my trip to kodaikanal essay in english

The Revolving Compass

To share our love for travel….countless soul enriching experiences

3 days in Kodaikanal – Princess of Hill stations

We have been to most of the popular weekend getaways, like Coorg , Chikmagaluru , Wayanad , Ooty , Munnar , Alleppey , Kumarakom , Mahabalipuram , Yercaud , Pondicherry , Mysore , Kabini , Hampi , Badami , Halebidu etc. But we still fondly remember our first trip from Bangalore to Kodaikanal.

Table of Contents

About Kodaikanal

Best time to visit kodaikanal.

Kodaikanal has an average temperature all through the year. We visited here in December end. And on another trip years later, we visited here in June. The temperature range was more or less the same. And it was not crowded either times. The temperature hovers between 10-15 degrees most of the time. And it rains now and then, not heavily. The clouds and mists are really a beauty to watch here. So, I will say, the best time to visit Kodaikanal is all year round. Although you may want to avoid the heavy rain seasons of July-September.

Related Read : Our weekend trip to the Grand Canyon of India – Gandikota

Where to stay in Kodaikanal

On both our trips, we stayed near Coaker’s walk. And we find it as the best area to stay in Kodaikanal. Particularly if you are keen to explore the attractions of the town. And it is lined up with some of the best resorts in Kodaikanal for family stay. You can as well explore several of the Oyo hotels that have recently sprawled in Kodaikanal and are pretty economical. Or, you can even book 5 star hotels in Kodaikanal like the Great Trails Kodaikanal which provide for great relaxing atmosphere and loads of amenities. We have this detailed post on where to stay in Kodaikanal . Check it out to help decide on the same.

Our travel plan to spend 3 days in Kodaikanal

Travel plan highlight – 3 days in kodaikanal, route followed for our trip of 3 days in kodaikanal from bangalore to kodaikanal, 1/ 3 days in kodaikanal – journey start day, crossing salem.

At 7:00 AM we entered Salem. The driver wanted to have some tea and we stopped in Salem city for 10-15 mins. He quenched his thirst for tea. After that again we stared our journey towards Kodai. Salem is around 200 KM from Bangalore and we covered this distance in around 2 hours and 45 minutes (including the 20-25 minutes time spent on RTO permit and tolls). As we kept moving ahead, we were enjoying the nice view of highway. I couldn’t restrain myself from clicking some pictures of highway from high speeding car. Though due to speed of car, it was very difficult to take proper snaps , but still was able to take some view-able snaps which are posted below.

Bangalore to Kodaikanal highway , 3 days in Kodaikanal

To Dindigul

And on the ghat (hilly) road.

Read about the highway experience in details here .

Our Destination : Kodai Resort

Kodaikanal resort , 3 days in Kodaikanal

The resort has a huge lawn, very well maintained. In the center of the lawn there is an arrangement for campfire. Further, two sides of the lawn have the rooms. While other two sides are open to the mountain views. There is a small zoo also at one end. Some local birds and animals are kept in this zoo for the entertainment of the kids that travel here with their family. Although we must say, the animals didn’t look into very good shape.

Coaker’s walk , Kodaikanal

2 / 3 days in Kodaikanal : Sightseeing

Pillars rock

Green Valley view

3 / 3 days in Kodaikanal : sightseeing continued

Bryant park.

And some games in the resort

Finally at end of 3 days in Kodaikanal : Back to Bangalore

Other tourist places near kodaikanal.

Bear Shola Falls
Berijam Lake
Pine forest in Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
Kurinji Andavar Murugan temple.

Other options for traveling to Kodaikanal

Food outlets on the way.

PS: Some of our links are affiliated, this means we will earn a commission when you buy a service or product by clicking those links. However, this will have no extra cost for you.

82 thoughts on “3 days in Kodaikanal – Princess of Hill stations”

Pingback: Unique Things to do in Mahabaleshwar in a day - The Revolving Compass
Pingback: Versatile Blogger Award for Revolving Compass - The Revolving Compass
Pingback: A 4 day trip to Meghalaya - the abode of clouds - The Revolving Compass
Pingback: 22 tips for traveling with a baby or toddler - The Revolving Compass
Pingback: Lesser Known Places around Kodaikanal - The Revolving Compass
Pingback: A day trip from Bangalore to Kolar, Karnataka - The Revolving Compass
Pingback: 5 days in Chiang Mai Itinerary - The Revolving Compass
Pingback: A virtual tour through the Karaikudi tourist places & Chettinad Tourism - The Revolving Compass
Pingback: Travel packing tips and tricks to pack like a pro - The Revolving Compass
Pingback: Delighful stay at hotel Snow Peak Retreat Manali - A Revolving Compass...
Pingback: Revolving Compass is nominated for Liebster Award - A Revolving Compass...
Pingback: Different Types Of Digital Camera - A Revolving Compass...

A complete guide to Kodaikanal, the ‘Princess of Hills’

By Prachi Joshi

Kodai could mean many things in Tamil depending on how it is pronounced—creepers, umbrella, gift/giving, or the end, while Kanal refers to a dense forest. All of them somehow seem to work for Kodaikanal, the land of Shola trees with vines and dense tree trunks spread over the lush Palani Hills of the Western Ghats. Kodaikanal (Kodai for short) sits at an elevation of 7,300 feet, its attractive location leading to its development as a hill station by American missionaries and British civil servants in the 1800s. The town is nestled around the star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake, created in 1863 by damming three streams. Today, Kodai lives up to its moniker of ‘Princess of the Hills’, a popular hill station in Tamil Nadu that’s teeming with hotels of all shapes and sizes, a host of eateries, and scores of homegrown entrepreneurs making the most of the hills’ bounty. Here’s a list of the best things to see, eat, and do in Kodaikanal.

What to see and do

Kodai is meant for walking and there are many scenic routes to explore. Begin with Coaker’s Walk (Rs35 pp) at the end of St. Mary’s Road. Created in 1872, this paved walk straddles a vertical slope of the mountain and offers sweeping views over Kodai town and the surrounding mountains and valleys. The walk brings you to the junction of Club Road and Noyce Road, near the entrance to Bryant Park (Rs30 pp). Established in 1908, this expansive park is great for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. It houses a small greenhouse and a lily pond. The park is located on the eastern side of Kodaikanal Lake, and you can exit near one of its three boathouses. As clichéd as it may sound, a boat ride on the lake is practically de rigueur for tourists—choose between two- and four-seater pedal boats (from Rs. 150 for 30 minutes) or a six-seater rowboat with a boatman (Rs400 for 20 minutes). Alternatively, borrow bicycles from your hotel and cycle around the lake (there’s also loads of lakeside bicycle rentals; Rs50 for single and Rs100 for tandem, 30 mins). If you’re travelling with kids, Kodai in a Box (3km from the lake, call 6382451741 / 9159373700) is a fun outing, giving them a glimpse of the farm life plus baby goats, geese, and even a pony.

As you ramble around town, there’s no escaping its colonial roots, particularly its many churches—the Gothic-style Christ The King Church with an elaborate bell tower and rose window; St. Peter’s Church dates back to the late 1800s, also with stunning stained glass windows; and the blue-and-white La Salette Church sporting both Tamil and French architecture. From this church, head down to the tiny hamlet of Vattakanal , a leisurely 30 to 45-minute walk on a paved road. On the way, don’t miss a photo stop at Pambar Falls , popularly known as Liril Falls since the iconic late 1970s/early ’80s Liril advertisement was shot here. Once you reach Vattakanal, it’s a steep 1-km downward hike to Dolphin Nose , a jutting rock formation shaped like a dolphin’s nose with dramatic mountain and valley views.

Jahnavi Bhatt

A complete list of dry days in India in 2024

Condé Nast Traveller

38 hotels and homestays with the best mountain views

On a clear day, rent a car to visit half a dozen viewpoints, beginning with Upper Lake View for a bird’s eye view of Kodaikanal Lake. The 2-2.5-hour drive takes in Moir Point ; Pine Forest (more than a century-old pine plantation that’s an idyllic picnic spot); Guna Cave (made famous by the 1991 Kamal Haasan-starrer Guna—the actual cave is shut for safety reasons and only a view point remains open); Pillar Rocks (a stunning vista of three vertical boulders rising more than 400 feet); and Green Valley View Point (a panoramic view of the plains and a sheer drop of 4,900 feet). Most of the viewpoints are ticketed (Rs10 pp, plus parking fees); while you can drive up to these, some require additional walking or climbing uneven steps to reach the actual viewpoint. Avoid going on weekends when day-trippers and picnickers descend on Kodai.

Where to stay

The Tamara Kodai (book here) is housed in a bungalow dating to the 1840s, its suites spread over modern structures across its sprawling expanse. There’s a temperature-controlled swimming pool and a spa for some R&R, and the two on-site restaurants offer local, Indian, and international fare (doubles from Rs23,000*; website ) . One of the oldest hotels in town, The Carlton Kodaikanal (book here) is a majestic presence on the lake. Its 91 rooms and cottages come with private balconies or gardens and all offer stunning lake views (doubles from Rs18,000*; website ) . Also located lakeside, The Dunnottar (book here) is a restored, colonial-era bungalow set amidst eucalyptus and pine trees. The five-bedroom bungalow is divided into north and south sections, which can be rented separately or together, making it the perfect choice for small groups (doubles from Rs40,000*; website ) .

Located right above Coaker’s Walk, Onondaga Homestay (book here) is another historical property built in the early 1900s. Its eight rooms—all with vintage furniture and modern amenities—can be booked separately or as two three-bedroom homes (doubles from Rs. 12,000*; website ) . If you want a farm stay experience, book a villa (or a tent) at Thapovan (book here) in the Vazhaigiri valley of Kodaikanal. The farm produces everything from mangoes and avocados to coffee and spices; explore it further on a plantation tour (doubles from Rs4,500*; website ) . Located amidst a pear orchard, The Pear County (book here) offers a rejuvenating campsite with rustic tents and eco-friendly cabins. Try your hand at gardening or organic farming, and go pear-picking between July and September (doubles from Rs3,500*; website ) .

Where to eat Like most Indian hill stations, Kodai’s dining scene is a mix of North Indian and Indo-Chinese with plenty of Maggi and momos thrown in—cue Shibesh Momo Shop on Kodai Lake. However, finding Tamilian food can be a stretch; for breakfast, head to Astoria Veg on Bazaar Road for ghee roast, medu vadas, and pongal, washed down with piping hot filter kaapi . Hilltop Woodlands on Club Road does a satiating traditional thali with assorted poriyal, curries, rice, and payasam. For meat lovers, Mann Manam on Observatory Road is a local favourite for flavourful biryanis made with short grain seeraga samba rice served on a banana leaf. Venture to the North Indian delights of Tava Vegetarian Restaurant (on PT Road), or drive 18km to Passiflora Ristorante Italiano (near Poombarai Village) for excellent pasta, burgers, and steak, all with a view of the terraced hillsides.

Join the hordes of locals and tourists outside Daily Bread Pastry Corner (Bazaar Road/Anna Salai) clamouring for white bread chutney or egg sandwiches, old-school pastries, cream buns, and ice creams, along with milky, sweet filter coffee. If you’re hankering after an espresso, head to The Pulney Hills Café for a strong cuppa along with a slice of homemade cake, or to Ten Degrees , which also does an excellent coconut mousse (both on PT Road). A few doors down from the cafés, The Royal Tibet —or Tibs as the locals call it—is an old-school restaurant known for its steaming hot thukpas and momos . In Vattakanal, before you trek down to Dolphin Nose, stop at Altaf’s Café for Middle Eastern fare like hummus and falafel as well sandwiches and pancakes, plus a stunning vista of the Palani Hills.

Where to shop

Every second shop in Kodai seems to sell three things—‘homemade’ chocolate, assorted spices, and eucalyptus oil. While the last is a local product, most of the spices come from neighbouring Kerala, and the chocolate is hardly bean-to-bar. If you must buy chocolate, Caesars is a reliable, widely available brand. Look past these ubiquitous shops and you will find a thriving community of small-scale brands that offer high-quality locally made products. The Skylark Store on PT Road (call 8778004957 / 9047270761) is a women-run one-stop shop for everything Kodai: ‘Hoopoe On A Hill honey’ (gathered by Adivasi foragers), beeswax wraps, and crayons; coffee from Thadian Kudisai and Adisarai Organics ; locally grown organic turmeric, cardamom, and peppers; mustard, jam, and ketchup from George’s Gourmet Kitchen ; Wingreens Harvest muesli and other millet products; Olga’s Natural soaps; and of course, eucalyptus and other essential oils.

Next door, Earthen Works stocks more Kodai products as well as handcrafted pottery and home décor. If you’re staying at The Tamara Kodai, their in-house boutique also stocks many of these local brands. The 50-year-old Kodai Cheese has two outlets in town, one by the lake and another shop that’s recently opened on Anna Salai (call 9994543837 / 9698389132); buy their excellent parmesan, red chilli cheddar, herbed goat cheese, smoked cheese, and more. Caroselle Cheese is another local brand that’s available at The Pulney Hills Café, which also sells their own brand of organic, 100% arabica coffee. If you’re in the market for high-quality silk shawls, Shalimar Weaves on Bazaar Road is the place to go. Another thing to haul back from Kodai is fresh produce—buttery avocados, luscious custard apples, sweet passion fruit, and anything else that’s in season.

Good to know Summer (April to June) is peak tourist season and Kodaikanal is extremely busy. November to March is a far better time to visit, with fewer people and better hotel rates. However, avoid the weekends when busloads of tourists and school trips descend on Kodai, leading to traffic jams and overcrowded attractions.

Plan to arrive in Kodai before sunset, driving up the mountains can be treacherous in low light, particularly during winter evenings when the thick fog dramatically reduces visibility. There's also the added danger of running into animals like bison at night.

Every 12 years, Kodai becomes even more of a tourist magnet when the bright blue neelakurinji flower blossoms in its surrounding hills, usually between August and November; the next super-bloom is expected in 2030.

Getting there: Kodaikanal is an 11-hour drive from Chennai. Alternatively, fly to Madurai airport ( a 3-hour drive to Kodai) or Coimbatore airport (a 4-hour drive to Kodai). Kodai Road is the closest railway station, from where Kodaikanal is about a 2.5-hour drive.

*Prices are subject to change.

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Fireflies Special
Leh Ladakh Tour Packages
Customized Tours
INTERNATIONAL TRIPS
Why the name HikerWolf ?
HikerWolf Core Values
Other Activities
Get In Touch
Search for:

Uncategorized

Kodaikanal – complete travel guide.

Girl Sitting At Dolphins Point In Kodaikanal

Centred around a star-shaped lake and bounded by the verdure of evergreen forests, is the crowned Princess of hill stations – Kodaikanal.

I had left for Kodai with a bag packed with warm clothes and tons of expectations. Little did I know that this gorgeous strip of hills, covered under a blanket of mist, would go beyond all my expectations. The hill station nestled in the Western Ghats is surely a mystical beauty to behold.

Set across some rich granite cliffs, the hill station has a touch of magic in every little feature of it.

I chose to go old school by exploring this valley’s charm through bicycles, rowing boats and rickshaw rides while jamming to Tamil classics. It was a whole different mood and a completely new experience to me, but with the most welcoming aura to it.

Table of Contents

It’s among the finest hill stations of Tamil Nadu, and definitely one of its kind. Kodaikanal is nestled in the Palani hill ranges and comes under the administration of Dindigul district.

Why it’s a must-visit?

There are two factors that’d never fail to bring you back to Kodaikanal. The homemade chocolates and the rare Kurinji flowers.

Kurinji grows once in every twelve years and mushrooms over a large expanse of land. Speckled in bluish and purple shades, they can be found growing around the Kodai lake and the hilly regions. The bluish appearance then paved the way for the name “Nilgiri hills” (Blue mountains). If you have the luck on your side, you’d also be able to witness Kodaikanal in its full bloom during the Kurinji year.

Without any such time barriers though, are the finger-licking good homemade chocolates. Get yourself a box of these chocolates that are rich in taste and cheap in price.

How to reach?

The closest airport to Kodaikanal is the Madurai airport. There are three other international airports in the state as well which are also at close proximity from the hill station. There are regular flights, both international and domestic, touching down at these airports. From there on you would be lead through a properly connected network of public transport.

Distance from Madurai airport – 130 km

Distance from Coimbatore airport- 180 km

Distance from Trichy airport – 199 km

Distance from Chennai airport – 500 km

At Kodai road, about 80 km from the hill station is the nearest railway station. Yet another easier alternative is the Dindigul station which is located more around the urban spaces. It’s a comparatively bigger city with more connecting public transport, so getting around from here is an easier task.

There are also stations with more frequent trains around Coimbatore and Madurai. Connecting almost every major cities including Bangalore, Chennai, Trivandrum and Hyderabad.

Distance from Dindigul station – 96 km

Distance from Madurai station – 115 km

Distance from Virudunagar station – 152 km

Distance from Coimbatore station – 169 km

Tourism is one of Kodaikanal’s major economic source, and so they have well-paved roads and remarkable road network. The roads also take you through many other infamous tourist destinations such as Palani, Theni, Madurai, Kumuli, Chennai, and so on.

From hubs such as Bengaluru and Kochi, Kodaikanal is accessible through a 7-8 hour drive.

In case you opt for public transport, enquire about the several options, timings and fares to have a comfortable journey. Buses are the most convenient and would not burn a hole in your pocket as well.

