If you are looking for the best tourist destination in India, then definitely it’s Kerala ‘the god’s own country’. Blessed with all the beauties of nature, Kerala has all the types of tourist attractions, one can think of. Beautiful backwaters, coconut palms, hill stations, beaches, cuisines, art forms, monuments, etc are some of the best tourist places in Palakkad for one day trip with family or friends. Now you must be thinking, what should be your choice of place in Kerala if it’s a short trip? Let me suggest and discuss with you the most tempting places in Kerala i.e. Palakkad and tourist places in Palakkad.

Why Palakkad?

Let me have the pleasure to tour you around this beautiful place. The sun rises to add to the charm of this place, birds sing the glory of this place and the soil of this place harbors pleasant green fields, mighty trees, and the plethora of rare birds and animals. Palakkad remains in the break of the Nilgiri Mountains and serves as a link between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It is believed that Palakkad aka Palghat got its name from the Pala (a tree) and Kadu (forest) words of the Malayalam language as the place is abundantly covered with Pala trees and forest. This gateway to northern Kerala attracts thousands of tourists every year because of its ever-enchanting beauty. 

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Top 17 One Day Trip Places in Palakkad:

Let us go through the list of top destinations which you can visit on your next trip to Palakkad, Kerala. The list comprises details like the distance from Palakkad railway station, visiting timing (if time-restricted), entry fees(if any) and the amount of time you should spend for each place. 

1. Palakkad Fort:

Palakkad fort aka Tipu’s Fort is one of the best architectural and historical places in Kerala. It is believed to be built by Haider Ali in 1766 AD., which was then repaired by Britishers in the year 1790. Presently the fort is under the Archeological Survey of India and is maintained and protected by them.

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Major Attractions at Palakkad Fort:

The fort stand amidst the large ground known as Kota Maidanam, protected by mighty walls on all sides. To your surprise, the fort has a beautifully carved Hanuman (Anjaneya) Temple, an open-air auditorium, called Rappadi, a children’s park (Nehru Park), a sub-jail, and a martyr’s column inside. This fort is one of the best tourist spots in Palakkad and you should never miss it.

Timings	From 8:00 am to 5:30 pm
Ticket Price	No Entry fees Charges for carrying still cameras are Rs 20 and Rs 50 for the Video camera.
Time you should spend at Palakkad Fort	2 to 3 hours in the fort
Distance from Palakkad railway station	6 km

2. Malampuzha Dam – Best Tourist place in Palakkad for One Day Trip:

The mighty, 355 feet tall, holding the prestige of being the largest reservoir of Kerala stands on the Malampuzha River, which is a tributary of Kerala’s second-longest river i.e. Bharathapuzha. It is one of the most visited tourist places near Palakkad railway station.

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Well near the dam is its magnificent garden, which is home to the vivid varieties of plants and flowers. Besides admiring the scenic beauty of the place, there are a lot more things to see and do in this place. Make sure you see the freshwater aquarium, Snake Park, and enjoy the toy train in the Children’s park.

Major Attraction at Malampuzha Dam & Garden

• Once you are here, you should also see- The Japanese Park, Nandi Park, Malampuzha Yakshi (sculptured by Kanai Kunhiraman in 2 years), Krishna Park, musical fountains, telescopic tower, and the first rock garden, which are other important Palakkad tourist places for couples.

• To add to the excitement, there is a ropeway, which takes the passengers on a ride to tour this beautiful place for 20 minutes. Moreover, you can spend a day fishing and boat around the reservoir.

Timings	9:00 am to 8:00 pm
Ticket at Malampuzha Dam & Gardens	Rs 25 (Adults) and Rs 10 (Children) Still camera – Rs 100 & Video Cameras – Rs 1000. Ropeway fees are Rs 40 per person
Best Time to Visit	August to April
Distance from Palakkad railway station	8 km

Read Also: 9 Famous Dams in Kerala: Get Glimpse of Largest, Biggest & Highest Dams of Kerala

3. Silent Valley National Park – Famous National Park in Palakkad:

Amongst the best tourist destinations in Palakkad, Silent Valley National Park holds prime importance. Spreading over 90. km area, the park is a habitat for numerous species of birds and animals. It has been named under the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and gives many reasons to prove so.

