4-Day Foodie Itinerary in Valparai in July 2023

1. Day 1: Start with Breakfast at Balaji Cafe
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Valparai Bus Stand

   Indulge in local delicacies like fresh idlis, vadas and dosas at this popular South Indian restaurant. After breakfast, head to the Nallamudi Poonjolai viewpoint, a scenic spot offering stunning views of the tea estates and surrounding hills. Afternoon, head to Aliyar Dam, a popular picnic spot where you can enjoy a boat ride, or simply relax by the lake. In the evening, visit the Sholayar Dam, the second deepest dam in Asia, for breathtaking views of the sunset.

2. Day 2: Sample Local Tea and Explore Valparai's Tea Estates
   20 minutes (4.3 miles) from Sholayar Dam

   Start your day with a cup of fresh tea at the Kairbetta estate, one of the oldest tea plantations in the region. After breakfast, explore the tea estates in Valparai through a guided tour. The tour gives you an insight into the tea making process, history of the tea estates and also about the people who work on the plantations. Afternoon, head to the Monkey Falls, a picturesque waterfall perfect for a quick dip. In the evening, visit the Chinnakallar Falls, a hidden gem in Valparai, surrounded by lush green forests and tea estates.

3. Day 3: Taste the Local Cuisine
   25 minutes (6.8 miles) from Chinnakallar Falls

   Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the Annachi Kadai, a popular eatery known for its delicious Parotta and Chicken Curry. After breakfast, visit the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna such as elephants, tigers, panthers and many more. Afternoon, head to Koolangal River, a scenic spot perfect for a picnic. You can also indulge in some fishing or take a dip in the river. In the evening, visit the Karamalai Annai Velankanni Church, a beautiful shrine situated on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

4. Day 4: Visit the Local Market and Valparai Biryani
   15 minutes (2.6 miles) from Karamalai Annai Velankanni Church

   Start your day by visiting the Valparai Market, a bustling marketplace selling fresh produce, spices, and other local products. After the market, head to the Nirar Dam, a serene spot perfect for a morning walk or a jog. For lunch, try the Valparai Biryani at the Hari Mess, a popular eatery known for its spicy biryani. After lunch, visit the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a wide variety of animals including elephants, tigers, leopards, and more. In the evening, take a stroll through the Balaji Temple, a beautiful shrine known for its intricate carvings and stunning architecture.

Recommendations

If you have time, visit the Topslip Tiger Reserve, a beautiful reserve located on the Anaimalai Hills. You can also visit the Thirumoorthy Dam and Falls, a picturesque spot perfect for a picnic. To maximize your fun, try trekking in the Anaimalai Hills, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Don't forget to try the local delicacies like Murukku, Ola Pakoda, and Coconut Burfi.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Balaji Cafe (1 hour, INR 200)
• Nallamudi Poonjolai viewpoint (1 hour, INR 30)
• Aliyar Dam (3 hours, INR 500)
• Sholayar Dam (2 hours, INR 50)
• Kairbetta Tea Estate (2 hours, INR 200)
• Tea Estate Tour (3 hours, INR 300)
• Monkey Falls (2 hours, INR 50)
• Chinnakallar Falls (3 hours, INR 50)
• Annachi Kadai (1 hour, INR 250)
• Anamalai Tiger Reserve (4 hours, INR 500)
• Koolangal River (2 hours, INR 100)
• Karamalai Annai Velankanni Church (1 hour, INR 0)
• Valparai Market (1 hour, INR 100)
• Nirar Dam (2 hours, INR 0)
• Hari Mess (1 hour, INR 200)
• Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours, INR 500)
• Balaji Temple (1 hour, INR 0)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2,680

Check https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for hotel and flight prices.