Distance from Munnar – 166 km (4 hr 40 mins)

Distance from Coimbatore – 172 km (4 hr 10 mins)

Distance from Ooty – 250 km (6 hr 15 mins)

Distance from Kochi – 299 km (6 hr 50 mins)

Distance from Bangalore – 469 km (9 hr 19 mins)

Distance from Chennai – 529 km (9 hr 30 mins)

Best time to travel

Kodaikanal is a trip that you can plan at any month of the year. The high altitude location enjoys a subtropical highland climate with chilling weather that’s unique to Kodaikanal. Even when the low lying plains of Tamil Nadu experience extreme heat, Kodaikanal is pleasant with not much fluctuations.

So you could plan your trip based on other factors, such as the month of festivities. A suggestive ideal period to travel based on that would be December to May.

Winters and the heavy rainfall shimmer down for the summer blooms. May witnesses the oncoming of the Annual Summer festival adorned by flower shows and thrilling boat races, which would be an exciting experience.

Top 10 Places to visit

1. bear shola falls.

Flowing graciously in the Reserve forest of Kodaikanal is this untouched waterfalls. Stories revolving around the purity of these waters go ages back. It’s believed that a bear would wander from the forests to this spot to drink the freshwater. This story was then celebrated and became a part of the name of the falls.

The falls flow from the Parappar river, which is an ideal spot for trekking as well. If you want to watch the tiered cascade in its liveliest forms, make a visit during the monsoon downpours. It’d be a sight that’d sweep you off your feet, and that’s guaranteed.

2. Berijam Lake

Among the cleanest and unruffled lakes in Kodaikanal. While the lake is open to the horde of tourists, it maintains its pristine beauty by being one of the plastic-free zones around here.

Lying within the forest areas, this lake also requires prior permission for visiting, which limits the number of people who come by as well. It’s a refreshing sight to the sore eyes and among the most serene spots around Kodai.

Berijam Lake is also an ideal spot for activities such as boating and fishing.

3. Kodai Lake (Kodaikanal Lake)

Shaped in the form of a star is this man-made wonder, located about 3 km from the main bus depot. Spread across 60 acres of land, this brainchild of Sir Vere Henry Levinge was constructed to be the major tourist attraction around here.

It’s a timeless beauty that you can explore at any time of the day. Horse-riding around the lake in mornings, paddling a boat across it by evenings or even sitting by the reflections of the night lights. Kodaikanal Lake is sure to captivate you in its surrealness.

Especially during the winters, the misty fog settles in and makes the lake look like a dream come true.

4. Bryant park

Other than tourism, Kodaikanal also takes its agriculture and vegetation quite seriously. To understand this better and explore the Kodaikanal blossoms, take a trip to the Bryant Park.

Barely a 10-minute walk from the lake is the kaleidoscopic views of the park. The main attraction in this park is the glasshouse that is home to several exotic florals, ferns and other ornamental plants.

Even if you wish to learn more about these plants, the park has got it all covered. Acting more or less as a demonstrative centre for Ornamental Horticulture, you’ll be familiarised with activities such as pruning, budding, grafting, and so on. Relax amidst the soft greens and florals while learning about them in-depth.

5. Coakers Walk

A pathway through cotton-like clouds of Kodaikanal. Constructed way back in the 1870s this place sure looks like a stairway to heaven. Stroll around here during the hours of sunrise and catch the first rays shining through the cluster of clouds.

Perfect for the morning and evening walks, covering the entire stretch at an altitude of 7000 ft gives you the unmatched aerial view of the valley. This also includes the view of Theni, Madurai, the dolphin nose and of the adjoining Valley of Pambar River.

If you happen to come by during a clear sky day, to have a look through the telescope near the main gate.

6. Dolphin’s Nose

Yet another vantage point giving you a bird’s eye view of the mountains and the lush greens. Elevated at a height of 6600 feet, it’s an easy trek up to the rocky escarpment that’s shaped in the form of a dolphin’s nose.

With clear azure skies above your head and a panoramic emerald scenery below, it is beautiful beyond words could describe.

If you visit this place with an informed guide or local, they would help you spot the Periyakulam valley and the eternal Vaigai Lake.

7. Pillar Rocks viewpoint

The adventure seekers destination. Huge cliffs vertically aligned amidst dense and misty rainforests. Pillar Rocks Viewpoint is a unique structure that looks over the sky while standing tall at 400 ft. It’s mostly covered in a humongous duvet of mist and clouds.

As the clouds clear away, you’d get an even mesmerising sight of the peak along with the cross that’s hoisted on top of the mountain. The rocks have a mysterious aura to it and you’ll uncover new delights at every nook and corner of this viewpoint.

One such view adding colour to this ethereal cavern is the small expanse of garden around it with vividly coloured flowers.

8. Guna Caves

This cave hit fame after the Tamil movie Guna. People flocked in to explore the picturesque yet dangerous caves and weren’t disappointed even a bit.

Located at close proximity to the Pillar Rocks Road, it was earlier known as Devil’s kitchen because of its spooky undertones. Naturally formed between the boulders of the mountains at an altitude of 2230 metres, the narrow ravines are now closed for public visit, due to the chances of suffering a free fall.

You can still trek around the pine forests and the roots that remain entangled around the caves. It forms a sort of disclaimer to the kind of things you may find in the cave if you walk through it. From blind spots to bats, it’s a live haunted house offering the most thrilling experience.

9. Green Valley View (Suicide Point)

While talking about free falls, the old suicide point definitely makes it to the list. For all the right reasons though. Renamed as the Green Valley view to change the perception around this place, it’s one of the most beautiful spots around Kodai. The steep drop from 5000 ft. offers an unparalleled aerial view of the valleys surrounding the Vaigai Dam.

It has been bounded securely by fences and strict monitoring has been going on to maintain the valley’s purpose of being a vantage point. Visit during early morning hours to watch it mystically covered in the morning mist.

10. Silver Cascade

Formed as a result of the overflowing Kodai Lake, this waterfall is the most ideal way to wrap up the day.

A lot of people stop by here enchanted by its silver threads gushing gracefully. As the waterfall is located right around the roadside, it becomes a refreshing pitstop for travellers.

Take a swim around these chilling waters, and relax your limbs for a while. This is of course before splashing it around and challenging your friends to the endpoint!

There are several roadside stalls that offer freshly plucked fruits and veggies that you can eat while peacefully enjoying the beauty of the falls.

There’s no airport around the region, so you’ll have to plan extensively. Since there’s good connectivity it’s a lot easier if you knew the routes you’d be taking.
Kodaikanal’s weather would have your teeth chattering in the cold. Carry woollens no matter what month of the year you’re planning your visit.
In case you plan on trekking or hiking at Kodai, pack a raincoat and umbrella too for the unexpected downpours.
Check up the timings of many of the tourist spots across Kodai. Especially the Green Valley (suicide point), which gets covered in the mist at odd hours. Since you might not be able to see the depth or altitude, it’s recommended you do not make visits when the view is not clear.
At the higher altitudes, there’s a higher scope for dehydration and chapped skin. So carry enough water, and some moisturiser \ balm to stop your skin from breaking unhealthily.

Laxmi mohan

Managed to pass science just because Walter White made chemistry sound interesting. Took a while to realise writing was what actually interested me, hence the Journalism degree. Quite the contrasting brain with Gulzar on mind and Garde in talks.

2 thoughts on “ Kodaikanal – Complete Travel Guide ”

Howdy! This is my first visit to your blog! We are a group of volunteers and starting a new initiative in a community in the same niche. Your blog provided us valuable information to work on. You have done a extraordinary job!| Roslyn Basile Becket

Wow, an incredibly composed weblog, dealing with all components of the topic and the creating type is flawless. Your blog post certainly not only pleased me however also stunned me that there are still good authors at blogging sites that observe true elements of creating. Most individuals focus either on writing design or even web content details but you have actually fully covered both parts carefully. II located your blog site as an impressive one in my entire time of reading. I additionally write blog sites to supply my expertise and know-how with accurate viewers. Here is my blogging site about the greatest auto routine maintenance and Maserati repair in Dubai. Read my blog site and also let me find out about your testimonial. Elizabeth Michale Garber

The misty host - Kodaikanal | An awesome travel experience

Thinking about a place to visit in South India to relax and make your vacation memorable? Here is my travel experience to Kodaikanal. Check this out to learn more about how to make your holidays in Kodaikanal more joyful.

How to reach Kodaikanal?

How to book a hotel no, not trivago.

Where to eat in Kodaikanal

Things to do in Kodaikanal

Travel tips for visitors to Kodaikanal and Vattakkanal

About Author: Derryl Preetham Castelino

Loved this blog and want to visit Kodaikanal.

Beautiful pictures and very helpful blog. Thanks for sharing information about Kodaikanal.

Nice travel blog about Kodaikanal.

Great post! Thanks for sharing this amazing post.

What a beautiful place it is! Thank you for meeting us such a beautiful place through your blog Keep up the good work Keep sharing with us!

If you are going to travel in India do not hesitate to fly with IndiGO Airline India they provide you a friendly and quality service.

really nice to read you experience about Kodaikanal. your description is amazing.. i hope you like my experience about the deccan queen showing the beauty of nature... here is the link.. https://www.indiatravelblog.com/resources/4204-The-Deccan-Queen-showing-the-Beauty-of-amazing-nature.aspx

It is an informative article. Your post is very knowledgeable and usable. Thanks for sharing such a nice blog with us.

If I see the pictures of Kodaikanal, I just fell in the dream of heaven.

I have actually been searching online more than 3 hours today, yet I never discovered any fascinating short article like yours.

Great article. It is very useful and informative. I got some good ideas about this topic. Thanks for sharing this post.

Nice blog.Thanks for writing in detail.

Nice post, i really like it. Thanks.

Such an amazing place! Thanks for sharing your travel experience with us. I love to explore such type of places. If you have another travel experience please share with us I love to read — Great thanks from Kunal Bansal Chandigarh.

I am very thankful to you as your article has helped me a lot.

Completely true and useful :) So far my kodaikanal trip is the most awesome experience i had:)

Good to know that today also there are people who really have a passion for writing a blog like you!

I have visited this place and it is one of the best places to visit in India. Thanks for sharing this blog.

Nice article on southern India's 'misty host', Kodaikanal. If someone needs vehicles like car, bus, minibus, tempo traveler for rental service with driver from Bangalore to Kodaikanal, visit our website: https://www.tejastravels.com or give a call 9980277773 / 9845234343.

Highly informative article. This site has lots of information and it is useful for travelers like us. Thanks for sharing the details of your visit to Kodaikanal, the 'misty host' in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. - IT staffing company in Hyderabad, TeamPlus India: https://www.teamplusindia.in/

Hi Darryl Castelino! Thank you for the post. After looking to this interpretation we at TempoTravellers feel like Kodaikanal is a must visit place as this is a beautiful city and to travel there one can hire the services of TempoTravellers as we provide good serviced vehicles on rent. After taking our Tempo it's up to your mood whether to stop and enjoy the moment or travel further.

Kodaikanal is a beautiful place for holidays destionation good information about the place and nice photo Thanks.

Travel is our passion and our life work. It's what we do all day every day. We plan your travel itineraries to make up with maximize the value of any trip through our connections and knowledge, travelers often end up saving you money.We specialize in world-class customer service and experiences.Your trips would be completely based around your interests and schedule—they are one-of-a-kind experiences that are as unique as you are.

Thank you very much for sharing this article. This is really helpful for me and i hope to you that you released more articles in future. So keep doing this work and you did such a great job. Once again thank you very much for sharing this such a great article.

Kodaikanal is an ideal place for 2-3 days staying and the main attraction is the lake around which a road is there where a lot of activities are going on right from idling to enjoying snacks in small eateries around. There is a boating facility where children are eagerly waiting for their turn. This is the best place for hanging out with friends. I had an opportunity to go there for a few days and I still remember those lovely days amid hills and picturesque surroundings.

I just loved this place and You have described this place just like we went around sight seeing, Thanks a lot, I would love to visit this place any number of time

Do not include your name, "with regards" etc in the comment. Write detailed comment, relevant to the topic.
No HTML formatting and links to other web sites are allowed.
This is a strictly moderated site. Absolutely no spam allowed.

About IndiaTravelBlog.com

We believe in providing quality content to our readers. If you have any questions or concerns regarding any content published here, feel free to contact us using the Contact link below.

Travelholic

Travel Forum
Travel Destinations
Travel Queries

Travel Guide

Travel Packages
Travel Business
Travel Abroad
Travel Articles & Books
Travel Tips & Preparation
Travel Venture & Ideas
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use

Digital Marketing by SpiderWorks Technologies, Kochi - India. ©

My Kodaikanal Story

The mountains have a voice. Sometimes I can hear them calling me.

Photo of My Kodaikanal Story by Tanay Sengupta

The mountains have a voice

Sometimes I can hear them calling me.

To respond to the call is a choice,

I can't resist when they call for me.

Nestled amidst the the misty mountains in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is one of the best places to visit in the Southern part of India. Before deciding to go for a trip to this hill station, I had only heard stories about it. “Kodai is a place like no other. If you liked Ooty then you will love Kodai,” my colleagues would often say. So, what did I do? The only thing I could, took a week’s vacation from office and set out to explore this town locked away amidst the mountains.

The Journey Begins

While wondering how to get there, I brainstormed on quite a few options, but the one which stood out for me was a train. Train journeys are always fun, especially if you are lucky enough to get a lower berth seat. Of course there is one downside, trains are usually overcrowded. Being in a crowded places can be overwhelming, but hey you can't grow without facing your fear. So on January 29th of 2018, I set out on a train bound for Kodaikanal road. The tickets are cheap, you can easily book a seat for INR 150.

I boarded the train at 8:00 PM IST from South Bangalore City Railway Station. The journey was about 10 hours long and I reached Kodaikanal Road at 6:00 AM IST in the morning. This is when I realized that my journey had just begun because I still had to board a bus or get into another vehicle to get to Kodaikanal city. There were many options to get there; reservation vehicles, buses, and taxis. The buses were available from 9:00 AM IST in the morning and the reserved vehicles were available immediately. Since, I was travelling alone I decided to wait for the buses. So, I went to one of the nearby eateries and had breakfast there. It was a small eatery that served South Indian cuisines and they did not disappoint. In fact, I have been living in Bangalore for the past three years and I never had Anna Sambar (Rice Sambar) as delicious as the one I had in that eatery. After breakfast, I took some rest, strolled around and waited till it was 9:00 AM.

Reaching Kodaikanal Town

At 9:00 AM IST, I boarded the bus to Kodaikanal city. To my surprise there weren't too many people in the bus. Most of the people had availed the reservation vehicles. “Oh well, it works for me,” I thought as I sat down near one of the windows. After about 15 minutes the bus started its journey to Kodaikanal city.

En route, I was awestruck with the scenery that I was getting to marvel. It reminded me so much of Assam. Being born and brought up in the land of blue hills, the view in front of me was nostalgic. I was so lost in reminiscing my childhood that I didn't even realize when I reached Kodaikanal city. No, the journey wasn't short. In fact, it was 12:00 PM IST when I reached the town. So, without wasting any time I decided to scout around the town. What was I looking for? From a tangible point of view, nothing but from non-tangible point of view, information and experience.

The call shatters through time and space

I can't resist such a roar.

You see time and again in my case,

I always end up asking for more.

Walking Through the City

One of the first places for me to visit was the Kodaikanal Lake. Located at the heart of the city, the lake had always been one of the greatest attractions of the city. I could see people boating on the lake while some were waiting on the side for their turn. I walked on the bridge over the lake and made my way to the Bazaar Road.

For people who fancy antiques, Bazaar Road’s market was a heaven. However, for someone the place had another value. I was getting to observe the place, the people and all of it without really getting involved. I watched as the busy marketplace was bustling with people from all over the world. Then something caught my eye; through an alley inside the market I made my to way to find a chocolate shop. Kodaikanal had its own chocolate factory and there were many shops here that would sell these chocolates. The moment I saw them, I knew I had to buy a few of them and that is exactly what I did. After exiting the shop, I went to one of the nearby restaurants to have lunch. Kodaikanal city has a plethora of restaurants and small eateries nearby. Unlike that of Kodaikanal Road, the city had options of both South Indian as well as North Indian cuisines. I still fondly remember the taste of ghee rice and butter chicken, I had that day.

Meeting Known Faces

Kodaikanal is a big place and it wasn't possible to explore the entire city in one day. While having lunch, this thought crossed my mind a couple of times. So, after having lunch I decided to go look for a place to stay. The city was packed with tourists and most of the places were already booked. I looked around thinking what I should do, that is when I met two familiar faces; Aminul Islam and Tanmoy Gupta. They were my friends since the college days and although not very expressive, I was nonetheless happy to see them. I greeted them and we decided to hangout over chaa (tea), just like the old times.

We had a long conversation as we were catching up after a very long time.

Aminul: “So, what brings you here?”

Me: “Well, I have heard and read so much about Kodaikanal. So, I thought of exploring this place.”

Tanmoy: “That is great. Hey, where are you staying? If you have not found a place yet then you can tag along with us.”

Aminul: “Yeah, great idea! We got a small shack all to ourselves for rent. It is at the outskirts of this city. You can stay with us, anyway we will be going out to look around the city tomorrow. It is not too far, just about half an hour from here.”

I thought for a while and replied: “Sure, I am in.”

Hence, I tagged along with them and went to the shack they were talking about. It was exactly what they had said. A small shack at the side of a hill near the outskirts of the city. But, the greatest USP of the place was the view of the city that it offered, especially in the evening. I could see the lights glowing near the Kodaikanal Lake as well as the entire city. It was great!

End of Day 1

At night we cooked our dinner, Aminul and Tanmoy had bought chicken from the market.

