Perinthalmanna , a city and Municipality in Malappuram district was the erstwhile capital city of Valluvanad, a princely state of Kerala ruled by Valluvakonathiris, a branch of Pallava Dynasty of ancient Tamil Kingdom. This place got its name from Perumthallu, the local name for fight.
This historical town with great cultural heritage has remained a centre of trading and commercial activity for several surrounding villages. This place has great significance as the East India Company established their first High School, first Court and first Taluk office in here.
Perinthalmanna is known as the city of hospitals. There are 4 super speciality hospital including a medical college and so many other medium and small sized hospitals and clinics. Perinthalmanna is very near to the great Poet Poonthanam home and also the place of famous Communist party Leader E M S Namboothiripad.
Places to Visit in Perinthalmanna
1. Thirumandhamkunnu Temple
Stands atop a hill this is the prettiest temple close to Perinthalmanna. One can enjoy the stunning view of the surrounding countryside from here. The origin of the temple are related to a legend about Lord Siva. There are so many mural paintings in the temple depicting the origin of the temple.
Ramayana is portrayed through the sculptures carved on the ceiling. At the entrance of the temple below the hill is a raised platform called the Chaverthara which is famous as the Chaver Soldiers prayed here before their suicide mission to kill Samoothiri.
2. Mankada Kovilakam
This beautiful kovilakom belongs to the descendants of the Valluvanad Kings. Kovilakom with its Padippura (a shelter at the entrance), teak pillars in the veranda, wooden ceiling, two inner courtyards and amazing architectural beauty is an unusual sight.
3. Jamaat Mosque
The 280 year old Jamaat Mosque has the architectural style of a temple. The mosque with white walls and blue doors amidst the line of old house add charm to the village beauty of the place. This mosque was built under the directions of the Hindu Prana Nambi family. The royal family built it as a sign of their repentance. Because the royal family usurped the property of Muslims and was soon afflicted by an incurable illness.
4. Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal
Kottakkal Arya Vaidyasala is one of the pioneer institutions of Ayurveda in India. Vaidyaratnam P.S. Warrier founded the Arya Vaidyasala in 1902. People from different parts of the world come here seeking Ayurveda treatment.
The Vaidyasala runs an Ayurveda research center, a nursing home, a hospital, an Ayurveda college and a medicinal herbal garden. Ayurveda, India's unique science of life and medicine, has a major role in attracting tourists to Kerala.
5. Nilambur Kovilakam
These are famous tourist attraction with its architectural beauty and historical significance. Kovilakam are the residence of Local rajas who once ruled here. An open ground can be seen from the entrance towards the centre of which is the Vettakkorumakan Temple.
Nilambur Pattu Utsavam, a six day music festival is held here here every year. A Billiards room and an open drawing room lined with pillars are the other attractions of this Kovilakom.
6. Teak Museum, Nilambur
Nilambur Teak Museum, the world's first Teak Museum is a thematic museum housing historical, cultural,aesthetic and scientific aspects of teak. The exhibition also give information regarding the use of teak in their exhibits and articles on the subject. The collection of Bamboo trees on the way to museum adds an extra charm to the place.
7. Kumbham Handicrafts Village
This village located in the hilly corner of Nilambur is a must visit place with its amazing traditional craft forms. One can buy Terracotta furniture, wall hangings, sculptures, tiles and garden accessories from here.
Shopping in Perinthalmanna
Perinthalmanna is the best place to shop for clothes and traditional cream coloured Kerala sarees. Some of the best place for shopping are Firdous Bazaar, Chandam Textiles, Silk Park and Chamayam. For handicrafts and Souvenirs one can go to the DRDA shop.
Places to Stay in Perinthalmanna
There are some standard and luxury hotels and resorts in here. Some of the best staying places are Hotel Sabrina, KPM Residency, Presidency Park in Perinthalmanna and Back Woods and Green Wood Homestays in Nilambur.
Places to Eat in Perinthalmanna
This place is well known for its traditional Malabar Muslim dishes as well as many other options. Non veg cuisines are popular here. KR bakery, Akshata Restaurant, Hotel Presidency and TPDC Garden are some hotels where you can dine.
