Valparai and its Tea Plantations

Almost every rolling slope in Valparai is covered by tea plantations, and those that are not have been left in this natural, forested state because they were deemed unsuitable for tea plants. There is the occasional coffee or cardamom estate, but tea rules supreme in this quaint corner of Tamil Nadu, situated high in Annamalai range of the Western Ghats.

The cool climate, good rainfall, and gentle slopes in Valparai – because they prevent water stagnation in the earth – are perfect for tea. Almost all suitable real estate in the region has been tea plantations for more than a century. Surrounded by the majestic Annamalai Hills, an offshoot of the Western Ghats near the Tamil Nadu border with Kerala, the tea plantations of Valparai enhance the lush landscape.

Forests and Plantations in Valparai

The tea plantations are a sight to behold, especially early in the mornings when the mostly women laborers with net sacks strung on their backs go to work plucking tea leaves. They complete their work in the mornings before the sun climbs too high in the sky. The sea of tea plants around Valparai is punctuated here and there by forests that were left untouched because they were reckoned to be unfit for planting tea.

These forests shelter various forms of wildlife, some dangerous like the snakes and some harmless like the Malabar giant squirrel that is known to clear 50 ft expanses between trees. Elephants and bison survive in packs in these isolated woods which they prefer due to the shade, and occasionally traverse the tea plantations to get to nearby forests. These trespassing, especially those of the elephants which destroy tea plants, are not taken lightly by plantation owners and have led to confrontations, sometimes resulting in material and human losses.

Tea Estates around Valparai in Tamil Nadu

The tea plantations around Valparai are organized in separate estates hundreds of acres in size, and sometimes have accommodations for tourists, allowing them to experience life in these hills in close proximity. The sounds of nocturnal animals make the nights here truly unique. The hills around Valparai also present other priceless sights interspersed between the tea plantations. Various waterfalls and dams, including the Sholayar Dam, dot the area, as well as breathtaking views of the mountains from strategic vantage points.

Valparai is located about 64 km south of Pollachi in the western part of Tamil Nadu. It is situated in the Western Ghats that dominate the southwest coast of the Indian peninsula. The temperate climate and beautiful sights make this tea plantation-dominated town a unique experience.

Anaimalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu

The Anaimalai Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, is located in the Annamalai Hills, an offshoot of the Western Ghats. The forests and grasslands in the Annamalai Hills are home to a spectacular array of animals and plants, many of which are endemic to the region.

Located at approximately 5000 ft above sea level, the Anaimalai Wildlife Sanctuary is a veritable sanctuary for elephants, tigers, gaurs and many other mammals. Some species unique to the region include the lion-tailed macaque, the Malabar giant squirrel, and the Nilgiri langur, all of which are considered threatened species. There are also various species of wild boar and deer here. In addition, at least 250 species of birds can be found in the park, as well as more than 2000 species of plants.


Perfect for trekking, the Anaimalai Wildlife Sanctuary offers spectacular sights, waterfalls, dams, reservoirs, and a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. The Anaimalai Wildlife Sanctuary, and the adjacent Eravikulam National Park are under consideration as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

Pollachi to Valparai Road

An adventure by itself, the journey to Valparai from Pollachi features no less than 40 tight hairpin turns as the road it winds its way around the Annamalai Hills. Breathtaking sights and hair-raising curves are familiar sight in this memorable journey. The 65 km trip takes more than three hours to complete as seasoned drivers maneuver the narrow, challenging road into the hills. There are numerous spots along the way to stop and take in the sights and sounds, which inevitably adds to the duration of the trip.

Sleepy Valparai

The town of Valparai itself is a sleepy town that exists merely as the commercial center for the numerous tea plantations around the area as well as a base for tourists. Bullock carts and tea shops are the mainstay of the quiet, little town where time seems to have slowed down. The natural beauty of this region, is however, simply spectacular.

The tea plantations and the wildlife sanctuaries that border Valparai are very popular tourist destinations, and the misty, cool climate adds to the attraction of the place. Located at 3500 ft above sea level, Valparai is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests that are home to many species of animals and plants.