Tanmoy: “Dude, this place is cheap and beautiful.”

Aminul: “If it weren't for my job in Bangalore. I would have loved to stay here. What do you think Tanay?”

I looked around the place and replied: “I agree with you both.”

We had dinner that night then decided to sit outside and continue our adda (conversation/ discussion). Since we all were from Assam, we had a lot to discuss. While gazing upon the city from the hills we had one idea in common. Kodaikanal reminded us how much we missed Assam.

We come from the land of blue hills

Where the red rivers flow.

The water flows downhill

And the cold winds blow.

Note: This wraps up my Kodaikanal story . As you might have noticed that it doesn't read like a regular travel article. I just wanted to experiment a little bit with the format and see if it would click. I am also a little bored of the regular travel article/blog format, so I wrote this one like a short story.

1 Understand
2.1 By plane
2.2 By train
3 Get around
4.2 Water Falls
4.4.1 Churches
4.4.2 Temples
8.1 Bars & lounges
9.2 Mid-range
9.3 Splurge
10 Stay safe
11 Stay healthy

Kodaikanal is one of Tamil Nadu 's finest hill stations , 7,200 ft (2,200 m) above sea level amongst the Western Ghats of India, in the Palani Hill Range and under the administrative control of Dindigul District.

Understand [ edit ]

In Tamil , Kodaikanal means "seen in summer".
Kodaikanal is also referred to as "Princess of Hill stations."
Kodaikanal relies upon agriculture and tourism as the two major parts of its local economy.
Unique to the Western Ghats, the Kurinji Flower is in full bloom around December once in 12 years, and it bathes the valley in a beautiful sea of blue. The name Nilgiri (blue mountains) was derived from the blue colour. It was last in full bloom in 2018.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

The closest airports to Kodaikanal are Tiruchirappalli 150 km, Madurai 120 km and Coimbatore 175 km. You can get regular flights from Mumbai, Tiruchirappalli, Bangalore and Chennai. From any of these airports you can hire a private taxi, cab or take train to reach Kodaikanal.

Trains are available in frequent intervals but you can choose to go by private taxi if you are in real hurry.

By train [ edit ]

The nearest railway station is Kodai Road, at a distance of 100 km. From Kodai Road station, one can travel only by road. Taxis are available for hire up to Kodaikanal but since these might be the only mode of transport here, the prices are often not negotiable.

Another railway station that is quite close is Dindigul Railway Station. It is easier to come to Kodaikanal using this station, as Dindigul is a much bigger city. Once you get off at the Dindigul Railway station, you can get an auto rickshaw for around ₹50 to come to the Dindigul Bus Stand. From there, there are frequent buses to Vathlagundu from where there are many buses to Kodaikanal. Straight buses are available from Dindigul to Kodaikanal as well, but you might have to wait for an hour or so. It takes around 30 minutes from Dindigul to Vathlagundu (Batlagundu) and then about 2 hours from Vathlagundu to Kodaikanal by bus.

By bus [ edit ]

From Dindigul city, Kodaikanal is located at a distance of 90 km approximately and there are plenty of buses plying from various parts of the state.

Buses ply from Chennai , Pondicherry , Tiruchirappalli , Madurai , Dindigul , Palani and Coimbatore .

Buses are available from Madurai (Arapalayam) to Kodaikanal at regular timings.

By car [ edit ]

Reach Kodaikanal from Kodai Road (80 km) for about ₹1300, Dindigul or Madurai and then take a cab/taxi to Kodaikanal. The drive from Kodai road takes approximately 2½ hr while the drive from Madurai takes approximately 3½ hr and from Dindigul it takes about 2½ hr.

From Kochi , it is 295 km via the hill station of Munnar . The route to be taken is Kochi- Muvattupuzha -Kothamangalam-Adimali-Munnar-Devikulam-Poopara-Bodi-Theni-Kodaikanal which is the NH49 Kochi-Madurai.

From Alappuzha or Kottayam , the route is via Kumily along Kottayam-Kumily road, KK Road.

Get around [ edit ]

The central region of Kodaikanal is highly compact which makes it extremely easy to get around on foot. Though auto-rickshaws are not available in this part, taxis are there to take you to different sightseeing destinations. The charges are fixed and significantly high. The entire sightseeing tour may cost you ₹300 for couple of hours to ₹700 for five hours.

If you think that you are fit enough to challenge the hills then you can hire mountain bikes from different bicycle stalls around the lake. These bikes may cost you ₹10 per hour or ₹75 for entire day.

See [ edit ]

Lakes [ edit ]

10.23436 77.48633 1 Kodai Lake ( Kodaikanal Lake ). If you are going in winter, go boating in the evening, as it's an amazing experience to boat through fog settling on the lake. The lake is very near the bus stand. This is a star-shaped lake and walking around it during the night is one of the best walking experiences you can have in your life. Be cautious, there are lot of dogs around this lake and some places are extremely dark. Walk between 6 and 7PM, then head back to your room.
10.184144 77.395959 2 Berijam Lake . Perhaps the most pristine of the three lakes in Kodai. This is a plastic free zone and it is beautiful and serene. The lake lies within a reserved forest region. You must get permission to visit this lake. Permissions need to be obtained on the morning of the intended day of visit from the forest office. Usually the person who arranges the vehicle will arrange the permit. Moreover, in peak season, a limited number of vehicles are allowed in per day.

Water Falls [ edit ]

10.24015 77.47808 3 Bear Shola falls . This is a really beautiful water falls. But during some seasons there may not be any water there. But climbing up the falls is a good trek.
10.24201 77.51068 4 Silver Cascade . It's a nice waterfall on the road side from Kodai Road, just before 4-5 km from Kodaikanal. The cold water flows and it's really super to bathe in the cold water and travel in between the eucalyptus trees. If you are going to Kodaikanal by private vehicle on the way, you can visit the place. Buy fresh carrots and some exotic veggies around here.
10.22111 77.481801 5 Vattakanal Water Falls . ( updated Sep 2021 )
10.223698 77.467024 6 Fairy Falls . ( updated Sep 2021 )

Caves [ edit ]

Devil's Kitchen . A cave known more to the locals, First being "Green Valley View" and "Pillar Rocks" and then finally "Guna Cave". Watch out for the deep hidden ravines. What would appear like mere dark gutters are actually a deep fall. Many unsuspecting people have fallen prey to the "devil's trap", so watch your step!
10.21074 77.46195 7 Guna Caves . A cave which became very famous after the movie Guna . Very steep and risky to get in. The public may not be allowed to enter this cave nowadays, though it's a very good place to take pics. But if you are not a professional spelunker, a trip to this cave may be your last. Getting back will be problem as it's very dark and there could be about a 90% chance of suffering a free fall.

Places of worship [ edit ]

Churches [ edit ].

10.224111 77.487187 8 Lasaleth Church and Lion's cave . Has the 100-yr-old tree, 500-yr-old tree and Lion's Cave.
10.228874 77.493025 9 St. Peters Church .

Temples [ edit ]

Kurinjiandavar Temple . About 4 km from the lake is a temple whose presiding God is Lord Muruga. The flowers inside the temple bloom once in 12 years. You can get a view of the Palani Hills and the Kodaikanal Town from this temple. During the winter, the view of Kodai city and Palani from the two ends of the temple is blocked. However, in summer, the visibility is good and hence the experience, too.

Others [ edit ]

10.23109 77.49157 10 Bryant park ( 10-minute walk from boat club ). A botanical garden spread over an area of 8.3-hectare (20.5-acre) and contains 325 species of trees, It has a rose section containing 740 varieties of roses. The park was planned and built in 1908 by H.D. Bryant, a forester from Madurai . The park organizes horticultural exhibits and flower shows during the peak season in summer.
10.23004 77.49364 11 Coakers Walk . If you wish to catch the scenic valleys, the best time to visit the place would be before 2PM. But if you want to watch snow-like clouds (only in winter) beneath you form an ocean, reach the place between 3PM and 6PM. Try and catch the sunrise here or in the nearby Greenlands Hostel. At evenings a view of the Jewel Box (evening view of Theni and Periyakulam)is also an attraction. A marvel. Also try out the telescope near the main gate. This place is very near the bus stand.
10.21054 77.48795 12 Dolphins Nose . To reach Dolphins Nose at a distance of 8 km from the bus stand, one has to follow the route specified here. There is an old road after crossing Pambar Bridge near Levinge Stream. A rough curve rounds the hillside which leads to a point where a flat rock projects over an awful chasm of 6600 feet deep. This is Dolphins Nose. On the way, beautiful views of plains and steep, rocky escarpment called rolling hills can be seen. The old village of Vellagavi can be reached through the rugged bridle path.
Green Valley View ( Suicide Point ). It has a more than 5,000 ft (1,500 m) steep drop from this point. The monkeys are a good attraction at this point. Renamed Green Valley View, apparently to prevent people from being lured to commit suicide.
Old Suicide Point . This place is about 5 minutes before the main/old pine forest. An entire stretch is full of pine trees while driving from the observatory side. You must walk towards the cliff. Here you will see a small pathway on the left side. If you take this path and walk for about 10 minutes you will reach the old suicide point. The view from there is simply breathtaking.
10.21039 77.46536 13 Pillar Rocks . It has huge steep cliffs. During summer rainy days, the cliffs get completely hidden due to excess of fog. Watch out for the cross at the top of the mountain hoisted by an English adventure enthusiast.You can see the cross by an available telescope.
Pine Forest . It's a really very good forest of pine trees. You can ride horses there. It's on the way to the Guna Cave.
Shanthi Valley . Another pine forest nice place.
Silent Valley View .
Thoppi Thuukum Paarai . It's en route to Berijam Lake. Wonderful tourist spot. Children should be careful near the cliffs. ( updated Apr 2015 )

Do [ edit ]

Boating at the Kodai lake - paddle and row boats are available at the lake. Entrance is via the Kodaikanal Boat Club.
Cycle around the lake - and watch the clouds while they slowly descend onto the water; cycles are available for hire at the lake on an hourly basis. It is possible to cycle to other places although cycling one way will be difficult due to the hilly terrain. Do check the cycles before setting out.
Fun park , near fairy falls ( via peter school through fairy falls road ), ☏ +91 94871447131 .
games , near fairy falls ( via peter school ), ☏ +91 94871447131 .
Horse riding - Right near the front of the entrance to the boat club, you can rent a horse (with the trainer) to take you around the lake.
Trekking - Kodai offers several scenic trekking spots, including one which is to walk along the stream which goes to Dolphin's Nose. Kodai tourist office has a trekking guide which is available for free there, which lists all the possible trekking routes and difficulty levels. The tourist office advises people to take guides and offers to provide them, although this is not necessary. An easy trek is to Perumalmalai, the tallest mountain in the area.
Wander About - Kodai has numerous waterfalls and beautiful views not mentioned in the tourist guides, so wandering about can bring you to some spectacular place.
Watch a Tamil movie - go down the PT road, continue to S-road. Then turn left, after the petroleum station. Just ask which way is to cinema, almost every local knows it. Vellaiyappan cinema theatre is an old building with relatively big screen and cheap tickets - great experience.
Bodhi zendo , Perumalmalai / Kodaikanal ( up a hill from Perumalmalai ), ☏ +91 90 475 46 879 , [email protected] . Bodhi Zendo is a zen retreat centre open to spiritual seekers from all over the world who wish to train in zen. Includes a zen garden, library, as well as a zendo. Costs are ₹500 for non-Indians for a private room with a bath and three vegetarian meals a day. It's a popular place with many meditators staying on for days, weeks or months. Zen Sesshins (days of more intense instruction & practice) are held for several days each month. Reservations are encouraged well in advance. ( updated Mar 2018 )

Buy [ edit ]

Cheese Factory - Various cheeses.
Eucalyptus Oil and herbal oils - A variety of oils that claim to relieve joint pains and other aches are also available at every shop.
Home-made chocolates - Kodai's shops are stocked with home made chocolates. These are a lot cheaper compared to the major brands.
Spices Corner . Has an exclusive range of essential and aromatic oils, herbal teas, coffees, mouth watering chocolates & spices.

There is a State Bank of India (SBI) ATM near the petrol pump at the Seven Road Junction which accepts other banks cards as well.

The Potters Shed , PT Road ( near seven roads junction ), ☏ +91 4542 240244 . 9AM-7:30PM . The Potters Shed produces a wide variety of handmade stoneware pottery ~ both crockery and artefacts. All products are microwavable, dish-washer safe and oven-proof. The factory is in a village 7 km outside Kodai.

Eat [ edit ]

Astoria Veg Reasturant - a vegetarian restaurant in Kodai.
Chocolate factory ( near Petrol Station ). A good collection of home made chocolate. They also have a good varieties of fruit syrup filled chocolate. Try the hot chocolate, ₹60 per cup.
Cloud Street , PT Road . 8:30-8:30 . Serves pasta, sizzlers, Continental food and other international cuisine. Barbeque chicken sizzlers, pastas, lemon cake and chocolate biscuits.
Eden Paradise Restaurant , Paradise Compound, Laws Ghat Road. Serves tasty ethnic Keralite cuisine.
Pastry Corner - Cakes, pastry, coffee and tea are excellent in this place. People here are well educated and kind. Located near bus stand and Astoria Veg Restaurant. Never miss this small but a good place.
Pine & Petals , JC Residency, Convent Road, Naidupuram. Multi-cuisine restaurant.
PotLuck , PT Road ( Opposite the milk union ). 10:30AM-7PM . A cute little European style cafe with outdoor seating on the verandah (balcony); PotLuck serves fresh food and off-the-shelf delicacies carefully cooked in Kodai kitchens. The fresh food consists of an international menu including pastas, quesadillas, sandwiches, Spanish omelettes and waffles/pancakes. You can take away off-the-shelf items like coffee-bean chocolates, lemon curd, Mexican salsas, burgers, fresh thin crust pizzas, garlic pickles and marmelades. All profits go towards providing scholarships for needy children. ₹40-110 .
Rasoi , 106 Maratha Shopping Complex, Annasalai. Serves excellent Gujarati and veg. Punjabi thali. The Chola batora and alu paratha are their specialities.
The Royal Tibet -PT Road. In this restaurant you will get best momos specially potato cheese momo for vegetarian, for non-veg you can choose beef, chicken and mutton. Noodles are freshly made everyday and you get fantastic soups. It gets bit noisy when restaurants gets jam packed with kodaikanal international school students.
Sree Krishna Restaurant Bhojanalaya , Nellai Nadar Bazaar, Fairy Falls, Pambarpuram , ☏ +91 9047856670 . 100% pure veg Bhojanalaya, serving North Indian, Rajashthani & Gujarati food
Tava , 7 road junction. Outstanding Sindhi food, express service.
Tibetan Brothers - PT Road. The food is mouth watering and authentic Tibetan and Chinese. Try the steamed momos or the Thukpa. The owner who doubles up as a waiter is very courteous - and very passionate about his country. So the restaurant walls are plastered with photos of Lhasa, Potala palace and the Dalai and Panchen lamas.
10.214204 77.484608 1 Altaf's Cafe , Dolphin Nose Road, Vattakanal ( near Dolphin's Nose ), ☏ +91 94871 20846 . A nice eatery for people looking for continental food ( updated Jun 2018 )

Drink [ edit ]

There is a shop near the bus stand, where you can get some standard Indian whisky, beer, vodka, etc.

Bars & lounges [ edit ]

Carlton Hotel , Carlton Lake Rd , ☏ +91 4542-241231 .
End of the Road , The Carlton Hotel, Lake Road , ☏ +91 4542-240056 .
Oasis Bar , No 17/328 Kodai International Hotel ( near Zion School ), ☏ +91 4542-245190 .
Sterling Resorts , Pallangi Road, Vilpatti , ☏ +91 4542-242437 .

Sleep [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ].

Staying in a cottage or a bungalow is probably better than staying in a closed AC room in some random hotel. If you stay somewhere 3-4 km from main city you might get cheaper cottages and bungalows with good view. But it is always preferable to stay near the Lake, where one doesn't need to worry about food and you can have nice walk in the evenings.

10.23752 77.491576 1 FabHotel Kodai Kings Park ( FabHotel Kodaikanal ), 16/12, P. T. Road, Seven Road Junction , ☏ +91 7042424242 , [email protected] . Preferred by loads of tourists visiting the charming town of Kodaikanal, FabHotel Kodai Kings Park boasts a central and easily accessible location. The biggest advantage of booking a room here is that all popular tourist attractions of Kodaikana are nearby. ( updated Mar 2018 )
Greenlands Youth Hostel ( next to Coakers Walk ), ☏ +91 4542 240899 . This is the best place if you want the best view and also the feel of the bygone times. You can get dormitories as well as single/double rooms and the prices are very reasonable. However, do book in advance. Fresh food both veg and non veg available. 2 km from the crowded areas. Quiet place facing the valley view. Friendly people.
Hotel Astoria ( 5 min walk from Coakers walk and Kodai lake ). A good option.
Hotel Bala International ( 5 min walking distance from Coakers walk and Kodai lake ).
Hotel Gurupriya , 17 Laws Ghat Rd ( near Zion Matriculation School, 1.5 km from town, or 15 min walking ), ☏ +914542 41136 , [email protected] . ₹750 onwards .
Hotel Spring Valley , 25,Laws Ghat Rd ( about 1.5 km away from the Lake, near Zion Matriculation ), ☏ +9198655 91202 , [email protected] .
Kodai Retreat , #55 , Edistone Compound, Convent Rd ( about 1.5 km away from the Lake ), ☏ +91 9842412190 (mobile), +91 4542 240911 , +91 4542 242144 (landlines) , [email protected] .
Lilly's Valley Resor , 17/178 Sivanandi Rd ( 1.5 km from town, or 15 min walking ). Lilly’s was the first resort to be built in Kodaikanal back in 1982 by Mr. Raj A. Sukumar, who felt the place resembled somewhere in England he had seen.
New Gold Nest , about 3 km away from the lake and on the way to the Kurinjiandavar Temple. This property comprises individual cottages which are located overlooking the valley and offer enchanting views of the clouds rising through the gaps in the mountains.
Sarmila Residency , Ananthagiri IV Street ( near Mother Theresa University, Court, and Mariyamman temple ), ☏ +91 97882 35786 , [email protected] .

