PALAKKAD
Are you tired of the same old destinations for your vacations? Looking for a place that’s off the beaten path, yet filled with unique experiences? Look no further than Palakkad – the land of pristine beauty and cultural richness!
Nestled in the lap of the Western Ghats, Palakkad is a hidden gem that’s waiting to be explored. The city is known for its picturesque landscapes, breathtaking waterfalls, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie or history buff, Palakkad has something for everyone.
From the stunning Palakkad Fort to the serene Malampuzha Dam, there are plenty of attractions to keep you entertained.
But what really sets Palakkad apart is its quirky sense of humor! The locals are known for their wit and humor, which will leave you in splits. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself laughing at their jokes even if you don’t understand Malayalam!
And let's not forget about the famous "Kerala Sadya" - a traditional feast that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy!
So pack your bags and head to Palakkad - where stunning natural beauty meets hilarious humor and delicious cuisine!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Palakkad
- How to Reach and getting around Palakkad
- Weather of Palakkad
- Places to Visit in Palakkad
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Palakkad
- Best areas for Accommodation in Palakkad
- Shopping in Palakkad
- Nightlife in Palakkad
- Festivals and Events in Palakkad
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Palakkad
- FAQs
History and Culture of Palakkad
Palakkad, also known as Palghat, is a charming town in the heart of Kerala. The town is home to a rich cultural heritage and history that has been preserved over the centuries. Palakkad was once ruled by the powerful Zamorins of Calicut before it was taken over by the British in the 18th century.
Today, Palakkad is famous for its picturesque landscapes, ancient temples, and delicious cuisine. The town is also known for its contribution to the fields of literature, music, and dance. Kerala Kalamandalam, an institute dedicated to traditional dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, is located in Palakkad.
Palakkad's cuisine is a perfect blend of spices and flavors that are unique to Kerala. Some of the must-try dishes include Puttu-Kadala Curry, Appam-Stew, and Parotta-Beef Fry. These dishes are sure to leave your taste buds wanting more.
One of the most popular festivals celebrated in Palakkad is Onam. This festival marks the homecoming of King Mahabali and is celebrated with great pomp and show. The highlight of this festival is the grand feast called Onasadya which comprises of 26 mouth-watering dishes.
If you're visiting Palakkad, be sure to check out some of its famous landmarks like Malampuzha Dam, Jain Temple at Jainimedu, and Palakkad Fort. These places offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and history that Palakkad has to offer.
In conclusion, Palakkad is a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will leave you mesmerized. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure like no other!
How to Reach and getting around Palakkad
Palakkad, located in the southern Indian state of Kerala, is a popular tourist destination. The city is well-connected to major transportation hubs and can be reached by various modes of transportation. Here are some options for how to reach Palakkad:
By Air: The nearest airport to Palakkad is Coimbatore International Airport, which is around 52 km away. Regular flights operate from major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore to Coimbatore. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Palakkad.
By Train: Palakkad has its own railway station which is well-connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. Some of the popular trains that operate on this route are the Kerala Express, Mangalore Express and the Alleppey Express.
By Bus: There are frequent buses available from nearby cities like Kochi, Thrissur and Coimbatore to Palakkad. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular buses from different parts of Kerala.
By Car: If you plan on driving down to Palakkad from any nearby city or state then you can take National Highway 544 (NH 544) which connects the city with major cities like Kochi and Bangalore. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car from any of these places.
By Bike: Biking enthusiasts can take their bikes on NH 544 or other scenic routes leading towards Palakkad for an adventurous road trip experience.
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, reaching Palakkad will be hassle-free and convenient with multiple options available at your disposal.
Weather of Palakkad
Extreme Winters
Mild WintersHot + DryHot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantPalakkad, located in the southern Indian state of Kerala, experiences a tropical wet and dry climate. The city has a hot and humid climate with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 36°C throughout the year. The monsoon season starts in June and lasts until September, with heavy rainfall during this period.
The best time to visit Palakkad is during the winter months, between November to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The temperature during this time ranges from 20°C to 32°C.
One can also consider visiting Palakkad during the post-monsoon season between October to November when the weather is mild with occasional rainfall. The city looks beautiful during this time as it is filled with lush greenery due to the monsoon rains.
However, one should avoid visiting Palakkad during summers as it can get extremely hot and humid, making it uncomfortable for tourists. The temperature during this time can rise up to 36°C making outdoor activities difficult.