You need to take permission from the local tourism department if you wish to have a Jungle Safari. This place is ideal for the ones who love Bird watching, photography, and trekking.

The parks have 4 gates or say 4 parts, that are – Nilikkal, Sairandhri, Poochipara & Walakkad, but to our disappointment, being the tourists, we have access only to Sairandhri.

Major Attractions at Silent Valley National Park: It in habitats Lion-tailed Macaque, several species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fishes., orchids(107), ferns(100), liverworts(200), lichens(75), and algae(200). These large collections of plant and animal species are sure to attract our Botany and Zoology professors as well. A very clean and fresh water body here, the Kunti river, is open for trekking for the visitors.

Timings	8:00 am to 1:00 pm (Friday Closed) Safari Timing is 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Ticket Prices	Rs 50 per person Rs 1600 per jeep – Vehicle Fee for Jeeps (5 pax) Rs  150 Guide Charges Rs 200 for Video Camera Rs 25 for Still Camera
The time you should spend at Silent Valley National Park	3 to 4 hours in the park
Best Time to Visit	October to February
Distance from Palakkad railway station	38 km

4. Parambikulam Wild Life Sanctuary – Tiger Reserve in Palakkad:

The beauty and the charm of this place can’t be explained in words, but it would be a sin not to mention this place if I am talking about the places to visit near Palakkad. I don’t know how nature can be so generous to wrap up so many things, so gracefully in one place.

Parambikulam Wild Life Sanctuary is a Tiger reserve also. It spreads over the lavishing area of over 285 sq. Km. One thing you should never miss here is the Kannimara teak tree, which is believed to be more than 350 years old.

I should not innumerate the number of species of various plants, insects, birds, and animals it holds in it, as I know the counting will be always short of the actual one it already contains.

It also holds the title of being the biggest living tree in the world and has received the prestigious Mahavrukha puraskra award by the Government of India, in the year 1994-1995. The height of the tree is calculated to be 47.5 meters.

Major Attraction of Parambikulam Wild Life Sanctuary: The wildlife sanitary provides you an opportunity to spend some time amidst the children of mother nature and cherish the moments forever. One may do trekking here, have a treehouse experience and also experience the watchtowers.

Timings	7:00 am to 3:00 pm
Ticket Prices	Park Entry Fee: Rs. 85 per person (Indians) / Rs. 300 per person (Foreigners) Vehicle Entry Fee: Rs. 85 for Light Motor Vehicle and Rs. 330 for Heavy vehicles Camera Fee: Rs. 50 per still camera Video Camera: Rs. 200 per video camera
Wildlife Activities	Jungle Camp, Trekking, Jungle Safari, Bamboo Rafting, Nature Education
Best Time to Visit	October to February
Distance from Palakkad railway station	79 km

Read Also: 7 Best National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala to Visit

5. Nelliyampathy Hills – Famous Hill Station Near Palakkad:

Holding mythological, religious, and getaway importance, the Nelliyampathy Hills is one of the most loved tourist places near Palakkad amongst the visitors. If you are searching for tourist attractions in Palakkad, then you must prioritize this place. It’s a treat for trekking lovers, for they can cover Mampara, Kaikatty, etc.

It is believed that Lord Rama along with the wife Devi Sita, spent some time here during their 14 years of exile. Thus, this place is a choice of devotees for the pilgrimage too. One can have a holy bath in the river, said to be used by the lord then.

Major Attractions at Nelliyampathy Hills: The Nelliyampathy Hills is packed with mesmerizing waterfalls, dense green forest ranges covering the hills, and trekking trails, thus offering varieties of activities that can be done here. It is also one of the best places to visit during the monsoon in Kerala. The beauty of this place can be anticipated by knowing its another name- second Ooty.

