Widely renowned as the Granary of Kerala, Palakkad is situated at the foot of the Western Ghats, bordering the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu. The 40 km gap in the mountains which is known as the Palakkad Gap has played a major role in the trade relations between the east and west coasts of peninsular India since ancient times. This land was once a massive jungle filled with in numerous Pala trees (Alsteriascholaris). The air was constantly imbued with the sweet fragrance of its flowers and hence the name Palakkad which literally translates to ‘Forests of Pala tree’. A melting pot of the Tamil and Kerala cultures this fascinating land is filled with a plethora of experiences for any traveller with a curious heart.Â
Nature and History
Characterised by its rolling hills, dense forests, never ending expanses of lush green paddy fields and serene rivers, Palakkad is a haven for anyone who gets inspired by the quaint beauty of nature. A large part of the second longest river in Kerala, the Bharathapuzha flows through Palakkad district. One of the most iconic natural landmarks here is the Silent Valley National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a unique ecosystem teeming with rare flora and fauna. An eerie silence that envelops the sanctuary owing to the absence of Cicadas is what gave it the name Silent Valley. Trekking through the dense forests of Silent Valley allows visitors to witness the untouched wilderness of Kerala, with opportunities to spot elusive wildlife such as the lion-tailed macaque and the Malabar giant squirrel apart from tigers, leopards, elephants and snakes.
The district is also famous for its picturesque dams and reservoirs, which not only serve as sources of irrigation but also offer scenic vistas for tourists. The Malampuzha Dam and Gardens are a prime example, where lush gardens, amusement parks, and a ropeway complement the expansive reservoir. Visitors can enjoy boating in the reservoir or simply relax amidst the tranquil surroundings, making Malampuzha a favourite picnic spot for family outings and picnics.
The numerous forts, temples, and cultural landmarks are a testimony to the rich historical legacy the land. The Palakkad Fort, also known as Tipu's Fort, is a major historical attraction in the district. Built by Hyder Ali of Mysore in the 18th century, the fort played a pivotal role in the history of Kerala. Today, it stands as a testament to the region's tumultuous past and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from its ramparts.
For history enthusiasts, the Jain Temple at Jainimedu is a must-visit. This ancient temple complex is adorned with exquisite carvings and sculptures, showcasing the architectural prowess of the Jain community that once thrived in Palakkad. The temple provides insight into the cultural and religious diversity that has shaped the district over the centuries.Â
The Manas in Palakkad are a testimony to the rich grandeur and mastery of the Kerala style of architecture. A ‘Mana’ refers to the ancestral home of the feudal lords of the bygone era. They usually belong to the priestly Namboothiri Brahmin community. These homes are also known as ‘Illams’.
These Illams have the history of the land imbued in them and flaunt the glory of the bygone years of aristocracy. One of the famed Mana’s of Palakkad is the Olappamanna Mana that is located at Cherpulassery. Over 500 years old it is a structure that still leaves visitors awestruck with the finesse of its architecture. Though it was a traditional ‘naalukettu’ when constructed, it was later transformed to an ‘ettukettu’ around 200 years ago.Â
One of the largest and the most powerful of the traditional Mana’s of Kerala was the Poomully Mana. Located in Peringode, this Mana was a grand edifice that stood in a vast compound of over 5.5 acres. A magnificent ‘padhinaarukettu’ which was unfortunately demolished a few years ago. One of the most renowned Mana is the Varikkasseri Mana located in Ottapalam that has been showcased in several Malayalam movies over the years. The serene setting of Ottapalam is in fact a favourite spot for movie makers on the lookout for scenic locales.Â
Art and Culture
Palakkad district is a melting pot of art and culture, where traditional practices and performing arts flourish. This ‘Land of Poorams and Velas’ is renowned for its vibrant folk music and dance forms, which are integral to local festivals and cultural celebrations. The Kalpathy Ratholsavam, held annually at the Kalpathy Vishwanatha Swamy Temple, is a vibrant procession of decorated chariots accompanied by traditional music and dance performances. The festival not only attracts devotees but also offers visitors a glimpse into the essence of Palakkad. The Chinakkathoor Pooram held at the Sree Chinakkathoor Bhagavathy Temple is by far one of the most unique and vibrant poor arms in Kerala. Bedecked elephants, panchavadyam, pandimelam (traditional orchestra) and vibrant Pulikali performances are the highlights of this festival.