Overall, Palakkad has a pleasant climate throughout the year but winters are considered the best time to visit due to its comfortable weather conditions.
Places to Visit in Palakkad
Silent Valley National Park: Silent Valley National Park is a protected area located in the Palakkad district of Kerala. It is home to a vast variety of flora and fauna, including some rare and endangered species. The park is known for its lush green forests, rolling hills, and pristine waterfalls.
Malampuzha Dam and Gardens: Malampuzha Dam and Gardens is a popular tourist destination situated in the heart of Palakkad. The dam was built across the Malampuzha River, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The gardens are well-maintained and feature several attractions like a rock garden, snake park, aquarium, and children's park.
Nelliyampathy Hills: Nelliyampathy Hills is a hill station located close to Palakkad. It is known for its scenic beauty, tea plantations, orange orchards, and wildlife reserves. The view from the top of the hills is breathtaking.
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary located in Palakkad district. It is home to several rare and endangered species like tigers, elephants, gaurs, sambars, leopards, etc.
Dhoni Waterfalls: Dhoni Waterfalls is a natural waterfall located near Nelliyampathy Hills in Palakkad district. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Jain Temple at Jainmedu: Jain Temple at Jainmedu is an ancient temple located in Palakkad town. It has beautiful carvings on its walls that depict scenes from Jain mythology.
Tipu Sultan Fort: Tipu Sultan Fort is an ancient fort located in the heart of Palakkad town. It was built by Tipu Sultan during his reign over Kerala.
Kava Lake: Kava Lake is a serene water body located near Nelliyampathy Hills in Palakkad district. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
9.Kottayi: Kottayi village which lies 12 km north-west of Palakkad city has become an artists' haven with artists from around India coming here for inspiration.
10.Ottappalam: Ottappalam which lies on the banks of Bharathapuzha River has many beautiful temples like Chinakkathoor temple where they celebrate elephant taming festival every year as well as many other festivals throughout the year.
Relaxing Retreats
Hilly Regions
Nearby Forests
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Palakkad
Best areas for accommodation in Palakkad
Palakkad, also known as the "rice bowl of Kerala," is a beautiful city nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats. It is famous for its historical monuments, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. If you are planning a trip to Palakkad, then finding the right accommodation is crucial. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Palakkad:
- Malampuzha: Malampuzha is a popular tourist destination in Palakkad famous for its dam and garden. It is an excellent area to stay as it offers easy access to some of the top attractions in Palakkad.
- Kunathurmedu: Kunathurmedu is another popular area for accommodation in Palakkad. It is located near the city center and offers easy access to shopping centers, restaurants, and other tourist attractions.
- Chandranagar: Chandranagar is a peaceful residential area located on the outskirts of Palakkad. It offers a serene environment and easy access to some of the top tourist destinations.
If you are looking for accommodation in Palakkad, here are three properties that you can consider:
- The Soorya Luxury Hotel: The Soorya Luxury Hotel is one of the top-rated luxury hotels in Palakkad. It offers spacious rooms with modern amenities like air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.
- KTDC Tamarind Mannarkkadu: If you are looking for budget-friendly options, then KTDC Tamarind Mannarkkadu is an excellent choice. It offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
- Coco Lagoon by Great Mount Resort: Coco Lagoon by Great Mount Resort is a hostel that offers shared dormitories at an affordable price. It has all basic facilities like free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk service, and laundry facilities.
In conclusion, finding good accommodation can make your trip to Palakkad more enjoyable. So make sure to choose an area that suits your needs and budget and pick a property that provides comfort and convenience during your stay.
Shopping in Palakkad
Palakkad, also known as the ‘Gateway of Kerala,’ is a city located in the southern part of India. It is famous for its rich culture, heritage, and a plethora of shopping options. Shopping in Palakkad can be an amazing experience for anyone who loves to explore the local markets and buy unique stuff. Here are some things you can buy, markets to visit, and things to avoid while shopping in Palakkad.
Things to Buy
- Kerala Sarees - The traditional Kerala sarees made with pure cotton or silk are a popular choice among women. They come in bright colors with gold borders and intricate designs.
- Spices - Palakkad is known for its spice plantations, and you can buy a variety of spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves at affordable prices.
- Handicrafts - Palakkad is home to many skilled artisans who make beautiful handicrafts like wood carvings, brass lamps, and coir products.
- Banana Chips - A famous snack item from Kerala made with thinly sliced bananas that are deep-fried until crispy.
