[edit] Guide to Palakkad in Kerala
The East borders Tamil Nadu, south Thrissur district, west Malappuram district, north Malappuram and Wayanad districts. The district has mountains, forests, fertile valleys, rivers and streams and are rich in flora and fauna. Many dams and irrigation projects glorify the district. The beautiful environs of the town harbours some of the Kerala's most appealing heritage homestays and ayurvedic resorts. Further north, the Silent Valley National Park and the hill station of Nelliampathy are off track destinations you might have to pick up transport here to reach.
Palakkad town is the headquarters of Palakkad district. Tipu’s fort is the Palakkad’s motif. ( dail;y 8am -6pm) The fort on a small hill at the south end of the town is not grand but not unimpressive either. Built by Hyder Ali of Mysore in 1766, it has an open auditorium and a small museum. A children’s park here is a great lure for children.( daily 11am -8pm). In the case of gold jewellery shops Palakkad ranks second to Thrissur. Palakkad’s Valiya Angadi (big bazaar) is centre for bell-metal wares which include thooku vilakku (hanging lamp), mayil vilakku (peacock lamp) and nilavilakku (multi-tiered lamp). The antique ware-house located opposite to Nurani Saneeswaran temple, though nameless, is a treasure trove of bric-a-brac, objects d’art and furniture from Manas (Brahmin houses), Illams (Namboodiri houses) and Chetinad Palaces. Kerala souvenirs are easily available in Palakkad town at comparatively cheap rates. Brahmins in Palakkad town are of Tamil Nadu origin.
In the months of April and May, kathakali performances take place. The local Government Carntaic Music College has an excellent reputation and a small open air amphitheatre next to the fort, often catering to first class music and dance performances.
Tourist Office: DTPC, West Fort Road, Palakkad. (Mon-Sat 9.30 am to 5pm; 0491/253 8996)
[edit] Accommodation in Palakkad
- Kollamkode Palace, Palakkad ( Ayurveda Heritage Resort)
- Kalari Kovilakam
- Kairali Ayurveda Resort, Palakkad
- Sree Chakra International, Palakkad (3 Star)
[edit] Getting to Palakkad
Air: Coimbatore Airport at Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu. Distance 60 km
Rail: Palakkad. Access from all important centres in India. Road: KSRTC , Palakkad. Access from all important centres of Kerala and Coimbatore.