Things to See at Nelliyampathy Hills: You can also visit tea, coffee, orange, and cardamom plantation here, which are abundant. You should also see Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Shimmering Pothundi Reservoir, Padagiri, Palagapandi Estate, Pothundi Reservoir, Sholayar Pass, Malampuzha Gardens, Raja’s Cliff, and the Seetharkund and Kesavampara Viewpoint once you are here.

Timings	9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Ticket Prices	No Entry Fee
The time you should spend at Nelliyampathy Hills	2 hours at the hills
Things to Do	Trekking, Rock climbing, Mountain biking, or Off-road jeep safaris
Best Time to Visit	September to May
Distance from Palakkad railway station	57 km

6. Jain Temple of Jainimedu:

The beautifully granite-crafted Digambara Jain temple, which is said to be about 500 years old, sings the history and spreads the preaching of Jainism in this religious area. The 32 feet long and 20 feet wide granite temple is said to be dedicated to the Jain sage Chandranathswamy.

The temple has idols of Chandranthan, Vijayalakshmi, Jwalamohini, Rishabha Nathan, parswa Nathan, and Padmavathi, and images of many Jain Tirthankaras and Yakshinis.

Timings	7:00 am to 10.30 am & 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Ticket Price	No Entry Fee
Facts	The temple is dedicated to Chandraprabha, the eighth Tirthankara, The temple was built by Inchana Satur in the 15th century.
Distance from Palakkad railway station	2 km

7. Dhoni Forest & Waterfalls:

Dhoni Forest & waterfalls is one of the best trekking and nature enjoying tourist places in Palakkad. They are a boon for nature lovers and trekkers. Dhoni shrugs inside it, tremendous beauty of nature and scenic places. The location has great picturesque importance, making it one of the best couple spots.

Major Attractions at Dhoni Waterfalls: Dhoni forest tributes from the Western Ghats and gives a heart throbbing view of the lush green hills and the waterfalls contained within. The Dhoni Waterfalls is amongst one of the most famous waterfalls in Kerala. The place is also famous for its Swiss bred of cattle and goats. Once you are here, you can also visit the Malampuzha Reservoir and Azhakampara waterfall.

Timings	10:30 am to 1:30 pm (Monday closed)
Ticket Prices	Rs 120 per person
Things to Do	Trekking, camping, wildlife spotting & more
Time you should spend at Dhoni Forest and Waterfalls	3 to 4 hours
Best Time to Visit	June to October
Distance from Palakkad railway station	7 km

Read More: 12 Best Trekking Places in Kerala with Scenic Trails and Beautiful Views for Adventure Lovers

8. Kollengode Palace:

This marvelous fort is believed to be built by Kollengode Raja, Raja Vasudeva, as a gift to his daughter, back in 1904. the architecture of the fort resembles European architecture, which can be well appreciated. The fort is no longer a palace to the kings but has been converted into an Ayurvedic treatment center for the common public.

You can feel the freshness and rejuvenate yourself here, in the natural royal surroundings. There is even a museum inside the fort premises, making it one of the most fascinating places of interest. You must seek prior permission if you want to see the palace and museum in detail. People consider it as one of the must-visit tourist places in Palakkad, due to the uniqueness of the fort. The fort is also amongst the top historical places in Kerala.

Tourist Attractions: You can also visit Nelliampathy Hills (that surrounds the fort from a side), The Gayathri River (a tributary of Bharathpuzha river), local village, Vishnu temple, Seethakundu, and Government hills near Kaachankurchi and poet Kunhiraman memorial, once you are here.

Timings	Open 24 hours
Ticket Prices	No entry fee
Distance from Palakkad railway station	28 km

9. Siruvani Dam – Popular Picnic Spot:

Built in a classical Kerala and Tamil Nadu architectural style, this dam is a successful project of the Kerala government to meet the drinking water demand of the adjacent townships. The dam stands in the Siruvani River and is said to be built in 1927.

