By the Way to India Travel Desk - verified, current local guidance.
Introduction
Malampuzha is a scenic destination in Palakkad district of Kerala that sits beautifully at the foothills of the Western Ghats and is set amidst dense forests and greenery. It is an ideal tourist spot for a relaxing holiday. Though Malampuzha is best known for its irrigation dam that was constructed in the 50s to feed the rice growing areas of Palakkad district in Kerala, the city is also well known for its beautiful gardens, vast expanses of paddy fields and tranquil hamlets and quaint villages, where life still goes on at a slow pace.
Quick Facts
The tiny township of Malampuzha is named after the River Malampuzha, a tributary of Kerala's longest river, the Bharathappuzha. Malampuzha town is a well-designed town with majestic beauty that takes credit to many green spots, trekking trails and nature reserves where the tourists can beat a retreat from the mundane tasks of daily life.
Best Time to Visit
August to March
Top Places to See
Malampuzha has a long list of tourist places for the visitors. One can also avail the services of a tourist guide to ensure a perfect travel itinerary covering places like Malampuzha Dam, Snake Park and variety of splendid gardens. Sightseeing in Malampuzha offers fun, entertainment and adventure in equal measures. Some of the must see attractions in Malampuzha include the following-
Food & Dining
Most restaurants offer South Indian cuisine and meals. There are snack bars and fast food stalls around for those who wish to have a quick bite. Generally tourists enjoy their meals at the restaurants attached to the hotels.
Shopping
There are many gift shops and novelty stores in Malampuzha where you can buy Kerala handicrafts and carved items. However, Malampuzha cannot be termed as a shopper’s paradise.
Getting Around
By Air: The nearest airport of Peelamedu in Coimbatore is situated 62 km. away. By Rail: Palakkad Junction at the distance of about 10 km. is the nearest railway station. By Road: Malampuzha is connected to all major towns in Kerala through the state run KSRTC bus service. Local Travel: Taxis and auto rickshaws are convenient options to travel around the city
Nearby Places
Some of the must visit places around include: Nelliyampathy: A pristine hill station near Malampuzha, Nelliampathy is situated at a height of 467 to 1572 m. above sea level. The ride along the ghat road punctuated with thick patches and forests of the Sahya Ranges make this trip a memorable experience. Seethakundu offering a bird’s eye of Palakkad is an interesting place too. Silent Valley National Park: Situated at a distance of 78 km., this national park that spread over 89.52 sq. km. is amongst the last remaining tract of evergreen forests in the Sahya Ranges. The last haven of many endangered species like the lion tailed macaques, Silent valley’s actual name is Indira Gandhi National Park. Vehicular traffic is allowed up to Mukkali, 24 km. away from the park. Attappady: A beautiful place where mountains, rivers and forests converge, Attapadi is the home of many ancient tribes like the Irulas and Mudugars. The Malleeswaram Peak, which is revered as Shivalinga by the tribal community is a popular tourist attraction. The whole hamlet bursts into celebration and frenzy during Shivaratri festival.
Accommodation
Hotels in Malampuzha range from budget stays to high range luxury and deluxe hotels. Garden House at Malampuzha, which is perched on a hillock overlooking the dam, offers breath-taking views of the Western Ghats. In case you fancy a relaxing ayurvedic rejuvenation therapy, the Kairali ayurvedic health resort would be a good option.