Anamika & Rohit
Things To Do
Kerala Kalamandalam
Kerala Kalamandalam is a world-renowned center for the preservation and teaching of traditional Kerala performing arts. Founded in 1930, this cultural institution is a vibrant sanctuary where ancient art forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Koodiyattam come alive through masterful performances and dedicated training. Visiting Kalamandalam offers a rare glimpse into Kerala’s rich artistic heritage—a perfect blend of history, storytelling, music, and dance that will deeply enrich your experience of this beautiful region. Guests can attend live performances, observe rehearsals, and engage with master artists who dedicate their lives to these rich art traditions. It’s more than a visit — it’s a journey into Kerala’s soul.
Ananganmala Eco Tourism
Nestled in the tranquil hills of Ottapalam, Ananganmala Eco Tourism offers a serene escape into Kerala's rich natural heritage. The name "Ananganmala" translates to "Immovable Hill," inspired by a local legend that a piece of the mountain Lord Hanuman carried from the Himalayas to Sri Lanka fell here, creating this sacred site. Spanning 2,500 acres within the Ottapalam Forest Range, this eco-tourism destination is managed by the Kerala Forest Department. It features well-maintained trails, a children's park, and picnic spots, making it ideal for family outings and nature walks. Visitors can enjoy activities such as trekking, birdwatching, and exploring herbal gardens rich in medicinal plants. The hilltop offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the Bharathapuzha River, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and photography.
Kizhur Aqueduct
Nestled in the heart of Palakkad, Kizhur Village is a picturesque locale that offers a serene glimpse into Kerala's rural charm. The village is renowned for its lush landscapes, vibrant paddy fields, and the iconic Kizhur Aqueduct—a testament to the region's rich cultural and architectural heritage. The Kizhur Aqueduct is a remarkable structure that has become a symbol of the village's ingenuity. Built over three decades ago, this aqueduct serves as a vital irrigation channel, supporting the thriving agricultural activities in the area. What sets it apart is the road constructed atop the aqueduct, allowing vehicles to traverse over the flowing canal below—a unique feature that has captivated both locals and visitors alike.
Palakkad Fort
Nestled in the heart of Palakkad town, Tipu’s Fort is a stunning granite fortress built in 1766 by Hyder Ali, the ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore. Named after his son, Tipu Sultan, the fort stands as a powerful symbol of military strategy and resilience during a time of historic conflict. Surrounded by peaceful gardens, this architectural marvel invites visitors to explore its rich cultural legacy and offers a tranquil escape steeped in history.
Varikkasseri Mana
Nestled in the serene village of Manissery near Ottapalam, Varikkasseri Mana is a magnificent example of traditional Kerala architecture. Constructed in 1902 by Varikkasseri Ravi Namboothirippad, this three-story mansion features 74 rooms, two granaries (pathayappuras), a central courtyard (nalukettu), and a family temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, Shiva, and Ayyappan. Designed by the renowned architect Krishnan Thampuran, the structure blends classical Kerala style with subtle colonial influences, evident in its slender columns and intricate woodwork. The expansive verandas and ornate portico add to its grandeur. A visit to Varikkasseri Mana offers a captivating glimpse into Kerala's aristocratic past, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts and cinema lovers alike.
Dhoni Waterfalls
Tucked away in the verdant embrace of the Western Ghats, Dhoni Waterfalls is a serene escape just 15 kilometers from Palakkad town in Kerala. This hidden gem offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Reaching the falls involves a guided trek of approximately 4 kilometers through a lush reserve forest teeming with diverse flora and fauna. The trail, starting near teak plantations, meanders through dense greenery, offering glimpses of wildlife such as elephants, deer, and various bird species. The journey itself is as rewarding as the destination, with the soothing sounds of nature accompanying trekkers along the way. While bathing directly under the falls is not permitted, there are designated spots downstream where one can enjoy the refreshing waters. Prior permission from the Forest Range Officer in Olavakkode is required.
Malampuzha Dam
Located just 10 kilometers from Palakkad town, Malampuzha Dam is Kerala's largest reservoir and a testament to post-independence engineering. Completed in 1955, this impressive structure combines a 1,849-meter masonry dam with a 220-meter earthen dam, harnessing the Malampuzha River—a tributary of the Bharathapuzha—to support irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation. Visitors can enjoy a ride on South India's first aerial ropeway, offering panoramic views of the dam and gardens. Other attractions include a rock garden crafted from recycled materials, a freshwater aquarium shaped like a fish, a snake park, and a children's play area. Boating facilities on the reservoir add to the recreational offerings.
Kava
Nestled at the edge of the Western Ghats, Kava is one of Palakkad’s most enchanting hidden gems—a quiet, emerald paradise where mist-kissed mountains meet still waters. Often referred to as the “Rain Gateway of Kerala,” Kava lies near the Malampuzha Dam and is surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills, and a vast reservoir that mirrors the skies. The area is famed for its dramatic monsoon skies and tranquil sunrises. Shrouded in silence and birdsong, Kava offers a surreal blend of solitude and scenic grandeur—perfect for a peaceful nature walk, birdwatching, or simply basking in the poetry of the landscape. Ideal for those who crave moments of stillness away from the buzz of city life, Kava is a canvas painted in green and gold—untouched, unhurried, and utterly magical.