Holding the title of God’s Own Country, Kerala has numerous attractions. Palakkad is among the beautiful places of the state. Known as the ‘Gateway to Kerala’, Palakkad is a small town nestled at the foothills of the Western Ghats. Blessed with lush tropical forests, beautiful hills, rivers, wilderness, rare animals and birds, Palakkad pleases its visitors. The places to visit in Palakkad offer beauty, adventure and bliss.
The tourist- loved hill station has historical monuments, temples, wildlife sanctuaries, picnic spots, adventure sports, etc. The destination has everything required for a relaxing holiday. The salubrious weather makes is a year round destination.
Find a list of top 8 places to visit in Palakkad:
Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
One of the least explored National Parks in Kerala, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary attracts tourists with its untouched beauty and thrilling adventure.
Settled in the hilly area in the middle of the Nelliampathy and Anamalai ranges, the park is a mix of lush landscapes. The national park shelters 39 species of mammals, 268 species of birds, 61 species of reptiles, 16 species of amphibians, 47 species of fishes, 1049 species of insects and 124 species of butterflies. The highlight of the national park is the Kannimara teak tree, around 350 years old.
Government organized jeep safari is the best way to explore the wilderness of the national park.
Kalpathy Temple
The Kalpathy Vishwanatha Swamy Temple is one of the oldest Shiva temple in Kerala. The Raja of Palakkad, Kombi Achan built the temple along the banks of Kalpathy River around 1425 AD. Legend states that a Brahmin widow brought a lingam from Banaras and installed in the present site. The temple and the river ghat has the same look of the Banaras Temples on the bank of Ganges.
The annual chariot festival is a popular event celebrated for 7 days in the month of November. Three magnificent chariots, decorated with flowers and flags, each sanctified by the presence of the Lord are worshipped in the festival.
Timings: 5:30 AM to 8 PM.
Malampuzha Dam & Gardens
Malampuzha has something to offer to every kind of visitor. The wonderful picnic spot is perfect for families, friends and couples. It is one of the best places to be visited in Palakkad. The Malampuzha Dam is the largest reservoir in Kerala. The 355 feet tall dam is built on Malampuzha River. Boating options are thrilling and a scenic treat.
On the front side of the dam, there lies another tourist attraction called Malampuzha Garden. Almost every patch of the garden covered with grasses, lovely blooms, herbs and other plants. The Japanese Park, Nandi Park, Krishna Park and music fountains please visitors. Escape the town and spend time in the heart of nature.
Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Weekdays), 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Weekends)
Silent Valley National Park
The Silent Valley National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Palakkad, Kerala. Located on the Kundali Hills of Western Ghats, it is one of the best places to visit in Palakkad. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, the national park remains unexploited.
Spread over an area of 90 sq. km., the park is home to the largest population of Lion-tailed Macaque. Around 34 species of mammals, 292 species of birds, 31 species of reptiles, 22 species of amphibians, and 13 species of fishes. Adding to the extensive populace are 107 species of orchids, 100 ferns, 200 liverworts, 75 lichens and about 200 alage.
Visitors needs permission from the Wildlife Warden for trekking, wildlife safari and visiting the Tribal villages.
Palakkad fort
The Palakkad Fort is the place to visit to learn about the history of Palakkad. Known as Tipu’s Fort, the massive fort is located in the heart of the city. It is one of the top places to visit in Palakkad.
Built by Haider Ali in 1766 AD, the Palakkad fort has an intriguing mix of architecture. The precincts houses Hanuman (Anjaneya) Temple, which is spellbinding owing to its unique interiors. Protected under the Archaeological Survey of India, the majestic fort is a memory of the old tales of valour and courage. Presently, the Palakkad fort is an interesting tourist attraction offering history, art and spectacular views.
Timings: 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM, Open all days
Nelliyampathy Hills
Nelliyampathy hills are blessed with the multiple treasures of nature. One of the favorite places to visit in Palakkad, the entire landscape is dotted with dense forests, waterfalls, and various trekking trails.
Legends say that centuries ago Nelliyampathy was chosen by Lord Sri Rama and his wife Sita Devi as an abode during their 14 year period of exile. One can see a glorious waterfall plunging down from 1000 m height. This waterfall is a well-known pilgrimage site. Visited by devotees in huge number to take a dip in holy water and feel enlightened. The haven for naturalists is a good escape from cities and to explore the bliss of the hill station.
Dhoni Forest Trekking
The Dhoni hills is one of the thriving ecosystems in Kerala. Trekking is one of the most exciting ways to explore the forest. Tre trekking trails of Dhoni hills are a must-do activity in Palakkad. The adventurous walks takes tourists along tiny mountain streams, and forest area inhabited by like leopards, elephants, etc.
The Dhoni hills trekking expedition is for visitors who are interested in watching nature at close quarters. Make halt at the Dhoni Waterfalls, particularly Sapal waterfalls at Parasuramkundu. Waterfalls are in full swing in the monsoon season, trekking is also fin in the season. Do not miss to visit a government owned cattle and a goat farm that is known for Swiss bred cattle.
Rock Garden
One of the most admired tourist attractions in Palakkad, Rock garden is one of the must visit places. The garden houses remarkable mosaics, sculptures, and artworks conceived and designed by the Late Nek Chand. It is one of the most visited tourist attraction in the hill town.
The extraordinary displays are created with waste like broken crockery, electrical fittings, glass bangles, bathroom tiles, wash basins and bicycle frames. The mosaic sculptures of men, women, animals and gods are life like. Scenes depicted from Kathakali, Theyyam, Kalaripayattu, Thiruvathirakali, the Mahabali legend, a royal procession of kings in a palanquin, and a scene of a boat race are the major highlights.
Timing: 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM, Open all days
Entry Fees: INR 10 per adult and INR 3 per child (below 12 years)
Camera Fees: INR 20 for Still Camera and INR 50 for Video Camera.
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