Palakkad, often referred to as the Gateway of Kerala, is a charming district known for its rich cultural heritage, sprawling paddy fields, majestic Western Ghats, and ancient temples. Situated at the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Palakkad is an ideal destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and spiritual seekers alike. Whether you’re traveling to explore the famous Palakkad Fort, relax by Malampuzha Dam, or enjoy the lush landscapes of the Western Ghats, reaching Palakkad is both convenient and scenic. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best travel options and routes to reach Palakkad smoothly. Here is How to Reach Palakkad.
By Air: Nearest Airports to Palakkad
Although Palakkad doesn’t have its airport, it is conveniently accessible from several nearby airports. The closest and most frequently used option is Coimbatore International Airport.
Coimbatore International Airport (CJB)
- Distance: Approximately 60 km from Palakkad city.
- Travel Time: Around 1 to 1.5 hours by road.
- Connectivity: Coimbatore Airport is well connected with direct flights to major Indian cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Delhi. It also handles international flights to destinations such as Sharjah, Singapore, and Dubai.
After arriving in Coimbatore, you can hire a taxi, book app-based cabs, or opt for state transport and private buses to reach Palakkad.
Cochin International Airport (COK)
- Distance: About 110 km from Palakkad.
- Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by road.
- Connectivity: Cochin Airport is one of Kerala’s busiest airports, offering numerous domestic and international flight services.
Though slightly farther than Coimbatore, this airport is a good option if you’re combining your Palakkad visit with other destinations in central or southern Kerala.
By Rail: Well-Connected Railway Network
One of the most popular and convenient ways to reach Palakkad is by train. The district is served by two major railway stations:
Palakkad Junction (PGT)
- Location: Olavakkode, about 5 km from Palakkad town.
- Connectivity: Palakkad Junction is a significant railhead on the Southern Railway network, connecting Palakkad with cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Delhi, Ernakulam, Trivandrum, and Mangalore.
- Major Trains: Prominent trains such as the Kerala Express, Kongu Express, Nagercoil Express, and Kanyakumari Express pass-through Palakkad Junction.
- Facilities: The station has waiting rooms, food stalls, parking facilities, and prepaid auto and cab services.
Palakkad Town Railway Station (PTJ)
This is a smaller station catering mainly to local and passenger trains. It is useful for short-distance travel within Kerala.
Traveling by train is an excellent choice as it offers a scenic journey through the lush countryside and the famous Palakkad Gap, a natural mountain pass in the Western Ghats.
By Road: Convenient and Scenic Routes
Palakkad is well connected by an excellent network of national and state highways. Whether you prefer to drive or take a bus, the roadways offer smooth and picturesque routes.
From Coimbatore
- Distance: 55-60 km
- Route: Via NH544 (Salem-Kochi Highway)
- Travel Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Road Condition: The road is in excellent condition with minimal traffic, making it the fastest and most convenient option.
From Kochi
- Distance: 145 km
- Route: Via NH544
- Travel Time: 3.5 to 4 hours
- Road Condition: Well-maintained highway with toll booths and multiple food stops.
From Bengaluru
- Distance: 390 km
- Route: Via NH44 and NH544
- Travel Time: 6.5 to 7.5 hours
- Road Condition: Good throughout, with several rest stops and petrol pumps along the way.
Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) operate regular bus services to Palakkad from cities like Coimbatore, Kochi, Thrissur, and Bengaluru. Private operators also provide luxury AC sleeper, semi-sleeper, and Volvo bus services for longer routes.
For those who love road trips, the drive to Palakkad is a delightful experience, especially when passing through the lush greenery and forested landscapes of the Western Ghats.
Conclusion
Reaching Palakkad is easy and accessible thanks to its strategic location and multiple travel options. Whether you prefer to fly in via Coimbatore or Cochin, embark on a scenic train journey through the Western Ghats, or enjoy a leisurely road trip, Palakkad welcomes you with open arms. Its excellent connectivity makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Kerala’s natural beauty, heritage sites, and hill stations. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the serene charm of Palakkad!