Top places to visit

Top Places to Visit

Palakkad, also known as the Gateway to Kerala, is a blend of historic charm, lush greenery, spiritual heritage, and vibrant village life. From grand forts and sacred rivers to dams, hills, and wildlife sanctuaries — it has something for every kind of traveler.

 1. Palakkad Fort (Tipu’s Fort)

 Location: Heart of Palakkad town
✅ Built in the 18th century by Hyder Ali of Mysore
✅ Maintained by ASI; features a moat, Hanuman temple, and walking trails
✅ Ideal for history buffs, photographers, and families

Tip: Visit in the evening for a breezy walk and sunset shots around the fort.

 2. Malampuzha Dam & Garden

 Distance: 10 km from Palakkad town
✅ One of the largest reservoirs in Kerala
✅ Attractions include boating, ropeway ride, snake park, and fish aquarium
✅ Beautiful Japanese and rock gardens, with YAKSHI sculpture by artist Kanayi Kunhiraman

 Tip: The cable car ride offers a stunning aerial view of the dam and hills.

 3. Kalpathy Heritage Village & Temple

 Location: 3 km from Palakkad
✅ A historic Brahmin agraharam (village) on the banks of Kalpathy River
✅ Known for the Sri Viswanatha Swamy Temple, resembling Kashi Vishwanath
✅ Hosts the Kalpathy Ratholsavam – Kerala’s oldest temple chariot festival

 Tip: Visit in November to witness the vibrant Kalpathy car festival.

 4. Silent Valley National Park

 Distance: 60 km from Palakkad (via Mannarkkad)
✅ A UNESCO-recognized tropical rainforest, untouched and pristine
✅ Home to rare species like the Lion-Tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Langur & Great Hornbill
✅ Trekking, birdwatching, and wildlife tours available with prior permission

Tip: Pre-book your safari through the forest department for a guided experience.

 5. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

 Distance: 95 km from Palakkad
✅ One of India’s best-protected tiger reserves, on the Kerala-TN border
✅ Offers wildlife safaris, bamboo rafting, tribal village visits & eco-stays
✅ Spot tigers, elephants, deer, crocodiles, and a variety of birds

 Tip: Stay overnight in forest lodges or tree huts for a full jungle experience!

 6. Nelliyampathy Hills (Kerala’s Own Ooty)

 Distance: 62 km from Palakkad
✅ Scenic hill station with tea, coffee, and orange plantations
✅ Enjoy viewpoints, waterfalls, jeep rides, and misty trails
✅ Great for a day trip or weekend getaway

 Tip: Try the jeep ride from Pothundy Dam through the 10 hairpin bends for a thrilling experience.

 7. Jainimedu Jain Temple

 Location: 3 km from town
✅ A centuries-old Jain temple built by diamond merchants from Karnataka
✅ Dedicated to Chandraprabha, the 8th Tirthankara
✅ Unique Jain architecture in a state dominated by Hindu temples

 Tip: Combine this visit with Kalpathy Heritage village nearby.

 8. Meenvallam Waterfalls

 Distance: 35 km from Palakkad (near Kanjirapuzha)
✅ A hidden waterfall surrounded by dense forests
✅ Great spot for short treks and nature walks
✅ Water cascades from five different heights into a natural pool

 Tip: Visit during monsoon or post-monsoon season (July–Dec) for full flow.

9. Pothundy Dam

 Distance: 45 km en route to Nelliyampathy
✅ An old dam built in the 19th century, with great picnic spots and lake views
✅ Base point for Nelliyampathy trips

 Tip: Boating is available — great for families and couples.

 10. Kava Viewpoint (Green Escape Near Malampuzha)

 Distance: 15 km from Palakkad
✅ Known for its lush meadows, misty mountains, and lake backwaters
✅ Perfect for sunrise/sunset photography and peaceful moments

 Tip: A must-visit during monsoon for a dreamy landscape vibe.

 Bonus Attractions