Palakkad Fort

Situated in Palakkad (Palghat) district, Palakkad Fort holds a special place in the history of Kerala. It is a major tourist attraction in Kerala. The fort was under the rule of one of the major rulers of South India Tipu Sultan, the son of Hyder Ali of Mysore, who built the fort. This is the reason why the Fort is also called Tipu's Fort. The fort stands as the symbol of majestic grandeur. It is also famous for the scenic splendor and abundance of natural beauty scattered all around it. The fort is situated at the heart of the town, which reminds the stories of valor of its rulers. Recently, a children’s park was constructed just outside the fort, which has added to its value as an important tourist attraction in Kerala. Tipu’s Fort Palakkad is spread over an area of 15 acres of land. Palakkad Fort is now preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India.

History
Palakkad Fort is considered to be in the same location, since ages. The beautiful fort was built to its present grandeur, by famous ruler Hyder Ali of Mysore. The history before the reconstruction of the fort is less known. According to the historical records, King of Palakkad Achchan used to be a part of the Zamorin. However, with time, he detached himself of the rule of the Zamorins and crafted an independent state for himself. When the Zamorins attacked him, he asked for the help of Hyder Ali, who, knowing the strategic importance of Palghat, gamely took over Palakkad and gained control over the Palakkad Fort too. Since then, the place has always remained under the control of Sultans of Mysore or the British.

Palakkad Fort has seen a number of rulers and has changed hands a number of times. It was taken by Colonel Wood in the year 1768. However, it was recaptured by Hyder Ali within a few months time. The fort was also captured by Colonel Fullarton in 1783 but he soon abandoned it. Later, the Zamorin troops captured it. In1790, the British invaded Palakkad Fort and recaptured it under the leadership of Colonel Stuart. They renovated it and used it as the base for their operations in this part of Kerala. The Fort was continually garrisoned until the middle of nineteenth century. Later in the twentieth century, the Fort was converted into a Taluk office.

Attractions
Palakkad Fort is a unique piece of architecture. It stands at Palakkad telling the stories of a number of battles and bloodshed, which were fought between the native kings and British. There is a large ground situated at the middle of the Fort. This is the ground which once served as the stable for the steeds and elephants, which were a part of Tippu Sultan's massive army. Presently, the ground is being used for sporting activities, such as local cricket matches, and public meetings. There is a small Anjaneya Temple, dedicated to lord Hanuman, inside the fort.

How to Reach

By Road
Reaching Palakkad Fort by road, from nearby districts is the most convenient and the best option. Though Palakkad is a small town, it is well networked with roads. One can easily travel in and around it with the help of public transport. Private transport like taxies is readily available.

By Air
Traveling by air is also a viable option. Peelamedu Airport in Coimbatore is the nearest airport to the fort.

By Rail
The Palghat station is the nearest railway station of the fort, from where one can board trains to many of the important destinations of India.