Mid-range [ edit ]

Hotel Kodai International , Lawsghat Rd ( near Zion school ), ☏ +91 4542 245190 , +91 4542 245191 , +91 4542 245192 , +91 4542 245193 . Well-equipped gym, table tennis, billiards and badminton. Breakfast is complimentary. Off-season and special packages available. Royal Cottage ₹5799, Royal Suite ₹6299. Tariff exclusive tax and meals. Std double room ₹3099, Deluxe double ₹3899 - meals and tax extra. Free breakfast .
Hotel RJ INN , 123-5, Fern Hill Rd ( near Vallaiappan Movies ), ☏ +91 9500645583 , [email protected] . A 10- to 15-min walk from the lake, this place offers you a suitable budget.
Hotel Villa Retreat ( next to Coakers Walk ), ☏ +91 9244243940 . A nice little cozy resort with great views. On walking distance is Kodai lake, Coaker's walk and Bryant Park. The hotel staff is very courteous and helpful. The rooms are clean with simple decor. The best thing is they serve fresh food to order, and therefore require orders to be made well ahead of time. Good variety for both veg and non-veg cuisine.
Kodai Resort Hotel . In front of Coakers Walk. Good Cottages and good lawn with birds flying in the garden.
Misty Mountain , ☏ +91 996 208 7706 . Independent cottages. Available single and double bedrooms cottages. Nice place for honey moon couples and family get-togethers. Two km from bus stand. Cottages are placed at the top of secured independent hills.
Snooze Inn . A well-run budget hotel, known for its clean rooms and prompt service.
Valley View Inn , 8/59 Post Office Rd , ☏ +91 124 620 1184 . High quality veg food.

Splurge [ edit ]

10.234402 77.488579 2 The Carlton ( On Lake Road ), ☏ +91 4542 248 555 . This is one of the best hotels with a great view of the Kodai Lake. Book in the off-season and you could get a 3-night package for about ₹16,000 (for 2 people) with food and sight seeing. A good time for the honeymooners would be to go during the winter season. The hotel is 5 minutes walking distance from restaurants and the local market. Also, there are small eateries and shops right outside the hotel. ( updated Oct 2016 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

You will see lots of monkeys in some parts of Kodaikanal, so be extra careful when moving with kids and carrying food. Try to ignore monkeys while passing by. Any abrupt move from you may convey the wrong message to these unpredictable creatures.

Don't leave cash or any valuables in the hotel room. Cross check all hotel, restaurant and lounge bills for errors.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Prefer to eat healthy breakfast. After arriving at your desired destination, the chances are very high that you will not be paying any attention to your meal. So, do yourself a favour and consume healthy food while traveling around the destination.

Drink plenty of water and consume lots of multivitamin, mainly if you are flying. It will save you from dehydration and keep your immune level high.

Van Allen Hospital - The only hospital available in Kodaikanal. It is established by American missionaries. For major treatments, you have to go to Madurai hospitals.

Go next [ edit ]

Madurai - on the bank of Vaigai River People from diverse culture and religions reside at Madurai. Festivals of all different kinds are celebrated in this place.
Munnar - At a height of 6000 feet, Munnar is one of the most reputed summer resorts in Kerala.
Palani - Known for the Hills, it is part of oldest mountain ranges which can be explored in India, made up of rocks such as schists, charnockites and gneisses.

Has custom banner
Has mapframe
Has map markers
See listing with no coordinates
Do listing with no coordinates
Buy listing with no coordinates
Eat listing with no coordinates
Drink listing with no coordinates
Sleep listing with no coordinates
Has Geo parameter
Southwestern Tamil Nadu
All destination articles
Usable cities
Usable articles
City articles
Pages with maps

How We Spent Our 2 Days in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a beautiful, very popular hill station in Tamil Nadu, India. It has picturesque views of valleys, lakes, waterfalls and grassy hills. While most of the people flock to the famous hill stations of Ooty and Coonoor, the crowd at Kodaikanal is relatively low.

Table of Contents

How we spent our 2 days in Kodaikanal

This is one of the reasons we absolutely fell in love with this place when we headed here. Here’s how to spend 2 days in Kodaikanal or a beautiful weekend in Kodaikanal.

2 days in Kodaikanal – Day 1

Early morning drive to kodaikanal.

Stay near Coakers walk

Book your stay near Coakers walk in Kodaikanal. This place is near to most of the tourist attractions. It also provides absolutely stunning views of the valleys beyond. We have been to Kodaikanal a couple of times. Both the times we stayed in resorts within 100 meters of Coakers walk. Once you reach Kodaikanal, check in to your resort and have lunch.

Visit places near Coakers walk

Post lunch, visit Kodai Lake which is at a 200 meters walking distance from Coakers walk. The lake has a huge circumference of 5 kilometres. A beautiful road with stunning views surrounds the lake. There are options to cycle, walk or ride a pony around the lake. You can also enjoy boating on the lake.

Take your time to explore this beautiful place leisurely. We had a leisurely walk around the lake along with our family. One portion of the lakeside is lined up with shops selling handicrafts and woollen cloths. There are also many food stalls here. While you take a walk around the lake, you can find several vendors selling different kinds of street food.

Enjoy an ice cream or a Bhel puri (an Indian snack) while you walk around. There are benches at regular intervals where you can sit and relax for a while before continuing further. The Kodai Lake is actually our favourite. It has the most refreshing and energizing aura that one experiences. You can easily spend 2-3 hours here. From here, you can head to the Bryant Park Botanical Garden.

The entrance to this garden is located just near one end of the Kodai lake. The garden is lush green almost all through the year. It has beautiful beds of different varieties of flowers. This is one more place to leisurely spend your evening.

Several photographers flock to the place, who can give you an instant print of your snap if you decide to get one. The garden also houses a small nursery with different varieties of plants very reasonably priced. Exit the garden from the other gate, which is located just in front of Coakers walk. You can call it a day and return to your resort for a good night’s sleep.

2 days in Kodaikanal – Day 2

Valley view from coakers walk.

Start your day early in the morning. Around 6-7 a.m. in the morning, take a walk on the Coakers walk. It is a one-kilometre walkway on the edge of the hill which gives absolutely gorgeous views of the vast stretch of valleys beyond. Clouds might play hide and seek while you enjoy a crisp fresh walk here.

The panoramic spread of the valley is such that you will find it difficult to take your eyes off it. You can walk to the other end of the walkway and then return back. Some vendors might be up by this time and you can enjoy a steaming cup of hot tea or coffee from them as you walk. Return to your resort for a hearty breakfast.

Pillars Rock, Guna caves & Dolphin’s nose

These are natural caves in the hills. Earlier, you could enter the caves and explore them. To avoid accidents on this dangerous terrain, entry is prohibited. Now, the caves are covered with wire mesh. They can be viewed from a distance. The trek from the road to the caves is a meadow covered with tall pine trees.

It’s a refreshing walk through the meadow that makes the visit to the caves absolutely worthy. Next, head to Dolphin’s nose which is a viewpoint at higher hills. The place provides a bird’s eye view of the beautiful landscape surrounding it.

Bear Shola Falls

This is also known as Silver Cascade falls. Nevertheless, the falls provide a beautiful location to relax. Post visiting this fall, you can return to your resort. This would bring you to the end of the second day at Kodaikanal.

We know for sure that you will be able to make absolutely beautiful memories out of these 2 days in Kodaikanal trip. Every single place that you visit here is naturally beautiful. The place is not very touristy. The hills have untouched beauty. Soak in the lap of nature for 2 days in Kodaikanal before you head back to your daily life.

Carry back some exotic plants, homemade chocolates and wooden crafts or kitchen wares with you. You can buy these items near the lake or from Kodai market which is also located at walking distance from Coaker’s walk. You could book holiday packages to interesting destinations over the weekend and go on a road trip. Hope you loved reading our post on 2 days in Kodaikanal .

This is a guest post by Neha. She and her husband Abhishek are travel enthusiasts & travel bloggers by passion and software engineers by profession. Neha is the planner and the writer. Abhishek is the executor and the photographer. They plan their family trips at the beginning of each year, putting good use to all holidays and extended weekends available.

Post the vacation, they share their experience through their travelogue Revolving Compass . When they are not able to travel physically, they travel virtually reading blogs of fellow travelers (and that happens daily!)

Below are some useful resources to help you book flights/trains/buses, hotels, and tours!

Flights – TripAdvisor or Agoda or CheapAir or Cleartrip or Makemytrip or Priceline

Trains – Click here to book trains

Buses – Click to book bus

Tours – Click here to book top tours around the world

Do You Love Traveling?

Do you want to know how to travel the world? We have put together a very useful travel resources page with the best travel tips. Go check it out now.

Thanks for visiting our site Voyager – imvoyager.com and taking the time to read this post!

If you wish to collaborate/work with us then reach us at [email protected]

60+ Million Users Trust TripAdvisor With Their Travel Plans. Shouldn’t You?

Explore these posts:

69 thoughts on “how we spent our 2 days in kodaikanal”.

What a stunning itinerary! I’m going to pass this in to my sister who may return to Bangalore soon.

We are also big fans of anywhere that’s not super crowded. The rocks nd waterfalls look amazing we love being outside and experiencing nature. We are headed to Iceland in January where hopefully we will see many waterfalls and experience some amazing nature

Wow the Bear Shola falls looks amazing. I love your pictures as well you definitely showed the untouched beauty.

wow..!!! what a amazing place , nice place of relax and enjoyments, thank you for sharing the ultimate blog.

You took me with you…with the story and the pictures! Love the Pillars and the Nose!!!

I have never heard of Kodaikonal, but would love to go someday. It looks cool, green, and inviting. There is so much to see and experience in India.

Kodaikanal is such a naturally beautiful place to visit isn’t it! Botanical gardens to stroll around, Pillar’s Rock, Guna Caves, Bear Shola Falls – what is there not to love? This post by Neha has shown us a wonderful place to visit so thank you.

I have yet to visit India and from reading this I realise I still have so much more to learn before heading there. I tend to think crazy traffic, people people and people. Obviously that is not the case. 6 hour drive from Bangalore to Kodaikanal and almost nil traffic, totally amazing.

Great post and fantastic photos it really is a dramatic landscape! Thanks for sharing.

Love getting into places that are hidden away from the usual crowds.

The hiking, caves and waterfalls look amazing. Definitely a great looking place.

Nice itinerary for a short trip. I am from Bangalore so looks perfect for me.

So helpful! Adding this to my India itinerary!

Good relaxed itinerary for 2 days there. Mine too was similar one but done during analog days. I don’t have such good pictures.

What a nice place to visit. I particularly like the pilar rocks, they look awesome. It also looks like there was some fog on those rocks, right?

I love how you always share these lesser known places to explore. Awesome scenery and waterfalls. Looks like great hiking to me!

Love the views of the valley and the lake. Such a beautiful landscape and looks like a gorgeous drive to reach it too! Thanks for sharing

Never heard of this place before, but it looks great. It seems like there’s quite a few hidden gems such as this in India!

What a beautiful place for spending a couple of days exploring. I love walking in nature, and Pillars rock looks like an amazing place to visit! Will be keeping this on hand for future reference…

Great itinerary and beautiful location! I like doing outdoorsy stuff and I like how walkabout the town is.

Mist and the mountains…this combination makes for the most beautiful experience, doesn’t it. I loved the picture of the pillar rocks.

Wow–Kodaikanal looks like a gorgeous area to explore! Pillars Rock and the waterfalls look amazing. I’ve never heard of this region, but it definitely looks like an area that we would like to visit!

Stunning place! The pillar’s rock looks almost too … fantastic to be true! Love to read about places that are less crowded, great itinerary 🙂

The photos are amazing! How long did you stay in India in total?

Thank you. This is a guest post from Neha Verma based out of Bangalore, India.

Love the itinerary. Had visited Kodaikanal a long time back but it seems a lot of it is still the same.

What an amazing place! Such a beautiful landscape, I could see myself there climbing and relaxing. Hopefully next time I’m in India I can visit Tamil Nadu.

Kodai Kanal looks like a great place indeed!

Can’t wait to check it out myself one day! 🙂

Thanks for sharing! There is so much yet to discover that I feel a life is not enough.

Pillars Rock sure is spectacular! What a stunning landscape. As for that waterfall – just WOW. How impressive.

What a beautiful place to spend a few days in India. My impression is that India can be very chaotic and crowded and this seems like a great place to escape the crowds and get into a bit of nature.

The views are picturesque indeed and with the fog a little bit mysterious. Very nice.

I’ve seen so many pictures of Kodaikanal on Pinterest! I’ve always saved them, but never known someone that’s actually been. I love the fog with the pillars in the background. Absolutely stunning!

You always find the most amazing places! Great photos and another grand adventure.

Wow! the view is really nice! I’ve been to waterfalls recently and climbed up some easy mountains and I was amazed already. But seeing this, it seems that there is really a lot of places that are really good for experiences and lasting memories. Also, the landscape is nice for some photo shoot.

I had no idea India could be so lush and wild! I love your photos and recommendations, thank you for sharing!

Wow this really looks and sounds like a beautiful place. Nice post!

What an awesome itinerary! I also prefer to go to places that aren’t that well known. Great photos as well!

How stunning!

Those images of Pillars Rock had me wondering if we’d entered the set of the Avatar movies!

This looks like a great place to visit to escape the heat in Southern India. A bit of hiking, and some good scenery. sounds perfect.

Thank you for a detailed itinerary and tips for visiting. It seems that views there are breathtaking. It would be nice place to visit. Thank you for sharing!

Oh my god that view of the Pillars rock, fantastic! I didn’t know there is such a place in India. How come I’m only hearing of it now. And there’s the Bear Shola falls. I am getting more and more convinced that India is the next destination to be.

Cool post! those rocks are stunningly beautiful!

It’s a shame that we haven’t been to Kodaikanal yet. Nature and its beauty are so enticing. We would love to visit the Pillars Rock and explore the Guna caves. Thanks for this awesome itinerary.

Wow, I didn’t know Kodaikanal existed! I didn’t even know there was such place in India. Those hills look like hill in China! One quick question, do you think if I use Couchsurf will work to stay near to Coakers walk?

Thanks. While we have not couchsurfed in Kodaikanal, it is possible to do so.

I have to admit, I had not heard of Kodaikanal before read your post. However, now I really want to visit. I love the beauty of nature and landscapes and this place really seems to fit the bill. The Bear Shola Falls looks fantastic, I could sit and watch it for hours. Thank you for sharing 🙂

Brought back the memories afresh. I guess I will not be ever tired of visiting here. We have already done one more trip with our baby last year and it was as amazing as the first one done almost 5 years back

Looks like you ventured way off the beaten track here and it paid off 🙂

Wow! First time hearing about this place and it’s just stunning 😀 😀 Would love to visit here one day. Maybe add it to my list of places to go before I turn 30! 😛

What a wonderful itinerary of Kodaikanal in India. Your step by step guide is helpful and the photos are amazing. What a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. I have never been to India but this is one place I would love to visit. Thanks for sharing 🙂

I absolutely love India and have been 4 times to different areas. Kodaikanal sounds and looks beautiful. So many different things to see. I will be sure to try and visit next time I am in India. Thank you for sharing.

Perfect itinerary. What’s not to like? Boating on a lake, botanical gardens, and those wonderful views of the Pillars. I’d love to go here; India is such a stunning country.

Kodaikanal has some seriously beautiful scenery. Those waterfalls are sweet. they look so powerful. I can imagine the roar when standing close. Great photos. Thanks for sharing this cool location.

Everyday I’m glad that I’m discovering new about India and your country is really awesome! The pillars rock is magnificent and the bear shola falls is awesome. The current is too strong! So wonderful!

Kodaikanal seems like a great place to go. It’s impressive there was so many great sights reletively close by so you were able to do some sight seeing and head back to the resort for food. I especially like the waterfall.

Such a beautiful looking place! Nothing is better than the nature very early in the morning, when you can still see how plants are waking up for a new day and smell the fresh air.

interesting, i did love your stunning photos. its really a nice place to visit,. thanks for sharing

The mists and clouds coming down over the mountains looks really eerie and atmospheric – looks like they cleared for the waterfall pic though which looks amazing!

Last time when we visited Kodaikanal, we missed important places like Kodai Lake as we were staying bit away from Caokers View . Nice blog.. will revisit for more travel tips.

This place looks amazing! I was particularly impressed by those pillars. Thank you for sharing your experience.

I love the way you have weaved a crisp story from your experience. And the photographs are super nice too 🙂

Cheers Shubham

Kodai for me is always special for that unusual trek that we did across Bear Shola falls. Time to revisit the hillstation – this time with family. Thanks for reminding me

Wow! Those pillar rocks are glorious! Will add this to my bucketlist =)

The pictures looks so mesmerizing and the way you guys have shared the story. Feels so real and beautiful. Kodaikanal is definitely on my bucket list now.

