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Guess what? Kerala's majestic Athirapally Falls or Athirappilly Falls made it onto a list of 15 global hot spots. Tourists are flocking there now, all because it has appeared in major movies like Dil Se, Baahubali, and more recently, Param Sundari.

If it's been sitting on your bucket list for quite some time, now is the perfect time to visit it. There are several ways to reach Athirapally to see its stunning waterfall. But we'd advise taking a Valparai to Athirapally road trip because the route is just as scenic as the destination.

Here, we'll take you along this mesmerizing trail, so you know what to expect. Dive in, then!

Pollachi or Chalakudy is Where the Journey to the Tea County Begins

You've got two options to start your trip from. One is Pollachi in Tamil Nadu. The drive from Pollachi to Valparai is about 64 km long. You will climb over 3,500 feet above sea level. Prepare for approximately 40 exhilarating steep drops and hairpin bends.

The Pollachi to Valparai road winds up through narrow paths, steep drops, and hairpin bends that offer jaw-dropping views.

Plan a stop at Loam’s View Point. It is located at the 9th hairpin bend. This vantage point offers incredible photography opportunities.  

Your other option is starting in Chalakudy in Kerala. Chalakudy is closer to the destination, the famous Athirapally waterfalls. The drive from Chalakudy to the falls is only about 40 km. This option is quicker, focusing on the water element.

Choose Pollachi for the slow, historical climb. Pick Chalakudy if your priority is reaching the grand waterfall quickly. Both routes deliver incredible scenic views of South India.

Reaching Valparai, the Land of Tea & Tranquility

Valparai, a wonderful, pollution-free haven, is one of South India's finest hill stations. Sitting majestically in the Anamalai mountains, Valparai's landscape is surrounded by thick forests and green mountains.

The history of Valparai is closely tied to plantation life. In the late 19th century, land was purchased from the Madras State Government. W. Wintil began clearing the forest to establish tea and coffee plantations. Carver Marsh, an experienced planter, helped Wintil a lot, for which he earned the title, "Father of Annamalais".

Tea Estates and Coffee Plantations

The vast, lush tea gardens define the region's natural beauty. These tea estates produce high-quality tea that is exported worldwide. Many of the sprawling tea plantations are enormous, covering thousands of acres.

Don't forget to visit them. You can take a walk through various estates like Glenmorgan Tea Estate. Tours allow you to learn about the entire tea production process.

Many estates produce tea using traditional methods. These involve meticulous hand-plucking of the bud and the top three fresh tea leaves. The leaves are then withered, rolled, and fermented before the final firing. This method emphasizes flavor and high quality.

Other factories use the CTC process (Cut, Tear, Curl). This is a more efficient method often used for making black tea. You can also visit a tea factory and taste some of the local teas.

Some estates offer accommodation, letting guests wake up surrounded by tea plants. While some areas have been cultivated for tea, there are also significant coffee plantations mixed into the landscape.

Magnificent Dams and Waterfalls You Encounter Along the Way

The Valparai to Athirapally road trip is rich with captivating water features.

Starting with major reservoirs, the impressive Aliyar Dam is typically the first major sight from Pollachi. Here, you can walk along the edge of the dam and watch the water flow against a dramatic mountain backdrop. The reservoir here is a popular picnic spot, and if you’re an early riser, the sunrise over the Aliyar hills is a sight to behold.

Farther along the route, you will pass the enormous Sholayar Dam. This structure is one of Asia's largest rock dams. The area around the Sholayar Dam boasts great natural beauty.

As you descend towards Kerala, you will encounter Charpa Falls. This is a seasonal waterfall situated right along the roadside. During the monsoon months, the water flow is incredibly strong. The force is so immense that water often splashes directly onto the route.

These falls are fed by the mighty Chalakudy River. This main river is fed by countless streams originating in the higher hills. The water eventually powers the spectacular Athirapally Waterfalls.

Animals You're Likely to Spot on the Valparai to Athirapally Route

The route passes through the Anamalai Tiger Reserve and Vazhachal Forest Division, home to a rich diversity of wildlife.

The distance is only about 82 km, but the drive takes 3 to 4 hours. This slow pace gives you ample time to observe the dense forests. The route passes through the Sholayar rainforests. This area is one of the world’s most important biodiversity hotspots.

Keep your eyes open for large mammals. You are likely to spot Indian gaur, also known as bison. Herds of Indian elephants are common; they often cross paths. These playful primates are often seen near the check post area, so keep your camera ready but stay at a respectful distance.

The region is the key habitat for the endangered lion-tailed macaque. You can spot them moving through the tall trees. You can also expect to see hornbills, drongos, and kingfishers flitting about. 

The dense forests also hide leopards, civets and a variety of reptiles. The blend of nature, waterfalls, and wildlife makes this route one of India’s most thrilling adventures for nature lovers.

From Valparai's Hills to Athirapally's Waterfalls

The drive from Valparai to Athirappilly is the highlight of the road trip. The route measures roughly 84 km. You begin high in the tea estate landscape of Valparai. Soon, the manicured tea gardens disappear entirely.

The journey transitions abruptly into the thick, untouched rainforest. The road becomes quiet, surrounded by towering trees. This part is essentially a living tunnel of dense forests. You will cross the border between Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The Tamil Nadu side focuses on cultivation, creating beautiful rolling hills. The Kerala side focuses more on raw forest protection, offering a different kind of beauty.

The Roar of the Athirapally Waterfalls

Finally, as you reach Athirapally, the rumble of the falls grows louder. And then, there it is: a curtain of white water crashing down amidst emerald trees.

Athirapally Waterfalls are often nicknamed the 'Niagara Falls of India' due to their impressive size and power. The waterfall plunges approximately 80 feet, creating a huge mist that envelops the area. The immense water flow is sourced from the Chalakudy River.

There is a paved trail, where you can stand right at the top edge of the powerful, rushing water. Alternatively, you can take a trail with steep drops down to the base. Down, you can fully appreciate the height and feel the refreshing mist on your face.

Just 5 km from the main site is a different kind of waterfall, the Vazhachal Falls. Unlike the majestic drop of Athirappilly, Vazhachal Falls is a stepped cascade. It flows over rocky slopes near the forest station.

Vazhachal Falls is a great ecotourism spot to quietly explore. The nearby Thumboormuzhi Butterfly Garden is a quiet place for a peaceful nature walk. This provides a calm contrast to the roar of the larger falls.

Ready to Trade City Noise for the Roar of the Falls?

In the end, the Valparai to Athirapally road trip is more than just a drive through South India’s hills. It’s a journey into the heart of nature, heritage, and timeless charm.

The cool mountain air, winding route through dense forests, and vast stretches of green tea plantations create a refreshing escape from everyday life.

So, what are you waiting for? Fuel up your car and set off on this unforgettable trip that promises a perfect blend of scenery, adventure, and peace.