Bangalore to Palakkad – A Monsoon Road Trip

I’ve always believed I was born for the monsoon. Scratch that. I was literally born in the monsoon, which probably explains my lifelong obsession with rain-drenched getaways. While some people chase summer sunshine or winter snow, I find pure joy in mist-covered hills, chai that tastes better when it’s raining, and watching clouds sneakily swallow entire landscapes.

And when it comes to monsoon magic, Kerala is my perennial weakness. After spending the last two birthdays in Munnar (yes, the hills have officially started recognising me as a regular 😀 ), I decided it was time to give another corner of Kerala a chance. Enter Palakkad – a town on the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border that comes with hills, forests, paddy fields, coconut trees, and just enough charm to lure me in.

Those four days were a delightful blur of Chukku coffee by rain-soaked windows, UNO games that got a little too competitive 😀 , cycling along the dam in the mornings, feasting on fresh fish, and, of course, celebrating another monsoon birthday exactly the way I love – amidst nature and with loved ones. Now, let me take you on a little virtual journey.

Bangalore to Palakkad

We drove from Bangalore to Palakkad. Sush wanted a road trip and 8 hours (on map) did not seem bad. In reality though, it stretched to almost 11 hours for an odd 420 kilometres. Of course this included, breakfast and lunch stops. But the real culprit behind the delay was the unusually busy  highway. It was packed with trucks, making it hard to maintain a decent speed. And the final stretch — the Coimbatore bypass leading into Palakkad — turned into a slow crawl on a narrow two-way road, stuck behind trucks chugging along at 40-45 kms/hr. Let’s just say, I wouldn’t exactly recommend this as the best way to reach Palakkad.

If you’re planning this trip, my advice: skip the drive. Take the train instead. It’s quicker, hassle-free, and the Coimbatore–Palakkad stretch is stunning –  the kind of route that makes you fall in love with train journeys all over again.

Note:

On our onward journey, we followed the route Bengaluru → Krishnagiri → Salem → Avinashi → Coimbatore → Walayar → Palakkad.

On our return Journey we retraced the route through Coimbatore, Salem and Dharmapuri. Due to congestion on NH 44 near Krishnagiri, Google Maps diverted us through the quieter state highways via Palacode and Rayakottai before rejoining the highway at Hosur for the final stretch to Bangalore.

I honestly wouldn’t recommend this route at all. Large stretches of the road are in poor shape. Not just a few bumps here and there, but narrow, dusty, and rough enough to sap all the fun out of driving. 

Accommodation in Palakkad

Choosing where to stay in Palakkad depends entirely on the kind of trip you’re planning and also, who you’re traveling with. If it is a short visit focused on sightseeing, then Palakkad town is the place to be. It’s the most convenient base, with well-connected transport and easy access to market and restaurants. That said, the town is a bit chaotic and let’s say not the most scenic.

If you are looking for a slower, more peaceful retreat (or even a romantic getaway) with a bit of sightseeing on the side, consider staying near the Malampuzha Dam area. The area is insanely scenic and is away from all the hustle and bustle of the city while not being too far from it. Just keep in mind that you will need your own transport, as getting around otherwise can become expensive.

Kollengode is another option that may tempt you with its rural charm and lush surroundings. However, accommodation choices are limited, and it is quite far from the town and other amenities. But if your idea of travel is to slow down, read, write, and take long walks along paddy fields, it might just be the perfect fit.

Where we stayed

We were traveling with our parents and wanted a slow, unhurried vacation where we could spend time together rather than chasing a checklist. It was also my birthday, so we decided to splurge a little on the stay and chose Au Revoir Wellness Resort near Malampuzha Dam. 

Our rooms had balconies opening out to misty hills and the forest. And the infinity pool overlooking the dam quickly became our favourite, despite the water being quite cold. Just outside, the road along Malampuzha Dam made for beautiful walks and easy cycling. The hospitality was great and the food was good. But the service in the restaurant was quite slow. Perhaps because it was close to Onam and they were short staffed. But overall, this stay truly shaped our Palakkad experience. And I would recommend it whole heartedly. 

Best Things to do in Palakkad

There’s plenty in Palakkad to keep you busy for 3–4 days, but I wouldn’t suggest cramming it all into a rigid checklist of “must-dos.” Sure, go see the charming villages, the roaring waterfalls, or the monsoon-swollen dams. But also give yourself time to slow down. Soak in the scenery, take unhurried walks, and savour the comfort of local food. It’s often these small, unplanned moments that end up defining the trip, at least for us.

With that in mind, here are the experiences we loved in Palakkad and the ones you might want to add to your own travel list.

Note: Do not keep a packed itinerary for Palakkad during monsoon. The rain could surprise you anytime. And when it rains, it literally pours (though its beautiful!), sometimes blocking the whole day.

