Palakkad is a land of valleys, hillocks, rivers, forests, mountain streams, dams and irrigation projects. Situated at the foot of the Western Ghats of India, Palakkad is the gateway to Kerala from the north. Palakkad derives its name from the Malayalam words Pala (a tree Alsteria scholaris) and Kadu (forest), which goes to prove that this place was once a beautiful stretch of forests covered with the sweet-scented flowers of the Pala tree.

Palakkad (the other name Palghat is a contribution of the British Raj) is prime among Kerala's most picturesque districts, thanks to its distinctive palmyra trees and extensive green paddy fields. Tourists who travel to Palakkad can visit the biggest mountain pass in the world (30-40 Kms) separating the two folds of the Western Ghats on the border of Kerala with Tamil Nadu. Palakkad is rightfully therefore known as the Gateway of Kerala, giving the rest of India access to the state. For precisely the same reasons, Palakkad had to bear the brunt of invasions from the bordering kingdoms in the past. Palakkad is a melting pot of different cultures and ethnic denominations, enriching its life, arts & culture.

Not much is known about Palakkad's ancient history. It dates back to the Palaeolithic period, and several megalithic relics have been found in the region. One of the earliest records about Palakkad has a chronicle of a war victory in A.D 988 when the king of Palakkad, Nedumpurayur Nadudayavar, stopped an invasion by the forces of the King of Kongunadu at Chittur. Even today, a festival is celebrated in memory of this victory at Chittur. The Nedumpurayur royal family was later known as Tarur Swaroopam and finally as Palakkad Raja Swaroopam.

You will find a number of tourist attractions in Palakkad and these places are definitely worth the visit. Once here, you wouldn't be left wondering as to what to see in Palakkad when you go one Palakkad sight seeing tours. This place has many temples, forts, etc. that have historical significance and are worth checking out. So read on further and know about tour to Palakkad tourist attractions.

Chittur Gurumadam
This place is a memorial of the author of Adhyatma Ramayana, Thunchath Ezhuthachan. He is said to have spent his last days over here. Among the exhibits, one can find his wooden slippers, old manuscripts and the idols worshipped by him.

Kalpathy Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famous for the annual chariot festival. The festival at this Vishwanatha temple lasts around 7 days.

Kunchan Smarakam
This place is not a usual monument, but a memorial of the famous poet Kunchan Nambiar. Every year on the 5th of May, the birthday of the great inventor of satirical art is celebrated with much joy and fervor.

Malampuzha
Located on the lower hills of the Western Ghats, Malampuzha is a beautiful and popular picnic spot, which consists of a dam and manicured gardens.

Palakkad Fort
Regarded as one of the best preserved forts in Kerala, this fort was built in 1790 by Haider Ali. The British took over the fort and renovated it.

Pattambi Nercha
This famous mosque of Kerala is situated at a distance of 61 kilometers from Palakkad. The annual feast of Pattambi mosque falls in the month of February and one witnesses a grand spectacle of 80 beautifully decorated tuskers lined up for the occasion.