Markets to Visit
- Mannarkkad Market - This market is known for its fresh fruits and vegetables and is a great place to buy local produce.
- Palakkad Municipal Market - This market has everything from clothes to electronics at reasonable prices.
- Silent Valley National Park Tribal Market - This market sells handmade items made by the tribal communities living near the Silent Valley National Park.
What to Avoid
- Avoid buying anything that seems suspiciously cheap or low quality as it may not be worth your money.
- Avoid buying wildlife products like ivory or animal skins as it's illegal and unethical.
- Don't fall for scams where vendors offer you deals that seem too good to be true as they might end up cheating you out of your money.
- Be careful when buying electronic items as there are chances of getting counterfeit products.
In conclusion, shopping in Palakkad can be an exciting experience if you know what to buy and where to go. With this guide on things to buy, markets to visit, and what to avoid, you can make your shopping trip memorable without any hiccups.
Nightlife in Palakkad
Palakkad, also known as the "Gateway of Kerala," is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and nature. While it may not be as popular as some of the other cities in Kerala when it comes to nightlife, there are still plenty of options for those looking to have some fun after dark.
The nightlife scene in Palakkad is centered around bars, clubs, and restaurants. Most of these places cater to locals and offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can unwind with friends or family. The city has a good mix of traditional bars serving local beverages like toddy and modern bars serving cocktails and other drinks.
Here are three places that you can visit to spend the night in Palakkad:
The Vintage Cafe: This café located on Olavakode Road offers a retro vibe with its vintage décor and furnishings. They have an extensive menu that includes coffee, tea, desserts, and snacks. The café serves alcohol too.
The Residency Club: This club located on GB Road is one of the most happening places in Palakkad for nightlife. The club has a well-stocked bar, dance floor, DJ music system, and an open-air restaurant serving delicious food.
Nila Bar & Restaurant: Located on Sultanpet Road, this bar cum restaurant is famous for its seafood delicacies. They serve beer and wine along with the food.
In conclusion, while Palakkad may not be as famous as some of the other cities in Kerala when it comes to nightlife, there are still plenty of options for those looking to have some fun after dark. Whether you prefer traditional bars serving local beverages or modern clubs offering cocktails and other drinks—the city has something for everyone!
Outdoor Activities in Palakkad
Palakkad, also known as the "Gateway of Kerala," is a beautiful city located in the southern part of India. The city is surrounded by the Western Ghats mountain range and boasts of some of the most breathtaking natural sceneries. Palakkad offers a wide range of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed by tourists and locals alike.
One of the most popular outdoor activities in Palakkad is trekking. The city has numerous trekking trails that lead to some stunning viewpoints, waterfalls, and forests. The most famous trekking trails include Dhoni Hills, Nelliyampathy Hills, and Silent Valley National Park. Visitors can enjoy a day-long hike or opt for an overnight camping trip.
Another popular outdoor activity in Palakkad is bird watching. The city has several bird sanctuaries that are home to various species of birds, including migratory birds. Some of the best bird watching spots in Palakkad include Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Silent Valley National Park, and Malampuzha Dam.
Lastly, visitors can also enjoy a safari ride through some of Palakkad's wildlife reserves. These reserves are home to various species of animals such as elephants, tigers, leopards, and monkeys. Visitors can either opt for a jeep safari or an elephant safari to explore these reserves.
In summary, Palakkad offers a wide range of outdoor activities that cater to all adventure levels. From hiking to bird watching and wildlife safaris – there's something for everyone!
- Trekking
- Bird Watching
- Safari Ride
Festivals and Events in Palakkad
Palakkad, also known as the "rice bowl of Kerala," is a land of diverse cultures and traditions. The city is famous for its vibrant festivals and events that showcase its rich heritage and customs. These festivals bring people together in celebration, promoting communal harmony and social bonding. Here are some of the most popular festivals and events in Palakkad:
- Kalpathy Ratholsavam: This is an annual temple festival held at the Sri Viswanatha Swamy Temple in Kalpathy. The highlight of the festival is the beautifully decorated chariots that are pulled by devotees through the streets. It usually takes place in November.
- Kerala Kalamandalam Annual Festival: This is a week-long festival celebrated in March every year at Kerala Kalamandalam, the premier institution of performing arts in Kerala. The festival showcases various dance forms, music concerts, and drama performances.
