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Explore the top 15 tourist places in Valparai, from scenic viewpoints and waterfalls to lush tea estates and wildlife attractions. Discover the best places to visit in Valparai for an unforgettable hill station getaway.
There are some destinations that impress you with famous landmarks, crowded shopping streets, and busy tourist attractions. Then there are places like Valparai, where nature quietly becomes the biggest attraction. Hidden in the heart of the Anaimalai Hills in Tamil Nadu, Valparai is a hill station that surprises visitors with its endless tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, dense forests, peaceful waterfalls, and breathtaking viewpoints. It may not receive the same attention as Ooty or Kodaikanal, but those who visit often describe it as one of the most beautiful hill stations in South India.
What makes Valparai truly special is that every part of the journey feels like an attraction. The scenic drive from Pollachi, with its famous 40 hairpin bends, introduces travellers to dramatic mountain landscapes, lush forests, and panoramic valley views long before they reach the town. As you continue the journey, you'll discover hidden waterfalls, peaceful reservoirs, wildlife roaming freely in protected forests, and tea estates stretching across rolling hills in every direction.
Unlike many commercial tourist destinations, Valparai offers an experience that feels slow, refreshing, and deeply connected to nature. Instead of rushing from one sightseeing spot to another, visitors often find themselves stopping frequently along the road simply to admire the changing landscapes. Every viewpoint presents a different perspective, every waterfall has its own charm, and every drive through the tea gardens reveals another unforgettable scene.
Whether you're planning your first trip or returning to explore more of this beautiful hill station, knowing which attractions deserve your time can help you make the most of your journey. While Valparai has many beautiful locations, some places stand out because of their scenery, peaceful atmosphere, unique experiences, or natural beauty.
In this guide, we've carefully selected the top 15 tourist places in Valparai that every traveller should include in their itinerary. From breathtaking viewpoints and refreshing waterfalls to wildlife-rich forests and sprawling tea estates, these destinations showcase the very best that Valparai has to offer.
If there is one place that truly captures the beauty of Valparai, it is Nallamudi Viewpoint. Perched high above the surrounding valleys, this viewpoint offers an uninterrupted panorama of rolling tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, and lush green forests that stretch far beyond the horizon. Standing here, it's easy to understand why Valparai is often called one of Tamil Nadu's most beautiful hidden hill stations.
Unlike viewpoints that become crowded with commercial stalls and heavy tourist traffic, Nallamudi retains a peaceful charm. Visitors often spend much longer here than they originally planned because the landscape constantly changes with the movement of clouds and sunlight. On some mornings, thick layers of mist gently drift through the valleys, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. By afternoon, the skies usually clear, revealing endless stretches of emerald-green hills.
The viewpoint is especially popular among photographers. Sunrise and sunset paint the surrounding mountains in warm golden hues, while the neatly arranged tea gardens create striking patterns that look spectacular from above. Even if you're simply travelling with your family or friends, it's hard to resist stopping for photographs from almost every angle.
The drive leading to Nallamudi Viewpoint is equally rewarding. Winding roads lined with tea estates and occasional wildlife sightings make the journey itself memorable. Whether you're visiting Valparai for a relaxing holiday or a photography trip, this viewpoint is a destination that should never be missed.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: It offers one of the finest panoramic views in Valparai and perfectly showcases the natural beauty of the Anaimalai Hills.
Imagine walking through a lush rainforest where the sound of flowing water grows louder with every step. Towering trees block much of the sunlight, cool air surrounds you, and the only sounds you hear are birds singing and water rushing over rocks. This is the experience that awaits visitors at Chinna Kallar Falls, one of the most refreshing tourist attractions in Valparai.
Often referred to as one of the wettest places in South India, Chinna Kallar receives abundant rainfall throughout the year. This unique climate allows the surrounding rainforest to remain incredibly green, creating an environment that feels almost untouched. The short walk to the waterfall itself becomes part of the adventure, as visitors pass through dense vegetation filled with colourful butterflies, tropical plants, and the soothing sounds of nature.
