Exploring Tamil Nadu: Mayiladuthurai to Valparai Nature and Cultural Route

Day 1: Trichy and Pazhani

Mayiladuthurai to Trichy to Pazhani, India on May 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kumar Mess, Mayiladuthurai

Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast of idli, dosa, and filter coffee at this popular local eatery, known for its authentic flavours.
INR150, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive from Mayiladuthurai to Trichy

Start your scenic 2.5-hour drive southwest to Trichy, enjoying lush landscapes along the way.
N/A, 2h30m

11:30am

Visit Trichy Bird Park

Explore the well-maintained Trichy Bird Park which houses a variety of local and exotic species, ideal for bird watchers and family visits. It is open from 9am to 5pm.
INR50, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Sangeetha Veg Restaurant, Trichy

Savour South Indian vegetarian cuisine, including thali and uttapam, at this clean and popular restaurant.
INR200, 1h0m

2:00pm

Drive from Trichy to Pazhani

Travel approximately 55 km to the famous temple town of Pazhani, perched at the base of the Palani Hills.
N/A, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore Pazhani Murugan Temple

Visit the revered Lord Murugan Temple, an important pilgrimage site famous for its hilltop location and architecture. Open till 7pm.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Saravana Bhavan, Pazhani

Enjoy traditional Tamil cuisine including dosas and sambar, ideal after a day of sightseeing.
INR250, 1h0m

Day 2: Valparai Nature Trail

Pazhani to Valparai, India on May 3, 2025

6:00am

Early breakfast at hotel, Pazhani

Fuel up with a quick breakfast of idli and chai before the day’s long nature itinerary.
INR150, 0h30m

6:30am

Drive from Pazhani to Aliyar Dam

Embark on a 70 km morning drive to Aliyar Dam, a peaceful reservoir nestled in the Western Ghats famous for its scenic views.
N/A, 2h0m

8:30am

Visit Aliyar Dam and surroundings

Explore the dam area including boating and walking trails, open from 8am to 6pm for relaxing and photography opportunities.
INR20, 1h30m

10:00am

Zero Point Check Dam

Stop at the nearby Zero Point Check Dam, a lesser-known serene spot ideal for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts.
Free, 0h30m

10:30am

Kaviyaruvi Waterfalls

Visit Kaviyaruvi Waterfalls within Amboli forest area, enjoy the fresh mist and natural pools; best in early hours before noon.
INR20, 1h0m

11:30am

Hornbill View Point

Drive a short distance to the Hornbill View Point offering spectacular panoramic views of the verdant hills and birdwatching.
Free, 0h45m

12:15pm

Lunch at Waterfall Tea Estate Canteen

Enjoy a rustic lunch overlooking tea plantations, featuring local homemade snacks and tea blends.
INR200, 1h0m

1:15pm

Iraichal Parai Falls

Walk to Iraichal Parai Falls, a stunning location with cascading waters surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for photography and nature walks.
Free, 1h0m

2:30pm

Arrive in Valparai

Check into accommodation in Valparai surrounded by extensive tea gardens and hill scenery.
N/A, N/A

3:00pm

Evening stroll in Valparai town

Explore the local markets and relax after the day’s sightseeing.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Valparai Residency

Dine on local Tamil and Kerala specialties in a cosy setting.
INR350, 1h0m

Day 3: Valparai Extended Nature Tour

Valparai, India on May 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start early with a hearty south Indian breakfast including appam and curry.
INR200, 0h45m

7:45am

Sholayar Dam

Visit the large Sholayar Dam and enjoy the dramatic views of the reservoir and surrounding hills.
Free, 1h0m

8:45am

Nirar Dam and Nallamudi View Point

Proceed to Nirar Dam and then to Nallamudi View Point for breathtaking hill station scenery.
Free, 1h30m

10:15am

Koolangal River and Vellamalai Turn

Explore the serene banks of Koolangal River then stop briefly at the Vellamalai Turn viewpoint.
Free, 1h15m

11:30am

Lunch at local tea estate cafeteria

Sample simple local dishes and fresh tea in a beautiful tea estate setting.
INR150, 1h0m

12:30pm

Loams View Point and Channa Kallar Falls

Visit these popular natural viewpoints and waterfalls, ideal for photographs and short hikes.
Free, 1h30m

2:00pm

Akkamalai Grass Hills and Birla Waterfalls

Spend the afternoon amid grass hills and waterfalls, perfect for nature lovers who enjoy quiet scenic spots.
Free, 1h45m

4:00pm

Relax at hotel

Return to the hotel to rest or explore Valparai town further.
Free, N/A

7:00pm

Dinner at The Silverdale Hotel

Experience a refined dinner combining local and continental dishes.
INR500, 1h0m

Day 4: Temples and Return

Valparai to Mayiladuthurai, India on May 5, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast at the hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for a day of temple visits and travel.
INR200, 0h30m

7:00am

Maasani Amman Temple

Visit the sacred Maasani Amman Temple, known for its spiritual significance and intricate carvings.
Free, 1h0m

8:30am

Topsip Wildlife Sanctuary

Explore the Topsip forest reserve, a haven for wildlife and nature trekking.
INR100, 2h0m

10:30am

Paathala Murugan Koil

Visit this historic and architecturally interesting temple dedicated to Lord Murugan.
Free, 1h0m

11:30am

Start drive to Mayiladuthurai

Begin the approx 5-hour drive back east to Mayiladuthurai, with stops for refreshments as needed.
N/A, 5h0m

4:30pm

Arrive back in Mayiladuthurai

Check-in and relax after the journey, reflect on the nature and cultural experiences of the trip.
N/A, N/A

7:30pm

Dinner at local restaurant in Mayiladuthurai

Enjoy a casual farewell dinner with dishes like fish curry and rice to conclude your Tamil Nadu tour.
INR300, 1h0m