- Thrissur Pooram: Although not strictly a Palakkad event, Thrissur Pooram is one of the biggest festivals in Kerala and attracts thousands of visitors from all over India. It takes place in April or May every year and features a grand procession of decorated elephants, traditional percussion music, and spectacular fireworks.
- Onam: Onam is one of the most important festivals in Kerala, celebrated to honor King Mahabali. It usually falls in August or September and lasts for ten days. The festival involves traditional dances like Thiruvathira Kali and Pulikali as well as a grand feast called Onasadya.
- Navaratri: Navaratri is a nine-day Hindu festival celebrated to worship Goddess Durga. In Palakkad, it usually falls between September and October and involves prayers, fasting, music performances, and colorful processions.
These are just a few examples of the many festivals that take place throughout the year in Palakkad. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in local culture or simply enjoy some festive cheer, there's always something happening here!
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Palakkad
Plan your trip around the festivals and events: Palakkad is known for its vibrant festivals and events, so make sure to plan your trip accordingly. Some of the popular festivals include Onam, Vishu, Thrissur Pooram, and Navarathri. You can also attend cultural events like Kathakali performances, classical music concerts, and traditional dance shows.
Explore the local cuisine: Palakkad is known for its unique cuisine that boasts a blend of Tamil and Kerala flavors. Don't miss out on trying some of the local delicacies like puttu kadala curry, dosa ghee roast, kappa biryani, and meen pollichathu. You can also visit local eateries like Arya Bhavan and Hotel Rahmath to taste some authentic flavors.
Visit the tourist attractions: Palakkad has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its numerous tourist attractions. Some of the must-visit places include the Palakkad Fort, Malampuzha Dam & Gardens, Jainmedu Jain Temple, Silent Valley National Park, and Nelliyampathy Hills. Hire a guide or join a tour to make the most of your visit.
Pack for the weather: The climate in Palakkad can be hot and humid throughout the year. Make sure to pack light cotton clothes that are comfortable to wear in warm weather. Additionally, carry sunglasses, sunscreen lotion, a hat or cap to protect yourself from sunburns.
Be respectful of local customs: Kerala is known for its conservative values and traditions. While traveling in Palakkad, make sure to dress modestly when visiting religious places or attending cultural events. Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol in public places as it may offend locals. Be mindful of your behavior as a tourist and respect local customs at all times.
FAQs
What is Palakkad famous for?
Palakkad, also known as the ‘Gateway of Kerala’, is famous for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. The city is known for its vast paddy fields, coconut groves, and serene backwaters. Palakkad Fort, Jain Temple, Malampuzha Dam, and Silent Valley National Park are some of the famous tourist attractions in Palakkad.
How to reach Palakkad?
Palakkad is well-connected to major cities in India by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Coimbatore International Airport, which is about 55 km away from the city. There are regular train services from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi to Palakkad Junction railway station. National Highway 544 connects Palakkad with major cities in South India.
What are some popular local dishes in Palakkad?
Palakkad cuisine is famous for its unique flavors and spicy taste. Some of the popular local dishes include Puttu-Kadala Curry, Appam-Stew, Kappa-Meen Curry (Tapioca-Fish Curry), Erachi Varutharacha Curry (Beef Curry), Malabar Parotta-Chicken Curry.
What is the best time to visit Palakkad?
The best time to visit Palakkad is from November to February when the weather remains pleasant with a temperature ranging between 15°C-30°C. The monsoon season from June to September also attracts tourists due to lush greenery and scenic beauty.
What are some popular shopping destinations in Palakkad?
Palakkad has a rich tradition of handicrafts including brass lamps and vessels, handloom sarees and dhotis. Some of the popular shopping destinations include Kalpathy Handloom Weaving Co-operative Society Ltd., Chittur Handloom Weavers Co-operative Society Ltd., Kairali Handicrafts Emporium.
What are some adventurous things to do in Palakkad?
Palakkad offers various adventure activities like trekking in Nelliyampathy Hills or Silent Valley National Park. Boating at Malampuzha Dam or Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary can be a thrilling experience. Rock climbing at Dhoni Hills or camping at Attappady Hills can also be exciting.
Are there any wildlife sanctuaries near Palakkad?
Yes, there are two wildlife sanctuaries near Palakkad - Silent Valley National Park (60 km) and Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary (95 km). These sanctuaries offer an opportunity for tourists to explore the rich flora and fauna of Western Ghats including rare species like Lion-tailed Macaque and Nilgiri Tahr.