The waterfall is at its most spectacular during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, when large volumes of water cascade over the rocks into the stream below. However, even during drier months, the surrounding forest remains beautiful enough to make the visit worthwhile.
Unlike heavily commercialised waterfalls, Chinna Kallar has managed to preserve its natural character. There are no loud crowds or artificial attractions competing for attention. Instead, visitors come here to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, breathe in the fresh forest air, and experience one of Valparai's most beautiful natural landscapes.
Nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to escape busy city life will find Chinna Kallar Falls to be one of the most rewarding places in the region.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: The combination of rainforest scenery, peaceful surroundings, and cascading waterfalls creates an unforgettable experience that feels far removed from everyday life.
Long before you arrive in Valparai, one viewpoint gives you a spectacular preview of the adventure ahead. Loam's View Point overlooks the famous Pollachi–Valparai mountain road, offering visitors an incredible aerial view of the winding hairpin bends that snake through the Anaimalai Hills.
Standing here, you'll notice how small the vehicles appear as they carefully navigate the steep mountain curves below. The road twists through dense forests, rocky cliffs, and deep valleys, creating one of the most scenic driving routes in South India. Watching the landscape unfold from above provides a completely different perspective compared to experiencing it behind the wheel.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Loam's View Point is how dramatically the scenery changes throughout the day. During early mornings, thick clouds often drift across the mountains, partially hiding the valleys before slowly revealing them again. By afternoon, clear skies allow visitors to appreciate the full scale of the surrounding hills, while evening sunlight transforms the landscape into shades of gold and orange.
Travellers frequently stop here not only for photographs but also to take a short break before continuing the drive into Valparai. The cool breeze and breathtaking views make it an ideal place to relax while appreciating one of Tamil Nadu's most scenic mountain roads.
Whether you're a road trip enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys spectacular landscapes, Loam's View Point offers an experience that stays with you long after the journey ends.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: It provides one of the best views of Valparai's iconic mountain road and offers outstanding photography opportunities throughout the day.
Not every attraction needs dramatic waterfalls or towering viewpoints to leave a lasting impression. Sometimes, complete peace is enough. That is exactly what visitors discover at Sholayar Dam, one of the largest reservoirs in the region and one of the most relaxing places to visit near Valparai.
Surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests, and open skies, the reservoir creates a calm landscape that feels almost untouched. The still waters beautifully reflect the surrounding mountains, particularly during the early morning hours when the air is calm and the surface remains perfectly smooth.
Reaching Sholayar Dam is an experience in itself. The scenic drive passes through tea plantations, forest roads, and picturesque valleys before opening up to reveal the vast reservoir stretching across the landscape. Every turn along the route offers another opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the Western Ghats.
Unlike crowded tourist attractions, Sholayar Dam encourages visitors to slow down. Many travellers simply spend time sitting near the viewpoint, enjoying the cool breeze and watching clouds drift across the surrounding hills. The peaceful atmosphere makes it equally suitable for families, couples, photographers, and anyone looking to unwind amidst nature.
The reservoir becomes particularly beautiful after the monsoon season when water levels are high and the surrounding forests appear their greenest. At sunset, the soft golden light creates reflections that transform the entire landscape into a photographer's dream.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: It offers a peaceful escape surrounded by pristine natural beauty and is one of the best places to relax during your Valparai trip.
Hidden amidst lush tea plantations, Balaji Temple offers a completely different experience from Valparai's waterfalls and viewpoints. While many visitors arrive expecting only a place of worship, they leave equally impressed by the beautifully maintained surroundings, peaceful atmosphere, and scenic location.
The approach to the temple takes travellers through neatly maintained tea estates that stretch across gentle hills, creating one of the most picturesque drives in the region. As you enter the temple premises, you'll immediately notice the exceptional cleanliness, colourful gardens, and calm environment that make this one of the most serene places in Valparai.
The temple follows certain traditions to preserve its peaceful atmosphere, including guidelines regarding photography and visitor conduct. These practices help maintain the spiritual ambience while allowing everyone to enjoy the surroundings respectfully.
