A trip to Valparai had been on my mind for a long time. Set in the cradle of Anaimalai Hills in the Western Ghats, Valparai is a paradise for nature-lovers. My family and I belong to that same lot. Hence, I knew that a road trip from Kochi to Valparai was a must. Within a month after my exams, we decided it was time to make use of the weekend.
Valparai is 162 km from Kochi via Athirapally-Chalakkudy road. But it had some worthy attractions en-route as well. Therefore, this was going to be a long journey with quite a few pit stops. The roads of this enticing trip are narrow and shadowed by thick, luscious forests on both sides. It has a lot of hairpin bends on the way too, which meant self-driving through the entire weekend was going to be exhausting. Dad inferred that we should rent a car in Kochi with an experienced driver so everyone could bond with nature well. They were no better reliable options than Savaari with their chauffeur-driven cars. So I was beyond happy to be relieved of the designated driver’s duty!
The Enchanting Beauty of Valparai
Valparai, situated at an elevation of 3,500 feet above sea level, is part of the Anamalai mountain range. Unlike commercialized hill stations, Valparai retains an untouched charm with its sprawling tea and coffee plantations, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls. The cool climate, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 25°C, makes it an ideal destination throughout the year.
The town is home to several endangered species, including the Nilgiri tahr and lion-tailed macaque, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. The Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, located nearby, provides an opportunity to explore the region’s rich flora and fauna. Trekking through the evergreen forests reveals breathtaking viewpoints like Monkey Falls and Nallamudi Poonjolai, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
A Journey Through Tea and Coffee Plantations
Valparai’s economy thrives on tea and coffee plantations, with vast estates stretching across the hillsides. Many estates, such as the Parry Agro Industries and Tata Tea plantations, allow guided tours where visitors can witness the plucking of tea leaves and the intricate process of turning them into the final product.
Walking through these plantations, especially at dawn when the mist blankets the fields, is a surreal experience. The fresh aroma of tea leaves, coupled with the sight of workers skillfully harvesting them, adds to the region’s rustic appeal. Coffee lovers can explore estates that grow Arabica and Robusta varieties, often enjoying freshly brewed cups straight from the source.
We started our journey early in the morning. We didn’t want to miss out on our chance to spot wildlife on the way. The cool breeze from the car window suffused all over as we sat comfortably in our seats. The drive through the picturesque countryside of Kerala left us awestruck. The trail meandered through lush flora of palm, coconut, and areca nut trees as we inched towards our destination a kilometer by kilometer, we encountered a tempting water torso, covered with lush green bushy gardens, it felt like a heavenly hearth on earth.
The villages we left behind intertwined with the environment around them, in perfect harmony with nature. Our next stop was Athirapally Waterfalls. As we trekked to the base of the waterfall, ubiquitous monkeys greeted us. Once we reached the fall, the site of milky-white water cascading down had us thrilled. After this exhilarating experience, our Savaari driver suggested we savor fresh fish from the Vazhachal river.
Wildlife and Nature Trails
Valparai is a biodiversity hotspot, home to diverse wildlife species. The reserve shelters elephants, leopards, gaur, and over 250 species of birds, including the rare Great Indian Hornbill. For those seeking adventure, treks to places like Grass Hills and Chinnakallar Falls provide thrilling experiences. Grass Hills, a rolling meadow located at an altitude of 8,000 feet, offers stunning views of the Nilgiri Hills. Chinnakallar, one of the highest waterfalls in the region, cascades from a height of 300 feet, creating a mesmerizing spectacle during the monsoon.
Back on the road, our journey forward was through the forest. The beautiful, thick jungle on either side of the road with birds chirping around was very relaxing. As we drove further, the route became narrower, curvier, and bendy. At one time, our Savaari driver pulled over to one side and pointed a group of majestic elephants passing nearby. Spotting them was a real boost of adrenaline. This tour felt like we reached our destination that we craved for so long. To book a cab from Kochi to Valparai was the best decision we had made. I could not imagine driving on these dense roads and halting at the right time. Our courteous chauffeur had caused our trip to be hassle-free.