Apart from its functional importance, the dam is a place of tourist attraction too, as it gives a picturesque view of the dense velvety forest and the mighty hills around. Thus, keeps attracting the tourist all year long.

Timings	9:00 am 6:00 pm
Ticket Price	Rs 30 per person
Best Time to Visit	August to November
Distance from Palakkad railway station	46 km

10. Vadakkanthara Temple:

If you are looking for the best offbeat tourist places in Palakkad for a one-day trip, Vedakkanthara temple must be in your list. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Kannagi. The entire temple compound is a true example of traditional Kerala architecture. In this temple, Goddess Bhagavati, Lord Ganesha, Lord Vishnu, Lord Ayyappa, and Lord Nagaraja are also worshiped.

Major Attractions: The visitors can offer prayers to God and Goddesses, be amazed with the architectural beauty of the temple, and spend a good amount of time in the temple complex seeking spiritual bliss.

Best Season to Visit: Though the winter season is the best time to visit Palakkad, you can also come in other months to be part of some festivals celebrated in Vadakkanthara Temple. During August-September, Vinayaka Chaturthi is celebrated and during February to March Maha Shivratri is celebrated.

Timings	6:00 am to 11:00 am & 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Ticket Price	Free
Known For	Its traditional Kerala architecture and intricate carvings
Time you should spend at Vadakkanthara Temple	Around an hour
Distance from Palakkad railway station	3 km

Read More: 10 Famous Temples of Kerala to Visit with Family for a Spiritual Kerala Trip Experience

11. Ottapalam:

Situated on the banks of the Bharathapuzha river in Palakkad district, Ottapalam is a prime location where you will be able to marvel how the cultural heritage and the historical past make this place unique compared to the rest of the district. This is one of the best Palakkad sightseeing places where the main attractions are its temples.

Major Tourist Attractions: Chinakathoor Pooram is an unparalleled event held every year at the Chinakkathoor Temple in Palappuram near Ottapalam. The festival is celebrated with grandeur and gaiety, and traditionally begins on the Pooram star of the Malayalam month of Meenam.

Things to See in Ottapalam: This is a great place for history, art and culture enthusiasts. You can visit Killikkurussimangalam, a picturesque village located near the beautiful town of Lakkidi in India. This well-known village has had many famous residents, including Kunjan Nambiar, an eminent Malayalam poet.

Famous For Distance from Palakkad railway station: 36 km	Cultural contributions, heritage, scenic landscapes, and ancient temples
Best Time to Visit	November to February
Time you should spend at Ottapalam	One to two hours
Distance from Palakkad railway station	36 km

12. Seethargundu Viewpoint:

Seethargundu Viewpoint is one of the most beautiful places in Palakkad. Nature enthusiasts and photographers just love this place. Located on a cliff, it provides a breathtaking view of the lush forests and hills in the region. People also come here to have a picnic with their friends or family. For those who seek an escape from the chaos of everyday life, Seethargundu Viewpoint is definitely worth visiting.

Timings	Monday to Saturday: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Sunday: 8:00 am to 5:30 pm
Ticket Price	No entry fee
Major Attractions	Breathtaking view of serene natural beauty from a cliff.
Distance from Palakkad railway station	62 km

13. Kanjirapuzha:

Surrounded by the majestic evergreen forest of Vettilachola, nursing a beautiful dam, situated 33 km from Palakkad, Kanjirapuzha Dam brings pleasure and serenity to all who visit it. The nearby fisheries department’s nursery adds an extra layer of interest and intrigue, not to mention plentiful possibilities for fun-filled exploration. Thus, one cannot help but feel mesmerized when standing before its grandeur and taking in its glorious sights.