Even visitors who are not particularly religious often include Balaji Temple in their itinerary because of its unique setting. The beautifully landscaped gardens provide excellent opportunities to relax after exploring nearby attractions, while the cool mountain breeze and panoramic views create an atmosphere that perfectly complements the spiritual experience.
Families appreciate the well-maintained environment, photographers admire the scenic surroundings, and couples enjoy the peaceful setting away from busier tourist locations. It is one of those destinations where nature and spirituality blend together beautifully.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: It combines spiritual significance with breathtaking natural surroundings, making it one of Valparai's most unique attractions.
Your journey to Valparai becomes even more memorable when you stop at Monkey Falls, one of the most popular natural attractions located on the Pollachi–Valparai route. Surrounded by thick forests and rocky hills, this beautiful waterfall welcomes travellers with cool, crystal-clear water and a peaceful atmosphere that offers the perfect break before continuing into the mountains.
Unlike waterfalls hidden deep inside forests, Monkey Falls is easily accessible, making it a favourite among families, road trippers, and weekend travellers. During the monsoon and post-monsoon months, the waterfall becomes more powerful as fresh rainwater flows down the rocks, creating a spectacular sight that attracts nature lovers from across Tamil Nadu.
One of the highlights of visiting Monkey Falls is simply sitting beside the flowing water while enjoying the refreshing mountain breeze. The sounds of the cascading water and chirping birds create an environment that instantly helps visitors relax after a long drive. Many travellers also enjoy taking photographs here before beginning the climb through the famous Valparai hairpin bends.
Because the waterfall lies within a protected forest region, visitors are encouraged to respect nature by avoiding littering and following the guidelines issued by the Forest Department. Preserving the natural beauty of places like Monkey Falls ensures that future visitors can continue to enjoy the same peaceful experience.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: It's one of the easiest and most refreshing waterfalls to visit on the Pollachi–Valparai route, making it a perfect stop during your road trip.
Before the winding roads lead you into the Anaimalai Hills, Aliyar Dam offers a beautiful introduction to the landscapes that define this region. Located at the foothills of the Western Ghats, the reservoir is surrounded by majestic mountains that create a picture-perfect setting throughout the year.
The calm waters of the dam reflect the surrounding hills, especially during the early morning hours when the atmosphere is peaceful and the light is soft. Visitors often stop here to stretch their legs, enjoy the fresh air, and capture photographs before continuing their drive towards Valparai.
Aliyar Dam is not only a scenic attraction but also an important irrigation project that supports agriculture in the surrounding districts. While its engineering significance is noteworthy, most travellers remember it for its tranquil environment and breathtaking natural backdrop.
The landscaped surroundings make it an excellent place for families to spend some quiet time, while photographers appreciate the wide-angle views of the reservoir framed by the mountains. During the monsoon season, the greenery surrounding the dam becomes even more vibrant, adding another layer of beauty to an already picturesque location.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: It marks the beginning of one of South India's most scenic hill drives and provides stunning views of the Western Ghats.
When people think of Valparai, the first image that often comes to mind is its endless carpet of green tea plantations. Stretching across rolling hills in every direction, these tea estates define the identity of the hill station and create landscapes unlike anywhere else in Tamil Nadu.
Driving through Valparai feels like travelling through a living postcard. Every turn reveals another beautifully maintained plantation where rows of tea bushes cover the hills in neat geometric patterns. The cool breeze carries the fresh aroma of tea leaves, while the surrounding mountains provide a dramatic backdrop that changes with every passing cloud.
What makes the tea estates even more fascinating is that they are not just scenic attractions—they are part of the everyday life of Valparai. Watching tea workers carefully pluck fresh leaves, observing the vast plantations spread across the hills, and enjoying a freshly brewed cup of locally produced tea allow visitors to experience the region beyond sightseeing.
Early mornings are particularly magical, as thin layers of mist drift gently across the plantations before the sunlight slowly illuminates the landscape. During the evening, the golden light creates a warm glow across the hills, making it one of the most photogenic locations in Valparai.
