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Palakkad Fort – Kerala

Location :

Palakkad fort

Sporting Mughal masonry and craft stand the Palakkad fort which was built by the 18th century King of Mysore, Hyder Ali. The fort served as clear watch tower against the British presence in the southern region. Marked by its high walls, its towering armories and its seductively luring danger trenches, the fort stands with little ruin even today. The fort was also occupied by Hyder Ali’s successor Tipu Sultan, the mighty king of the southern Mughal rule.

Palakkad fort well from the top

Weather: 21° C

Time Required: 2-3 hrs

Cost : No entry fee,

Still camera: INR 20,

Video camera: INR 50

Overview:

The Palakkad Fort in Kerala is a beautiful historical monument that has gently integrated its high walls with its surrounding green gardens. One of the most well-preserved forts in the state of Kerala, the Palakkad fort was built in the 1766 AD by Hyder Ali and is now a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India. This picturesque fort is located in the heart of Palakkad town at the foothills of the Sahyadris range in a labyrinth of dense forests and crisscrossing cascading rivers. The mighty fort is spread over an area of 60,702 square meters and is immensely famous for its architecture, which displays the efficiency of the French craftsman. The magnificent fortress of Pallakad is an essential part of history, and its construction is majestic as well

Trench at Palakkad Fort

The fort is in the shape of a square and is supported by walls and bastions which are square shaped as well. Earlier, the entrance to the fort was via a drawbridge, which has now been replaced by a permanent one in its place. A significant ground is also present within the premises of the fort, which served as stable for the horses and elephants of Tipu Sultan’s army in ancient times. It is placed between the fort and the Palakkad Town Hall and is known as the Kota Maidanam. It is currently used as the venue for cricket matches, exhibitions and public gatherings. There is an open-air auditorium here as well, which is known as Rappadi.

The Palakkad fort also houses some other smaller attractions such as the Hanuman temple, Martyr’s column, Anjaneya Swami Temple (a small shrine), Vatika Shilavatika (a garden) and a sub-jail. Amalgamating the beauty of lush green gardens and impressive ancient architecture, this fort is a truly humbling experience. The fort is also known as the Tipu?s Fort, after the name of Tipu Sultan (son of Hyder Ali). The majestic fort depicts the old tales of bravery and courage.

Strong stone wall of Palakkad fort

History of Palakkad Fort

The grand palace of Palakkad is believed to have existed since the ancient times, but the present form of the fort was constructed by the great emperor of Mysore, Haider Ali in 1766 A.D. According to the earliest available historical records, King of Palakkad (Paliyath Achchan) was a part of the Zamorin. However, he drifted away from their rule and carved out an independent state for himself at the beginning of the 18th century. When the Zamorins attacked him in 1757, he approached Hyder Ali who took over Palghat and gained control over the Palakkad Fort too.

From that time until 1790, the glorious fort was consistently in the hands of the Mysore Sultans or the British rulers. The latter came to power in 1768; this mighty fortification was taken over by Colonel Wood but was soon recaptured by Hyder Ali. What followed this was a series of capturing and recovering by various authorities; Colonel Fullarton captured in 1783 followed by the Zamorin’s troops. In 1790 it was finally captured by the British under the rule of Colonel Stuart. Ultimately it was converted into a taluk office in the early 1900s.

Palakkad fort well from the top

Best time to visit :

November to March is the best time to visit Palakkad Fort due to the pleasant winter months here. There is almost no rainfall which increases the tourism by manifolds. Palakkad witnesses slight precipitation throughout the year and heavy rain from June to October. April and May are the hottest months here.

How to get there :

The nearest railway station is Palakkad Railway Station and is located at a distance of about 5 km from the fort. The closest airport is that of Coimbatore, which is located at about 55 km from the fort. Cochin International Airport lies at a distance of 140 km from the fort. The town of Palakkad is well connected to the nearby places via roads and rail.

Attraction :

For a treasure hunter the fort would be of interest as it is believed that Tipu hid away his treasures from the British rulers in one of the secret chambers in the fort. While this could very much be a myth, many curious travellers are found to be hobnobbing in shadowy areas of the fort, perhaps half conviction hunting for a lost treasure.

