Ever feel like escaping the crowds and diving into the soul of a place?
That’s exactly what you’ll find in Chittur and Kollengode, two lesser-known treasures tucked inside Palakkad, Kerala. These spots don’t shout for attention — they whisper history, rhythm, and royalty in your ear. And once you hear it, you won’t forget it. ✨
Located about 15 km from Palakkad town, Chittur is not your average tourist spot. It's a place of spiritual stories, classical music, and ancient temples — where the Bharathapuzha River flows quietly, like it's listening to the prayers and poems in the air.
Thunchan Memorial – The birthplace of Thunchathu Ezhuthachan, father of Malayalam literature. His tiny hut and palm manuscripts still stand here.
Chittur Bhagavathi Temple – One of the oldest temples, famous for its Kumbha Bharani festival.
Cultural Vibe – Expect to hear classical music, temple chants, and maybe even the sweet clang of a chenda (traditional drum).
✨ Sensory Moment: The smell of jasmine flowers, a light breeze, temple bells in the distance — it's like stepping into another time.
Travel a little farther — about 26 km from Palakkad — and you’ll reach Kollengode, once the royal seat of the Kollengode dynasty. Today, it’s a blend of palaces, peaceful streets, and Western Ghats views.
This stunning blend of Kerala and Western architecture was built over a century ago and once served as the king's residence. It’s now a protected heritage building with carved woodwork, long verandas, and the kind of symmetry that screams: Instagram me 📸
💡 Travel Tip: The palace isn’t fully open to the public all the time — check ahead if you want to go inside. But the exterior and surrounding area are still dreamy!
Paddy fields stretching forever
Cool breeze from the hills
Quiet lanes perfect for slow wandering and deep thoughts
You totally can. Here’s a quick plan:
| Time | Place | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Palakkad town | Start your trip, quick breakfast |
| 9:00 AM | Chittur | Explore temples, Thunchan Memorial |
| 12:00 PM | Drive to Kollengode | Scenic drive past villages & fields |
| 1:00 PM | Kollengode Palace | Take photos, walk the palace grounds |
| 3:00 PM | Local tea shops | Chai, pazham pori, peaceful ending |
🎶 Play Carnatic music on the drive — it just feels right.
If you love discovering the soul of a place, you'll also enjoy:
Chittur and Kollengode aren’t flashy. They’re not made for tour buses and loud crowds. They’re for wanderers, story-seekers, and people who want to feel a place — not just see it.
So next time you're in Palakkad, take the road less traveled. Sit by the river, walk through a palace gate, watch the wind in the paddy fields.
Let these towns slow you down. And maybe, just maybe, they'll become part of your story too. 🌾🎶
