Nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu, Valparai and Pollachi are two hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These charming towns offer a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, stunning landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. Let’s take a closer look at what these two towns have to offer.
Valparai: A Serene Haven in the Hills
Valparai is a picturesque hill station located about 100 kilometers from Coimbatore. It is known for its tea and coffee plantations, scenic waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. The town is surrounded by dense forests, which are home to several endangered species, including the lion-tailed macaque and the Nilgiri tahr.
One of the main attractions in Valparai is the Aliyar Dam, which is located about 23 kilometers from the town. The dam is a popular spot for picnics and boating, and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Another must-visit spot is the Monkey Falls, a scenic waterfall located about 30 kilometers from Valparai. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular spot for swimming and hiking.
Valparai is also known for its tea and coffee plantations, which cover vast swathes of land in the surrounding hills. Visitors can take a tour of the plantations and learn about the process of growing and harvesting tea and coffee. The estates also offer scenic walks and treks through the tea gardens and surrounding forests.
Pollachi: A Cultural and Ecological Hub
Pollachi is a small town located about 40 kilometers from Coimbatore. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. The town is surrounded by hills, forests, and rivers, and is home to several important temples and shrines.
One of the main attractions in Pollachi is the Topslip Tiger Reserve, which is located about 37 kilometers from the town. The reserve is home to several endangered species, including the tiger, elephant, and lion-tailed macaque. Visitors can take a safari through the reserve and spot wildlife in their natural habitat. The reserve also offers scenic hikes and treks through the surrounding forests and hills.
Another must-visit spot in Pollachi is the Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located about 30 kilometers from the town. The sanctuary is home to several species of mammals, birds, and reptiles, and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Visitors can take a safari through the sanctuary and spot wildlife such as elephants, tigers, and leopards.
Pollachi is also known for its temples and shrines, which are an important part of the town’s cultural heritage. The most famous temple in Pollachi is the Subramanya Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Other important temples in the town include the Arulmigu Masani Amman Temple and the Arulmigu Pollachi Velayudha Swami Temple.