Spend a day exploring the scenic villages – Kollengode and Pallassena

Palakkad’s charm lies in it’s countless picturesque villages. But it is Kollengode that has recently found the spotlight due to social media and rightly so! Picture endless stretches of vibrant paddy fields framed by towering Nelliyampathy hills, with waterfalls cascading down their slopes like silver threads. Kollengode feels like a living postcard. No wonder it has been the backdrop for many Malayalam movies. So spend a day simply driving around the village, pausing at scenic viewpoints, wandering into old temples, and soaking in the slow pace of village life.

While in Kollengode, make time for a hearty Kerala meal at Ayappan’s Hotel. The food is simple, economical, and tasty. But it was the dam fish fry that completely won over my dad and Sush. On your way back, stop by Chellan Chettan’s tea stall. The tea itself may not be extraordinary, but the old-world vibe of the shop carries its own charm and is part of the experience.

I would recommend making a stop at Pallassena too, another lovely village on the way to Kollengode. Here, coconut groves dotting vast paddy fields and narrow winding lanes create postcard-perfect scenes , perfect for a pit stop, a short walk, or some truly frame-worthy photographs. 

Places you can visit on this day:

• Vaamala Ayappan Temple, Pallassena: A short, easy two-minute climb takes you up to this serene hilltop temple. The temple was closed when we visited, but the views from the top and the peaceful surroundings more than made up for it.

• View Point 1, Kollengode: I’m not sure if this spot has an official name, but it’s hands down one of the best viewpoints in Kollengode. To reach, take the path left of Chellan Chettan’s tea shop towards the old granary –  and there it is, opening up to an insanely gorgeous vista. Just keep in mind that the approach road is narrow and a bit rough for cars. I literally had to get down and help a shepherd move his goats to the side for our car to pass. Got a shy Thank You and lots of love from the guard dog who left his guarding duty immediately for some petting 😀 .

• Kudilidam, Kollengode: A private property tucked among the paddy fields. It’s set up with quirky props for photos and has become a hotspot for people looking for the perfect photo or videos. The ticket cost is nominal, and the setting is gorgeous. That said, my heart still leans towards the first viewpoint. It had no props, no crowds – just us, the quiet and the stunning landscape.

If you have time after this, you could also visit a few more places in the vicinity.

• Chinganchira Karuppuswamy Nature Temple: This is unlike most temples you come across. As the name suggests, the shrine is set amidst natural surroundings beneath the sprawling canopy of a huge banyan tree. Locals often bring live chickens and goats as offerings to the deity.

• Seetharkundi Warerfall: Needs a bit of trek or walk through the forest to reach the waterfall. The waterfall is beautiful, but the road may not be great during rainy season. So approach with caution.

Know before you go

• Kollengode has become quite popular on social media recently, so weekends can get surprisingly crowded. If possible, plan your visit on a weekday for a quieter and more relaxed experience..
• Food options in and around Kollengode are limited. So plan accordingly and carry some snacks.
• Start early in the day to cover more places comfortably.

Enjoy a ropeway ride over Malampuzha Dam

This was one experience I was truly looking forward to in Palakkad, and it certainly did not disappoint. Gliding slowly in a ropeway chair over the Malampuzha Dam gardens, with the sight of water gushing below at one point was an absolute delight. It’s easily the best way to take in aerial views of the dam, the hanging bridge, and the beautiful surroundings. And all at a very affordable price. The ride is long enough to enjoy the scenery, carrying you to one end and then back the same way. What made it even more special was that my parents enjoyed it just as much.

Cable car ride ticket – INR 70 per person

Getting on and off the ropeway chair is a bit dicey, especially with children and elders. Because the chairs do not stop for boarding or getting down. You have to be fast and get on or off quickly before the chair moves. And it feels a bit risky. The staff are supportive, yet be careful and decide as per your situation.

Once you get off the ropeway, spend some time strolling around the beautiful garden. Or just find a spot under the trees and relax. There are also steps leading up to the dam wall for better views of the reservoir. However, the climb can be a bit difficult for elderly visitors or those with arthritis. To be honest, we personally enjoyed better panoramic views of the reservoir from near our stay.

Note: The entry to the dam garden is located a little away from the ropeway station. So, after your ropeway ride, walk or take your vehicle (from ropeway parking) to the dam parking and then enter the garden. The good thing is that the same parking ticket is valid for both areas.

Food: There are only smaller local eateries and snack shops to eat near the dam area (many serving fresh dam fish), but no proper restaurants. So plan your visit accordingly.

Visit the unique rock garden

The Malampuzha Dam area has several attractions, but the Rock Garden was the one that truly took us by surprise. Though underrated, it turned out to be a gem we were glad not to miss, even when running late. The garden is filled with artistic sculptures crafted from unusual materials like broken ceramics, bangles, mirrors, and more – not just rocks. And walking through its maze-like pathways is quite playful and immersive, with photo opportunities galore. It’s a fascinating spot in Palakkad, and we absolutely loved it. Plan to spend about 45 minutes to an hour here.

