Valparai Athirappilly Itinerary: How to Plan the Perfect Weekend Trip

Looking for an escape from the daily grind, but can't go on a vacation for long? Weekend getaways fit the bill.

Weekend getaways are a great way to improve your mental and physical health. They help reduce stress, prevent burnout, and boost your mood by offering a change of scenery and routine. Just two days in a refreshing destination can recharge your energy levels and give you the clarity you’ve been craving.

Can't decide where to head for your weekend getaway? A Valparai-Athirappilly road trip would be great. It combines the misty hill station charm of Valparai with the thundering beauty of Athirapally Falls.

Here, we'll break down the Valparai itinerary, so your two-day escape turns into an unforgettable trip.

Day 1 – Pollachi to Valparai

Kickstart your weekend road trip from Pollachi town in Tamil Nadu early in the morning, so you get plenty of time to soak in the scenic beauty along the way.

The distance from Pollachi to Valparai is about 65 kilometres. The route, a thrilling drive with over 40 hairpin bends, offers a panoramic view of the Western Ghats. You will see windmills lazily turning in the distance.

You'll encounter many viewpoints on the way, so the drive to Valparai town will take a little longer. Of the many viewpoints, the ones worth stopping at are:

Aliyar Dam

Roughly 25 kilometres from Pollachi is the Aliyar Dam. This dam, officially opened in 1962, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Anaimalai Hills.

It’s a great scenic place for a quick morning stop. You can take a short walk to the top of the dam or a boat ride if time permits. The water levels make the dam even more beautiful in the rainy season. So, you're in for a treat if you travel in the monsoon season.

Monkey Falls

About 6 kilometres further up, you'll hit Monkey Falls. And yes, you might actually spot some monkeys here. So, keep your belongings safe!

The falls are right by the roadside, so you can dip your feet in the cool water. During monsoon season, the water gushes down with force, creating a beautiful sight.

Sholayar Dam

From Monkey Falls, the road will take you through endless tea estates to the massive Sholayar Dam.

Consisting of the main Soliayar Dam, it is actually one of the second-largest rock dams in Asia. Its size and engineering are truly impressive.

Don’t miss the Sholayar Saddle Dam and Sholayar Flanking structures on the other side. They are part of the same complex and together form a remarkable network that supplies power and water to the region. The dam, surrounded by forests and scenic beauty, is one of those scenic landscapes that leave you in awe.

Valparai Town and Tea Plantations

You should reach Valparai town by noon. This hill station, tucked into the Anaimalai Hills, is located at around 3,500 feet.

Known for its cool weather, misty mornings, and sprawling tea plantations, Valparai is no less than a paradise for nature lovers. So, pause and soak in the natural beauty.

Spend some time walking through the tea estates, and it will feel like a step back in time. You’ll see workers plucking fresh tea leaves.

For lunch, stop at a cosy hotel in Valparai town and fuel up. South Indian meals here are delicious and pocket-friendly.

For the night, plan an overnight stay in one of the many quaint hotels or homestays. Choose one that overlooks the mountains and valleys for a good view of the mist drifting over the Western Ghats.

Enjoy a warm dinner, sip on freshly brewed tea, and get ready for the next leg of your journey.

Day 2: Valparai to Athirapally Falls via Kerala Border

Get ready for the highlight of your weekend road trip. That is, the stunning Athirapally waterfalls.

This leg of the Valparai itinerary is nothing short of pure bliss. You’ll drive past scenic landscapes, cross the Kerala border, and encounter pristine forests that feel untouched by time.

But before you reach Athirapally falls, you’ll pass smaller gems, where you must consider stopping. They are as follows:

Nirar Dam

On the second day, start fresh by visiting the Nirar Dam, which is around 16 km from Valparai.

It’s a main dam built for irrigation and power generation, surrounded by pristine forests. The calm waters and natural beauty make it a must-visit, especially in the morning hours when the mist hangs low over the water.

The highlight of the journey is crossing the 8 km-long tunnel that links Nirar Dam to Solaiyar Dam. Built primarily for irrigation and hydroelectric power, the Nirar Dam plays a vital role in the region.

Forest Check Post at Kerala Border

You'll need to stop at the forest check post when crossing into Kerala. 

Don't worry; it's just a routine check post where officers will note down your vehicle details. The officials are usually friendly, and this is also a good spot to ask about current conditions ahead, especially during the monsoon season.

This area is part of the Anamalai Tiger Reserve. So, keep your eyes peeled; you might spot endangered species like the lion-tailed macaque. Drive slow, though. The road is an active wildlife corridor. You will be sharing it with elephants and leopards.

Crossing the small bridge that marks the border, you’ll notice a change in landscape as the Western Ghats open up to the lush greenery of Kerala.

Charpa Falls

Just past the border, on the way to Thrissur, you’ll come across Charpa Falls. This is a seasonal waterfall right on the roadside, making it a perfect quick stop.

In the monsoon season, the falls are so strong that water splashes onto the road, and tourists can enjoy the misty spray without even leaving their vehicles.  

Athirapally Waterfalls

In about 15 minutes, you'll arrive at your destination—the mighty Athirapally waterfalls.

Situated in the Thrissur district, these falls are often called the ‘Niagara Falls of India’ because of their size and power. The Chalakkudy river plunges 80 feet, creating mist and roar that leave everyone mesmerised.

What makes this place even more special is its ecosystem. The surrounding forests are home to many endemic species, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

If you walk down to the base, you’ll feel the misty spray on your face, while the panoramic view from the top gives a different perspective of the scenic beauty. You can also visit the nearby Vazhachal Falls if time permits.

Travel Tips to Make Your Weekend Road Trip a Smooth One

Planning this trip doesn't have to be stressful. Here are some practical tips that can make your trip a smooth one:

1. Fill your tank in Pollachi or Valparai town. Gas stations become sparse once you're deep in the hills.

2. Carry some snacks, but keep them safely, especially around Monkey Falls, where monkeys are active.

3. Keep cash handy as small eateries and shops near the Valparai bus station and Valparai town may not accept cards.

4. Don't forget to pack layers. Morning temperatures in the hill station can be quite cool, especially if you're visiting during the winter months. By afternoon, you might want lighter clothes.

5. Check timings at each dam; some close by evening and only allow visitors during day trip hours.

Now Go! Book Your Valparai-Athirappilly Adventure 

This weekend road trip combines the best of both Tamil Nadu and Kerala's natural wonders.

It takes you from Valparai's misty tea plantations to the thundering Athirapally waterfalls, with every moment offering something special for nature lovers. The journey through the scenic Western Ghats is so captivating, you'll want to do it again.

So, if you’re a fan of natural beauty, love tea, and crave scenic places that combine hills and waterfalls, this Valparai itinerary is your calling.

And if you're finding it overwhelming to plan the trip yourself, Exoticamp's Valparai x Athirappilly: Luxury Stay & Bucket List Road Trip is worth considering. More than just a weekend getaway, it’s an experience stitched together with misty hills, endless tea plantations, and the roar of iconic waterfalls.

With luxury stays, private drives, and curated local touches, this trip balances comfort with adventure.