Anand Mahindra reveals hidden travel spot in Tamil Nadu that's like 'Munnar 30 years ago': How to visit, best time and more

Anand Mahindra has spotlighted Valparai, a lesser-known hill retreat in Tamil Nadu, as a hidden travel gem at a time when overcrowding and traffic congestion are affecting many of India's most popular tourist destinations. Sharing photographs of the scenic destination, known for its sprawling tea estates, lush rainforests, winding mountain roads and diverse wildlife, Mahindra described Valparai as an ideal escape for travellers seeking to experience nature away from the crowds.

"But India is vast. And there is no shortage of beautiful destinations that remain relatively undiscovered. So do share your hidden gems with me and I’ll try to amplify them here. To start with: Valparai. Tamil Nadu From these photographs, it looks like the Munnar many of us wish we had seen 30 years ago," said Anand Mahindra in a post on X.

Check Anand Mahindra's post here:

Nestled at an elevation of around 3,500 feet above sea level in the Anamalai Hills of the Western Ghats, Valparai is emerging as one of Tamil Nadu's most picturesque yet lesser-known tourist destinations. Despite its remote setting and rustic charm, the hill town is well connected and offers visitors a tranquil escape amid nature.

Attractions Around Valparai

The region is home to several scenic and spiritual landmarks that attract visitors throughout the year. Popular places to explore include:

• Upper Sholayar Dam
• Nirar Dam
• Aliyar Dam
• Monkey Falls
• Balaji Temple (Karimalai)
• Velankanni Church (Karimalai)
• Pancha Mugha Vinayagar Temple (near Sholayar)

A Paradise for Wildlife Enthusiasts

Valparai is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The surrounding forests and grasslands serve as a habitat for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, making the region particularly attractive to trekkers and eco-tourists.

A major attraction is the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors may spot lion-tailed macaques, barking deer, wild boar, Nilgiri langurs and common langurs in their natural habitat.

Birdwatcher's Delight

The hill station is also renowned among birdwatchers. Several rare and endemic species can be spotted in the area, including:

• Great Hornbill
• Malabar Pied Hornbill
• Grey Malabar Hornbill

The rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats makes Valparai one of the most rewarding destinations for birding enthusiasts.

Chinna Kallar: Land of Mist and Waterfalls

A visit to Chinna Kallar is considered a must for travellers heading to Valparai. Surrounded by thick forests, the destination is known for its scenic waterfall reached via a narrow, winding trail.

Chinna Kallar receives one of the highest levels of rainfall in India and is often enveloped in mist, creating a magical landscape of dense greenery, flowing streams and cascading water. The tranquil surroundings make it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Best Time to Visit

Valparai can be visited throughout the year, although the post-monsoon and winter months offer pleasant weather and lush green scenery.

How to Reach Valparai

By Road

• Valparai New Bus Station is located about 1 km from the town centre.

By Air

• Coimbatore International Airport is the nearest airport, located about 119 km away.

By Rail

• Pollachi Railway Station is the nearest railhead, situated around 64 km from Valparai.

What is the best time to visit Valparaj:

December to January

Check full text of Anand Mahindra's post here:

The country’s most popular tourist destinations seem to be becoming victims of their own success.

Every week, social media is filled with images of traffic jams and overcrowded hill stations. Holidays that were meant to be relaxing end up testing people’s patience.

Those places will have to find ways to cope with the surge in visitors.

But India is vast. And there is no shortage of beautiful destinations that remain relatively undiscovered.

So do share your hidden gems with me and I’ll try to amplify them here.

To start with: Valparai. Tamil Nadu

From these photographs, it looks like the Munnar many of us wish we had seen 30 years ago.

A winding drive up 40 hairpin bends from Pollachi, dams, rainforest views, and wildlife ranging from elephants to lion-tailed macaques and great hornbills.#SundayWanderer

Photos courtesy @rakesh_pulapa. They may be a little enhanced, but I have a feeling the real thing is every bit as spectacular.