I loved my experience at Kodaikanal. However, I have a soft corner for Ooty and Conoor. That said, Kodaikanal is perfect for those who love spending time in nature.

These granite mountains of Kodaicanal are so beautiful! We haven’t been here bit only till Coonoor! Hope to come by soon…

Fantastic! After reading about the superb accommodation at Kodaikanal it was great to follow it up with some suggestions on what to do there. I love the superb natural attractions – walking around the lake and visiting the rock formations and waterfalls would be a great way to spend a weekend, and all that exercise means a good appetite for dinner back at the resort 😀

Thank you for sharing such a nice stuff.

Great Article and fantastically written. One of my similar travel experience is written in my blog.

Privacy Overview

A Sudden Unplanned Trip to Kodaikanal, the first of many that followed.

Table of Contents

My Solo Trip To Kodaikanal from Pondicherry

Back in the first week of December 2017 – a Pondicherry University student at the time, I had recently finished my semester exams and had plans to visit Bangalore to meet a childhood friend.

From Bangalore, I had further plans to visit Delhi in the same month. Despite such a busy month with scheduled flights to catch, I had an entire week free up my sleeve.

Staring down at the thousands of trees that dotted the University campus, I was pondering what do to for a week on a University campus that is getting vacated with each passing day.

It was at that moment; an idea struck in my mind. Since I was visiting Bangalore anyway, I decided to take a short detour to Kodaikanal – a quaint hill station located in the Palani hills, Dindigul District of Tamil Nadu.

Located right in the middle of the Indian peninsula (looking Latitudinally), Palani Hills – the mountain range where the little town of Kodai nestles is part of the greater western ghat range. It proved to be one of the best decisions of my life. Here’s Why:

The entire trip was filled with randomness and uncertainties right from the very start. A fellow hostel mate at that time, and a good friend now dropped me to the Pondicherry bus stop.

A great rider but very uncharacteristic of him, he topped 130 km/hr while dropping me at the bus stop. It was only a year later I realized he was probably bitter about the whole incident as my friend had to attend an important family engagement and couldn’t join in with me.

After screaming the entire length of the ECR highway and even getting chased by street dogs in one of the dark side alleys near Pondicherry bus station, I finally managed to board one of the buses to Kodaikanal.

The randomness didn’t end there as I was approached by another solo traveller on the bus asking for cigarettes. From the looks of it, I could tell the guy was European. He had the most stunning deadlocks I had ever seen. I didn’t start up a conversation with him given my introverted nature, and soon fell asleep.

The Mesmerising Kodaikanal

The next morning, my eyes were greeted with luscious green hills and orchids of all shapes and colours as the bus was winding forward towards the destination – Kodai.

In the meantime, I called one of my friends from my University who had already left for his home town in Kerala the day exams were over. Hearing over the phone that I was about to reach Kodai anytime soon, he decided to join me in Kodaikanal later that day and started his own journey via a completely different route.

Kodaikanal is situated at a height of around 2,500 meters, making it the second-highest hill station after Ooty in the state of Tamil Nadu. The word ‘Kodaikanal’ in the local language means “The gift of the forest”.

The day I arrived at Kodai was a fine winter day with the weather around the town oscillating between dense fog cover and spells of sunshine that makes us lazy when it hits the skin.

After having a sumptuous South Indian brunch of Poori, sabji, sambhar, Idli and Omelette, I took a walk around the town. It was late afternoon when my university mate finally arrived.

Upon joining forces, we both decided to stay put at the place where I hastily booked early in the afternoon as soon as I reached Kodai at Rs 800 per night.

After taking a few minutes of rest, we decided to walk around the whole city, visit some of the mainstream tourist spots, and maybe get a better place to stay for the next couple of days.

Vattakanal – Portal to Another World

My friend had already visited Kodaikanal before, and he suggested we move over to Vattakanal the next morning – a village located 4 km away from Kodai, even more secluded, away from the crowd – a perfect retreat.

Given our gypsy spirits, we decided to walk towards Vattakanal instead of hiring a taxi and check it out as soon as possible before night sets in.

While walking towards Vatakanal, I again met the European guy probably three years younger than me with his wicked deadlocks. Our paths crossed again, and this time we struck a conversation.

The European fellow was a citizen, born and brought up in Belgium by parents of Italian ancestry of French descent from the Northern parts of Italy bordering France.

Upon knowing that he too has been out on a solo trip, in fact, the first-ever foreign solo trip of his life, both I and my university friend asked him to join us. The solo trip was not solo anymore.

The next morning, we were to be joined in by another university mate of ours. He too had visited Kodaikanal many times before and also had built up genuine contacts to stay at Vatakaanal. With a set plan finally in motion, in the next two days I had one of the best budget retreats.

Vatakanal in the local Tamil language means “Seeing Fog”, true to its name the next two days I witnessed intense fog. The pine trees, orchids, and flowers, when covered with a thick layer of fog, gives the hill station a Gothic touch to it.

The best part about Vatakanal is that you can trek pretty much everywhere and the locals won’t bother you a tiny bit. Beware of Wild Bisons that roam freely in the forest though.

Photo: Joseph Prathul

This was a small snippet of my first-ever trip to Kodaikanal which was later followed up by two more equally endearing trips. Having visited Kodaikanal three times now, here are a few things to do in Kodaikanal –

Things to do in Kodaikanal

Try the famous chocolates of kodaikanal.

Kodaikanal is not only a beautiful, quiet hill station; the region also produces some of the finest dark as well as white chocolates in India. The town is filled with local shops and small vendors selling chocolates.

Visit offbeat Vattakanal

While Kodaikanal is getting commercialized with each passing day, Vattakanal located 4km from Kodai town is the real deal.

The local people in the tiny village have made many accommodations available ranging from small units at rates as cheap as Rs 250 per person per night to entire bungalows (limited few) at just 4500 per night that could accommodate a group of 15 to 20 travellers.

Try eating at Tibetan Restaurant

There is a nice little Tibetan restaurant run by an old Tibetan couple in one of the alleys that run down from the main point in Kodai town. Do try it out when you visit the place.

Explore Offbeat Waterfall

From Vatakanal there is a small local track that descends down-slope of medium difficulty which eventually ends in a cascading unnamed waterfall. The entire track is a descent of more than 900 meters, and one could feel the climate getting humid as they spiral down the track.

How to Reach Kodaikanal?

Kodaikanal is more or less equidistant from Chennai, Bengaluru, and Pondicherry. Hence, bus fares are also somewhat equal. Depending on the quality of the bus service availed, the fares may range from Rs 450 to Rs 850.

Another way to reach Kodai from Chennai or Pondicherry is to make a break journey of both train and bus. Take any train that goes towards Dindigul, located at the foothills of Palani hills. From Dindigul, there are buses at regular intervals going for Kodaikanal. This is the cheapest way to reach the hill station.

Kodaikanal Trip Budget

Very pocket-friendly hill station for the ones staying in Chennai or Bangalore. My first-ever trip back in 2017 cost me Rs 3500 for three days of intense exploring and trekking.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

4 thoughts on “A Sudden Unplanned Trip to Kodaikanal, the first of many that followed.”

Can you suggest some offbeat places/homestays to live in vattakanal.

Hi Subham, you can stay at RC Guesthouse, Karuna Farms or Shafa Wood House at Vattakanal.

Pingback: 8 Unique Things To Do In Kerala | The Gypsy Chiring
Pingback: Pondicherry: Its History And Attractions. | The Gypsy Chiring

Let's Connect

Instagram feed.

Travel Tips

blogging tips

travel gears

Important Links

The site may contain affiliate links. Read our Affiliate Disclosure .

Type to search

The Best Kodaikanal Itinerary for 3 Days in 2024

Last Updated on March 13, 2024

In this article I will share with you a perfect Kodaikanal itinerary while being honest about my experiences in the place.

Is it still offbeat or a victim of over-tourism? Is Kodaikanal worth visiting? How to plan your trip to Kodaikanal? Where to stay in Kodaikanal? I will answer all these questions in this honest travel guide.

If you are in a hurry, jump to the Kodaikanal Itinerary .

However, if you are planning a Bangalore to Kodaikanal itinerary for the first time, or after a long time, I suggest you read along.

I’ve shared a lot of tips from my trips that I took in a gap of just four years and so much had changed by then already. I have made an effort to keep the information updated as of 2023, so the length of the post is justified.

Pin the post to save it for later!

Disclosure: The post contains some affiliate links. If you make any purchase anything through these links, I may earn some commission without any additional cost to you. This income helps in running the website. Thanks for your support!

A Quick Outline

Kodaikanal At A Glance – An Honest Review

Kodaikanal is a picturesque town in the Tamil Nadu near Ooty which is famous for its blossoms and weather. Somehow the name doesn’t ring a bell for people living outside South India, unlike the more popular names like Ooty and Munnar.

Perhaps that is the reason some bloggers call it an “offbeat” location. I disagree with those bloggers, but we will come to that shortly.

Imagine a land of eternal spring, lush green valleys, beautiful cascades, and pristine lakes – sounds like a paradise on earth, right?

Unfortunately, this is also the reason for over tourism that can spoil your experience in the town. The travel brochures keep highlighting the over-crowded tourist zones of Kodaikanal without being honest about the experience.

So, I decided to write an honest travel guide which will help you plan your Kodaikanal itinerary in a way that will enhance your experience and save you from disappointment.

The Ideal Kodaikanal Itinerary – A Snapshot

If you visit in the summer (peak season), I will suggest you explore outside the Kodaikanal town. You may like to book a resort and completely skip the touristy spots (which I have marked in star in my itinerary).

So here is a carefully curated Kodaikanal itinerary including the popular as well as offbeat locations in this not-so-offbeat hill station near Bangalore .

Views of misty valleys at random places are the best things to see in your Kodaikanal itinerary.

Kodaikanal Itinerary Day 1:

Reach Kodaikanal by 9 am and get your forest permits
Head straight to Berijam lake which is 22 km away from Kodaikanal bus stop.
Silent Valley viewpoint
Pine tree forest & Guna Caves
Moir Point, Pillar Rocks Viewpoint, Green Valley Viewpoint
Walk along the Golf course
Stop shortly at the upper lake viewpoint for amazing views

🛏️Time to get cozy in your sojourn after a long fulfilling adventure. Check your options .

Kodaikanal Itinerary Day 2:

Trek to Dolphin’s nose

Visit Liril falls and Vattakanal Falls
Upper Lake viewpoint
Coaker’s walk

Bryant Park

Chettiar park, kodaikanal lake.

Kodaikanal Itinerary Day 3 – the day of departure

If you’re on a Bangalore to Kodaikanal road trip, you would like to reach Bangalore by 6pm to avoid the traffic. So you may not have the time to visit most of the places listed below.

However, if you have a bus to catch in the evening, you can still soak in the best of Kodaikanal before bidding goodbye.

Check out early for an excursion to Mannavanur Lake and back (3-4 hours)
Visit Christ The King Church in Kodaikanal town
Drive to Kurinji Advanur Temple
Visit the Solar Observatory
Back to the bus stop for shopping and departure

If time permits you can visit one of the other places on the list above.

While the list may look long, these are mostly viewpoints and usually don’t take long. However, the queues to these viewpoints can be very long during the summer vacation. If like me, overcrowded viewpoints spoil your mood, you can skip some of these.

Which of these if worth skipping to make time for the other? I have that covered for you in the detailed itinerary .

Where To Stay In Kodaikanal?

There are innumerable resorts, hotels, and homestays in Kodaikanal. Even in the peak season, you will get somewhere to stay if you reach without reservation. But they may not be great. Try to stay somewhere around the Kodaikanal lake as that is centrally located.

On our second trip we stayed at Le Poshe , a 4-star resort which offers an authentic hill-stay experience an amazing breakfast and dinner buffet.

Located close to the Bryant Park, it’s a lovely property perched atop a hill, with beautiful gardens and views.

Beautiful hill-side white cottages with tall Nilgiri Trees all around. That's LaPoshe Kodaikanal - one of the best places to stay in Kodaikanal on your trip

My other top recommendations for Kodaikanal are:

GReat Trails Kodaikanal

Sterling Kodai Valley

Kodaikanal Itinerary in Detail – Day 1

Convinced for a trip to Kodaikanal on your next long weekend holiday ? Consider me your personal Bangalore to Kodaikanal Trip Planner. Let me take you on a virtual trop to each of the places on my itinerary.

Berijam lake & Silent valley viewpoint

This is one place which I loved on my first trip to Kodaikanal in 2015. But I missed it on my second trip because I didn’t research properly. And also, because it was the peak summer holiday season.

To reach Berijam lake you have to drive through a forest where travel is restricted between 9:30 am to 3 pm. Only a limited number of tourists are permitted into the forests, so make sure you get the permits as early as possible.

The forest check-post is right ahead of the Moir point where you have to show your permits. While we were disappointed to miss this because of the restriction, I am happy that such measures are being taken to protect the natural wealth.

On your way to the Berijam lake, you will come across the silent valley viewpoint which offers a breathtaking view of the valley and the forests. Hopefully, the restriction to entry keeps the silent valley silent even in the peak season.

Pine tree forest and Guna caves

Pine forests abound Kodaikanal. However, this is the largest accessible pine forest that you can see in the map above. It’s a perfect spot to visit with kids and family. You can relax, hike and explore the region. As with all tourist spots, there are many food vendors right at the entry to the pine forest.

Guna caves are located in the pine forest and are known for being the shooting location of a Tamil movie Guna.

The roots of the tree emerge from the ground lending a unique charm to this place. Unfortunately, the cave itself is fenced out and no entry is permitted.

Large number of people queud to enter Guna Caves - a major tourist attraction in Kodaikanal inside the beautiful pine forest

The Many Viewpoints of Kodaikanal

There are three popular viewpoints in Kodaikanal town – Pillar rocks viewpoint, Moir point, and Green valley viewpoint in decreasing order of my liking.

They are very easily accessible and are considered to be must-visit places in Kodaikanal. I would beg to differ.

Pillar Rocks Viewpoint

According to me, if you have time to visit only one of these viewpoints it should be the Pillar Rocks Viewpoint .

Long ago a man named David Gelli visited Kodaikanal on his honeymoon and lost his wife to a fatal accident in the rocks. He climbed the rock-pillars and placed a white cross on it as a symbol of love. It survived many monsoons but was finally broken.

The viewpoint has developed into a beautiful park now from where you can see those pillars. You will get a view of the three vertical rocks that rise to a height of 400 feet.

Moir point is the most famous of all the viewpoints and offers a bird’s eye view of Kodaikanal’s valleys and villages. This also has a paid entry and a beautiful children’s park inside. There is a watchtower which is said to offer amazing views.

When I visited it this year I looked up at the watchtower and decided that I am okay with the views I can see from the bottom of the tower itself. Take a look at the pictures to know why. I am sure that at any time except summer this would be a great experience.

Green Valley Viewpoint

Green Valley viewpoint is probably the most overrated place in Kodaikanal. There is a walkway that is jampacked with hawkers, almost like Kolkata’s Gariahaat during Durga Puja . For those who did not get this analogy replace it with the most crowded street shopping destination you know and imagine that at its peak season.

It is also known as monkey point because there are many monkeys around, however, they were more afraid than us because they were so vastly outnumbered by selfie-taking humans. Again, the scene might be totally different in the off-peak season, but if you are short of time, you can avoid this place.

Views of Green Valley at Kodaikanal covered in mist

Kodaikanal Golf Club

Kodaikanal golf course was a refreshingly quiet place even in the summer. You cannot enter it without membership as it is a private golf club, but you won’t be stopped from walking along the course.

You can simply stroll along the golf course and click beautiful pictures. Just don’t get over-excited and sprain your legs for no reason at all as I did.

Kodaikanal Waterfalls

Kodaikanal Itinerary Silver Cascade waterfall photos

There are many beautiful waterfalls in Kodaikanal but most of them are seasonal. Most of them would also involve trekking up to the point where you can actually see the falls.

If time permits on day 1 you can visit the Bear Shola Falls. On your way to Kodaikanal lake, you will also come across the silver cascade waterfalls. This is the one cascade which is right in front of your eyes, and you do not need to trek for it.

Alternative Itinerary

Here is an alternative itinerary if you are driving and reach Kodaikanal in the afternoon. You must be tired so visit the Silver cascade falls, Sacred heart church, the parks and Coaker’s walk on day 1. Next morning head to Berijam lake and follow our original day 1 itinerary.

Bangalore to Kodaikanal Trip Plan – Day 2

If you are breakfast lovers like us you must have booked a breakfast buffet in your hotel already. If don’t worry. There are plenty of shops near Kodaikanal lake which open in the morning to serve breakfast.

Get up and enjoy a sumptuous breakfast before heading out, as today you will drive less and trek more. Don’t forget to wear your running or trekking shoes today. Read how to choose the best travel shoes in India. Carry a backpack with at least a 1-ltr water bottle.

A trek to the Dolphin’s nose is the highlight of my Kodaikanal trip.

This is a 2 km long trek mostly downhill and slightly uphill towards the end. It is kind of a moderate level trek for newbies and an easy trek for the pros. You will see roots protruding out of the rocks as you hike downwards. There are many shops which sell water bottles and snacks here on the way.

No entry tickets, no security and not enough dustbins mean that there is no restriction on littering. As you start the upward climb you will see the beautiful pine forests and uncountable plastic bottles scattered inside.

If that was not enough someone inscribed on the rocks at a viewpoint – “I love plastics”! Sarcasm? 🥴

Edge of a densely forested hill in Kodaikanal

Anyway, since the number of tourists is less, you will enjoy the serenity. The pleasant sound of birds, cricket and leaves ruffling in the wind will keep you motivated to complete the trek. There are three major viewpoints on your trek and the Dolphin’s nose comes in between the other two.

