, it’s perfect for nature walks and picnics.

Kava  View point

Kava  View point
  • Distance from Palakkad: 12 km

Activities: Photography, birdwatching, picnics
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Monsoon season (July to September)

🍴 Must-Try Food in Palakkad

Palakkad’s cuisine is a unique blend of Kerala and Tamil Nadu flavors. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Palakkad Sambar: A tangy and flavorful dish with a unique spice blend.
  • Kuthiraivali Pongal: A healthy millet-based dish cooked with lentils and spices.
  • Erissery: A traditional curry made with pumpkin, coconut, and beans.
  • Banana Chips: Crispy snacks made from locally grown bananas.
  • Unniyappam: Sweet rice dumplings made with jaggery and coconut.

🛍️ What to Buy in Palakkad

  • Spices: Locally grown black pepper, cardamom, and cloves.
  • Handloom Products: Cotton sarees and textiles from local weavers.
  • Organic Rice: Palakkad is known for its unique rice varieties like matta rice.

How to Reach Palakkad

  • By Train: Palakkad Junction (PGT) is a major railway station with good connectivity.
  • By Air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), about 50 km away.
  • By Road: Palakkad is well connected by NH 544 and state-run buses.

Where to Stay in Palakkad

Luxury Resorts: ITL Residency, Udaya Resort
Budget Hotels: Hotel Indraprastha, Kairali Tourist Home
Homestays: Silent Valley Homestay, Kalpathy Heritage Homestay

Best Time to Visit Palakkad

The best time to visit Palakkad is from October to March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

How Many Days to Stay in Palakkad

A 3 to 4-day trip is ideal to explore the highlights of Palakkad, including its historical sites, natural wonders, and spiritual landmarks.

Wrap-Up: A Perfect Blend of Nature and Culture

Palakkad offers something for everyone, whether it’s the tranquility of Dhoni Waterfalls, the architectural grandeur of its temples, or the serenity of its dams and gardens. Plan your trip to Palakkad and experience the charm of this beautiful district! 🌿🏞️
















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