Most Amazing 15 Things To Do In Palakkad, Kerala

There are many amazing things to do in Palakkad but sadly people don’t know much about them. Palakkad is one of the most beautiful destinations in Kerala. It encompasses history, nature, and culture in it. You can visit the ancient monument, historical Palakkad Fort, whose history dates back to the 18th century. But if you are a lover of nature, then you would not forget to visit Malampuzha Dam. It is one of those places that will really help your soul to relax and refresh itself through boating and enjoyment of the beauty of nature all around it.

For the wildlife enthusiast, Silent Valley National Park is a treasure trove of lush greenery and diverse flora and fauna. Notable beautiful temples such as Vadakkanthara Bhagavathy Temple and Kalpathy Temple dot Palakkad, which also gives a true picture of the rich cultural heritage of the place. Ample opportunities abound for trekking in the hills and forests surrounding the destination if you are an adventure-seeker. Do not miss the festivals of Onam and Vishu to get the feel of the local culture. Palakkad has more than all these three areas such as nature, history, and culture for everybody, just explore. All these things to do in Palakkad will surely enhance the experience of your trip.

Palakkad overview

• State: Kerala
• Best time to visit: October to March
• Time requires for exploration: October to March
• Worth Visiting: Absolutely yes
• Facts:
  • Palakkad is known for its lush landscapes and cool climate.
  • The region is home to historic sites like Palakkad Fort and temples like Jainimedu Jain Temple.
  • It is famous for its Nelliyampathy Hills and Malampuzha Dam.
  • Palakkad is often referred to as the “Gateway of Kerala” due to its location between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Here are the most interesting and amazing 15 things to do in Palakkad

Visit Palakkad Fort

To visit Palakkad Fort is to go back in time. This was built by the Sultan of Mysore during the 18th century and is, indeed, a great place related to the history of the city. Palakkad Fort is situated in the heart of Palakkad town, and to reach this location is quite simple. The fort comprises a well-preserved structure of large stone walls, a moat, and a beautiful garden inside.

The peace in the area is ideal for a walk. Architecture and nearby displays will educate you about the fort’s history. The lush green around the fort and the nice view towards the town is inviting people for a visit there. It is a must-visit for history lovers and all those interested in the olden days of Kerala. No doubts in stating, visiting the fort is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

Explore Malampuzha Dam and Gardens

Malampuzha Dam and Gardens is a nice tourist destination in Palakkad. The green surroundings and the breathtakingly beautiful views of the hills make it a very relaxing place for the day. It’s a wonderful spot for having a lazy day. The beautiful boat ride on the reservoir amidst peaceful surroundings is again one of its attractions.

The well-maintained Malampuzha Gardens nearby have colorful flowers everywhere, so it is a perfect picnic spot as well as a photo-friendly destination. There’s a beautiful rock garden with a musical fountain, so it is for all ages, to get to enjoy nature, relax, and walk around. If you like boats or just like lying down by the Dam and Gardens at Malampuzha, this is a must-visit for people interested in nature. No doubts in stating, visiting the dam is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

Walk through Silent Valley National Park

A walk through Silent Valley National Park is like taking a step into a quiet woodland full of life. Silent Valley National Park in the Western Ghats is just the place for those nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The richness in biodiversity is just one feature of the park as most plants and animals are rare and difficult to find. You will most likely catch glimpses of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife while walking along the trails.

The tall trees and thick forest provide a soothing, quiet atmosphere. The Silent Valley River is also within the park, which improves the scenery here. It is an ideal area for trekking and nature walks and pure fresh air. Nature lovers should definitely come to visit this place. It is true to say that walking through the park is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

Visit Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is a place of peace and serene surroundings with rich wildlife and green forests. It bears tigers, leopards, elephants, and many other bird species rarely found. The sanctuary happens to be nature’s paradise and the terrain is generally covered with dense bamboo groves, lakes, and absolutely beautiful scenery.