Whether you're interested in photography, peaceful walks, or simply admiring nature, the tea estates provide an experience that captures the true essence of Valparai.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: The tea plantations are the heart of Valparai and represent the destination's most iconic landscape.
Among all the tourist attractions around Valparai, Grass Hills offers one of the most exclusive and untouched experiences. Located within the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, this protected landscape is known for its vast rolling grasslands, dramatic mountain views, and rich biodiversity.
Unlike the tea-covered slopes found throughout Valparai, Grass Hills presents a completely different landscape. Gentle green meadows extend across the mountains, creating wide-open vistas that feel almost untouched by human activity. The peaceful surroundings and fresh mountain air make every moment spent here feel special.
Access to Grass Hills is controlled by the Forest Department to protect its fragile ecosystem, so visitors need prior permission before entering. While this limits the number of tourists, it also ensures that the area retains its natural beauty and ecological importance.
Nature enthusiasts often consider Grass Hills one of the highlights of visiting Valparai because it offers an opportunity to experience the Western Ghats in their purest form. On clear days, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views stretching across mountain ranges, valleys, and forests that seem endless.
If you appreciate untouched landscapes and responsible eco-tourism, Grass Hills deserves a place on your itinerary.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: It offers a rare opportunity to explore one of the most pristine and protected natural landscapes in South India.
One of the biggest reasons travellers visit Valparai is its close connection to wildlife, and nowhere is this more evident than the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. Covering a vast portion of the Anaimalai Hills, this protected area is one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in the Western Ghats.
The sanctuary provides a safe habitat for numerous species, including Asian elephants, Indian gaurs, sambar deer, giant squirrels, wild boars, and the endangered lion-tailed macaque. Birdwatchers also have plenty to look forward to, with hornbills, eagles, kingfishers, and many endemic bird species frequently spotted within the forests.
Unlike traditional wildlife parks where animals are kept within enclosures, this sanctuary allows visitors to experience wildlife in its natural environment. Every drive through the forest roads brings the possibility of unexpected encounters, making each journey exciting and unique.
Beyond its wildlife, the sanctuary is equally impressive for its dense evergreen forests, crystal-clear streams, and scenic mountain landscapes. The rich biodiversity of this region has earned the Western Ghats global recognition as one of the world's most important ecological hotspots.
Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife by maintaining silence, avoiding littering, and following all forest regulations. Responsible tourism plays an important role in preserving this extraordinary ecosystem for future generations.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: It's one of the best places in Tamil Nadu to experience wildlife and the natural beauty of the Western Ghats.
While many visitors focus on Valparai's famous viewpoints and tea estates, Birla Waterfalls remains one of the region's lesser-known natural attractions. Hidden amidst dense greenery, this seasonal waterfall offers a peaceful setting away from the more popular tourist spots.
The waterfall is especially beautiful after the monsoon when water flows abundantly through the rocky landscape. Surrounded by forests and the soothing sounds of nature, Birla Waterfalls provides a refreshing escape for travellers looking to explore beyond the usual sightseeing route.
The journey to the waterfall itself adds to the experience, passing through scenic roads lined with tea plantations and forest landscapes. Since the location remains relatively less crowded, visitors often enjoy a quiet and relaxing atmosphere.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: It's an ideal destination for travellers who enjoy discovering hidden natural attractions away from the crowds.
If you're searching for a quieter viewpoint away from the more popular tourist locations, Akkamalai Viewpoint is an excellent choice. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, this viewpoint offers spectacular views of the valleys below without the hustle and bustle found at busier attractions.
The peaceful environment makes it a wonderful place to pause during your journey, enjoy the cool breeze, and admire the endless mountain landscapes. On misty mornings, the clouds drift gracefully across the valleys, creating scenes that are both calming and unforgettable.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: It offers peaceful panoramic views and is perfect for travellers looking to experience Valparai's quieter side.
Among the many tea plantations in Valparai, Karumalai Tea Estate stands out for its stunning landscapes and picturesque surroundings. The estate features rolling green hills covered with tea bushes that create postcard-perfect scenery in every direction.
