Two-Day Itinerary for Palakkad, Kerala

1. Day 1: Palakkad Fort
   10 minutes (4.2 km) from Palakkad Junction Railway Station

   Begin your trip with a visit to the Palakkad Fort, also known as Tipu's Fort. This historical fort dates back to the 18th century and was built by Hyder Ali of Mysore. The fort is a great example of military architecture and boasts a beautiful garden and a Hanuman temple inside. You can also catch a light and sound show in the evening.

2. Day 1: Malampuzha Dam and Gardens
   30 minutes (10 km) from Palakkad Fort

   Next, head to the Malampuzha Dam and Gardens, a popular picnic spot. The dam provides irrigation to the surrounding areas and offers a stunning view of the Western Ghats. The gardens have a variety of attractions, including a snake park, a rock garden, and a fish-shaped aquarium. You can also take a cable car ride to get a bird's eye view of the gardens and the dam.

3. Day 1: Dhoni Waterfalls
   1 hour (23 km) from Malampuzha Dam and Gardens

   End your day with a trip to the Dhoni Waterfalls, located in the Western Ghats. The waterfall is a 3 km trek from the parking area and offers a pristine view of nature. The crystal clear water cascades from a height of 15 meters and is surrounded by dense forests. You can also take a dip in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall.

4. Day 2: Silent Valley National Park
   2 hours 30 minutes (92 km) from Dhoni Waterfalls

   Start your second day by visiting the Silent Valley National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to endangered species like the lion-tailed macaque and the Nilgiri Tahr. At the heart of the park lies the Kunthi river, which offers stunning views of the surrounding rainforest. There are also several trekking trails available for adventure enthusiasts.

5. Day 2: Jain Temple, Jainimedu
   1 hour 30 minutes (45 km) from Silent Valley National Park

   Before leaving Palakkad, visit the Jain Temple in Jainimedu. The temple dates back to the 13th century and is one of the oldest Jain temples in Kerala. The temple has rare granite sculptures and intricate carvings.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Palakkad Fort (1 hour, Free)
• Malampuzha Dam and Gardens (2-3 hours, INR 20 entry fee)
• Dhoni Waterfalls (2-3 hours, INR 10 entry fee)
• Silent Valley National Park (4-5 hours, INR 60 entry fee)
• Jain Temple, Jainimedu (1 hour, Free)

Total Estimated Costs: INR 90

Useful tips

If you have more time, you can visit the Kalpathy Heritage Village, known for its annual Ratholsavam festival. You can also go on a food tour to taste the famous Kozhikode biryani and Palakkadan matta rice. If you have less time, you can skip the Jain Temple and spend more time at the Silent Valley National Park or Malampuzha Dam and Gardens. Make sure to wear comfortable footwear and carry sunscreen and insect repellent for your trip.