Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Palakkad is strategically located at the junction of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, making it an excellent base for scenic day trips, hill getaways, temple visits, and nature excursions. From misty mountains and tea plantations to wildlife reserves and historic towns, here are the best nearby destinations for a perfect day or weekend escape.

 1. Nelliyampathy Hills – The Hidden Hill Station of Kerala

 Distance: 62 km | 2-hour drive
✅ A cool, green hill station known for its orange plantations, tea estates, and viewpoints.
✅ Explore Seetharkundu Viewpoint, Kesavan Para, and Palagapandi Estate.
✅ Ideal for jeep safaris, nature photography, and peaceful retreats.

Tip: Start early to enjoy the scenic drive with 10 hairpin bends via Pothundy Dam.

 2. Silent Valley National Park – Tropical Rainforest Experience

 Distance: 60 km via Mannarkkad | 2-hour drive
✅ One of India’s last undisturbed rainforests, rich in flora and fauna.
✅ Spot lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri langurs, Malabar giant squirrels, and hornbills.
✅ Go for the Sairandhri Eco-tour and watchtower experience.

 Tip: Pre-book entry & guides through the forest department. No private vehicles allowed inside.

 3. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve – Wildlife & Jungle Safari

 Distance: ~95 km via Chittur & Top Slip | 2.5–3 hours
✅ Home to tigers, leopards, elephants, deer, and crocodiles.
✅ Activities include bamboo rafting, trekking, tribal village visits, and forest eco-stays.
✅ Spot the Kannimara Teak Tree – one of the world’s oldest and tallest living teak trees.

 Tip: Stay overnight in forest tree huts or tented camps for a full jungle experience.

 4. Kalpathy Heritage Village & Temple Circuit

 Distance: 3 km from Palakkad town
✅ Explore the UNESCO-heritage-listed Brahmin agraharams (traditional streets).
✅ Visit Sri Viswanatha Swamy Temple, on the banks of the Kalpathy River.
✅ Attend the Kalpathy Ratholsavam (Chariot Festival) in November.

 Tip: Take a guided heritage walk to understand the culture and architecture.

 5. Malampuzha Dam & Garden – Family Picnic & Boating Spot

 Distance: 10 km | 20 minutes
✅ Enjoy boating, cable car rides, rock garden, fish aquarium, and ropeway views.
✅ Ideal for children, families, and nature lovers.

 Tip: Visit in the evening for sunset at the dam and light show in the garden.

 6. Chittur – Land of Temples & Legends

 Distance: 13 km | 30 minutes
✅ Known for ancient temples, especially Chittur Bhagavathi Temple and Kongan Pada festival.
✅ Also associated with Thunchath Ezhuthachan, father of Malayalam language.

 Tip: Visit during March to witness the colorful Kongan Pada festival.

7. Kava Viewpoint – Hidden Green Paradise

 Distance: 15 km | 30 minutes
✅ A less-crowded nature spot near Malampuzha Dam with lake views, misty hills & calm meadows.
✅ Best for sunrise/sunset photos, picnics, and quiet nature walks.

Tip: Visit in monsoon or early winter for best views and birdwatching.

 8. Attappady Tribal Valley – Offbeat & Raw Nature

 Distance: 80 km via Mannarkkad | 2.5-hour drive
✅ A remote highland region, home to Irula & Muduga tribes, near Silent Valley.
✅ Experience tribal life, forest views, and traditional music/dance.
✅ Great for ethno-tourism, trekking, and nature study.

 Tip: Visit Sholayur Eco Village or stay in a tribal community homestay.

 9. Guruvayur – Pilgrimage Town of Kerala

 Distance: 90 km | 2.5–3 hours
✅ Visit the famous Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, one of the most sacred Vaishnava temples.
✅ Also explore Elephant Sanctuary (Punnathurkotta) nearby.

Tip: Dress modestly and check darshan timings in advance.

 10. Siruvani Waterfalls & Reservoir (Tamil Nadu Border)

 Distance: 55 km via Kottathara | 2-hour drive
✅ Siruvani is famed for having the sweetest drinking water in India.
✅ Offers forest trails, waterfalls, and a dam surrounded by hills.

Tip: Access may require permission from the forest department; ideal in monsoon.

 Map of Sample Day Trips

 Day Trip Tips

✔️ Start early – most spots are better explored before noon
✔️ Carry packed snacks, water, and cash, especially when visiting hills or wildlife zones
✔️ Wear comfortable shoes and sunblock for trekking and outdoor travel
✔️ Pre-book safaris or get forest department approvals if visiting reserves
✔️ Check Road conditions during monsoon for hilly and forest areas

Palakkad is not just a destination — it’s a gateway to nature, heritage, and hidden wonders. Whether you're up for adventure, spiritual peace, tribal culture, or just fresh mountain air, these nearby destinations offer unforgettable day trips.