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Located at the foot of the Western Ghats, Palakkad is an absolute delight with its rich variety of attractions. The surrounding areas have much to offer in the way of natural attractions, historical sites, and cultural experiences that would, without doubt, appeal to almost every interest. Starting from the historical affairs of the Palakkad Fort to the very vibrant Kalpathy Heritage Village, this region of Kerala is truly a treasure trove waiting to be unravelled. Be it adventure or some quiet relaxation that you’re looking for, the places to visit near Palakkad surely promise an unforgettable journey.
10 Places To Visit Near Palakkad
Palakkad serves as the gateway to many other attractions. Here are the 10 fantastic places to visit near Palakkad, which have imbibed the unique charm.
1. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
Photo: Parambikulam Tiger Conservation Foundation / Wikimedia Commons
Tucked into the feet of the Western Ghats is the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, one of Kerala’s natural heritage gems. It is inhabited by various flora and fauna—the majestic Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, and more than 200 species of birds. It offers visitors the facility of guided safaris, and they may also use the trekking trails and boat rides on the calm waters of Parambikulam Lake. It is an absolute place to visit if one is a nature or wildlife enthusiast.
Distance From Palakkad: 60 km away from the Palakkad city
Suggested Read: Peechi Wildlife Sanctuary
2. Malampuzha Dam And Garden
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
Only 7 km from Palakkad, Malampuzha Dam and Garden presents the perfect blend of natural beauty and man-made wonders. It is the biggest dam in the state. On the sidelines lies the well-manicured Malampuzha Garden, with its excellence in the statue of Yakshi, the ropeway riser for views of the park, and the flora and fauna. One can also visit the nearby Malampuzha Rock Garden, which has intricate carvings and forms made from natural materials. The dam and the garden offer many recreational facilities like boat rides, fishing, and trekking.
Distance From Palakkad: 7 km away from Palakkad city
3. Palakkad Fort
Photo: Shafeeq basheer / Wikimedia Commons
The ancient Palakkad Fort was rebuilt in the 18th century. This massive fort lies a little away from the heart of Palakkad, which was among the chief military outposts at some point in history. The Palakkad Fort, with its massive walls, is an amazing piece of architecture. The well-maintained structures bring to life the stormy history of the region, and visitors can very easily relate to the stories and folklore passed down regarding this exceptional historical monument.
Distance From Palakkad: 2 km away from Palakkad city
Suggested Read: Vilangad Waterfalls
4. Nelliyampathy
Photo: Dr. Chinchu. C / Wikimedia Commons
Tucked deep inside the lush green hills of the Western Ghats, Nelliyampathy unfolds a very invigorating hill station promising an undisturbed retreat from all fracas of mundane life. It extends over an altitude of 467 to 1,572 metres above sea level and is noted for its plantations of tea, coffee, cardamom, and oranges. Upon trekking through such breathtaking trails, one gets to see the diversified flora and fauna of the region, comprising wild elephants, giant squirrels, and deer. Many beautiful waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints also open up to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valleys and mountain passes.
Distance From Palakkad: 60 km away from Palakkad city
5. Dhoni Waterfalls
Photo: Hubert Stoffels / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dhoni Waterfalls, about 15 km from the town centre, represents an absolute delight for nature buffs and adventure enthusiasts. One must have a long trek of 4 km through thick forests to reach the falls, where they spot a variety of flora and fauna. At the top, this climb is rewarded with an awestruck view of the waterfall and a refreshing dip in the cool waters. Surrounded by serene surroundings and awe-inspiring natural beauty, this hidden gem surely is a visit anybody exploring the Palakkad region needs on their bucket list.
Distance From Palakkad: 15 km away from the Palakkad city
Suggested Read: Malik Deenar Mosque
6. Kalpathy Heritage Village
Photo: Akshay213 / Wikimedia Commons
Kalpathy is a beautiful heritage village settled on the banks of the Nila River and gives a feel of the rich cultural tapestry of Kerala. Kalpathy was formed by the Tamil Brahmin community. This place is noted for its unique style of architecture, where row houses are called “Agraharams.” Sree Viswanatha Swamy Temple is a 700-year-old Shiva temple, one of the hearts of Kalpathy, and resembles the ancient Kashi Vishwanath Temple of Varanasi. Through the annual Ratholsavam at this temple, this region showcases its Vedic Hindu heritage in its full colours—elaborately decorated chariots parading through narrow streets.
Distance From Palakkad: 5 km away from Palakkad city
7. Meenvallam Waterfalls
Photo: DEEPAK SUDARSAN / Wikimedia Commons
Meenvallam Waterfalls lies deep inside the forests of Palakkad and is a sparkling natural beauty, having a 45-metre fall into the Thuppanadu River. This is a more discreet spot, 35 km from Palakkad Town. The path to the waterfalls is a great delight, with creeks, a green canopy, rocks, and a hanging bridge that adds to the place’s charm. The five-step waterfall is surrounded by thick forests, home to a rich variety of wildlife.
Distance From Palakkad: 35 km away from the Palakkad city
Suggested Read: Tent Camping In Vagamon
8. Palakkad Gap
Photo: PP Yoonus / Wikimedia Commons
The Palakkad Gap, aka the Palghat Gap, is one of the most important geographical features in the history and development of southern India. This low mountain pass, between the Nilgiri Hills to the north and the Anaimalai Hills to the south, offers an important transportation corridor that links the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The climate, too, has been influenced by it. One should have Palakkad Gap on their wishlist to witness this geographical wonder.
Distance From Palakkad: 10 km away from Palakkad city
9. Malampuzha Rope Garden
Photo: Ranjithsiji / Wikimedia Commons
The Rope Garden, floating over the green expanse of the Malampuzha Garden, showcases a varied and thrilling view of this beauty. It is a 1.2-km-long ropeway that takes its passengers in two-seater gondolas, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding gardens, the majestic Malampuzha Dam, and the distant hills of the Western Ghats. The two-way 20-minute journey would be an excellent fusion of adventure and sightseeing. A gondola glide would give a bird’s-eye view of the Malampuzha Garden below, with its intrinsically sprawling beds of flowers, winding pathways, and silent water bodies.
Distance From Palakkad: 20 km away from Palakkad city
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Trivandrum
10. Palakkad Trekking Trails
Photo: Nuveen60 / Wikimedia Commons
Palakkad has many trails for treks that meander through different landscapes in lush greenery. Ranging from quite challenging treks up Mampara Peak to slow and peaceful birdwatching trails. Right from the winding trails across dense forests and marvellous waterfalls to the banks of rivers that reverberate with tranquil sounds, the Palakkad trekking trails are steeped with breathtaking vistas of hills and valleys. Flora in both variants and fauna, like wild elephants, giant squirrels, and coloured bird species, can be sighted along the way.
Best Time To Visit: November To February
From the nature lover and the adventure seeker to the history enthusiast and culture explorer, there is much to see in and around Palakkad. If you are going to visit Kerala, then never miss these places to visit near Palakkad. Choose your stay with TripXL, a top travel platform that will provide you with a wide range of accommodation services and offer customised travel experiences through which you can behold the serene beauty of this place.
Cover Photo: Ajay Lal / Unsplash