The peaceful atmosphere makes it an excellent place for leisurely drives, photography, and enjoying the cool mountain climate. Depending on the season, visitors may also witness tea leaves being harvested, offering a closer look at one of Valparai's most important industries.
Whether viewed from the roadside or one of the nearby viewpoints, Karumalai Tea Estate beautifully represents the charm that has made Valparai famous.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: It showcases the classic tea plantation landscapes that every visitor expects to see in Valparai.
Flowing gently through the forests surrounding Valparai, the Koolangal River offers visitors another opportunity to experience the peaceful side of the hill station. Unlike crowded picnic spots, the river remains relatively untouched, making it a perfect destination for those who simply want to enjoy nature.
The clear flowing water, forest surroundings, and cool climate create a relaxing atmosphere where visitors can take a break from sightseeing and appreciate the natural beauty of the Western Ghats.
Photographers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers particularly enjoy spending time near the river because of its calm environment and scenic surroundings.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: It's one of Valparai's quieter natural attractions, ideal for travellers seeking peace and solitude.
Although located across the Tamil Nadu–Kerala border, Athirapally Falls is a popular day-trip destination for travellers staying in Valparai. Often referred to as the "Niagara of India," this magnificent waterfall is one of the largest and most spectacular in South India.
Surrounded by lush forests, the waterfall plunges dramatically over rocky cliffs, creating a breathtaking sight that attracts visitors throughout the year. The scenic drive connecting Valparai and Athirapally is equally rewarding, passing through forest roads that are known for their rich wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
If you have an extra day during your trip, combining Valparai with Athirapally allows you to experience two of the Western Ghats' most spectacular destinations in a single journey.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It: It offers one of South India's most iconic waterfall experiences and makes an excellent addition to your Valparai itinerary.
Exploring the top tourist places in Valparai is a rewarding experience, but a little planning can make your trip even more enjoyable. Since most attractions are spread across winding mountain roads, planning your itinerary in advance helps you cover more places comfortably without feeling rushed. Starting your day early allows you to enjoy viewpoints before the crowds arrive and gives you enough time to explore waterfalls, tea estates, and wildlife areas at a relaxed pace.
The journey to Valparai is one of the biggest highlights of the trip. The famous Pollachi–Valparai road features around 40 hairpin bends, so driving carefully is essential, especially during the monsoon when the roads can become slippery. If you're travelling with family or senior citizens, taking short breaks at viewpoints like Loam's View Point or Aliyar Dam makes the drive more comfortable and enjoyable.
Weather in Valparai remains pleasant for most of the year, but it can change quickly because of its location in the Western Ghats. Carrying a light jacket is recommended even during summer, while a raincoat or umbrella is useful if you're visiting during the monsoon. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must, especially if you plan to explore waterfalls, forest trails, or viewpoints that involve short walks.
One of Valparai's greatest attractions is its wildlife. As the town lies close to the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, it's common to encounter Indian gaurs, lion-tailed macaques, and many species of birds along the roads. Occasionally, elephants may also cross certain stretches. These encounters are exciting, but visitors should always maintain a safe distance, avoid feeding animals, and follow instructions from forest officials. Respecting wildlife ensures both your safety and the protection of these incredible animals.
Photography enthusiasts should keep their cameras ready throughout the journey. Some of the most beautiful views in Valparai are not marked tourist attractions but scenic bends, tea plantations, and mountain landscapes that appear unexpectedly during the drive. Early morning and late afternoon usually provide the best lighting for landscape photography, while misty winter mornings create magical scenes across the hills.
Since many attractions are located within environmentally sensitive areas, responsible tourism plays an important role in preserving Valparai's natural beauty. Avoid leaving plastic waste, respect local communities, and follow all guidelines at forest and wildlife locations. Small actions by visitors help keep Valparai clean and beautiful for future travellers.
Above all, don't try to rush through every attraction. Valparai is a destination best experienced slowly. Spend a little extra time at viewpoints, enjoy a freshly brewed cup of local tea, take a quiet walk through the plantations, and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere that makes this hill station so different from many other tourist destinations.