It’s a giant precarious rock protruding out into the vastness of the jungles below. The view is worth the effort. Standing at the dolphin’s nose gives you the impression of standing at the edge of the world. Be careful though as one slip can prove to be fatal here.

Upper lake view-point

The tough thing about dolphin’s nose trek is that the return is uphill. So after returning take some rest before you start driving again. The roads of Kodaikanal are narrow and steep, the steepest among all other popular hill stations in South India.

So don’t stress yourself too much after this trek. Have lunch and drive towards the Kodaikanal lake. On your way, you will come across several beautiful viewpoints. One of them is the upper-lake viewpoint from where you can see the star-shaped Kodaikanal lake.

Well, my observation was mostly amoeba-shaped lake, but that doesn’t look great on a travel brochure, right?

Coaker’s Walk

Next, you stop at the Coaker’s walk. It is a beautiful man-made 1-km long pavement built along the edge of the mountains lined with colorful blossoms all year round. It is also famous for the Neelakurinji flowers, a rare species of flowers that cover the Nilgiris once every 12 years.

Besides Kodaikanal, the flowers bloom in the valleys of Kolukkumalai in Tamil Nadu, Annamalai range of Munnar in Kerala and in Bababudangiri hills of Chikmagalur in Karnataka.

The flowers were last seen between August to October in 2018 and will return to the face of the earth in 2030. However, the floral diversity of Coaker’s walk will delight you anyway. On a clear day, you can see click amazing pictures of the valley.

But Kodaikanal is usually cloudy and misty. That’s also the reason why the temperature is in the sweet 20’s even when the whole country is burning hot. So likely that most of the days you will not get a clear view of the valley. I loved the views as it is, even with the fog and the mist.

Apart from the various viewpoints at Coaker’s walk, you will find lots of hawkers selling beautiful handicrafts. Wooden artifacts, artificial flowers, jute bags, and many such attractive items adorn the other side of Coaker’s walk.

What I liked most was a large number of dustbins throughout the walk. While they do stick out as photobombs in our pictures, the places remain clean.

Our Girl Gang in the Bryant Park on our Kodaikanal Trip

Right opposite to the Coaker’s walk is a beautiful garden-cum-park with amazing floral exhibition all year round. You will see nurseries of a variety of flowers with labels attached to them.

This makes it a great excursion spot for schools, as children can not only enjoy the gardens and play in the park but also learn about the different species of flowers.

Personally, I thought that too many labels marred the view though. It is a huge park where families can spend quality time playing with the kids and enjoying nature’s feast.

Kodaikanal Places to Visit Chettiar Park

If you are looking for a slightly lesser-known (hence less crowded) park, then I will suggest Chettiar Park. It’s on the opposite side of the Kodaikanal lake and is much smaller than Bryant Park. I loved the landscaping of the park more than its famous cousin.

Kodaikanal Lake is a huge artificial lake at the heart of the Kodaikanal town. It’s beautiful no doubt but is heavily commercialized. There are several recreational activities like horse-riding (don’t recommend it at all), boating and kayaking. There are several vendors from whom you can buy roasted corn, peanuts, and pakoras.

Day 3 of Kodaikanal Itinerary

Map of all places to visit on Day 3 in Kodaikanal Itinerary

Mannavanur Lake

Lovely lake against the clear sky, with empty coracles calling you at Kodaikanal

Located 33 km from Kodaikanal town, Mannavanur Lake is a serene spot that takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. A little trivia for you—this lake is often used for film shoots, so don’t be surprised if you spot a camera crew.

This trip will take 3-4 hours including the journey.

Christ The King Church

The Christ The King Church is a lovely place to stop by on your way back from Kodaikanal. Built in 1895, the church is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, complete with intricate stained-glass windows. It’s not just a place of worship but also a testament to the rich history of the area.

Silver Cascade Falls

Next up, drive to Silver Cascade Falls, which is conveniently located right beside the road—no hiking needed. The falls are a great place for a quick photo op or to simply enjoy the sound of cascading water. It’s a refreshing pit stop, especially if you’re traveling during the hotter months.

Kurinji Andavar Temple

To reach Kurinji Andavar Temple, you’ll need to take a short detour from the main road. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is famous for its Kurinji flowers that bloom once every 12 years. The history of this temple dates back several decades and it’s a significant pilgrimage site for many.

Natural History Museum

For the last stop of the day, you have two options. I personally visited the Natural History Museum, which required a drive into the woods leading to a school. While the museum itself was basic and skippable, the journey to it was quite enjoyable.

Solar Observatory Museum

Alternatively, you can visit the Solar Observatory, established in 1899 by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics . It’s one of the oldest solar observatories in the world and offers a unique look into the study of our sun.

Vehicle is not allowed inside the premises, and you’ll need to walk for 10 minutes to reach the observatory. The location is so sublime that you’ll really enjoy the walk.

It’s a research facility and the visiting hours are limited to 10 am to 12 noon and then 2pm-4pm.

Alternate Kodaikanal Experience – The Bodhi Zendo

If you are seeking a spiritual experience, there is a special place in Kodaikanal that’s not a part of an usual Bangalore to Kodaikanal trip.

Bodhi Zendo is a Zen training center in South India and a melting point for spiritual enthusiasts from all over the world.

Here you can enjoy a farm stay and participate in day-to-day activities of the center. The cost of a single room including food is Rs.350-Rs.400 for Indian nationals and Rs. 550- Rs.600 for foreign nationals. You can check more details about Bodhi Zendo on their website .

When to visit Kodaikanal?

The short answer to the question is – any time but April-May (that is the summer vacation time in this region). Early monsoon in June and winters from November to March is perfect for a long weekend trip to Kodaikanal.

Read the list of best monsoon destinations in India .

Let me declare right away that Kodaikanal is not offbeat , definitely not in the summer. With Bangalore no longer being the city of forever spring, all working professionals in Bangalore and Chennai look out for “offbeat” destinations nearby to escape the summer heat.

If you are among them (among us), then “summer heat” is the only thing you are going to escape.

You cannot escape commercialization, traffic congestion or the city crowd in Kodaikanal in summer.

When I first visited the place in the summer of 2015, I was surprised to see the traffic jam. I realized that it’s super-crowded but still peaceful. It’s a small town where all the places of interest are within a radius of 15 km, which makes it easy to navigate.

Exactly four years later when I visited the place again, it looked like the population has quadrupled by that time. To avoid traffic clogging in the dangerously steep and narrow roads the traffic operators made the roads one-way.

Nobody likes traffic congestion but think of being stuck uphill at an inclination of 60 degrees for hours. So yes, summer is not the right time to visit Kodaikanal. This is why I have skipped it in my list of best summer destinations in India .

How to Reach Kodaikanal?

The nearest city with an international airport is Coimbatore, which is only 180 km away from Kodaikanal. This is where you should take a flight to if you are planning a Kodaikanal trip from outside Bangalore.

✈️ Cleartrip for Flight Bookings 👩🏼‍✈️

Kodaikanal is 449 km from Bangalore and 604 km from Chennai. There are a number of overnight buses that depart from Bangalore every day.

The advantage of taking a bus is with timing. If you board a bus at 8:30 pm you will easily reach Kodaikanal by 9 am. Then you can get the forest permit for visiting the Berijam lake.

Jeeps and cars can be hired at cheap rates from the Kodaikanal bus-stop itself. The advantage of hiring a local driver is that they know all the routes pretty well, and they understand the local language.

The joy of a road trip, however, lies in the journey. With numerous hair-pin turns, lush green valleys, and breathtaking views, Bangalore to Kodaikanal road-trip is worth the trouble.

In that case, however, you will need to drive overnight to reach Kodaikanal early. Otherwise, you may start at 5 am after a good sleep. Then you would reach Kodaikanal easily by 1 pm.

🚙 🚗 Rent a Zoomcar for self-driving all the way in Kerala 🚔

Vibrant flowers of Kodaikanal - deep purple, bright red, violet and dots of yellow and pink among the bright green leaves

So, Is Kodaikanal Worth Visiting?

The short answer to the question is yes. You just need to plan your trip well and follow some of my recommendations.

For a compact recap, let me point out the important travel tips for Kodaikanal which I wish I knew before I visited.

Schools in Tamil Nadu close for 1-month summer vacation usually between the last week of April and end of May. Don’t visit during this time. Seriously, let the locals enjoy the beauty and maybe we can go to some other places during the summer vacation .
If you still want to travel during this time of the year, atleast avoid Kodaikanal on a summer weekend.
Check weather forecasts before planning your Kodaikanal trip. The monsoons are mostly pleasant but can take an ugly turn (rarely though).
Get your forest permits to be able to visit the forests and the Berijam lake
Carry an umbrella or a waterproof jacket
Watch out for incredible views on your way. So if you are on the bus, wake up as soon as you approach the hills.
Check my favorite sites for planning trips in India below.

That’s my comprehensive itinerary for Kodaikanal. I will leave you with my top trip planning resources below.

Top Travel Sites in India for 2024

🏨 Booking.com for the best hotel prices (Price match and free cancellations)

🚗Get discounts on package tours and special experiences with Viator

💸Secure your vacation with travel insurance from Visitors Coverage

🚗Book local transport on 12Go

🚶🏼‍♂️ Free walking tours on Freetour

🛏️ For hostels around the world, check out Hostelworld

🛍️ Myntra for travel fashion and Amazon for travel gear

If you did, please share and subscribe to get notifications of our latest posts.

If you liked this, here are some other articles you can check out:

Bangalore to Bekal Road Trip
Wayanad Travel Guide
Chikmagalur Road Trip

Author Alice is a full-time business professional with a penchant for writing and travel planning. She shares her travel stories and exclusive practical tips on Backpack & Explore, that you won't find anywhere else.

23 Comments

I haven’t heard of Kodaikanal yet. I have been to India but not on this area. Thanks for taking us digitally to this place. Great snaps! I want to visit this place soon.

Thanks Emman. Hope you visit India soon

Great post! Kodaikanal is a good summer destination with lots of crowd in peak season. Your post brought back memories from my own trip of 2017.

Thanks Anwesha.It’s beautiful but they have to do something to control tourism.

This looks like such a pretty part of your country! I agree that the Pillar Rocks viewpoint is incredible, and offers amazing views too. I also appreciate the tip about the lake being over-commercialised, that tends to happen when places get more popular. If I ever visit, I’ll avoid April to May!

Thanks Lisa. April-May is definitely a no-no. It’s bad for the tourists and it’s bad for the fragile environment of this small town.

I have not heard of Kodaikanal even after visiting Munnar a few years ago. It is interesting to learn of other places that are not so well known and over touristy. Over tourism is starting to become quite a problem and I am pleased to know that after reading your article that numbers are limited here. The lake and surrounding areas look beautiful, no wonder it is so popular. I enjoyed your photos.

Thanks Jane. Unfortunately Kodaikanal is way more crowded and over-commercialised the Munnar. This makes me feel that there must be something with the way the local tourism bodies handle rising popularity. Hope the over-tourism comes under control.

How crazy is it that I’ve never heard of this place? It’s crazy beautiful! I just added it to my list for India! Thanks for all the details and beautiful photos! ❤️

Noted Sinjana, not traveling there during April or May. Kodaikanal has long been in my bucket list, but sadly before I could explore, I had to leave India. Well, when I will go to the south, I will surely visit this place. Thanks for the beautiful tips and photos.

Thanks Shreya. Hope you visit the south soon.

Kodaikanal looks like a fantastic place with so many beautiful and natural assets. I’m not surprised it’s a popular spot for Bangalore’s city dwellers to get away. The region’s stunning lakes, mountains and waterfalls would be quite a lure for those who spend most of their time in the city.

Thanks for your comment. Kodaikanal is really attractive.

Stunning views! I can see why people are drawn to Kodaikanal. Even the viewing deck has a long line. That traffic jam is pretty scary. Reminds my of some of the winding roads to Cornwall that can get pretty jam-packed during the busy seasons.

I am kinda ashamed to admit that despite being to Bangalore so many times, I never got around to visiting Kodaikanal. But just like you, I wish I get to do a road trip from Bangalore to Kodaikanal one day soon 😀 Coaker’s walk looks so peaceful, I know Kodai is super commercialized, like you have mentioned, but there are pockets that are definitely worth a visit. 🙂

I have been to Kodai Kanal 3 times and each time I find it more beautiful and unexplored. It really is the queen of hill stations in the south of India. Your photo of Silent Valley point is amazingly beautiful. Thanks for sharing 3 days itinerary of Kodai Kanal with all attractions list.

I visited Kodaikanal during my last trip to India a couple of months ago and absolutely loved the place! From what I’ve seen, it’s one of the prettiest hill stations in South India. Even though super commercialized nowadays I still think it’s worth visiting. Thank you for sharing this great guide

Oh wow, Kodaikanal looks like a nature-lover’s paradise! The Coaker’s walk looks like a great way to take in some beautiful vistas and hopefully catch a glimpse of some rare flowers, it sounds like. I can definitely see why it’s a city-dweller’s weekend getaway spot. Who wouldn’t want to visit??

Yes. Kodaikanal is a tourist hotspot not just for the beauty but also for the weather. It’s also suffering for the same reason.

This looks like such a scenic and picturesque part of your country. Lots of wonderful walk/hikes that offer incredible views. Should I ever visit, I’d be sure to visit during the high season of April/May.

Every traveler should definitely read this post. Make sure, This is a great opportunity to improve their knowledge while making a trip to Kodaikanal. In a single post, you have mentioned all the important itinerary places in kodaikanal. Thank you so much for this post.

thanks really liked the description

Visit Kodaikanal in very offseason times like before Christmas or after new year and the Hillstation will be practically empty. In fact I had to argue with the boat jetty to start their boating services after waiting till 11.30 Am. I could park my car besides the lake and walk around. Not a soul. We were in on Monday and exited on Friday afternoon just as the weekend crowd was getting in.

Copyright Disclaimer

All images and content in the blog Backpack & Explore are copyrighted. Using these anywhere without permission of the blog admin can lead to legal action.

Affiliate Disclaimer

The site is mainly monetized through affiliates. This means when I recommend a hotel or service or any product, they are likely affiliate links. If you buy something by clicking on these links, we get a small commission for referring you, WITHOUT any additional cost to you.

We are affiliate partners of Amazon , Booking.com , and GetYourGuide , among others. All product or service recommendations on our blog are based on personal experience and research. It is not influenced by any brands or affiliate partnership.

Feature of the Month - Europe Trip Planning

Is Keukenhof worth visiting? A guide to Holland's Tulip Landscape
Most Walkable Cities in Europe
How To Plan a Europe Trip on Budget
Best of Madrid in 3 Days
Best of Amsterdam in 3 Days
Best of Paris in 4 Days

Join India Travel Community

Dig Into Archives

How It Works

Tell us details of your holiday plan.
After you submit the form, one of our travel experts will get back to you with customised holiday package based on your requirement, within 24 hours.
Grab the deal and start packing your bags for an indelible holiday with Tour My India.

Call Us for details

+91-9212777225

Request a quote.

North India

Himachal Pradesh
Uttarakhand
Uttarpradesh

South India

Andhra Pradesh
Maharashtra

Central India

Madhya Pradesh
Chhattisgarh

Union Territories

Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Jammu Kashmir
Dadra and Nagar Haveli
Daman and Diu

Popular India Tourism Destinations by Interest

Hill Station
Yoga and Ayurveda

Adventure Tourism

Motor Biking
Peak Climbing
Mountain Biking
River Rafting
Horse Safari
Camel Safari
Jeep Safari

Pilgrimage Tourism

Christianity

Packages by State

Jammu & Kashmir

Holidays by Interest

Heritage Tours
Ayurveda Tours
Special Interest

Popular Tour Packages

Golden Triangle Tour
Classical India Tour
Golden Triangle with Tiger Tour
Sikkim Darjeeling Tour
Frozen River Trek

Luxury Train Tour

Palace on Wheels
Heritage on Wheels
Maharaja Express
Royal Rajasthan on Wheels
Buddhist Circuit Train

Special Packages

Indian Wildlife Tour
Temple Trails Tour India
Buddhist Circuit Tours
Himalayan Wonder

Fixed Departure Tour

Chadar Trek
Chopta - Chandrashila Trek
Snow Leopard
Dzongri Goecha La Trek
Agra Hotels
Jaipur Hotels
Udaipur Hotels
Manali Hotels
Ladakh Hotels

Wildlife Resorts

Ranthambore National Park
Bandhavgarh National Park
Corbett National Park
Kanha National Park
Pench National Park
Tadoba National Park

Beach Resorts

The Park Calangute
Neelam the Grand
Hotel Calangute Towers
Alor Holiday Resort
Lazy Lagoon Sarovar Portico Suites

Luxury Hotels

Aman-i-Khas, Ranthambore
Hyatt, Bangalore
Hyatt Regency, Delhi
Leela Palace, Udaipur
ITC Grand Chola, Chennai

Top Weekend Breaks & Short Getaways Near Your City

Weekend Getaways Delhi
Weekend Getaways Mumbai
Weekend Getaways Chennai
Weekend Getaways Bangalore
Weekend Getaways Nagpur
Weekend Getaways Hyderabad
Weekend Getaways Cochin
Weekend Getaways Chandigarh
Weekend Getaways Ahmedabad
Weekend Getaways Pune
Weekend Getaways Jaipur
Flight Booking
International NEW

International

States › Tamil Nadu › Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal Travel Guide

Comprised of densely wooded jungles, undulating hill slopes, meandering rivers, cascading waterfalls, and verdure valleys-Kodaikanal's scenic beauty never fails to mesmerise travellers. Often referred to as the 'Princess of Hills', Kodaikanal is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India. Situated at an elevation of 7000 feet above sea-level, along the crest of the Palani Hills, Kodaikanal leaves travellers spoilt for choice while it comes to the places to visit. The major valleys-the Parappar and Gundar surround Kodaikanal from both sides. Owing to its natural beauty, it is also a popular honeymoon destination in Tamil Nadu. The word Kodaikanal means "gift of the forest" and the hill station was developed into a retreat in the mid-19th century by British missionaries who used Kodaikanal as their summer capital. Gradually, more and more tourists started flocking to the place and Kodaikanal emerged as one of the most famous tourist destinations not only in the southern parts of the country but across India. Watch in admirable silence the enchanting allure of the hill station as white clouds play hide and seek with the mountains. Travellers, especially nature lovers can choose from ample options in the city when it comes to the places to visit in Kodaikanal.

