Thursday, September 28: Exploring the Tranquil Tea Estates
Start your trip by immersing yourself in the beauty of Valparai's tea estates. In the morning, visit the Loam's View Point, where you can behold the breathtaking panoramic views of the lush green tea plantations. Take a peaceful stroll through the Valparai Tea Estate and learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, head to the Nallamudi Poonjolai viewpoint and admire the stunning valley covered in mist. As the evening sets in, visit the Sholayar Dam and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
For breakfast, head to The Bakehouse, a charming bakery known for its freshly baked goods. Enjoy a delicious selection of pastries and breads. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, try The Green Valley Restaurant, a cozy eatery nestled amidst the tea estates. Indulge in a variety of South Indian dishes with a focus on fresh and local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For dinner, visit The Misty Mountains Restaurant, a scenic dining spot overlooking the mist-covered valleys. Savor a range of Indian and Continental cuisines while enjoying the tranquil ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Friday, September 29: Exploring Wildlife and Waterfalls
Embark on a day filled with wildlife encounters and mesmerizing waterfalls. Start your morning by visiting the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Take a guided safari to explore the stunning biodiversity of the park. In the afternoon, head to the Athirappilly Waterfalls, one of the largest waterfalls in Kerala. Feel the mist on your face as you witness the cascading beauty of nature. As the evening approaches, visit the Monkey Falls and unwind in its natural pools.
Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 4 hours
Monkey Falls: Estimated cost - INR 20 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Dumpling Delights: Enjoy a delicious and filling breakfast at Dumpling Delights, located just a short drive from Valparai. Indulge in their wide variety of dumplings, from savory to sweet, and experience the perfect combination of flavors. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Riverside Retreat: For a leisurely lunch by the riverside, head to Riverside Retreat. This charming restaurant offers a serene atmosphere where you can enjoy a delectable spread of local and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Mountain View Bistro: Treat yourself to a delightful dinner with a panoramic view of the mountains at the Mountain View Bistro. This restaurant serves a range of cuisines, including Indian and Continental dishes, prepared with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, September 30: Exploring the Hill Stations
On your last day, explore the captivating hill stations near Valparai. Start your morning by visiting Kodaikanal, known for its picturesque landscapes and serene lakes. Take a boat ride on the Kodaikanal Lake and enjoy the tranquility. In the afternoon, head to Munnar, famous for its tea gardens and rolling hills. Visit the Tata Tea Museum and learn about the history of tea production. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk through the beautiful tea gardens and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature.
Kodaikanal: Estimated cost - INR 500 for entrance fees, Time spent - 5 hours
Munnar: Estimated cost - INR 200 for entrance fees, Time spent - 4 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cloud Street Café, a cozy eatery that offers a range of delicious breakfast options such as pancakes, waffles, and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, dine at Green Valley Restaurant, which specializes in South Indian cuisine. Enjoy a variety of flavorful vegetarian dishes like dosas, idlis, and thalis. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For dinner, try out the Treehouse Restaurant, known for its unique treehouse setting and delectable multi-cuisine menu. Indulge in dishes like grilled steaks, seafood, and authentic Indian curries. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature enthusiasts, Valparai offers some hidden gems and local favorites. Explore the Koolangal River and indulge in bird watching amidst the scenic beauty. Discover the pristine Aliyar Dam Reservoir, where you can enjoy boating and witness the stunning sunset. Don't forget to visit the Balaji Temple, a serene spot surrounded by nature, to seek blessings and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Check here for hotel and flight prices in Valparai.