Timing :

Open Time: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Photo Gallery :

Strong stone wall of Palakkad fort

Palakkad fort

Trench at Palakkad Fort

  Palakkad Fort – Kerala Palakkad Fort - Kerala Location : Sporting Mughal masonry and craft stand the Palakkad fort which was built by the 18th century King of Mysore, Hyder Ali.

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Munnar – Kerala Beautiful Hill Station

Munnar – Kerala Beautiful Hill Station

Munnar – Kerala Beautiful Hill Station

Location :

Girded on the three sided by three main rivers – Periyar, Thalayar and Thodupuzha, Munnar is the eco spot where one’s soul could be at peace. Set at a height of 6,000 ft in Idukki district used to be the most favoured summer vacationing spot during the erstwhile British rule. The presence of towering high…

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Chandragiri Fort – Kerala

About Chandragiri fort, Bekal

Weather: 22° C

Time Required: 1-2 hrs

Cost: Indians and SAARC Nationals: INR 5, Foreigners: INR 100

Open Time: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Built in the 17th century by Sivappa Nayak of Bedanore, the Chandragiri fort lies in the Kasaragod District of north Kerala, the southern state of India. Now only a remnant of its original majestic form and protected under State Archaeology Department, the fort once used to be a powerful stronghold of the kingdom. Full of artistic and historical significance, this place is visited by locals as well as tourists for the breathtaking view of the estuarine that Payaswini river forms with the Arabian Sea. Flanked by coconuts and mangroves on both sides, it offers a magnificent sight to behold. If visited during the afternoon, one can witness a stunning view of the sunset as well from the Kizhur State Temple.

The fort has a colourful past, being the stronghold of the bedanore Naiks of South India against all other hostile forces during the 17th century. It has also seen the rule of the Mysore Sultan Hyder Ali, and then witnessed the British Colonialism like every other fort in India, intact or otherwise. The fort regained its roots in Kerala only after independence.

The Chandragiri fort does not have much to see but offers a much-needed silence for those who seek it. The grim and quiet corners of the mighty fort speak of its own turbulent history and let you soak in its glory. The sunset from atop is nothing short of a perfect frame for a photographer who wants to capture the unembellished beauty of nature.

The Chandragiri Boat Club nearby offers boat trips to the nearby islands and palm groves, and on some of the islands you can get down and camp. The local fishermen will accompany you in the boat rides, so you will get to know the unabridged stories of the locales, and any interesting story, legend or folklore about the fort, if there is any. If you want a lazy and unconventional way to spend a free evening while on the trip near Bekal or Kasaragod, the Chandragiri fort is your best bet.

History of Chandragiri Fort

The ruins of the massive 17th-century fort along the river Payaswini, also called Chandragiri River, has an eventful past story and has experienced a good many change of hands. Centuries ago when the river was considered to be the boundary between kingdoms of Kolathunadu and Thulunadu, the capture of the latter by the strong and powerful Vijayanagara empire led to the capture of Chandragiri town on this side of the river. It was only after the decline of Vijayanagara in the 16th century that an offshoot dynasty called the Ikkeri Naikkars rose to the power and took over Chandragiri. This dynasty, also called Bedanore Naiks declared themselves as independent rulers under the rule of Vengappa Nayaka.

For the defence of his kingdom against the many fighting dynasties of South India, Sivappa Naik built the Chandragiri fort in the 17th century. It was one of the few forts constructed during the same time by the Naik dynasty for the same purpose. Much later it fell into the hands of Hyder Ali of Mysore and then finally under British East India Company. The region, as well as the fort, was re-joined with Kerala after independence through the State Reorganisation Act of 1956.

Chandragiri Fort Boat Club

There is a bridge near the Chandragiri Fort on which visitors can take a peaceful stroll. The bridge is the starting point of all the speedboat, houseboats, and island camping and tours. The Chandragiri Boat Club offers the water vehicles and it is the job of the local fishermen to take you around the water through the islands and tell you stories and folklores of the place. In case you are not a local person, language might become a problem.

Things To Do Near Chandragiri Fort

The Chandragiri fort being in its ruins now preserved by the authorities, there is not much to do here. It is built on a small hillock more or less 50 metres above the sea level, covering as much as seven acres. It still has two underground passage, a well and a pond inside its fortified walls.

