Valparai to Athirappilly Road Trip: A Scenic Route Through the Western Ghats

As Kodaikanal and Nilgiris face tourism restrictions, more and more people are heading to Valparai, a serene hill station in Tamil Nadu.

Hidden deep in the Western Ghats, it’s often called the “Seventh Heaven” of South India, and for good reason. With its pristine air, mist-covered hills, and endless stretches of tea, Valparai is a paradise for nature lovers who want to step away from the rush of city life.

Along the way, there are plenty of attractions to keep you enchanted, from tea estates and winding forest roads to wildlife-rich reserves.

But if there’s one destination you simply can’t miss, it’s the majestic Athirappilly Falls, often spelt as Athirapally. Since it’s located in Athirappilly, the only way to reach it is by taking a road trip.

Thinking of setting out on the Valparai to Athirappilly road trip? Dive in, for we'll break down what to expect in the scenic routes in the Western Ghats.

Where Does the Journey Begin? Valparai Town

The Valparai town, a charming hill station tucked away in the Western Ghats, is where you'll kick off your journey.

Nestled in the Anamalai Hills, Valparai is a little slice of paradise. The town, sitting over 3,500 feet high, is surrounded by breathtaking green valleys. The cool weather here will instantly refresh your spirits, especially if you're coming from the plains. The morning mist rolling over the hills creates this magical atmosphere that you won't forget anytime soon. 

Valparai is surrounded by endless tea plantations that stretch as far as your eyes can see. The town itself is pretty small, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in character. You'll find cosy cafes, friendly locals, and that peaceful vibe that only hill stations can offer.

But before you hit the road, make sure to visit some of the tea estates around the town. They are absolutely gorgeous and give you a taste of what's coming ahead on your journey.

How Much is the Distance and What to Expect

Valparai is roughly 82 km from Athirappilly. The distance sure is short, but don't consider it a quick dash down the highway. Covering this route can easily take 3 to 4 hours, thanks to the winding roads, multiple hairpin bends, and tempting sites along the way.

This route passes through enchanting dense woods, green valleys, and some of the most scenic locations in India. You’ll be surrounded by tall trees, streams, and chirping birds throughout the ride.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot elephants, lion-tailed macaques, or the rare Malabar hornbill in the forest corridors.

Through the Tea Estates and Hills

Get ready for a magnificent sight! The first part of your trip is a magnificent spectacle, where the rolling hills are blanketed in a vibrant green quilt.

This stretch is one of the most scenic routes in the Western Ghats. The winding roads cut through endless rows of manicured tea plantations.

These are the vast tea estates and gardens, a beautiful display of human cultivation. The smell of fresh tea leaves, the sight of workers carefully plucking leaves, and the sound of chirping birds—it’s a sensory treat you won’t forget.

Many travellers stop in the middle of the route to click photos, walk through the tea gardens, or even chat with local workers. You can do that, too. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the golden glow of the sunset over the hills, which transforms the landscape into a dream setting.

Into the Dense Woods of the Western Ghats

After a while, the manicured tea plantations disappear you enter a thick, silent forest. The air feels even cooler and more humid.

This part of the route passes through the Sholayar rainforests. It is a world of towering trees and thick foliage. The road becomes a living tunnel of dense forests. The quiet is almost surreal after you leave the town behind. You can see rushing streams and small waterfalls along the way.

This part of the journey showcases a different kind of beauty—a raw, untamed display that highlights the sheer power of nature.

Wildlife Hotspots Along the Route

The Western Ghats are known for their rich biodiversity. So, how can you not expect to encounter wild animals in road trip routes that cut through its thick, dense forests and serene valleys?

This road trip passes through regions close to major wildlife reserves. The Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary (also known as the Anamalai Tiger Reserve) and Parambikulam Tiger Reserve are located in the larger Western Ghats landscape. That means you’re never too far from wild animals.

Common sightings include Indian gaur (or bison), sambar deer, and monkeys. You might also spot herds of elephants crossing the road. Leopards and tigers also roam these dense forests, though the likelihood of spotting them is low.

The forest is also a paradise for birdwatchers. Of the nine species of hornbill, four are found here, including the majestic Great Hornbill. The sheer biodiversity is a testament to the region’s extraordinary natural beauty.

Dams and Water Reservoirs

Impressive man-made structures such as dams and reservoirs are also a part of the scenic routes in the Western Ghats.

Aliyar Dam is one of the first major water bodies you'll encounter. The reservoir, surrounded by hills, has a serene atmosphere that makes it a perfect spot for a quick break.

Sholayar Dam is another engineering marvel that you'll come across. This massive structure holds back the waters of the Chalakudy River, creating a huge reservoir that supports the region's hydroelectric needs. The views from the dam are absolutely stunning, especially in the evening when the sun starts to set over the water.

There is also the Nirar Dam. It might be smaller, but it's no less beautiful. The location offers great opportunities for photography, and the surrounding forest makes it feel like a hidden gem that not many tourists know about.

Shift in Scenery as You Enter Kerala

The moment you cross the border from Tamil Nadu into Kerala at the village of Malakkappara, there will be a change in scenery.

The high-altitude tea estates gradually give way to tropical vegetation, making the entire landscape feel even more lush.

The forests become denser, and you'll start noticing different types of trees and plants. The air becomes more humid, and there's this rich, earthy smell that tells you you're entering a different climate zone altogether.

Small villages start appearing more frequently, and you'll pass through areas where people live in harmony with the surrounding nature. Local shops selling fresh tender coconut and seasonal fruits become common sights along the road, offering perfect opportunities to refresh yourself and interact with friendly locals.

The roads in Kerala are generally well-maintained, but the winding nature of the route through these hills means you'll want to take your time and enjoy every moment of the drive.

Athirapally Falls and Surrounding Wonders

Your road trip will bring you to one of India’s most famous waterfalls—the Athirapally waterfalls. Even before you reach it, you can hear the roar of the waterfall.

The Athirapally Falls are majestic, which is why they are often called the Niagara Falls of India. Fed by the Chalakudy River, the water drops 80 feet through several parallel streams.

You can explore the falls from two incredible vantage points. A paved path leads you to the very top, where you can stand right at the edge of the rushing water. For a different perspective, take the steep path down to the bottom to feel the refreshing mist and hear the thunderous roar of the falls.

Don't head back just yet! After you soak in the beauty of Athirapally waterfalls, visit the Vazhachal Falls. It's just 5 km away from Athirapally waterfalls. This waterfall is a great ecotourism spot.

You can also explore the Thumboormuzhi check dam. It is famous for its 'Butterfly Garden'.

A Road Trip You’ll Never Forget

This scenic route through Tamil Nadu and Kerala truly showcases the best of what South India has to offer. It takes you through tea gardens, dense forests, dams, and finally to the roaring Athirapally waterfalls, giving you memories that last a lifetime.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your adventure through this incredible paradise today!