Some of the best tourist places in Valparai include Nallamudi Viewpoint, Chinna Kallar Falls, Loam's View Point, Monkey Falls, Sholayar Dam, Balaji Temple, Grass Hills, Aliyar Dam, Karumalai Tea Estate, and the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary. Together, these attractions showcase the region's tea plantations, waterfalls, wildlife, forests, and breathtaking viewpoints.
If you start your journey early, you can comfortably visit five to seven major attractions in a single day, depending on your travel route. However, to fully experience Valparai without rushing, a two-day itinerary is recommended. This allows you to enjoy the viewpoints, waterfalls, tea estates, and wildlife at a relaxed pace.
The ideal time to visit Valparai is from October to February, when the weather is cool and perfect for sightseeing. Summer is also pleasant compared to nearby cities, while the monsoon transforms the region into a lush green paradise with spectacular waterfalls. Each season offers a different experience, making Valparai a year-round destination.
Yes. Valparai is one of the most family-friendly hill stations in Tamil Nadu. Its peaceful environment, scenic viewpoints, tea plantations, waterfalls, and pleasant climate make it suitable for travellers of all ages. Families often appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and less crowded attractions compared to other popular hill stations.
The Pollachi–Valparai road is well maintained, but it includes around 40 hairpin bends, so careful driving is essential. During the rainy season, roads may become slippery, and fog can occasionally reduce visibility. Experienced drivers usually find the route enjoyable, especially because of the breathtaking scenery along the way.
Yes. Valparai is known for its rich biodiversity. Visitors frequently spot Indian gaurs, lion-tailed macaques, giant squirrels, peacocks, hornbills, and other birds along the roads and forest areas. Elephant sightings are also possible in certain locations, although they depend on timing and luck.
Valparai offers a completely different experience. While Ooty and Kodaikanal are more developed with larger tourist crowds, Valparai is quieter, less commercialised, and surrounded by untouched natural beauty. If you enjoy peaceful destinations, scenic road trips, wildlife, and tea estates, Valparai is an excellent choice.
A 2 to 3-day trip is ideal for exploring Valparai comfortably. This gives you enough time to visit the major tourist attractions, enjoy the scenic drive, experience the tea plantations, and relax without feeling rushed.
Pack comfortable walking shoes, light woollen clothing, a rain jacket if travelling during the monsoon, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a camera. Since temperatures can drop during the early morning and evening, carrying a light jacket is always a good idea.
Absolutely. Valparai is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Tamil Nadu, offering scenic viewpoints, lush tea estates, waterfalls, wildlife, and peaceful landscapes. It is an ideal destination for families, couples, solo travellers, photographers, and anyone looking to enjoy nature away from crowded tourist spots.
Valparai isn't the kind of destination that impresses you with flashy attractions or busy marketplaces. Instead, it leaves a lasting impression through its untouched landscapes, peaceful surroundings, and unforgettable experiences. From driving through the iconic hairpin bends and admiring endless tea plantations to standing at breathtaking viewpoints and listening to waterfalls hidden within lush forests, every moment here brings you closer to nature.
The top 15 tourist places in Valparai featured in this guide each offer something unique. Some reward you with panoramic mountain views, others introduce you to rich wildlife, while a few simply provide the perfect place to pause and appreciate the beauty of the Western Ghats. Together, they create an itinerary that captures the true spirit of this charming hill station.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, a romantic trip, or a road trip with friends, Valparai offers experiences that stay with you long after you've returned home. Rather than trying to rush through every attraction, take your time to enjoy the journey, stop at unexpected viewpoints, sip freshly brewed local tea, and embrace the slower pace that makes Valparai so special.
If you're planning a comfortable road trip to Valparai, GoCabxi offers reliable outstation taxi services from Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Mysore, Salem, and other major cities. With professional drivers, well-maintained vehicles, and convenient door-to-door service, you can focus entirely on enjoying the scenic drive while leaving the journey in experienced hands.
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