Start your day with a visit to the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, the highest tea estate in the world. Experience the scenic beauty and learn how tea is grown, plucked, and processed. You can also enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea and chat with the locals. There are many photo opportunities for nature lovers. Try to visit on a clear day to enjoy the panoramic view of the Western Ghats range.
Spend your afternoon exploring the Mattupetty Dam and Lake. This picturesque location is surrounded by lush hills and offers boating and horse riding activities. The dam is a concrete gravity dam and is an excellent place for a picnic with family. You can also birdwatch or hike in the nearby Shola forests. Don't forget to try some locally grown fruits and vegetables.
Start your day with a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spread over 777 sq. km, this sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, and many other rare species. You can go on a jungle safari, bamboo rafting or take a nature walk. There is also a spice garden where you can learn about various spices and their uses. Visiting the sanctuary is an excellent educational experience for all ages.
End your trip with a visit to the Idukki Arch Dam, which is one of the highest arch dams in Asia. This impressive structure is built between two hills and is a concrete gravity dam. It is an excellent place for photography and for understanding the engineering behind constructions. Do check for the dam timings as its closed during monsoons.
If you have more time, you can visit the nearby hill stations of Munnar or Vagamon. If you have less time, skip Mattupetty Dam and Lake. Make sure to carry sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes for your outdoor activities. Do carry some cash as most places do not accept cards. It is advisable to book safari tickets in advance. Beware of leeches during monsoons, particularly in the wildlife sanctuary and land trails in the hills.