The topmost floor offers the most picturesque view of the Payaswini River slowly and lazily flowing into the calm Arabian Sea forming an open mouth estuary. Lined with lush greenery on both banks thanks to the coconut and grove forests, the scenery is absolutely stunning. Visitors can spend some time here taking in the view in front. The sea-facing wall of the fort has holes from canon ball attacks. It also offers an excellent panorama for the photographers to capture. The sight is serene and peaceful to spend an evening after sundown. It is particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.

The ancient Kizhur State Temple is very close to the magnificent fort from where you can witness a stunning view of the sunset. This temple also celebrates the festival of Pattu Utsavam, where a group of singers come together to sing in the glory of the God.

Located far away from any popular tourist spot, you will get the necessary peace and quietude if you are a silence loving traveller rather than a spot jumping tourist. However, you need to know the location and arrange to visit it because it is not usually included in tourism packages.

Places in Bekal

1. Bekal Fort 2. Bekal Fort Beach 3. The Bekal Hole Aqua Park 4. Valiyaparamba Backwaters 5. Nityanandashram Caves 6. Chandragiri fort

Location :

What could be more picturesque than a fort which is bordered by a river? Well, Chandragiri fort provides one with this rare sight. The scenic beauty of the lush green surroundings and the gurgle of the river flowing close by make one wonder whether Chandragiri is a fort or a palace.

Attraction :

To minute observation, the fort readily opens up its share of what could have been mighty dangerous locations for the enemy to enter.

The deep trenches which were once lined with piercing rods, the guillotine where executions took place, all cry out a history of war and death. For those interested in the murky smell of the past the fort is the ideal place to visit.

Attractions Here:

Chandragiri Cruises: Boat trips to nearby islands and palm groves. Boarding Point – Chandragiri Bridge. Chandragiri Boat Club: The Boat Club offers speed boat rides, houseboat cruises, island camping and wildlife tours in the hinterlands. Fishermen near the Chandragiri Bridge will give you a ride on the backwaters and arrange trips to nearby islands.

How to Get there

By Train :

Nearest railway station: Kasaragod, about 7 km

By Air :

Nearest airport: Mangalore Airport (Karnataka) about 67 km

Photo Gallery :

Chandragiri Fort from the top

Chandragiri Fort – Kerala

Chandragiri fort

Chandragiri Fort – Kerala Chandragiri Fort - Kerala About Chandragiri fort, Bekal Weather: 22° C Time Required: 1-2 hrs Cost: Indians and SAARC Nationals: INR 5,

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Ponmudi – Beautiful Hill Station

Ponmudi – Beautiful Hill Station

Ponmudi – Beautiful Hill Station

Location :

A visit to Ponmudi (rightly named golden hair) would make one fall for eternal serenity. Situated at a distance of 61 km from the capital city, Thiruvananthapuram and lying at an altitude of 1000 meters above the sea level, the place is famous for its tea estates and natural springs. The winding streams and verdant woods…

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Devikulam - Beautiful Hill Station

Devikulam – Beautiful Hill Station

Devikulam – Beautiful Hill Station

Devikulam – Beautiful Hill Station

Location :

The hill station located 16 km from Munnar in Idukki district has a mythical charm. For those intrigued by the Indian epic Ramayana, the place could be of interest as it is believed that Goddess Sita came down to a lake situated here spend time with her beloved Lord Rama. The place is known for its serene Sita Devi…

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Lakkidi – Beautiful Hill Station

Lakkidi – Beautiful Hill Station

Lakkidi – Beautiful Hill Station

Location :

Travelling along the winding roads of Thamarassery Ghat pass the wander lust traveller could make his first pit stop at Lakkidi, a hill station which is 700 meters above the sea level. The tourist spot which is located at the gateway to the scenic Wayanad district is a place to relax while enjoying the misty climate and…

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Vagamon – Beautiful Kerala Hill Station

Vagamon – Beautiful Kerala Hill Station

Vagamon – Beautiful Kerala Hill Station

Location :

If wildlife in its natural surroundings is what one is looking for, then Vagamon or Wagamon is the best place to visit. Set at an altitude of 1100 m from the sea level and 65 km from Idukki district, one would find elephants which strolling through the Vagamon woods. The place which has many natural streams…

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Peerumedu – Beautiful Hill Station

