India is a country which is renowned worldwide for its magnificent forts that were once the sites of epic battles and served as the residences of countless rulers. Standing tall as a reminder of India’s ancient times, Palakkad Fort is one such fort in India that was not just constructed for defence, in fact, it is the symbol of power and dominance. If you are into ancient architecture and historical monuments, you should explore this well-preserved heritage monument in Palakkad town, Kerala, also known as Tipu Sultan Fort.
The Overview Of Palakkad Fort
Image Credit: Me haridas for Wikimedia Commons
Palakkad Fort, also known as Tipu Sultan Fort, is a well-maintained heritage site in the Palakkad district of Kerala. One of the most beautiful historical monuments in Kerala, this fort was built in 1766 AD by Hyder Ali. It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India, located at the foothills of the Sahyadris range amidst dense forests and crisscrossing cascading rivers.
This picturesque fort, located in the heart of Palakkad town, also houses several other attractions such as the Martyr’s Column, Hanuman temple, Anjaneya Swamy Temple, Vatika Shilavati, and a sub-jail. A perfect place in Palakkad for both nature lovers and history buffs, this fort showcases a perfect blend of the beauty of lush green gardens and impressive ancient architecture.
Must Read: Best Places To Visit In Palakkad
Architecture
Image Credit: Navas Puthanazhi for Wikimedia Commons
Being a magnificent fortress of Pallakad town and an essential part of history, the architecture of the fort is worth visiting. The fort is spread over an area of 60,702 square meters and is immensely acclaimed for its architecture which is the result of the efficiency of the French craftsman.
The fort is constructed in a square shape, supported by walls and bastions which are also in square shapes. In ancient times, there used to be a drawbridge at the fort’s entrance that a permanent one has now replaced. There is also a huge ground, called Kota Maidanam, between the fort and the Palakkad Town Hall, which was used as a stable for the horses and elephants of Tipu Sultan’s army in ancient times. This ground is used as a venue for exhibitions, cricket matches, and public gatherings.
History Of Palakkad Town
Image Credit: Advaith Krishnan 007 for Wikimedia Commons
There are traces of the existence of Palakkad Fort in ancient history, however, it was preserved and rebuilt by the great emperor of Mysore, Haider Ali in 1766 A.D. According to the historical records, Paliyath Achchan, the King of Palakkad, was a part of the Zamorin before he drifted away from their rule and carved out an independent state. In 1757, when the Zamorins attacked him, he took shelter under Hyder Ali who later took over Palghat and gained control over the Palakkad Fort too.
From 1757 to 1790, the ownership of the Fort was consistently shifted between Mysore Sultans and the British rulers. It was in the year 1790 when Colonel Stuart finally captured Palakkad Fort and converted it into a taluk office in the early 1900s.
Suggested Read: Shopping In Palakkad
Top Places To Visit Near Palakkad Fort
During your visit to Palakkad Fort, you can also explore some nearby places that are as follows:
1. Fantasy Park
Image Credit: Asokants for Wikimedia Commons
After visiting a magnificent historical monument, you can chill and enjoy a fun-filled day at Fantasy Park, a popular amusement park in Palakkad. Located in Malampuzha in the Palakkad district, this amusement park is surrounded by the beautiful Western Ghats offering a scenic view while enjoying the rides. You can visit this place with your family or friends and enjoy several world-class rides. Some popular fun rides in the amusement park are Super Splash, Harakirri, Zip Zap Zoop, Striking Car, Dragon Coaster, ParaTrooper, and the Pirate Boat. You can also enjoy the Wave Pool in the amusement park, one of the biggest water rides in Kerala.
Location: 7.5 km away from Palakkad Fort
Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Suggested Read: Places Near Palakkad
2. Kanjirapuzha Dam
Image Credit: Shijualex for Wikimedia Commons
Nestled amidst the lush green mountain ranges and the dense forest of Kerala, Kanjirapuzha Dam is one of the best spots near Palakkad for nature lovers. This is one of the most beautiful dams in Kerala, located on the Kanjirapuzha River. This palace attracts visitors throughout the year all thanks to its lush green surroundings covered with various species of flora and a structured arrangement of trees and plants.
