What to expect
Every bend carries a numbered board, so you always know how far you have climbed. The lower bends wind through dry forest above the Aliyar reservoir; higher up, the road enters wetter forest and finally the tea estates. Nilgiri tahr are sometimes seen on the rock faces, and troops of macaques use the road edges.
Viewpoints on the ghat
- Loam's View Point (near bend 9): the Aliyar reservoir and plains.
- Attakatti: valley views partway up.
- Several wider pull-outs — our drivers know the safe ones.
Driving tips
- Uphill vehicles have right of way; wait at wider sections.
- Descend in second gear; don't ride the brakes.
- Honk at blind bends; keep left.
- No parking or photos on the bends themselves.
- Avoid the ghat after dark.
Motion sickness
- Sit in front or in the middle row facing forward.
- Look at the horizon, not your phone.
- Light meal before; ginger candy or prescribed tablets help.
- Ask the driver to stop — we don't mind.
Want us to plan this trip for you?
Local naturalist-led team · private cab · inspected stays · itemised quote.
Frequently asked questions
How many hairpin bends are there to Valparai?
40 numbered hairpin bends on the Aliyar–Valparai ghat.
Are the Valparai hairpin bends dangerous?
They are safe with careful, daylight driving. Accidents usually involve speed, overtaking or night driving. Our drivers do the route weekly.
Can buses and Tempo Travellers use this road?
Yes, government buses and tourist vans use it daily.
