Palakkad District Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Palakkad District in Southern India with this comprehensive tour guide featuring a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Palakkad District

Palakkad District is located in the Malabar region of Kerala, South India. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and wildlife. Palakkad is surrounded by the Western Ghats, home to the largest mountain pass in South India called the Palakkad Gap. This pass connects Kerala to Tamil Nadu and is an important trade route.

List of Places to Visit in Palakkad District

Palakkad District is home to several culturally significant places and natural wonders. Here are some of the must-visit destinations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Palakkad Fort: Built in 1766, the fort houses a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region.
  • Tipu Sultan’s Fort: Located in the heart of Palakkad town, the fort was built by Tipu Sultan and has a museum that displays various weapons from the past.
  • Kalpathy Heritage Village: This is an ancient Brahmin settlement that is still preserved intact. The village is known for its annual Ratholsavam, a chariot festival, and its historic temple architecture.

Natural Attractions of Palakkad District: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Silent Valley National Park: This park is located in the Nilgiri hills and is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to several rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.
  • Nelliyampathy Hills: Nelliyampathy is a picturesque hill station located in the Western Ghats that offers stunning views of the landscape.
  • Dhoni Hills: Dhoni Hills is a beautiful trekking destination known for its dense forests and waterfalls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Palakkad District

Palakkad is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, and biking and hiking are the best ways to explore the natural beauty of the region. Here are some of the popular routes:

  • Chembra Peak Trek: This trek takes you to the highest peak in the Western Ghats, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and hills.
  • Choolanur Peacock Sanctuary Trail: This bike trail takes you through the beautiful peacock sanctuary where you can spot exotic birds and wildlife.
  • Malampuzha Dam Trek: This trek takes you up to the top of the Malampuzha Dam, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Malampuzha Gardens.

Best Things to Do in Palakkad District: Activities and Tours

Apart from exploring the natural and cultural wonders of Palakkad, there are several activities and tours you can take part in:

  • Ayurvedic Spa Treatment: Kerala is known for its Ayurvedic treatments, and Palakkad is no exception. Get pampered and rejuvenated with various spa treatments.
  • Boat Ride in Malampuzha Gardens: Enjoy a serene and peaceful boat ride through the beautiful Malampuzha Gardens.
  • Village Tour: Experience the rural side of Palakkad with a village tour that takes you through paddy fields, coconut groves, and local markets.

Week-Long Itinerary for Palakkad District

If you have a week to spare, here’s a suggested itinerary for exploring Palakkad:

Day 1: Visit Tipu Sultan’s Fort and Palakkad Fort in Palakkad Town Day 2: Trek to the top of Chembra Peak Day 3: Visit Silent Valley National Park and trek in the forest Day 4: Explore the Malampuzha Gardens Day 5: Take a village tour and learn about local culture and customs Day 6: Enjoy an Ayurvedic spa treatment Day 7: Visit Nelliyampathy Hills and enjoy the scenic views

Food and Drink Scene of Palakkad District

Kerala is known for its delicious cuisine, and Palakkad is no exception. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Puttu: A steamed rice cake served with grated coconut and sugar
  • Sambar: A lentil-based vegetable stew
  • Avial: A mixed vegetable curry made with coconut and yogurt

Local Beverages

  • Tea: Kerala is famous for its tea plantations, and a cup of hot tea is a must-try.
  • Toddy: A fermented drink made from palm trees

Where to Stay in Palakkad District: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Palakkad District has several accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Kairali Ayurvedic Healing Village: A luxury Ayurvedic resort that offers various spa treatments.
  • Hotel Sri Chakra: A budget hotel located in the heart of Palakkad.
  • Nelliyampathy Heritage Resort: A beautiful resort located in the midst of the Nelliyampathy hills.

What to Buy in Palakkad District: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Palakkad is known for its handicrafts and local products. Here are some of the best things to buy as souvenirs:

  • Handwoven saris and textiles
  • Brass and copper utensils
  • Wooden toys and handicrafts

Local Culture and Customs of Palakkad District

Palakkad is a vibrant district with a rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the customs and traditions that you should be aware of:

  • Dress Conservatively: Kerala is a conservative state, and dressing conservatively is a sign of respect.
  • Local Festivals: Palakkad is known for its temple festivals, and it is an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture.
  • Traditional Art Forms: Palakkad has several traditional art forms such as Ottamthullal and Kathakali.

Best Time to Visit Palakkad District

The best time to visit Palakkad District is between September and March. The monsoon season is from June to August, and it can be challenging to explore the outdoors during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Palakkad District

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Explore the scenic beauty of Palakkad

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local culture and customs
  • Be loud and unruly
  • Litter the environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Palakkad District

Palakkad is a relatively safe district to explore. However, it is always advisable to be cautious and take necessary precautions such as avoiding lonely places at night.

Health in Palakkad District

Palakkad is known for its Ayurvedic treatments, and there are several reputed Ayurvedic hospitals in the region. However, it is always advisable to carry necessary medicines and seek medical attention if required.

Getting to Palakkad District: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Palakkad District

The nearest airport to Palakkad is Coimbatore International Airport, located around 60 km away.

Bus Stations Near Palakkad District

Palakkad has a bus station with frequent buses connecting it to major cities in South India.

Other Options

Palakkad is well connected by rail, and there are several daily trains connecting it to various parts of South India.

How to Get Around in Palakkad District

Palakkad has a well-connected public transport system, and buses are the most common mode of transport. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Palakkad District: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Palakkad is ideally located to explore various nearby destinations. Here are some of the best places to visit nearby:

  • Coimbatore: Located just across the Tamil Nadu border, Coimbatore is a thriving industrial city with several cultural attractions.
  • Malabar: Located on the west coast of Kerala, Malabar is known for its pristine beaches and exotic cuisine.
  • Mysore: Home to the famous Mysore Palace, Mysore is a cultural hub of Karnataka.

Conclusion

Palakkad District is a beautiful destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or a culture lover, Palakkad has something to offer for everyone. Plan your trip and explore the beauty of this hidden gem of Kerala.

Malampuzha Gardens Malampuzha Gardens Victoria College, Palakkad Victoria College, Palakkad Puduppariyaaram Temple, Palakkad Puduppariyaaram Temple, Palakkad Tamil Nadu style lunch in Palakkad Tamil Nadu style lunch in Palakkad Brahmin Village or ''Agraharam'' at Kalpathy Brahmin Village or ''Agraharam'' at Kalpathy


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