Start the day with a drive to the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, a vast protected area of dense forests, lakes, and rivers. Take a guided jeep safari to see the wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and many bird species. Then, you can take a trek to the Top Slip viewpoint for a stunning panorama of the entire valley. The sanctuary also offers boating activities on the Parambikulam Lake and bamboo rafting on the Thunakadavu Dam.
Spend the next day exploring the beautiful Nelliyampathy Hills. Visit the Kesavanpara View Point for a breathtaking view of the valley and lush green forests. Head to the Seetharkundu View Point to witness the magnificent waterfalls cascading down the slopes. You can also take a walk in the Pothundy Reservoir and enjoy the scenic beauty of the tea gardens around the area. End the day by visiting the Palagapandi Estate, a historic bungalow and tea factory that offers tours to the visitors.
If you have extra time, you can include a visit to the Silent Valley National Park, which is located nearby. However, it remains closed during the monsoon season, so check the dates before planning a trip. Alternatively, you can also spend more time at the Nelliyampathy hills, exploring other viewpoints such as Raja's Cliff and Padagiri. For those with less time, you may want to skip the Palagapandi Estate tour and spend more time at the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary instead.