Peerumedu – Beautiful Hill Station

Peerumedu – Beautiful Hill Station

Location Another hill station which has a distinctively enchanting history is Peerumedu, named after the Sufi saint Peer Mohammed. Located around 85 km from Kottayam, the place is known for its cool and moist climate. As it is an abode of spices, a traveler visiting Peerumedu is enveloped by a fragrance that is delightfully…

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Marina Beach – Tamilnadu

Marina Beach – Tamilnadu

Marina Beach – Tamilnadu

Location :

The golden sandy shore of Marina Beach serves as a major getaway for the busy metropolitans of Chennai. It is one among the most populous cities in India and the long seafront of this city is enhanced by a couple of beautiful blue beaches.

Attraction :

A walk through the glittering golden sand in Marina Beach is definitely a…

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Kanyakumari Beach – Tamilnadu

Kanyakumari Beach – Tamilnadu

Kanyakumari Beach – Tamilnadu

Location : Kanyakumari is also known as ‘The Land’s End’ which is otherwise the southernmost tip of India. It is a holy place where the three great water bodies meet; i.e., the confluence of the great Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. This point is known as ‘Thriveni Sangamam’. Kanyakumari is one among the most popular tourist…

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Pondicherry Beach – Tamilnadu

Pondicherry Beach – Tamilnadu

Pondicherry Beach – Tamilnadu

Location :

Located 135 km away from Chennai city this is a very beautiful place having an entirely different ambience reminding a French colony. The prominent beach in Puducherry is the Promenade beach which has a stretch of 1.5 km. The major buildings and monuments lie in this stretch facing the sea, the popular ones being the statue of…

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Covelong Beach – Tamilnadu

Covelong Beach – Tamilnadu

Covelong Beach – Tamilnadu

Location :

Covelong or Kovalam beach is a perfect beach holiday destination in Tamil Nadu. It is a fishing village 40km south of Chennai on the way to Mahabalipuram. The drive through the east coast road to this calm and serene beach is a memorable one. This beach is famous for its fishing activities. Attraction :

It is one of the best beaches…

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Mahabalipuram Beach – Tamilnadu

Mahabalipuram Beach – Tamilnadu

Mahabalipuram Beach – Tamilnadu

Location :

Situated in the Silk City of Tamil Nadu-Kancheepuram, Mahabalipuram is a world heritage site. Also known as Mamallapuram, this was a port city during the 7th century under the dynasty of Pallavas. Mahabalipuram beach is adorned by clean shining sand, rocky shore and historic sculptures. This beach is a silent beach away…

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Elliot’s Beach – Tamilnadu

Elliot’s Beach – Tamilnadu

Elliot’s Beach – Tamilnadu

Location :

This beach is one of the most pristine beaches in Tamil Nadu especially in Chennai. This beach is a favorite spot for families as well as youth because of its calm ambience and low tides. Waves are so gentle that everyone can indulge in the joy of playing with the naughty waves splashing on our legs. It is located in Besant Nagar in…

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Rameswaram Beach – Tamilnadu

Rameswaram Beach – Tamilnadu

Rameswaram Beach – Tamilnadu

Location : Rameshwaram is a holy destination situated in the Pamban Island which is not in the Indian main land. This beautiful holy island is connected to the mainland by the Pamban Bridge which is India’s first sea bridge and second longest sea bridge. Srilanka is just 18 miles away from Dhanushkodi which is the very tip of this island.…

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Hogenakkal falls – Tamilnadu

Hogenakkal falls – Tamilnadu

Hogenakkal falls – Tamilnadu

Location :

The word Hogenakkal is derived from a Kannada word meaning ‘smoking rocks’ but this beautiful falls is in Tamil Nadu in Dharmapuri district. Also known as “The Niagara of India”, the falls drop from a height of 20 meter forming a smoke of water. Hogenakkal is famous for its medicinal baths as river Cauvery flows through a forest…

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Kutrallam Falls – Tamil Nadu

Kutrallam Falls – Tamil Nadu

Location :

Another major tourist destination in the south tour is the Courtallam or the Kutrallam falls. This falls is in the Tirunelveli district and Tirunelveli town is just 53 km away. The water drops from a height of 160m and has herbal values which are believed to relax minds and even cure psychological disorders.

Attraction :

Due to its herbal significance,…