Palakkad Fort is an old fort situated in the heart of Palakkad town of Kerala state, southern India. It was built by Hyder Ali in 1766 ACE and remains one of the best preserved forts in Kerala. There is a large ground between the Fort and the Palakkad Town hall, known as Kota Maidanam. The ground, which had once served as a stable for the elephants and horses of Tipu’s army, is now used to stage cricket matches, exhibitions and public meetings. An open air auditorium called Rappadi, currently under the preservation of the Archeological Survey of India, is also located within the spacious grounds of the Fort. Additionally, there is a children’s park on one side of the Fort.