From boating in lakes to taking a walk in the hills, to exploring caves and even offering prayers at religious spots-things to do in Kodaikanal are almost endless. One of the most prominent places to see in Kodaikanal is the Berijam Lake. Located at the end of the Pillar Rock Road, the calm and azure waters of the lake are highly welcoming and soothing to the eyes. Overlooking natural wilderness, a visit to the Berijam Lake is worth it. Another major place of interest in Kodaikanal is the main Kodai Lake. Simply stare at the calm blue waters of the lake or take a boat ride with your significant other - experiences at the Kodai Lake would be worth remembering. Adventure lovers can have a great time trekking to places like Pillar Rocks, Dolphin Rocks or even further to Kumabkarai. The spiritual ones can offer prayers at the Kurinji Andavar Temple; those on a family vacation can spend some time at the Byrant Park or go hiking at many of the hilly terrains, opt for a swim at the Fairy Falls or spend some time in solitude with your loved ones at the several viewing points in the hill station. Our Kodaikanal travel guide offers extensive details about every places to visit and things to do in this picturesque hill station. Right from boating to trekking and hiking, one will find all kinds of details in our tour guide.

Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal

Being a hill station, Kodaikanal enjoys a cool and pleasant climate round the year. However, the best time to visit Kodaikanal happens to be the summer months from March to early June when the weather is at its best. Monsoons are moderate in the region and winters are not harsh either. Thereby making Kodaikanal a favourite tourist destination round the year.

Summers, spanning from March to early May are the best time to visit Kodaikanal when the temperature ranges somewhere between 21°C and 37°C. The weather is cool and pleasant making it ideal for travellers to soak into the beauty of the wilderness around.

Kodaikanal experiences monsoon from June end to August and receives moderate rainfall. Needless to say, that the green verdure all over is at its best during monsoons, making it huge hit among the shutterbugs. Temperature ranges somewhere between 17°C and 34°C and there's strong humidity in the wind, making it somewhat uncomfortable. However, if you want to experience the beauty of the place, do remember to carry along with you gears like umbrellas and raincoats.

Winter months in Kodaikanal spans from November to February. The temperature during these months ranges between 9°C and 16°C. The pleasant chill in the winds is welcoming and if you are a trekker, winters are the best time to visit Kodaikanal and go trekking in and around the region.

Popular Tourist Attractions and Places to Visit in and around Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal's popularity as a tourist destination is widely known and its an ideal escape for tired souls looking for some serenity and peace. Whether you want to go on a solo trip and spend some moments in solitude, or you want to go on a vacation with your family or are planning a honeymoon-Kodaikanal has several options for you. Right from lakes to mountain view points to trekking trails, churches and temples-travellers and adventure seekers would be spoilt for choice. Observe the following paragraphs to know more about the best places to visit in Kodaikanal.

Kodaikanal Lake

The Kodaikanal Lake is one of the most popular tourist destinations of Tamil Nadu. This star-shaped artificial lake is located at an elevation of 2285 meters above sea-level. Kodai Lake was constructed way back in 1863 by Sir Vere Hentry Levinge, the collector of Madurai. He moved to Kodaikanal after his retirement and decided to build this lake on an abandoned marshy land. Currently, activities like fishing and boating can be done here.

Coaker's Walk

A holiday in Kodaikanal is incomplete without a visit to the Coaker's Walk. A man-made walking plaza, Coaker's Walk was built by Lt Coaker in 1872. Today it is one of the most popular places to visit in Kodaikanal. Take a stroll in the afternoon with your significant other, or simply gaze at the verdant green valleys-a short trip to the Coaker's Walk will fill you with lifetime memories.

Berijam Lake

Forest-fringed Berijam lake is one of the most popular tourist spots in Kodaikanal. One requires a permit from the forest department to visit this scenic beauty. The permit is easily available, if approached a day before. Since nearby public gets its drinking water from the lake, boating here is prohibited. However, a stroll near the lake and its beautiful surroundings make it a must visit place in Kodaikanal for tourists.

Pine Forest

The Pine Forest of Kodaikanal was cultivated by one Mr. Bryant about a century ago and today, it happens to be one of the most visited places in the hill station. The Pine Forest attracts a multitude of tourists from all over. Needless to say, that the very sight of umpteen number of pine trees standing tall make for an amazing sight. While on a tour of Kodaikanal, make sure that you visit the Pine Forest.

Pillar Rocks

One of the best sightseeing places of Kodaikanal, the Pillar Rocks offer stunning beauty of the natural vistas around. The place derived its name from three rocks that stand almost vertical, looming high and almost piercing the sky at a height of 400 feet. Fog and mist often play hide and seek with the pillars, thus making scene look almost ethereal. Do remember to visit Pillar Rocks while on a tour of Kodaikanal.

Kurinji Andavar Temple

Dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Kurinji Andavar temple is a must visit place in Kodaikanal for pilgrims. Situated at a somewhat offbeat location, the quaint temple offers majestic views of Palani Hills at his backdrop. Tourists can also have a grand view of the Vaigai Dam from the temple. The temple is associated to the Kurinji flowers that bloom once in 12 years. A tour of Kodaikanal would rather be incomplete without a visit to this temple.

Mannavanur Lake

Located in a small village of the same name, the Mannavanur Lake is one of the offbeat tourist places to visit in Kodaikanal. Intercepting with small streams, small waterfalls and fields of carrots will take you to the Mannavanur Lake. Once you reach, a calm and serene water body will welcome you. While there's not much to do, just relaxing in the location is bound to fill you with a lifetime of memories.

Poombarai Village View

If you want to enjoy a scenic hike and catch glimpse of clouds playing hide and seek with terraced valleys-a trip to the Poombarai Village View point is a must. Poomabrai village is famous for its production of garlic. Standing secluded at 1920 metres above sea-level, the Poombarai village offers picturesque views of the surrounding vistas. One can spend hours gazing at the natural beauty and taste some local produce like carrots and beans.

Bryant Park

The Bryant Park is a botanical garden located very close to the Kodai Lake. The park was the brainchild of a certain British army officer named Glen Bryant. Boasting over 325 species of trees, shrubs and cactuses, the garden seems almost like a rainbow when all the flowers are abloom. A 160-year old Eucalyptus is a major attraction. Do remember to visit this beautiful botanical garden when on a tour of Kodaikanal.

Lake View Point

Also known as the Upper Lake View Point, this particular point of interest in Kodaikanal attracts a lot of tourists. From the point one can not only have a grand view of the Kodai Lake but also of the vast green vistas around. While there's not much to do in Lake View Point, you can create beautiful memories while staring at the majestic views of the star-shaped Kodai Lake.

Chettiar Park

A stunning green garden, the Chettiar Park happens to be a widespread tourist attraction in the hill station of Kodaikanal. The park is awash with a wide and rare species of flowers, the park is known to exude exquisiteness at every step. The perfectly manicured lawns of the park add on to exquisiteness of the place. The Kurunji flowers that bloom once in 12 years is its main attraction.

Silent Valley View

Another prominent sightseeing place in Kodaikanal is the Silent Valley View Point. Located near the Berijam Lake, the Silent Valley View is a favourite with nature lovers. The best times to visit the Silent Valley View Point is early mornings and late evenings. Needless to say, that the point is an amazing place to view natural surroundings and scenic mountains around. A visit to the Silent Valley View is definitely worth it.

One of the most interesting tourist places to visit in Kodaikanal is the Guna Caves. Named after a famed Kamal Hassan starrer Tamil movie Guna, the caves are a must visit place for nature lover and adventure seekers. The region was a well-known hiking trail and after the movie was shot, it came to be known as Guna Caves. A trip to this intriguing cave can help you create beautiful memories.

Shembaganur Museum of Natural History

History buffs can have a great time visiting the Shembaganur Museum of Natural History, one of the famous tourist attractions in Kodaikanal. Founded in 1895, the museum is affiliated to the Loyola College, Chennai. Here one can have some great time spotting artefacts belonging to the Palayiar tribes, whose descendants continue to reside in the hill station. The taxidermy collection is a major attraction of the museum. Read more

La Saleth Church

Considered to be Kodaikanal's oldest apostolic, the La Saleth Church has been in existence since the last 150 years. The church was funded by a Belgian woman as a kind gesture who wanted to thank Our Lady of La Salette for the cure of her daughter. The shrine is an excellent example of the combination of Tamil and French architecture. The shrine is a gathering place for all and sundry. Read more

Vattakanal Falls

One of the major sightseeing places in Kodaikanal happens to be the Vattakanal Falls. Hidden within the dense forests of Karnataka, a visit to the Vattakanal Falls is a must while on a tour of Kodaikanal. Surrounded by hills, trees and vast green expanses, the falls make for an absolute delight to the eyes. A bridge near the falls, makes it much easier for you to click photographs.

Christ the King Church

Another major place of worship, Christ the King Church attracts a lot of tourists and pilgrims round the year. Built in 1895, the Protestant church is constructed in a traditional gothic architecture. The church features a range of stained glasses that exude beauty and liveliness from its exterior. Christ the King Church is a revered place of worship in whole of Kodaikanal. Read more

Bear Shola Falls

A part of the Parappar River Stream, the Bear Shola Falls is a sight to behold. One of the most popular tourist spots of Kodaikanal, the falls are definitely a sight to behold. Cascading down in a slanting manner from a great height, the falls lies inside a forest reserve -unhindered by human encroachments. A trip to the Bear Shola Falls will definitely rejuvenate your senses completely.

Astrophysical Observatory

An integral part of Indian Institute of Astrophysics, the Astrophysical Observatory is a prominent place to visit in Kodaikanal. Built in 1899 and situated amidst beautiful natural surroundings with the Palani Hills at its backdrop, the observatory makes for an awesome sight for astrophysics enthusiasts and even tourists. Observe the collection at the Museum or check out some rare books on astronomical science at the library-you will never be tired of this place. Read more

Moir point happens to be one of the major view-points of Kodaikanal. The site is named after a European engineer Sir Thomas Moir who was responsible for constructing the Goschen Road in 1929. The point offers panoramic views of the peaks and the green vistas all around. It one of the major tourist spots in Kodaikanal. A small park has been constructed here along with a monument.

Subrahmanya Temple

Located 65 kilometres away from the main Kodaikanal Point, the Subrahmanya Temple is dedicated to Lord Kartikeya. Situated at a height of 135 metres and one needs climb more than 600 steps in order get a view of sanctum sanctorum. This temple might be moderately popular among tourists, however a visit will fill you with a sense of satisfaction. Do remember to take tour of the Subrahmanya Temple once in Kodaikanal.

Fairy Falls

Located in the Pambarpuram area, the Fairy Falls make for a must visit place in Kodaikanal. These cascading falls offers a beautiful sight of water gushing out at a heavy speed from the top of a mountain. The falls is also very popular as a point for swimming. Spend some time relaxing here with your loved one or simply steal away some moments of solitude, the Fairy Falls is definitely worth a visit.

Where to Stay in Kodaikanal?

Plenty of accommodation options are available in Kodaikanal that caters to all kinds of travellers. From luxury vacationers to budget travellers-all can find accommodations in Kodaikanal that fits their individual bills. Be it budget hotels or an exquisite suite overlooking a lake, or you are looking for holiday rentals or a luxury hotel that offers a grand view of the lush valleys, Kodaikanal will never let you down with accommodation of your choice that can also be booked online.

How to Reach Kodaikanal?

A prominent hill station of South India, Kodaikanal can be easily reached from a host of cities. While Madurai is the nearest city located at a distance of 120 kilometres, other nearest major cities happen to be Coimbatore (172 kilometres) and Kochi (300 kilometres). Kodaikanal can also be reached from Chennai lying at a distance of 525 kilometres and Bangalore which is roughly 465 kilometres away.

Madurai, lying at a distance of 120 kilometres is the nearest airport to Kodaikanal. The airport is well-connected with all prominent Indian cities and major airlines plying on a regular basis. Public as well as private transport can be easily available from the Madurai airport for Kodaikanal. Another option includes travelling via the Trichy airport (150 kilometres) which is also well-connected by several major airports of the country.

The nearest railhead to Kodaikanal is Kodai Road which is 80 kilometres away. Trains from Trichy and Madurai ply on a daily basis for Kodaikanal which can be easily available. Another major railway junction is Coimbatore which is well-connected to the rest of the country. From Coimbatore trains to Kodaikanal ply on a regular basis, which travellers can easily avail.

Kodaikanal is very well-connected by roadways and buses from all major cities including Madurai, Trichy and Coimbatore. Buses from these cities ply on a regular basis and one can avail both public and private ones. Travellers can also opt for ac and non-buses according to their comfort.

Popular Tour Packages Tamil Nadu

Classical Tamil Nadu Tour

05 NIGHTS/06 DAYS

Ooty & Kodaikanal Tour

04 NIGHTS/05 DAYS

Temples with Beach Tour of Tamilnadu & Kerala

Tamil Nadu Tour with Kerala

13 NIGHTS/14 DAYS

Spiritual Tour to Tamilnadu

09 NIGHTS/10 DAYS

Temple Tour Package Tamilnadu

06 NIGHTS/07 DAYS

Navagraha Temple Tour

02 NIGHTS/03 DAYS

Temple Tours South India

Palaces Wildlife & Beaches

14 NIGHTS/15 DAYS

Educational Tour to India

11 NIGHTS/12 DAYS

South India Historical Tour

23 NIGHTS/24 DAYS

Ooty Madurai and Rameshwaram Tour

07 NIGHTS/08 DAYS

Ooty Hill Tour Package

Best of South India Hill Stations

Ooty Coorg Hills with Wayanad Tour

Ooty Munnar Kodaikanal Tour

Coorg Hill Station Tour

Munnar Hills Tour Package

03 NIGHTS/04 DAYS

Tamil Nadu Tourism- Top Things to Do and See

Hill Stations

Arts & Culture

Tamil Nadu Travel Information at a Glance

There's an abundance of culture, tradition, art, craft, nature, and wildlife experiences awaiting in Tamil Nadu. Choose from our wide array of Tamil Nadu travel packages and get that incredible holiday experience at this colour palette kind of a destination. We design the finest tour packages keeping your likes and dislikes in mind so that you are guaranteed a holistic travelling experience that too in a budget of your choice.

About Tamil Nadu Tourism
Top Places & Things to Do
Best Accommodation
Holiday Packages
Best Time to Visit
Summer Weather
Monsoon Weather
Winter Weather
How to Reach Tamil Nadu
Travel by Road
Travel by Train
Travel by Air
Tamil Nadu Tourist Map
Culture & People
South India Tours
Visitors Sitemap

Plan Your Trip

Request a FREE Quote

All Products
Hotels & Cabins
Refund Policy

10 Tips For A Memorable Trip To Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a small hill station located in the state of Tamil Nadu in southern part of India. Known for its picturesque landscapes, pleasant climate, and tranquil atmosphere, Kodaikanal attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world.

Kodaikanal is an ideal destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and unwind in the lap of nature. However, before embarking on a trip to Kodaikanal, it is important to plan and prepare adequately to ensure a smooth, hassle-free and a memorable trip.

Tip 1: Research and Plan Your Itinerary

Researching about the tourist spot and planning your trip to Kodaikanal is highly important to find out the main attractions in a tourist spot before visiting as it can help you to plan your trip to Kodaikanal better and make the most of your time and money.

You can prioritize your itinerary by researching the main attractions and ensure that you don’t miss out on the most popular and significant sights and activities. This can help you make informed decisions about transportation, accommodation, and budgeting.
Consider Your Interests and Budget when planning a trip to Kodaikanal. Kodaikanal offers a range of activities to suit all interests and budgets. If you love nature, you can go hiking, camping, or birdwatching . If you’re interested in culture and tradition, you can visit local temples, museums, and markets. If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities, such as walking tours, picnics, and wildlife spotting.
Deciding right time to visit , is one of the important decision one to take. The best time for a trip to Kodaikanal depends on your interests and budget. The peak tourist season is from April to June, when the weather is pleasant and the flowers are in bloom. However, this is also the most expensive time to visit, and the attractions can be crowded. If you prefer a quieter and more affordable trip, consider visiting during the off-season, from September to November or from January to March.

Tip 2: Book Your Accommodation in Advance

When planning a trip to Kodaikanal, booking your accommodation in advance is essential. Kodaikanal is a popular tourist destination, and during peak season, accommodation can fill up quickly. By booking early, you can secure the best deals and ensure that you have a comfortable and affordable place to stay.

Kodaikanal has a wide range of accommodation options , including budget hotels, guesthouses, and luxury resorts. However, during peak season, it can be difficult to find a good place to stay at a reasonable price. Therefore, it is advisable to book your accommodation well in advance.

