Located at the foothills of Valparai, the Aliyar Dam is a magnificent reservoir encompassed by towering mountains on all sides.

While heading towards the Anamalai Tiger Reserve Entry Checkpost, you will pass by the dam. If you have some spare time, consider visiting the Aliyar Dam Park (prior to the check post). Here, you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the serene surroundings of the dam. Due to time constraints, we unfortunately had to skip this opportunity.

Valparai Waterfalls, also known as the Monkey Falls, is a picturesque natural waterfall nestled amidst rocky cliffs and lush evergreen forests. Conveniently located alongside the main road, there is plenty of parking space available for your vehicle. Additionally, there are well-maintained changing rooms near the waterfall. A nominal fee is required to access this enchanting attraction.

While exploring the Valparai Waterfalls, it is important to be cautious of the monkeys that freely roam in this area. Furthermore, exercise caution while navigating the slippery rocks surrounding the waterfall. Given its proximity to the main road, expect a considerable number of visitors on any given day.

Valparai, known for its famous hairpin curves (a total of 40), offers an exhilarating and thrilling ride starting from Monkey Falls. As you ascend towards Valparai, each curve presents a new and captivating landscape. This was definitely one of the highlights of Day 1 for me.

While navigating through the picturesque Valparai hairpin bends, you'll come across a marked spot known as Loam's View Point (indicated by a signboard). From this vantage point, you can admire the magnificent view of one of the hairpin bends with the stunning Aliyar Dam in the background.

Before reaching Valparai, less than an hour away, take a refreshing break at the Waterfall tea shop. Here, you can enjoy tea and snacks at an affordable price while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Additionally, the shop offers their own tea leaves for sale and nearby is the Waterfall Tea Estate, featuring a small waterfall and restroom facilities.

After this rejuvenating stop, we continued our journey and arrived in Valparai around 1 pm. We checked into our accommodation before heading to town for a delicious lunch.

Our first destination on our trip to Valparai was the Karumalai Balaji Temple, conveniently located just half an hour away. While the temple itself is worth a visit, the journey to get there is equally enjoyable as it takes you through the picturesque Karumalai Estate, a tea plantation.

As you drive along the winding roads surrounded by lush tea plantations, it feels as if you're transported to Munnar. The scenery is breathtaking and offers countless opportunities for memorable photos. Don't miss the chance to capture these beautiful moments along the way.

Valparai is home to a fascinating attraction known as the Valparai Tunnel. This 8 km tunnel, carved through the majestic mountains, serves as a conduit for freshwater between Valparai and a nearby dam. Situated amidst lush tea plantations, this tunnel offers more than just functionality - it boasts a picturesque mini waterfall where visitors can enjoy refreshing showers.

To further enhance your experience, there are also conveniently located shops nearby where you can indulge in light snacks. And when you're ready to explore more of Valparai's natural beauty, head to the Tunnel View Point and make your way back through the scenic Kuzhankal River. This river weaves its way through the enchanting tea gardens, making it a must-visit destination for tourists in Valparai.

When you head towards Athirappilly Waterfalls on Day 2, the first captivating sight that awaits you is Valparai's Sholayar Dam. Located just 20 km away, this tourist attraction is definitely worth a visit, especially during the post-monsoon period when the dam brims with water. The journey to Sholayar Dam itself is a picturesque one as you meander through scenic tea plantations.

In front of the dam, there is a charming little park where you can relax and unwind. Moreover, this spot offers numerous opportunities for capturing stunning photographs.

Before you reach Vazhachal Waterfalls, make sure to stop at the Vazhachal Check Post and present the slip you received at the Malakkappara Check Post. It is crucial not to misplace this slip.

Valparai, our next destination, features the stunning Vazhachal Waterfalls. This waterfall, characterized by its flat and cascading flow, can be observed from within a park. While it is inaccessible for direct visitation due to its steep terrain and continuous water flow, it offers clear visibility from the park's vicinity.

To experience the mesmerizing beauty of Valparai, start by heading to the highest point where you can admire the majestic river cascading down the rocks and disappearing into the lush forest below. Similar to Vazhachal Falls, swimming in the river is not allowed when it's at its peak.

Once you've taken in this breathtaking sight, make your way down the hillside (from the adjacent side) to witness Athirappilly Falls in all its majestic splendor as it rushes from a towering height.

For an unforgettable experience at Athirappilly Waterfalls, plan your visit after the monsoon season when the river is brimming with water. However, be prepared for large crowds during this period.