Such an area offers boat rides on reservoirs, and it also offers guided safaris and bird-watching tours. It is a wonderful photography venue and a great place to learn about conservation. This sanctuary provides a most special opportunity in viewing nature amid the natural home of wild animals and the beauty of the forest. No doubts in stating, visiting the sanctuary is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

See the beauty of Nelliyampathy Hills

Nelliyampathy Hills is one of the finest hill station resort towns in Palakkad, ideal for nature lovers. It is encircled by dense forests, tea plantations, and breathtaking landscapes that help nature lovers to lay back amidst this sceneries of the natural world. The drive to Nelliyampathy offers breathtaking vistas of the hills and valleys; you can walk along its quiet trails, search for some wildlife, and enjoy the cool weather.

The lovely beauty of the hills also makes it perfect for photography. Pothundi Reservoir near to this place adds to the charm of the place with the peaceful waters and lush greens around it. This is the perfect destination if you love nature or adventure or just want to unwind in a scenic landscape-Nelliyampathy Hills. No doubts in stating, vising the hill is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

Relax at Dhoni Waterfalls

Dhoni Waterfalls, located in the Dhoni Hills, is the most peaceful and beautiful place to take it easy at Palakkad. This waterfall only becomes a beautiful attraction because of its location within dense forests. You can find your way through a short trek inside the forest, where diverse types of plants and other wild lives are found, just to reach the falls.

Upon reaching the falls, the current sound of water flowing across the rocks gives a refreshing atmosphere. Here is the perfect place to sit and relax while appreciating nature beauty. With cool refreshing water and scenic surroundings, Dhoni Waterfalls is an excellent destination for a nature lover and those interested in some quiet time. No doubts in stating, relaxing at the waterfall is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

Visit Jainimedu Jain Temple

Jainimedu Jain Temple is an old, peaceful historic temple located in Palakkad. It is a perfect destination for history and spirituality-lovers. The temple is also dedicated to Lord Mahavira. Here the structure is carved beautifully with extraordinary details on its walls. This tranquility-surrounded temple amidst greeneries makes this place a silent and reflective destination.

The temple has an ancient history and gives a glimpse into the Jain culture and traditions. If you’re a history buff or a culture enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful place Jainimedu Jain Temple is a must visit. It is true to say that visiting the temple is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

Check out Kava Viewpoint

Kava Viewpoint is one of the lovely viewpoints in Palakkad with extensive and panoramic views over surrounding hills and valleys. It is a good spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. From that viewpoint, you can even relish the vast green landscapes and mountains going far into the horizon to make the view of the landscape altogether beautiful to relax and make long-time observation to cherish the scenery.

Peaceful surroundings with a cool breeze enhance the beauty of this place. You can also have a short trek or walk to the viewpoint, making the experience all the more worth the visit. Take in the wonderful view and take some photographs; you would just love the place, Kava Viewpoint in Palakkad. It is true to say that enjoying the lovely views from the viewpoint is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

Visit the historic Kalpathy Heritage Village

Kalpathy Heritage Village is the place to visit in Palakkad that fosters a rich cultural and traditional ambiance set amidst Kerala-style traditional houses, all painting a very colorful temple scenario. The village offers a glimpse of the rich history of the region. Kalpathy Temple, with the annual Kalpathy Ratholsavam- or chariot festival- within it, is famous.

Walk through the village and view the ancient homes, narrow lanes, and old architecture of the village. It is a quiet place with all local culture. This place is perfect for you if you are interested in history, architecture, or traditional life in Kerala. No doubts in stating, visiting the historic village is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

Go boating in Malampuzha Lake

Another one of the best things to do in Palakkad is boating on Malampuzha Lake. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and hills, this is a peaceful spot to hang around, enjoy a hire paddle boat or rowboat, and take a peaceful ride on the water with scenic views all around. Add to this a soft breeze, crystal-clear water, and it makes it perfect for families, friends, or couples.

It’s also a photographic haven, with a cover of lush greenery and mountains in the background. Whether a peaceful boat ride or appreciating the surroundings, boating in Malampuzha Lake is a must-try. It is true to say that boating on the lake is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

Explore the Meenvallam Waterfalls

This is one of the lovely and secluded spots in Palakkad for the nature lovers. It is located in a dense forest offering a smooth serene atmosphere within it, as its name might suggest. Meenvallam Waterfalls offers trekking of a short distance in green plants all around. Going there, after reaching the spot, water cascading down the rocks creates a refreshing atmosphere.

