Majestic fort

[Steve74]

Tourists winding their way to Malampuzha and Nelliampathy usually make a stop to visit the majestic Palakkad fort. Situated on 15 acres of land on the western border of Palakkad town, the fort was built by Hyder Ali, a Muslim soldier-adventurer in 1766.

Hyder Ali succeeded by his son Tipu Sultan were formidable rivals of the British in India. The fort was taken over and modified by the British in 1790. It is now preserved by the Archaeological survey of India.

As you explore the square granite fort with its massive walls and strong bastions in all four corners and in the middle, you are transported back to another era. The entrance was once through a draw bridge which was later replaced by a permanent one.

The spacious ground surrounding the fort known as 'Kotta maidanam', served as the stables for the elephants and horses of Tipu's Army. Today, the sounds of hooves have been replaced with a public address system! The area is used for cricket matches, public meetings, circus and other exhibitions.

Visit the old Anjaneya (Lord Hanuman) temple inside this fort which attracts a good number of devotees. An open air auditorium called 'Rappadi', a sub-jail and a martyr's column are other points of interests in palakkad tourist spots. A children's park near the Fort is a great source of amusement for children.