One of the most unspoilt natural attractions Valparai offers, Grass Hills is a magnificent expanse of undulating meadows within the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. This scenic destination is celebrated for its panoramic sweeping green slopes interspersed with mist-covered hills and is often compared with grassland meadows located in the mountains of faraway countries. Uncharacteristic of most natural spots, it provides an ecosystem for multiple endangered and rare species of wildlife and flora because of its wide open grassland unlike the dense forests typical of the Western Ghats.Major Attractions: Rolling grasslands, panoramic viewpoints, Western Ghats scenery, wildlife sanctuary, pristine natureTop Activities: Wildlife spotting, photography, sightseeing, nature exploration, scenic drivesDuration: 2–3 HoursBest Time to Visit: October to FebruaryGrass Hills is lauded among the secluded pristine regions of Valparai that has maintained a low tourist traffic with an elevated ecological importance. Entrance to specific sections needs authorization from the Forest Department, positioning it as one of Valparai’s lesser accessible natural marvels for ecotourism, wildlife observation and landscape photography lovers. The terrain varies magnificently throughout the day when the clouds drift past the hills revealing the valleys below. In the wee hours of dawn, a blanket of thick mist engulfs the grasslands creating an ethereal view that’s a photographers’ dream, and in the morning as the sun ascends, the grasslands stretch as far as the eye can see over the hills- every viewpoint a snapshot and painting in itself. This is a sanctuary of rare wildlife: the Nilgiri Tahr which is a threatened species of wild goats, Indian Gaur, elephants, leopards and multitudinous endemic birds and butterflies. Several wildlife enthusiasts throng this region seeking for an elusive sighting of these beautiful creatures amidst their natural abode while always maintaining a distance with utmost respect and caution. The drive down towards Grass Hills passes through deep forests, tea gardens and serpentine curves of the roads with astonishing scenic views en route offering a wholesome experience including peace, and crisp mountain air and great biodiversity with nature as one enjoys unparalleled nature, bliss, the calm atmosphere to re-connect with nature and a trip to Grass Hills ensures an enchanting ecological and natural retreat for visitors of the regions.
