Nelliampathy:
Through evergreen forests negotiating a dozen and odd hairpin bends on the Sahya ranges one can reach Nelliampathy. This hill station is ideal for trekking and also offers a bird's eye view of one-third of Palakkad from Seetarkundu, the highest peak. Scenic resorts, dams and orchards compete with each other to gain the adventurer's attention.
Kallekkulangara Temple:
The uniqueness of this temple is that a "pair of hands" is worshipped as the main deity. Legend has it that the Namboodiri was elated to see the goddess rising from water, but the goddess, in anger, refused to rise fully. Shivarathri Festival celebrated during February is a major attraction in this temple.
Dhoni Hills & Farms:
A trekker's delight this reserve forest area nestles a beautiful waterfall which can be accessed at the end of a 3 hour trek. Blessed with natural beauty, the hills also have other attractions and can be reached at a distance of 15kms from Palakkad town. The Dhoni Farm is an Indo-Swiss project for development of higher breeds of cattle and a tour of the farm is of educational interest.
Kalpathy Temple & Village:
Situated on the banks of the Kalpathy River, and dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is believed to have been built in 1425 AD. The annual Ratholsavam or "Chariot Festival" held at this temple in November is a major event in Palakkad and attracts devotees from all corners. The Tamil Brahmin villages adjacent to the temple have been declared a World Heritage site. A visit to these villages offer a glimpse of the cultural life that existed 1000 years ago.
Siruvani Dam:
Considered to be Asia's purest water form, Siruvani river originates here. The dam was built for supplying water to Tamil Nadu by Kerala Government. The gateways on both sides of the road across the dam is testimony to Kerala and Tamil Nadu's architectural styles. The area also offers trekking potential to the more adventurous tourists.
Thiruvalathur Temple:
A living tribute to the past masters of Kerala architecture, this temple stands testimony to the ravages of time. The glory of a by-gone era is reflected in the "Thrikkarthika" Festival held every year in December. The wood carvings are a marvel that transport us to another century.
Silent Valley National Park:
Endless stretch of virgin forests, tress that almost touch the sky, lush green landscape, rare bounty of flora and fauna minus the chirping of the cicadas. Learn about the hunting habitats of the pythons and king cobras, join the lion-tailed macau as he begins his day, follow the course of the Kunthi river as she ambles down through the thick green foliage - that's the experience of Silent Valley. One of the last remnants of Tropical rain forests in India, the Silent Valley National Park is accessible only by foot (nearly 24kms) but is an unforgettable adventure of life time. Vehicular transport is available till Mukkali and from there begins the journey into the realms of the tropical forests.
Loknayak J.P. Smrithi Vanam & Deer Park:
Situates at Walayar 22kms from Palakkad on the Kerala - Tamil Nadu border, this park offers close encounters with deer. Elephant rides are also available.
Keraleeya Ayurveda Samajam:
Far from the madding crowds, on the banks of the Bharatha Puzha river in Shornur, with an 86 year old tradition is Keraleeya Ayurveda Samajam. Less commercialized and more genuine, the practitioners follow the footsteps of past masters of this timeless science. A visit to this sanatorium leaves one wondering about the centuries old Ayurvedic treatment methods and their importance in the growing world of modern medicine.