Palakkad is one of the fourteen districts of Kerala and has no coastal line. The district opens the state to the rest of the country through the Palakkad Gap with a width of 32 to 40 Kms. Its geographical position, historical background, educational status, tourism hot-spots and above all, the development activities that are carried out, are wide and varied. The district is one of the main granaries of Kerala and its economy is primarily agricultural. The district is also the land of Palmyrahs.
The well-preserved Palakkad Fort features on all Palakkad sightseeing tours as it introduces guests to the history of Palakkad right from the rule of Zamorin to the Mysore Sultans and eventually the British. Built in 1766 A.D by Hyder Ali, it is also known as the Tipu Sultan Fort and is among the highest visited Palakkad tourist spots.
The Sree Vadakkanthara Temple is one of the revered temples in Palakkad and even visited by devotees from neighbouring states. The temple is based on the legend of Kannagi and a major festival ‘Vela’ is conducted here every three years, meaning the next one will be in 2022! It’s one of the best places in Palakkad to observe Hindu rituals and festivities.
The Malampuzha Dam has become one of the best tourist attractions in Palakkad. Opened in 1955, this beautiful park and dam have manicured lawns and still waters perfect for a visit during the monsoons. It is the only one among Palakkad tourist spots to have a functioning ropeway.
About 60 KM from Palakkad lie the Nelliyampathy Hills, one of the far-off places to visit near Palakkad whose cloud-covered mountains are a delight! The well-laid road and beautiful scenery along the way including the Pothundy Dam and Palakkad Gap make it one of the best tourist places in Kerala for a one day trip.