Palakkad is the land of Palmyras and Paddy fields. It is the chief granary of Kerala, often called the Gateway of Kerala. Palakkad lies at the foot of the gigantic Western ghats on the border of Kerala. This district with mountains, forests and fertile valleys, rivers and mountains streams are rich in flora and fauna. Palakkad is known for its historical background and the remnants of Tippu Sulthan’s Fort are still maintained. The famous tourist spot of Malampuzha is situated just 8km away from Palakkad Town.
Its a place of tourist importance. Some of the picnic spots are Tippu’s Fort , Malampuzha - Garden, Snake park, Aquarium, Rope way, Rock garden and Fantasy park , Loknayak J.P.Smrithi Vanam and Deer Park, Mayilladumpara - Cholanoor Peacock Sanctury, Kanhirapuzha dam, Mangalam Dam, Pothundy Dam, Seetharkundu water falls near Nelliyampathy, Meenkara dam, Parambikulam wild life sanctuary and boating, Chulliar dam, Killikurrussi Mangalam, Meenvallam, Siruvani, Silent Valley National Park and Attappady ghats.
Palakkad Fort: The old granite fort situated in the very heart of Palakkad town was built by Hyder Ali of Mysore in 1766.
Fantasy Park: (10km from Palakkad) (1400 – 2100 hrs on weekdays and 1100 –2100 hrs on Saturdays, Sundays and National holidays) Attractions: Rides and computer games.
Malampuzha Garden: (10km from Palakkad) This famous picnic spot which comprises a dam and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Thiruvalathoor: (10km from Palakkad) The ancient temple here exhibits some fine wood work and stone sculptures.
Dhoni: (15km from Palakkad) It is a 3 hour trek from the base on the Dhoni Hills to this reserve forest area with its small, beautiful waterfall.
Kottayi: (15km from Palakkad via Poodur) This village is the native place of the late Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar, the doyen of Carnatic music.
Kollengode: (19km from Palakkad) The Kollengode Palace, the Vishnu Temple and the Poet P.Kunhiraman Nair Memorial are worth visiting.
Lakkidi: (30km from Palakkad) Killikkurissimangalam at Lakkidi is the birthplace of Kunchan Nambiar,. The poet’s house is preserved as a monument by the State Govt.
Siruvani: (48km from Palakkad) The gateways on either side of the rod across the dam are typical of the Kerala and Tamil architectural styles .
Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary: (110km from Palakkad) Sprawled across 285 sq.km. this Sanctuary is home to rare fauna. The oldest teak tree, Kannimari stands tall here. Boating/cruising facilities are available at the Reservoir .
Nelliyampathy: (40km from Palakkad) At least 10 hair pin bends have to be negotiated on the Ghat Road through the evergreen forest . This hill station 467 m to 1572 m above sea level.
Silent Valley National Park: (40km from Palakkad) The 89.52 sq.km national park is believed to be the sole surviving bit of evergreen forest in the Sahya Ranges.
Chittur Garumadam: This memorial to Thunchath Ezhuthachan the author of Adhyatma Ramayana is located on the banks of the river Sokanasini.