Not only does this dam have functional importance in quenching the thirst of Coimbatore city but it is also a popular picturesque spot for visitors near Palakkad. One of the most popular places to visit is near the Fort, this place offers many leisure activities for tourists like boating. The green-clad hills surrounding the dam provide a perfect backdrop for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Location: 38 km away from Palakkad Fort
Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
3. Vadakkanthara Temple
Image Credit: Ms Sarah Welch for Wikimedia Commons
Known for its sprawling design depicting the beautiful traditional Kerala architecture, Vadakkanthara Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples near Palakkad Fort that you must visit once. Dedicated to Goddess Karnaki, this is the only temple in Kerala that celebrates the goddess in her complete idolic form. Apart from Goddess Karnaki, the temple complex also houses smaller shrines for deities like Lord Ganesha, Lord Ayyappa, and Lord Nagaraj. According to the Tamil epic Silapathikaram, Goddess Karnaki, the presiding deity in the temple, is described as a vengeful wife and a legendary woman.
Location: 3 km away from Palakkad Fort
Timings: 4:30 am to 11:30 am and 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm
Suggested Read: Beaches Near Palakkad
Best Time To Visit
Image Credit: Navas Puthanazhi for Wikimedia Commons
Palakkad Fort remains open for visitors throughout the year; however, if you want to enjoy your trip to the fort, you should visit it between November and March. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and Palakkad has no monsoons. You will feel slight precipitation in Palakkad throughout the year and heavy rain from June to October. Hence, this would not be a suitable time to visit the fort. Apart from this, April and May are also not ideal months for planning a trip to Palakkad Fort as these are the hottest months here.
Timings of Palakkad Fort: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
How To Reach
Image Credit: vijayakumarblathur for Wikimedia Commons
By Road: Buses, both state-run and private-run on several routes from different parts of Kerala to Palakkad. There are buses available from Coimbatore also. The main bus stand in Palakkad is only 1 km away from Palakkad Fort.
By Rail: Palakkad town has two major railway stations well-connected to several parts of Kerala and other important cities of India. To reach the Fort, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi outside the railway station.
By Air: The nearest airport to the Fort is Coimbatore International Airport which is about 49 km away from the fort. Once you land at the Coimbatore airport, you can hire a taxi to reach Palakkad Fort.
Further Read: Things To Do In Palakkad
Read this article and get all the information about Palakkad Fort including the best way to reach there, the best time to visit, and its history. Palakkad Fort is a historical marvel in Kerala and an important part of India’s history. The fort depicts the rich culture of the country and its persuasive culture of warfare, hence it is important to explore this fort to understand the heritage and culture of India deeply. Plan your next excursion trip to Kerala and enjoy the magnificence and historical value of Palakkad Fort.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Credit: Vis M for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Palakkad Fort
Why is Palakkad Fort also known as Tipu’s Fort?
Palakkad Fort is named after Tipu Sultan, the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore, in the late 18th century. Palakkad Fort was built by Hyder Ali, the ruler of Mysore, in 1766 and the fort was named after his son Tipu Sultan. Tipu Sultan later renovated the fort and strengthened it.
What is the entry fee for Palakkad Fort?
There is no entry fee for Palakkad Fort, however, if you want to do photography or videography inside the fort premises, you need to pay a nominal charge for that.
The charge for photography inside Palakkad Fort is Rs 20 and videography in Palakkad Fort costs Rs 50.
What are some popular restaurants near Palakkad Fort?
There are many restaurants in Palakkad where you can eat. However, the popular restaurants near Palakkad Fort are NMR Biryani House, Noorjehan Fort View Restaurant, Malabar Restaurant, and Hasi’s Kitchen
What are some popular food dishes in Palakkad?
Palakkad is known not only in Kerala Or India but around the world for its unique cuisine. Some of the popular food dishes in Palakkad are Elai Adai, Palakkad Sambar, Kanji Payar, Nellikai Pachadi, and Paruppu Poli.
Which is the largest fort in Kerala?
Bekal Fort, an ancient fort situated at Bekal in Kasaragod district, is the largest fort in Kerala. Located 65 km far from Mangalore city, the fort was built in 1650 AD by Shivappa Nayaka of Keladi. Being the largest fort in Kerala, the fort spreads over 40 acres.
People Also Read:
Kalinjar Fort Red Fort Nahargarh Fort
With a passion for exploring and travelling to the roads long forgotten, experience the world through enthralling stories and adventures. Join me as I share my experiences at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and quench that pestering curiosity with something exciting!