The Nenmara Vallangi Vela is another of the beautiful celebrations held in Palakkad. Celebrated annually at the Nellikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, this is a vibrant display of lights, colours, fireworks and ritualistic art forms. Kummatti, Andivela and Karivela are some of the unique art forms one will get to experience here. The 20th day of the festival bears witness to caparisoned elephants being taken for a magnificent procession from both the competing villages of Nenmara and Vallangi to the Nellikulangara Bhagavathy Temple. Visitors are enamoured by the festivities as well as the extensive decoration of the aanapandhal, the space were the elephants are housed. In every sense this is one festival that should not be missed if you’d like a taste of what Palakkad is like in its truest essence.Â
Owing to the seamless blend of Tamil and Kerala cultures in this land, Palakkad has some of the finest Carnatic musicians despite the fact that it is a principally agrarian society. Handicrafts are another highlight here is the prowess of artisans skilled in weaving, pottery, and wood carving. The Government Emporium in Palakkad town is a hub for authentic handicrafts and souvenirs, where visitors can purchase intricately crafted items as mementos of their visit.
Pilgrimage Sites
Palakkad district is dotted with sacred sites and temples that hold religious significance for devotees and pilgrims. The Thiruvalathoor Shiva Temple is one such revered temple, known for its ancient architecture and spiritual ambiance. Devotees visit the temple to seek blessings and participate in religious rituals that have been passed down through generations. Another prominent pilgrimage site in Palakkad is the Dhoni Waterfalls and Temple. Nestled amidst lush greenery and rocky terrain, the Dhoni Waterfalls cascade gracefully into a natural pool, creating a serene ambiance that attracts visitors seeking spiritual rejuvenation and natural beauty.
Unique Cuisine
The flavours you discover in Palakkad are bound to be different from those in the rest of Kerala. The Tamil influence in the land has permeated into its cuisine as well resulting in a delectable spread. The Palakkad Paddy Curd Rice (Kerala's own version of curd rice), Kozhi Pidi (rice dumplings in chicken curry), and Ela Ada (sweet coconut-filled rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves) are all popular favourites. Food enthusiasts can explore local eateries and street vendors to experience the authentic taste of Palakkad's culinary heritage.
Adventure and Eco-Tourism
Palakkad district offers ample opportunities for adventure enthusiasts and eco-tourists to explore its natural wonders. The Nelliyampathy Hills, located on the Western Ghats, are a paradise for trekking and hiking. Trails wind through dense forests and tea plantations, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and plains. Adventure seekers can also indulge in activities such as rock climbing and rappelling amidst the scenic landscapes of Palakkad.
Eco-tourism initiatives in Palakkad promote sustainable travel practices and offer visitors the chance to engage with local communities and conservation efforts. The Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, located on the border with Tamil Nadu, is a prime example of eco-tourism in Palakkad. The reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including endangered species such as the Royal Bengal Tiger and the Indian Elephant. Guided safaris and nature walks allow visitors to explore the reserve's biodiversity while supporting conservation efforts.
In Palakkad, history whispers through the wind, and nature paints a canvas of endless beauty. A land where culture, cuisine, adventures and tranquility go hand in hand. Take a break from the mundane routines of life and embrace the rhythm of this exquisite land.Â
These digital guides serve as invaluable tools for travellers planning their Kerala vacations.
A HAVEN of Cultural Heritage and Green Vistas. Uncover the Mesmerising Tones of Palakkad’s Landscape.
Palakkad District, popularly known as the granary of Kerala, is a land of fertile valleys, hillocks, rivers, forests, mountain streams, dams and paddy farms. Pothundi Dam, Nelliyampathy, Rock Garden, Kanjirapuzha Dam, Malampuzha Dam and Garden, Kava View Point, Peruvamba, Silent Valley, Kalpathy Heritage Village, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Dhoni Waterfalls and O V Vijayan Memorial are the tourist destinations mentioned in the E Brochure brought out by Kerala Tourism. The tourism brochure gives information about what visitors can experience at each destination. Apart from a picture gallery of high-definition photos, the travel brochure also has hyperlinks to 360° and regular videos of the locations
Meenvallam waterfalls is a hidden gem in Palakkad district that cascades from as high as 45 metres into the Thuppanadu river which originates from the Kalladikodan hills
Adakkaputhur village is famed for its handmade ‘Adakkaputhur metal mirror’ which enjoys a prime status with its unique craftsmanship
The picturesque forest of Parambikulam is home to a plethora of indigenous flora and fauna. This lush paradise has around 40 species of mammals, 47 species of fish and 25…
Malampuzha dam, located about 10 km from Palakkad, is one of the major attractions in Palakkad. It is the largest reservoir in Kerala and was built in 1955 across Malampu…
Hill stations are often sought as a place of solace, as much for their salubrious climate as for their picture-postcard views and eye-soothing lush green landscapes. Nell…
Kalpathi Street in Palakkad district welcomes you to a heritage lane with look-alike houses that creates an old-world charm. You will be surrounded by edifices in the tra…
An earthen dam, Pothundi Dam has a beautiful garden and a wide range of attractions amid a photographic environment
An intrinsic folk theatre of Palakkad, Porattukali is an interfusion of dance, music and satire.
