Valparai: Famous Serenity in the Lap of the Western Ghats

Valparai: A Two-Day Trip to Nature’s Paradise, A Quaint Little Town of Tamil Nadu

Introduction:

Valparai Tucked away in the mesmerizing Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, Valparai is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Surrounded by lush green tea estates, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls, offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers. In this blog, we’ll guide you through a delightful two-day itinerary to make the most of your visit to this scenic haven.

Day 1: Immersive Nature Exploration

Morning:

1. 8:00 AM – Arrival :
   Start your journey early to make the most of your first day. Arrive in Valparai and check into your accommodation. Choose a cozy homestay or a nature resort to enhance your experience.
2. 9:00 AM – Balaji Temple Visit:
   Begin your day with a visit to the Shri Ayyappan Temple (Balaji Temple). This serene temple nestled amidst greenery offers a spiritual start to your exploration.

Late Morning:

3. 11:00 AM – Sholayar Dam and Reservoir:
   Head to Sholayar Dam, one of the highest dams in Asia. The breathtaking view of the dam and the reservoir set against the backdrop of the Western Ghats is a sight to behold.

Lunch:

4. 1:00 PM – Lunch in Valparai:
   Choose a local eatery or your accommodation for a hearty lunch. Enjoy the flavors of South Indian cuisine.

Afternoon:

5. 2:30 PM – Explore the Tea Estates:
   Valparai is renowned for its tea estates. Take a guided tour of a tea plantation to witness the tea-making process and enjoy panoramic views of the neatly manicured gardens.
6. 4:30 PM – Monkey Falls:
   Head to Monkey Falls for a refreshing break. The cascading waterfall surrounded by lush greenery provides an ideal spot for relaxation and photography.

Dinner:

7. 7:00 PM – Dinner in Valparai:
   Choose a local restaurant or dine at your accommodation to savor the local cuisine.

Day 2: Waterfalls and Wildlife

Morning:

8. 6:00 AM – Athirapally Waterfall:
   Start your day early for a scenic drive to Athirapally Waterfall, located a short distance from Valparai. Witness the majestic falls surrounded by the tropical Sholayar rainforest.
9. 10:00 AM – Anamalai Tiger Reserve:
   Visit the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Take a guided safari to spot diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, langurs, and various bird species.

Lunch:

10. 1:00 PM – Lunch at Aliyar Dam:
    Enjoy a packed lunch or dine at a local restaurant near Aliyar Dam, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.

Afternoon:

11. 3:00 PM – Nirar Dam:
    Explore Nirar Dam, a lesser-known gem offering a serene environment. The calm waters and lush surroundings make it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.

Evening:

12. 6:00 PM – Return to Valparai:
    Head back to Valparai, enjoying the scenic drive through the lush landscapes.

Dinner:

13. 8:00 PM – Dinner and Relaxation:
    Conclude your day with a delicious dinner in Valparai. Reflect on the memories created during your two-day adventure.

Conclusion:

Valparai, with its pristine landscapes and serene ambiance, promises a rejuvenating getaway. This two-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and wildlife, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this enchanting hill station. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or someone seeking tranquility, Valparai has something special to offer.

Valparai offers a delightful mix of South Indian cuisine:

showcasing local flavors and specialties. Here are some recommendations for good places to eat in Valparai:

1. Hotel Saravana Grand:
   Located in the heart of Valparai, Hotel Saravana Grand is known for its diverse menu that includes South Indian, North Indian, and Chinese cuisines. The restaurant is popular for its vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
2. Bakery Treat:
   If you’re in the mood for baked goods, Bakery Treat in Valparai is a great choice. Enjoy a variety of pastries, cakes, and snacks in a cozy ambiance. It’s an excellent spot for a quick snack or dessert.
3. Hotel Green Hill:
   Hotel Green Hill is a popular dining spot offering a range of South Indian dishes. The restaurant is known for its local flavors and warm hospitality. It’s a good place to try traditional Tamil Nadu cuisine.
4. Kowsiga Hotels:
   Kowsiga Hotels is a local eatery that serves authentic South Indian meals. The menu includes a variety of dosas, idlis, and other regional specialties. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
5. Alankar Bakery and Restaurant:
   For a combination of bakery delights and savory dishes, Alankar Bakery and Restaurant is a good choice. From fresh bread to biryanis, the menu caters to various tastes.
6. Shri Krishna Bakery and Restaurant:
   Shri Krishna Bakery and Restaurant is another popular establishment in Valparai. It offers a range of snacks, bakery items, and traditional South Indian meals. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a comfortable place to dine.
7. Sree Annapoorna Sree Gowrishankar:
   Located near the Valparai Bus Stand, this restaurant serves vegetarian South Indian dishes. It’s a decent option for those looking for a quick and flavorful meal.
8. Hotel Tamil Nadu Restaurant:
   Run by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation, Hotel Tamil Nadu Restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The restaurant is known for its clean and hygienic environment.

While exploring the culinary offerings in Valparai, consider trying local specialties like dosas, idlis, coconut-based curries, and traditional Tamil Nadu meals.

for more: Free Bus Rides for Telangana Women: A New Era of Accessible Transportation

Best Time to Visit

October to February

What is the best thing to buy ?

Valparai is very famous for tea and Coffee and buying local made of tea and Coffee powder is a great idea. Valparai is also well know for spices like cardamom, cloves, pepper,