As our Savaari drove further the trees on our way carved a beautiful canopy adorning our roads as well as our journey. The scenery seemed straight out of a tropical postcard. The forest gave way to tea/coffee plantations. It laid over vast stretches of land, as far the eye could see. Within a few minutes, we were in the hilly town of Valparai. We reached our tea-estate bungalow, which was surrounded by thick trees. For the night, we decided to rest in a wooden chalet that was overlooked by hazy mountains.
Aliyar Dam: A Scenic Reservoir
Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, the dam is a perfect spot for picnics and leisurely walks. The well-maintained gardens, boating facilities, and children’s park make it a family-friendly destination.
One of the highlights of Aliyar Dam is the picturesque view of the Anamalai Hills reflected in its calm waters. The dam also serves as a crucial irrigation source for the nearby agricultural lands. Visitors can enjoy a serene boat ride, capturing the scenic beauty of the surroundings. The adjacent monkey point is another attraction where playful monkeys often interact with tourists.
The next morning was a mist-covered divinity. As we took a stroll around the plantation, not interrupting nature, we saw several birds, including the Great Indian Hornbill. Soon, we boarded our Savaari to explore the famed Parambikulam – Anaimalai Tiger Reserve. We took an eco trip van safari to Kozhikamuthi Elephant Camp. On our way, we checked out the Kannaimara Teak Tree, which is a 460-year-old tree worshipped by the tribals. The rainforest was oozing life, but we knew we had struck lucky when we finally spotted a tiger in the depths of the jungle. This exhilarating experience proved why this place is called a hidden wildlife jewel of South India.
This “7th Heaven” had more scenic beauty in the store, though. We visited Aliyar dam next. The calm Aliyar river, against the backdrop of foggy mountains, took our breath away. We relished fresh fish for lunch at a local eatery after having plunged in the natural beauty of Valparai the whole day.
Best Time to Tour
Valparai and Aliyar Dam can be visited year-round, but the best time is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. The monsoon season (June to September) transforms the region into a lush paradise but may restrict outdoor activities due to heavy rainfall. Summers (April to June) are mild, making it a good time for wildlife spotting.
How to Reach Valparai?
Valparai is well-connected by road, with the nearest major town being Pollachi (about 65 kilometers away). Coimbatore International Airport is the closest air hub, located approximately 100 kilometers from Valparai. Regular buses and private taxis ply between these destinations, ensuring convenient travel. The nearest railway station is Pollachi Junction, which connects to major cities in Tamil Nadu.
Local Cuisine and Accommodation
The cuisine in Valparai is a delightful mix of traditional Tamil flavors and Kerala influences. Local eateries serve delicious South Indian meals, including idli, dosa, and fluffy appams with stew. Freshly brewed tea from the plantations is a must-try, offering a distinct flavor unique to the region.
As the evening drew, so did our time to head back home. Soon, we were back on the roads again, and a familiar tune greeted us. Having rented a comfortable car with a competent driver had assured we could enjoy this trail again and will be home safely. As I devoured my eyes with a magnificent Valparai sunset, it reminded me how the end of a journey could be so beautiful.
Preserving the Natural Heritage
Efforts are being made to promote sustainable tourism in Valparai to protect its fragile ecosystem. Visitors are encouraged to minimize plastic usage, stick to designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife. The local community plays a vital role in conservation, ensuring that Valparai’s beauty remains unspoiled for future generations.
Conclusion
Valparai and Aliyar Dam are hidden treasures in Tamil Nadu, offering a perfect escape into nature’s lap. Whether it’s exploring tea estates, trekking through wildlife-rich forests, or simply relaxing by the dam, these destinations provide an unforgettable experience. With its serene ambiance and breathtaking landscapes, Valparai stands as a testament to the untouched beauty of the Western Ghats.