With this, there is the surrounding forest too. It is a great place to rest and click photographs. The cool breeze, along with the sounds of falling water, carry you away to the busy world. If you like trekking and nature, definitely visit Meenvallam Waterfalls in Palakkad. No doubts in stating, exploring the waterfall is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

Visit Pattambi Nercha Festival (seasonal)

This colorful and eventful annual occasion in Palakkad is celebrated at Pattambi Mosque with high excitement all over the regions. This occasion is seen when the people from all parts of the region arrive and witness numerous mixed cultural performances during the festival, full of traditional music and processions with decorated elephants. The festivity is accompanied by food stalls and markets as well as prayers filling in the atmosphere.

The Nercha Festival is a great place where one can understand the local traditions and culture of Palakkad. There you will experience lots of energy, music, and rituals that transform this festival into something special in case you visit this place in this period. It is an event that will combine your whole community together and, therefore, make the view from the visitor’s standpoint kind of unique. No doubts in stating, experiencing the festival is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

Try local food at Palakkad’s restaurants

Foodies should go to the restaurants in Palakkad for their local delicacies. Kerala dishes here are highly sought after. Tasty traditional items like appam- homely rice pancakes, stew-mild curry with vegetables or meat and sambar-lentil-based vegetable stew and puttu-steamed rice cake with kadala curry (black chickpea curry)-are also popular dishes.

Most places also offer freshly made dosa (crispy pancake) with coconut chutney and sambar. Don’t miss the sweet payasam prepared traditionally. Such food stalls and small eateries provide this food in a setting that makes it a taste of Palakkad alone. Definitely, local food at the city’s restaurant is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

Visit Mangalam Dam

Visiting the Mangalam Dam is another one of the best things to do in Palakkad. It is a peaceful and lovely location in Palakkad. It is a nice place for nature lovers and one in search of solitude. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, it is quite fascinating to view them, with hills showing themselves off. It’s a fine place to relax, walk, or sit while having a quiet picnic at the water’s edge. Boat rides around the site on the reservoir add beauty to the location.

Such atmosphere and refreshing winds make Mangalam Dam an ideal destination for spending time with nature. Whether photography, relaxation, or just a stroll, this is your visit to Mangalam Dam for an absolute peaceful experience you won’t forget. No doubts in stating, visiting the dam is amongst the best things to do in Palakkad.

Learn about the culture at Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan Smriti Bhavan

Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan Smriti Bhavan is a center that is dedicated to the life and contributions made by the important Indian leader Jayaprakash Narayan. The center has photographs, documents, and exhibits that have been created about his life and his role in India’s freedom struggle. It is an excellent place to be learned in Indian history and the values of democracy and freedom for which Jayaprakash Narayan was a very strong believer.

Another important event conducted is, Bhavan also provides with events and cultural programs representing the region. A visit to this place can provide an opportunity to get insight into the richly cultured country and the role of leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan in making such a revolution. It is a must-visit place for those in interest of Indian politics, history, and culture. Learning about the regions culture at the bhavan is last in the list but amongst the top things to do in Palakkad.

---

Know more important things about Palakkad.

Location and How to reach Palakkad

Palakkad is located in the state of Kerala, in southern India. It lies at the foot of the Western Ghats. To reach there, you can:

• By car: Palakkad is well connected by roads, and you can drive from cities like Kochi and Coimbatore.
• By train: Palakkad has a railway station connected to major cities like Kochi, Chennai, and Bengaluru.
• By bus: Kerala State Transport buses and private buses connect Palakkad to nearby cities.
• By air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport (about 55 km away). You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to reach Palakkad.

