Tipu's Fort / Palakkad Fort

Historical

Photo Credit: Flickr

Distance (From Palakkad Railway Station): 2 Kms

Trip Duration (Including Travel): 1 Hour

Transportation Options: Bus / Cab / Auto

Travel Tips: None

At a distance of 2 km from Palakkad Railway Station, Tippu's Fort is an ancient fort situated in the heart of Palakkad town in Kerala. It is one of the best preserved heritage forts in Kerala, and among the must-visit places during Palakkad trip.

Also known as Tipu's Fort, Palakkad Fort is believed to have existed since ancient times, but the present form of the fort was constructed by the great ruler of Mysore, Haider Ali in 1766 AD. Named after Hyder's son Tipu Sultan, it was under the Mysore rulers until the British took control of the place in the year. Later, it was converted into a taluk office in the early 1900s. Now, the fort is protected & managed by the Archeological Survey of India.

Spread over an area of 60,702 sq. m, Palakkad Fort is immensely famous for its architecture, which displays the efficiency of the French craftsman. This square-shaped fort is supported by walls and bastions. Earlier, the entrance to the fort was via a drawbridge, which has now been replaced by a permanent one in its place. There is a large ground between the Fort and the Palakkad Townhall, known as Kota Maidanam which is now used to stage cricket matches, exhibitions, and public meetings.

An open-air auditorium called Rappadi is also located within the spacious grounds of the Fort. The Palakkad Fort also houses some other smaller attractions such as the Hanuman temple, Martyr's column, Anjaneya Swami Temple, Vatika Shilavatika (a garden), and a sub-jail. The fort is considered one of the famous Palakkad sightseeing places.

Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM

Entry: Free, Rs. 20 for Camera, Rs. 50 for Video