
The district
of Palakkad known as the granary of Kerala, is a land of
valleys, hillocks, rivers, forests, mountain streams, dams and
irrigation projects. The main crop is paddy, sugarcane,
groundnut, areca nut, cotton, rubber, cardamom, coffee etc.
Handloom weaving is the important traditional industry of the
district. The leading producer district of Rice in Kerala is
Palakkad. This is the gateway to Kerala from the north. Nilgiri
and Coimbatore districts of Tamil Nadu bound the district on the
north and east respectively. It has Malappuram district in the
west and Thrissur district in the south. The district set in the
foot of majestic Western Ghats is unique in its geographical
position, historical background, educational status and tourist
attractions. The colossal Western Ghats stretch over 960 km., in
length, their continuity is broken at Palakkad, known as
'Palakkad Gap' with a width of 32 km. On either side of the
'Palakkad Gap' are the imposing Nilgiris and Anamalais. The
climate of the district is highly influenced by the 'Palakkad
Gap', as it enables the northeast winds to pass through it. This
phenomenon gives the benefit of both southwest and northeast
winds, resulting in rainfall to the district in both the
seasons.
Palakkad derives its name from the Malayalam words Pala (Alsteria
scholaris) and Kadu (forest), which goes to prove that this
place was once a beautiful stretch of forests covered with the
sweet scented flowers of the Pala tree. Palakkad has played a
key role in the cultural history of Southern India since time
immemorial. It is located 79 km. from Thrissur, on the
Coimbatore-Thrissur highway and is a major railway junction of
the State. The first Wind farm established in Kerala is Palakkad
district. Palakkad town is also known for its numerous places of
worship. It has over 59 temples, 14 mosques and 8 churches.
Kunchan Nambiar was born at Killikurissi Mangalam in Palakkad.
Bharathapuzha, the longest river in Kerala, originates form the
highlands and flows through the entire district. Palakkad is the
largest district of Kerala.
Tourist
Season
- September to February
Tourist
information offices
DTPC Information Counter, Tel: 091 - 491 - 538996
How to Reach
Nearest airport:
Coimbatore (55 km)
Rail: Palakkad Junction Railway Station (5 km from the
city) is a major railhead of the Southern Railways.
Road:
Well connected to major cities
Official web:
http://palakkad.nic.in
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