Palakkad or Palghat is the land of Palmyrahs and Paddy fields. Along with Kuttanadu, Palakkad is a major paddy growing area of the state. It is often called as the “Gateway of Kerala”. The Sahya Ranges bordering the region and the 32 Km. long gap in the mountains exert a dominant influence on the climate of the region. This Gap is known as “Palakkad Gap”. In the past, this land was known as Palakkattussery Etymologists trace the word Palakkadu from Palanilam meaning the dry area. Palakkad has a long history dating back to the Paleolithic Period, which is substantiated by a number of megalithic relics discovered from this region. It also housed the Capitals of two Kingdoms such as Palakkad and Kollengode, which were in prominence till a century back.

Beautiful fort

The ancient history of Palakkad is shrouded. According to William Logan, the author of “Malabar Manual”, the Pallava Dynasty of Kanchi might have invaded Malabar in the second or third century. One of their headquarters was Palakkad, which could be the present Palakkad. Kollengode Raja (Ruler of Venguvanad) and Sekharivarma (Raja of Palakkad) of Palakkattussery were two of the valiant kings who controlled the region of Palakkad.

Palakkad Fort, situated in the Palakkad Town, is the most beautiful and best preserved forts in Kerala. The sober silence of the granite wall reminds one of the old tales of valour and courage. It was constructed in 1766 by Hyder Ali of Mysore and his son Tipu Sultan. In 1790 the historic fort was taken over and remodified by the British East India Company. The fort is protected by the Archeological Survey of India.

Martyr’s Column, an open air auditorium called “Rappadi” and Tourism Information Centre of District Tourism Promotion Council are the places to visit in the spacious Fort Maidan. The Children’s Park and ‘Vatika are just on the side of the Fort. The fort was situated in the middle of Palakkad Gap with an area of 15 acres.

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