Entry Fee –  50 Rs

Explore around with a bicycle

When you’re in Palakkad, nothing beats a morning cycle ride through its emerald countryside – the perfect way to experience its unfiltered magic. Here winding paths lead to gorgeous view points and verdant hills ensconced in clouds stretch out like a watercolour dream. And when you’re someone who spent a decade cycling to school and college (that’s me!), it feels like going back in time, only with far better views 🙂

I was so happy to see my parents just as enthusiastic about cycling. After breakfast, we would set off together, pedalling through the lush lanes and ending up at a lovely viewpoint. It was a wonderful way to have fun, relive childhood memories, and burn a few calories too! Staying close to the Malampuzha Dam turned out to be a big plus, as the trail ran alongside the vast, serene reservoir on one side and lush plantations on the other. Now that’s what I call a scenic route.

Drive around the countryside

If you have a car, then just take the wheel and drive around Palakkad’s countryside roads. The lanes are narrow, but the views are as pretty and expansive as they come. The roads weave through idyllic villages, lush paddy fields and emerald ponds, with misty hills often lingering in the distance. And you may get to spot a peacock or two if you are lucky. I felt the happiest when we drove around with nowhere particular to be and wished we could do this all day.

Try Chukku Coffee and Local Cuisine

I am going to be very honest. Chukku coffee is my next favourite after South India’s famous Filter Coffee. I remember tasting it for the very first time in Wayanad years ago and being a fan of it instantly. So much so that I drank only that mornings and evenings, leaving my regular Ginger tea. And even bought a pack back home. So I was really happy to see that again at our Palakkad hotel. And this time my mom fell for it 🙂 . Somehow it tastes even better with the pitter patter of the rain outside. So, don’t come back from Palakkad without trying Chukku Coffee.

Fun Fact: Chukku coffee, also known as Suku Malli coffee is actually a herbal decoction with dried ginger, coriander and few other spices and yes, no coffee.

Other places you could visit

There are a few other places in Palakkad that we wanted to visit. But rain ate up one day and we did not want to make the other days hectic. If you have time, then here are a two more places you can consider visiting.

Kalpathy Heritage village

Kalpathy heritage village looks like its frozen in time with rows of traditional tiled houses lining the streets. It is one of the oldest Tamil Bramhin settlements in Kerala. The village also has Vishwanatha Swamy temple which is hundreds of years old and is famous for its renowned chariot festival (Kalpathy Ratholsavam). Visit the village early morning or in the evening for the best experience.

Kava Island

Kava is a very scenic place by the backwaters of Malampuzha dam, with lush hills in the backdrop. Perfect for a relaxing picnic or watching the sunset. This is just a few minutes drive from the Malampuzha dam. So you can visit both at one go.

Make memories with loads of pictures

When it comes to capturing moments in the camera, I am never a reluctant person. And places like Palakkad offer picture opportunities at every turn. So bring your camera gear, don your favourite dress and smile 🙂 . 

Packing for Palakkad Monsoon

• Rubber or Plastic sandals: You will need these for outdoors. They dry fast and are so handy for sloshing around in the rain.

• Breezy clothes, but keep it vibrant and funky: Palakkad was cool during the rain, but as soon as rain stopped or sun peeked a little bit, it got hot and humid. Opt for linen and cotton comfort fits. Loose t-shirts, pants, even shorts are good options. Lightweight jeans are okay. Ladies, don’t forget to throw in a few bright colour clothes to pop in the pictures 🙂 . I would recommend avoiding clothes too short or revealing on your visit as you will be visiting villages and temples.

• Junk jewellery and accessories: What’s a trip without some boho charm? Throw in a few chunky earrings, bracelets, or fun hair ties. They instantly lift your travel look and mood. We all need those nice travel pics, don’t we! 

• Raincoat, umbrella: Absolute must for monsoon trips – no debate there.

• Road trip munchies: Or I get bored and start eating other’s brains 😀 . If you are someone like me, definitely carry some munchies.

• Games: For the times you cant go out. We played Uno and chilled in the room when it rained the whole day on one of the days.

• Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Carry a good sunscreen with SPF 50 or above. And a good pair of sunglasses. The sun’s mood in Kerala is like “let me toast you a bit” 😉

• Refillable water bottle: Let’s try not to add more plastic to our already burdened planet. Carry a reusable water bottle or two and refill them at your accommodation before heading out on day trips.

Conclusion

Palakkad was all that we needed as a family – relaxing time, good food and endless greenery to sooth the eyes. And the wide smiles in our photos are proof that everyone carried a little piece of Palakkad’s calm back home.

So if the monsoon ever calls you, let it lead you to Palakkad, where the rain paints the fields greener, the hills wear a soft mist, and time slows down just enough for you to savour every moment.

Read about more such beautiful destinations in India, read our other blogs here.