Kanjirapuzha Dam Timings	10:00 am to 7:00 pm
Kanjirapuzha Dam Ticket Price	Rs 30 (Adults) & Rs 15 (Children)
Best Time to Visit	June to February
Major attractions	The exotic natural beauty of Kanjirapuzha dam
Things to see at Kanjirapuzha	You can enjoy the sunset from Kanjirapuzha dam and spend quality time with your friends and family.
Best Time to Visit	June to February
Distance from Palakkad railway station	32 km

14. Kava:

Kava Viewpoint at Malampuzha in Palakkad district is a true paradise for monsoon lovers. With a full view of the dam and magnificent rolling hills, it truly is an experience that must be savored from the depths of one’s heart. There are countless rare species of birds and butterflies along with majestic trees and radiant flowers that make the place one of the most beautiful spots in Palakkad. Not only can one experience nature’s beauty but also capture them in their many hues as they watch the exceptional sunset every evening.

Major Tourist Attractions	The sunset from the Kava viewpoint is the major attraction in this place.
Best Time to Visit	September to November
The time you should spend	2-3 hours
Things to See	Kava viewpoint, Kava island reservoir viewpoint.
Distance from Palakkad railway station	15 km

15. Fantasy Park:

Fantasy Park in Palakkad, Kerala’s first amusement park, is a perfect location for fun and adventure for all ages. It has exciting water rides, wave pools, and awesome dry rides that make every visit enjoyable. The park also has a planetarium, adding a touch of learning to the entertainment. Its popular food court serves tasty dishes that delight everyone. Whether you love adventure, relaxation, or learning, Fantasy Park is a wonderful place to visit.

Timings	10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Ticket Price	Rs 750 (Adult) Rs 600 (Children) Rs 550 (Senior Citizen)
Distance from Palakkad railway station	6 km

16. Attapadi Reserve Forest:

The Attappadi Reserve Forest covers 249 square kilometers and is in the Mannarkkad Taluk of Palakkad, Kerala. It is a beautiful mountain valley with lots of peace and quiet. Coimbatore is to the east, and the Nilgiri Hills are to the west. This makes it a beautiful place to be. The famous “Attappady Black” goat breed is found here, and the Bhavani River flows through the valley, adding to its charm. With different rock types and rainfall ranging from 4700 mm to 900 mm, Attappadi is a wonderful spot for nature lovers.

Timings	Open 24 hours
Ticket Price	No entry fee
Distance from Palakkad railway station	69 km

17. Kalpathy Temple:

Kalpathy Temple is a very old Shiva temple in Palakkad, located on the banks of the Kalpathy River. It was built around 1425 AD by Kombi Achan, the ruler of Palakkad, and has great religious importance. As per belief, a Brahmin widow named Lakshmiammal brought a Shiva Lingam from Banaras and placed it here. The temple’s peaceful location, with steps leading to the river, gives the feeling of Banaras ghats, so people call it “Half Banaras.”

Timings	5:30 am to 8:00 pm
Ticket Price	No entry fee
Distance from Palakkad railway station	2 km

How to Reach Pallakad?

By Air:

Via Peelamedu Airport in Coimbatore, which is in turn connected to several national and international airports as Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bangalore, Cochin, Pune, Sharjah, Bangkok, Singapore, and Ahmedabad.

By Train:

Via Palakkad Junction (PGT) and Palakkad Town (PGTN) station, which in turn are connected with major cities of the country.

By Road:

Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) runs in this sector and always is a reliable option. You may also opt for private travel services according to your convenience.

By Public Transportation:

The intracity conveyance is also easy and comfortable. KSRTC buses connect to the majority of the places. The local cabs and taxis are always an open option. You may even seek various regional tour operators’ services for your convenience and to save time.

Conclusion:

These were some of the best places to innumerate, but if you plan a longer trip, you can go around to see many tourist places in Palakkad, Kerala, and nearby. I hope this article will be helpful to you in planning your next trip. Don’t forget to share your memories, experiences and photos with us, once you are back.

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