Palakkad visual appearance and unique things

Palakkad is a peaceful town in Kerala. It has green fields, long coconut trees, and on its side lie the hills of Western Ghats. Palakkad Fort is ancient and unique, in the heart of the town. Malampuzha Dam has an enormous garden wherein people have boat rides and flowers are in bloom. Silent Valley National Park is mostly covered with trees and the animals found here are monkeys and birds.

It is here in the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary that you can sight elephants. The town boasts rather picture-perfect hills like Nelliyampathy and waterfalls as Dhoni. Palakkad’s festivals like Kalpathy chariot festival are in great fame. People here love the food which is spicy and overladen with spices. The town houses numerous temples and a simple peaceful life. It feels rather special because of its nature and culture.

Recommended hotels in Palakkad

Kairali Heritage Resort

• Location: On the outskirts of Palakkad, near Cheruthuruthy
• Distance: 10 km from Palakkad town
• Tariff: ₹4,000 – ₹8,000 per night
• Facilities: Swimming pool, spa, restaurant, indoor games

The Raviz Kadavu

• Location: Near Nellikode, Palakkad
• Distance: 4 km from Palakkad town
• Tariff: ₹6,000 – ₹12,000 per night
• Facilities: Multi-cuisine restaurant, riverfront, fitness center, Wi-Fi

Hotel Green Park

• Location: Opposite Palakkad Railway Station
• Distance: 0.5 km from the station
• Tariff: ₹2,000 – ₹3,500 per night
• Facilities: Restaurant, conference room, room service

Surya Hotel

• Location: In the city center, near Palakkad bus stand
• Distance: 1 km from Palakkad Railway Station
• Tariff: ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 per night
• Facilities: Restaurant, free Wi-Fi, laundry service

Srivar Hotels

• Location: Near Palakkad town center
• Distance: 1 km from Palakkad Railway Station
• Tariff: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 per night
• Facilities: Restaurant, room service, Wi-Fi

Is it worth it visiting Palakkad?

Yes, this is worth visiting in Palakkad. The small town boasts of its beautiful nature, peaceful landscapes, and cultural attractions. Visit some beautiful places like Palakkad Fort, Malampuzha Dam, and Silent Valley National Park. Since the town has traditional temple fairs, you can certainly include them in your itinerary. Pleasant weather prevails from October to March. So, should you wish to indulge in exploring the creations of nature, history, or culture, then Palakkad is a must-see place.

Tips for visiting Palakkad

• Carry light clothing: The weather is mostly warm, so pack comfortable clothes.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water especially if you’re exploring outdoor spots.
• Use local transport: Autos and taxis are easy to find for short trips around the town.
• Respect local culture: Dress modestly especially when visiting temples.
• Plan around the weather: Visit from October to March for the best experience.
• Try local food: Don’t miss out on Kerala’s traditional dishes like appam and stew.

Who should visit Palakkad?

• Nature lovers: If you enjoy greenery, wildlife, and peaceful landscapes, the city offers beautiful parks and forests.
• History enthusiasts: The town has historic sites like Palakkad Fort which will surely appeal to history buffs.
• Families: With fantastic spots and peaceful surroundings it’s a great place for a family vacation.
• Culture seekers: Palakkad’s temples and festivals offer a authentic cultural experience.
• Adventure lovers: If you enjoy trekking and exploring nature, places like Silent Valley National Park are perfect.

Best time to visit Palakkad

The best time to visit Palakkad is from October to March. These months are ideal for visiting Palakkad because it is cool and quite pleasant with an ideal climate to navigate the area for sightseeing or outdoor adventures. Temperatures are comfortable and you enjoy nature’s beauty at its best. Visitation during the monsoon period, June through September, ensures lush green covers, but such heavy rains may foil your arrangements. Hence, the dry season is an ideal time to explore Palakkad’s attractions.

Know more in interesting things to do in Palakkad.

• Halcyon Castle, Kerala | Tickets, Timings, Best Things To Do
• Most Amazing 15 Things To Do In Palakkad, Kerala
• Karla Caves, Maharashtra :Attractions, Tickets, Things to do
• Most Amazing 21 kovalam Tourist Places, Kerala
• Best of Mananchira Square : Attractions, Things to do, etc.