Mangalamkunnu a small province in the village of Sreekrishnapuram in the district of Palakkad is noted for its family pets - Elephant. Mangalamkunnu Tharavadu came to be…
Ottappalam famous for its annual festivals is located in Palakkad district, Kerala. Lakkidi, the birth place of Kunchan Nambiar is near Ottappalam.
A small village in Palakkad, Vellinezhi has over the decades emerged as the treasure trove of various art forms
Poomully Mana in the Palakkad district of Kerala is the house of experts in Ayurveda, Kalarippayattu, and Yoga and also of performing arts.
The hills of Rayiranellur near Pattambi, Palakkad is an enigma to any traveller. At Rayiranellur Mala, a 500 m hill, myth meets history. Shrouded in mysticism, this is wh…
Conceived and designed by noted sculptor Nek Chand Saini, this garden gives a second lease of life to discarded scrap materials such as cans, plastic bottles, broken tile…
Tholpavakoothu or shadow puppetry using leather puppets is a ritual art popular in the northern districts of Kerala, viz. Palakkad and Malappuram. The lead puppeteer is c…
Silent Valley National Park, situated at Mannarkkad in Palakkad district is the core of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Silent Valley offers some of the best trekking and…
Meenvallam Waterfalls is situated in Palakkad district. Originating from the Thuppanadu River - a part of Western Ghats, these falls drop step by step from a height of 5…
Fantasy Park is a popular amusement park in Malampuzha in Palakkad district.
Attappady or Attappadi is one of the largest tribal settlements in Kerala and is located at Mannarkkad in Palakkad district. Tribals like Irulas, Mudugas and Kurumbar liv…
Located 46 km north of Mannarkad, Palakkad district of Kerala, is the Siruvani Reservoir
Malampuzha situated 10 km from Palakkad district, Kerala is a little township on the foot hills of the Western Ghats. This picnic spot has a dam and garden for leisure.
Olappamanna Mana, located at Vellinezhi, Cherplassery in Palakkad is the ancestral home of feudal lords belonging to the priestly Namboodiri Brahmins of Cherplassery, who…
Krishnankutty Pulavar Memorial is situated at Koonathara near Shoranur in Palakkad district of Kerala. This is a centre which promotes and sustains the old ritual art for…
Thenari is believed that the waters of this natural spring, located in front of the old Sree Rama Temple here, is as sacred as the waters of the Ganges.
Chittur Gurumadam in Palakkad district, Kerala is a memorial to Thunchath Ezhuthachan, the author of Adhyatma Ramayana.
Nestled atop the magical Western Ghats, Pakuthipaalam abounds in the grandeur of nature. It is located 12 km from Nelliyampathy in Palakkad
Chinakkathoor Pooram, the annual festival of Chinakkathoor Bhagavathy Temple at Palappuram in Palakkad, Kerala, India.
Just a short distance of 30 km from Palakkad town lies the captivating Meenvallam Waterfalls
Kalpathy Ratholsavam is one of the most celebrated festivals in Palakkad district. The festival begins with a flag hoisting ceremony conducted at Sree Viswanathaswamy tem…
Navara Eco Farm on the banks of Chittur river in Palakkad district of Kerala is a unique farming venture which gave importance to the fast losing significance of Navara,…
Thiruvegappura Sankaranarayana Temple is situated in Palakkad.
Ongallur Taliyil Shiva Temple, situated near Pattambi in Palakkad has some of the most intricate laterite sculptures in Kerala.
The Fort of Tipu Sultan, also known as Palakkad Fort, is in the heart of Palakkad town, Kerala. The fort was built by Hyder Ali, the emperor of Mysore province, in the ye…
Nelliyampathy, a sight to behold is located near Nenmara in Palakkad district of Kerala.
Thiruvalathoor is ancient temple at Palakkad has some fine wood work and stone sculptures.
Kottayi village in Palakkad is the birth place of Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar. The place hosts the annual Chembai Parthasarathy Ekadasi Music festival in memory of th…
Kunchan Smarakam is situated at Killikurissimangalam at Lakkidi which is about 30 km from Palakkad district, Kerala. It is a memorial dedicated to Kunchan Nambiar, the in…
Ramassery, a village in Palakkad famous for RamasseryIdlis or RamasseryIdlili.
Kathakali sadanam, one of the noted Kathakali (classical theatre art form) training centres located at Perur in Palakkad district of Kerala.
Parambikulam ​Tiger Reserve, also a​ wildlife sanctuary nestles between the Anamalai hills and the Nelliampathy hills is situated in Chittur taluk of Palakkad distric…
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