Valparai is a serene hill station located in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu, nestled in the Anamalai Hills of the Western Ghats. Situated at an altitude of 3,500 feet above sea level, it offers cool weather, lush greenery, and rich biodiversity. Valparai is surrounded by several protected forest areas, including the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, Eravikulam National Park, and Vazhachal Forest Division, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Historically known as Naduvar, Valparai was developed in 1903 by the Annamalai Planters Association. The area’s development began with early planters like Ramaswamy Mudaliar, who established the first coffee estate. In 1875, the British arrived, and the region further evolved under their guidance. A road and guest houses were constructed in preparation for a visit by the Prince of Wales, which later led to the establishment of a British camp at what is now Angalakurichy. Though the Prince never visited, British planters W. Wintil and Nordan purchased land from the Madras Government and, with the help of expert Carwer Marsh, developed it into thriving tea and coffee plantations. Carwer Marsh, often referred to as the “Father of Anaimalais,” is commemorated with a statue at Kavarkal Estate.

The Journey to Valparai

The scenic drive from Pollachi to Valparai is unforgettable, featuring 40 thrilling hairpin bends through dense forests and tea estates. Wildlife sightings are common along the route, including elephants, leopards, deer, lion-tailed macaques, and wild goats.

Valparai Hill Station – Quick Facts

• Location: Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore District
• Access: Via Pollachi or Cochin – Chalakudy – Athirapally Route
• Latitude: 10°13.2′ to 10°33.3′ N
• Longitude: 76°49.3′ to 77°21.4′ E
• Tiger Reserve Area: 958 sq.km
• Altitude: 1,080 meters above sea level
• Average Rainfall: 500–5000 mm (SW & NE Monsoon)
• Best Season to Visit: January and May to December
• Climate: Moderately warm year-round, cooler and misty during November–December
• Summer: Max 25°C / Min 12°C
• Winter: Max 10°C / Min 0°C
• Ideal Travel Season: September to May
• Languages Spoken: Tamil, Malayalam, English
• STD Code: 04253
• ISD Code: +91