One can find many types of accommodation available when planning a trip to Kodaikanal, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. To choose the right accommodation while planning your trip to Kodaikanal, consider the following:

Location : Being in proximity to tourist attractions one can save time and money on travelling from hotels to the place you want to visit.
Price: Visiting a tourist is expensive generally during peak season. A little money you saved on booking hotel at lowest price adds an advantage to you.
Amenities : Consider the amenities offered by hotels at similar prices and make sure you accommodation includes all the amenities like wifi, room cleaning on time, etc,.
Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to get an idea of the quality of the accommodation and the level of customer service.

Tip 3: Pack Appropriately

Kodaikanal has a pleasant climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. However, it’s important to check the weather forecast before you pack, as the temperature can vary depending on the time of year.

When planning a trip to Kodaikanal, it’s important to pack appropriately to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. For example, the monsoon season lasts from June to September and can bring heavy rainfall. Knowing the weather and climate will help you pack appropriate clothing and gear.

Here are some essentials to pack for your trip to Kodaikanal:

Comfortable Walking Shoes: Kodaikanal has many scenic trails and attractions that require walking or hiking, so comfortable shoes are a must.
Warm Clothing: Even though the weather is generally pleasant, temperatures can drop in the evenings and early mornings, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
Rain Gear : If you’re visiting during the monsoon season, it’s important to bring a raincoat or umbrella to stay dry.
Sun Protection: The sun can be strong in Kodaikanal, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
Camera Gear: Kodaikanal is a paradise for photographers, so pack your camera, lenses, and other gear to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Personal Medication: If you have any personal medication, make sure to bring enough for your entire trip.
Pack Light: While it’s important to pack appropriately, try to pack as light as possible to avoid excess baggage fees and make it easier to get around. Only bring what you need, and consider using packing cubes to help you stay organized.

Tip 4: Be Prepared for Unpredictable Weather

The monsoon season in Kodaikanal lasts from June to September, and during this time, the region experiences heavy rainfall and occasional landslides. It’s important to keep an eye on weather forecasts and avoid traveling during severe weather conditions on your trip to Kodaikanal.

Suitable clothing: Wear comfortable and lightweight clothes that dry quickly, as you may need to change clothes frequently during the monsoon season. Avoid wearing sandals or open-toed shoes, as they can get waterlogged and cause blisters.
Carry rain gear: If you’re traveling during the monsoon season, it’s essential to carry rain gear such as a raincoat, umbrella, or waterproof jacket to stay dry. It’s also a good idea to carry a plastic bag to protect your belongings from getting wet.
Know about your surroundings: During adverse weather conditions, it’s important to stay safe and avoid venturing out alone. Always carry a charged phone and keep emergency contacts handy. If you’re staying in a hotel, familiarize yourself with the evacuation procedures in case of a natural disaster.
Stay indoors: It is best to stay indoors during heavy rain or thunderstorms and avoid outdoor activities such as trekking or hiking. Wait for the weather to clear up before venturing out again.

Tip 5: Get to Know the Local Culture and Customs

Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill station in Tamil Nadu with a rich and diverse culture. To make the most of your trip, it’s important to get to know the local culture and customs before you go.

Here are some tips to help you learn about the local culture for a trip to Kodaikanal :

Do Your Research: Understand the local customs before your trip by doing some research on Kodaikanal’s history, culture, and customs. This will help you understand the local customs and avoid cultural misunderstandings.
Learn the Language: Tamil is the official language of Kodaikanal , and while many people speak English, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic phrases to communicate with locals and show that you respect their culture.
Dress Appropriately : Kodaikanal is a conservative city, and it’s important to dress modestly to avoid offending the locals.
Respect Local Customs : Kodaikanal has many customs and traditions that are unique to the region. Respect these customs and be mindful of local sensitivities. For example, it’s important to remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone’s home.
Connect with Locals : The best way to learn about the local culture is to connect with locals. Strike up a conversation with shopkeepers, attend local events, and join a cultural tour. This will give you an insider’s view of Kodaikanal’s culture and customs.

Tip 6: Use Public Transportation

Kodaikanal offers a variety of transportation options to explore. One of the best ways to get around and experience the local lifestyle is by using the public transportation system.

Kodaikanal has a well-connected network of public transportation, including buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) operates several buses from major cities and towns to Kodaikanal. These buses are comfortable, affordable, and provide an opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.

Apart from buses, Taxis are ideal for long-distance travel, while auto-rickshaws are perfect for short trips within the town.

Tip 7: Try Local Cuisine

A trip to Kodaikanal is a must for food enthusiasts to experience the unique and vibrant flavors of this hill station.

Kodai’s culinary culture is a reflection of the region’s rich history and diverse influences. The use of locally-sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques is an essential aspect of Kodai’s cuisine , which has led to the development of a unique and vibrant culinary culture.

The region’s geographical location and cultural heritage have also contributed to the development of a diverse cuisine that is characterized by its use of wild greens and forest produce and influenced by neighboring regions such as Kerala and Karnataka.

Tip 8: Explore Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

While many tourists visit the popular spots in while a trip to Kodaikanal, there are many hidden gems that are worth exploring like Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, Pambar Waterfalls , Dolmen Circle , Berijam Lake , Shembaganur Museum and Kookal Village .

Exploring off-the-beaten-path attractions is important for a variety of reasons. It helps preserve local culture and the environment, offers unique experiences, supports local economies, allows tourists to escape the crowds, and encourages sustainable tourism practices.

So the next time you plan a trip to Kodaikanal, make sure to venture off the beaten path and discover the hidden gems that make each destination unique.

Tip 9: Take Advantage of Guided Tours

Taking advantage of guided tours is a great way to explore during a trip to Kodaikanal and get the most out of your visit.

Types of Guided Tours in Kodaikanal :

Walking Tours : Walking tours are a great way to explore the town and learn about its history and culture. These tours usually cover the main attractions of Kodaikanal, including the Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, and Bryant Park.
Trekking Tours : Kodaikanal is surrounded by hills and mountains, and there are many trekking trails that offer stunning views of the landscape. Trekking tours usually include a guide who will lead the group through the trails and provide information about the flora, fauna, and geology of the area.
Cultural Tours : Cultural tours focus on the local customs, traditions, and cuisine of Kodaikanal. These tours usually include visits to local villages and markets, where tourists can interact with the locals and sample the local food.
Wildlife Tours : Kodaikanal is home to many species of wildlife, including bison, deer, and wild boar. Wildlife tours offer a chance to explore the natural habitats of these animals and learn about their behavior and ecology. Suggested to read: Full Guide To Palani Hills Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park

Advantages of Guided tours

Expert Knowledge : Guides provide insights into the history, culture, and natural environment of Kodaikanal. They can also provide tips on the best places to visit, eat, and shop during a trip to Kodaikanal.
Safety : Guides can ensure the safety of tourists by providing information on potential hazards and risks.
Convenience : Guided tours are convenient because they take care of all the logistical arrangements, including transportation, tickets, and reservations.
Social Interaction : Guided tours offer a chance to meet other travelers and share experiences. This can be particularly valuable for solo travelers during their trip to Kodaikanal who may feel lonely or isolated when exploring on their own.
Value for Money : Guided tours may seem more expensive than independent exploration, but they often offer better value for money. This is because they include transportation, tickets, and reservations, which can be costly when done separately.

Tip 10: Be Considerate of the Environment

Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill station with abundant natural beauty. However, the region faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, soil erosion, and pollution. As a responsible traveler during your trip to Kodaikanal, it’s important to be an Eco- Tourist and take steps to preserve environment for future generations.

Respecting and preserving the environment is especially important when traveling to tourist spots in forests, as these areas are often fragile ecosystems that can be easily damaged by human activities. It is crucial to be environmentally responsible while your trip to Kodaikanal when visiting forest tourist spots:

In conclusion, Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill station with a lot to offer to its visitors. To make the most of your trip to Kodaikanal, it is important to plan ahead and keep in mind some key tips.

My Kodaikanal Trip - Kodaikanal Forum

Asia
India
Tamil Nadu
Dindigul District
Kodaikanal

My Kodaikanal Trip

India Forums
United States Forums
Europe Forums
Canada Forums
Asia Forums
Central America Forums
Africa Forums
Caribbean Forums
Mexico Forums
South Pacific Forums
South America Forums
Middle East Forums
Honeymoons and Romance
Business Travel
Train Travel
Traveling With Disabilities
Tripadvisor Support
Solo Travel
Bargain Travel
Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
Tamil Nadu forums
Kodaikanal forum

Although I’ve visited this place last year, mean march 2016, so you may find the slight differences in prices. I’m a very budget traveler and more focus on the places to visit and enjoy, rather than sitting in a luxuries hotel with a tv set.

Let’s talk about my journey, that may help you to plan your next trip to this beautiful place.

My journey was started from Chennai Central through train. You can find plenty of good transport option to visit this place. Lots of trains are available on this route and no doubt train is the best option for this route. Even you will get direct bus to Madurai, from their you need take another bus to Kodaikanal.

I took some train and reached “Kodaikanal Road” railway station at 3AM. It took almost 8 hours journey from Chennai to Kodaikanal Road station. Remember here, from “Kodaikanal Road” station to actual Kodaikanal hill station is almost 80KM, that includes hill road. As it was complete dark, we waited few hours in Railway waiting room. This is a very small railway station with very limited options so be prepare for it. We saw one tourist bus in station compound, which was offering all the available tourist for a trip to the Kodaikala hill station. After some bargaining, finally we settled for 200 per head and bus started at 4’0 clock morning.

I chat with some local tea stall guy and he informed me, govt/pvt bus will be available only after 6 AM and those bus will be very crowded, as they are coming from Madurai. Another big bus stand name is Batlagundu, from there anyone can get good number of bus option towards Madurai and Kodaikanal. From Kodaikanal road station to Batlagundu bus stand is almost 20km and took 15 minutes without any traffic. So if we are looking for public bus to Kodaikanal, recommend you to go Batlagundu via bus and take direct bus to hill.

It was completely dark outside of the station and our journey was started towards the hill. I must say road was quite good in shape, after 1 hour journey, bus took the hill road finally. As it was complete dark outside, bus was running very slowly in narrow hill road. Our journey was very smooth, only 15+ passenger was there, so we had plenty of vacant sit in bus.

Slowly sun started rising in between the hills, it was a amazing view. When we were closed to Kodaikanal, driver gave a stop to some waterfall. As we went after the winter, very less water was there. But it was quite refreshing one for all us. Finally after 4 hours of journey, we reached in Kodaikanal bus stand. We found, this is heart of the kodaikanal.

I was pre decided to stay in JC Grand, which is just opposite to main bus stand. On the hotel review, I must say its was an average stay. Room was pretty clean and spacious, but water was very bad and yellowish completely, also bathroom lock was broken. As I was already took the room, I was settled with it. This was cost me around 800 bucks per day, in off season. If you wish to stay in some fancy hotel with good view and service, I recommend you to ready to shell some extra bucks from your pocket and try to find a good hotel nearby. Anyway, thanks to tripadvisor for this hotel, no hard feeling.

If you are a budget traveler like me and want to reduce the cost of travelling, read this part very carefully.

After having a good dhosa in some unknown restaurant, near to hotel, I went to bus station for daily sightseeing trips. After some field research, I found most of the travel agency offering same package, as it all working with internal adjustment between agencies. Mostly they will show you 3 days package, which will cover most of the attraction of this place. I choose Taj Tour and Travels, they showed me actual 2 days package for the attraction. Some tour operator asked me 1,500 per head for 3days trip. As multiple travel company are there, its better to choose for daily basis and it was saved some bucks for me too, so I recommend the same to my fellow traveler.

Here remember, may be you are not aware of the actual rate for this, but they don’t know so start bargaining.!! You can save your money here. One more thing, you will find some people offering you sightseeing trip without any car , please don’t go with them, they will take you to the same travel agency in bus stand, but agency charge you 50/100 rs extra, which is the cut money for those agent. Finally I paid around 750 bucks per head totally for 2 days sightseeing which cover most of the attraction. So beware of the 3days scheme!

Day 1: Bryant Park, La Saleth Church, Upper Lake View, Pine Forest , some waterfall inside of pine forest, Kurinji Andavar Temple, Guna Cave, Kodaikanal Lake drop.

Day 2: Started from Coakers Walk, better go there as earliest as possible in morning to avoid the direct heat and sunlight. Spoke with my travel agent and took the sightseeing bus from here, so I spend quite longer time here and view was awesome.

La Saleth Church again, Vattakanal Falls- here total 3 falls are there, be careful when you are going through the jungal road, ways are very narrow and risky in some place, so not recommended for older and kids. Next is Dolphin nose, if you think, you are not enough fit to walk for next 1 hour on hill, or sort of trekking, please avoid this place and not recommended for older and kids. However I went there till end and saw how people are straggling while coming back. Here view is awesome and best part is you will get plenty of food joint and bench throughout your journey to end. People are very kind and offering fruits/bread toast on their shops.

Echo point is an additional view point near to Dolphin nose. Some place is risky and may create any accident, so extra caution required for this small journey. Cab sightseeing options are available too.

If you are interested in trek, please do some research early, as Kodaikanal have multiple good trekking route, even you can stay near to Dolphin nose after your trekking. Good food joints and homestay are available on the way to Dolphin nose.

Here I have just mentioned few places. Anyway if you choose for bus sightseeing they will show of all the places and take the list of attraction before get started. For all the day out, must carry enough water and wear light dress with good off road shoe. Also recommend you to use package drinking water for all the days on hill.

Next day morning, wake up a little bit early, packed my bag and keep it to hotel. After check out from hotel and grab my breakfast, we went to Kodaikanal Lake . As we reached there by 8’o clock, it was quite early for lake area. We had a good walk on the round road of lake side, then finally went for boating at 930AM. As early I enquired, boating start time was 930 AM, we took the first boat and started our boating on kodaikanal lake.

I’m not a big fan of boating, but with a romantic chilled morning, come ‘on, I can’t hold myself out of it. We took 1 hour plan and I must say, it was very cheap compare to all of the hill station in South India. Remember here, Kodaikanal lake is huge and it’s not recommended to go too far from the boat ghat. There was no limitation of distance, so go as far as you are able to return to the starting place.

Now I must come to the one of the best part of all the trip, that is shopping!! Kodaikanal is very famous for her homemade chocolate. Lake side is a good place to collect chocolate and whatever you like. Tibetans were selling their winter collection. I filled up my bag with chocolate. Things need to remember here, you can keep your chocolate in cold area as long as you want but in normal ground without refrigerator, you can keep it for few days only. So buy as much you want but after tasting only.

Food Joint – In Kodaikanal, you can find plenty of food joints, that include north and south Indian menu. Even I’ve found on Bengali restaurant, they offered good food to me. Specially chicken and fish item was really good and cheap.

Now it’s time to say good bye to Kodaikanal. I took bus from main bus stand to Kodaikanal road station again, now took around 3 hours only. Railway gave some special train for the traveler. With a bag full of chocolate and heart full of memory, I reached Chennai on time.

This is my first review so Thank you for reading this, I know its too long so Sorry for that, tried to make it short but I can’t.

Anyway good luck for your next trip to Kodaikanal. Inbox me if you need any input for your trip and your feedback will be highly appreciated.

Thank you :)

Detailed review for budget travelers thanks for sharing it

Excellent details. Long reviews make a good reading; I enjoy reading them. Since this review is very useful,

think of making it sticky, maybe by putting it somewhere in `Things to Do in Kodaikanal'. Else, this review will be lost over time.

Yes you will get seat in the bus

1. Kodaikanal Lake

2. Coakers Walk

3. Bryant Park

4. Guna Cave

5. Vattakanal Falls

6. Dolphin's Nose

7. Silent Valley View Point

For roads and 'on the way' attraction, better to speak with some local or driver. have a wonderful trip.

Thank you for the information.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

Is there any Railway Retiring rooms in Dindigul 20 April 2024
Bus from kodai road railway station to Kodaikanal 16 April 2024
Budget hotels in Kodaikanal 21 March 2024
KODAIKANAL and madurai 21 March 2024
February trip 13 February 2024
Dindigul to Kodaikanal 10 February 2024
Kodaikanal-Rameshwaram-Chennai Trip 05 January 2024
Kodaikanal sightseeing 22 November 2023
Temporary ban on entry of tourists to 10 mile round spots 26 October 2023
Kodaikanal trip in November first week 23 October 2023
Poombarai to mannavanur lake trek 15 October 2023
I am planning to go munnar and kodaikanal from pondicherry 20 September 2023
Buses from Kodaikanal to Coimbatore 07 September 2023
Bike trip from Ooty to Kodaikanal 05 September 2023
How to reach KodaiKanal from Hyderabad? 2 replies
distance and time between kodaikkanal and munnar on road 6 replies
taxis from kodai road to kodaikanal 4 replies
how to reach ooty from kodai kanal 3 replies
How is the road between Kodaikanal to Palani 5 replies
Bus service from Kodai Road to Kodaikanal 4 replies
bus from coimbatore to kodai 22 replies
Weather In Kodaikanal in Mid August 4 replies
How long is the driving distance from Bangalore to Kodai?? 3 replies
route directions from munnar to kodaikanal 8 replies

Kodaikanal Hotels and Places to Stay

Ideal Kodai Itineraries

All about my travel experiences

On the 7th day, when God rested after creating the world and all its natural wonders, I packed my bags and set off to explore them. That is me. Always ready and eager to be off to somewhere new (or old) - always exploring. And when I am not traveling, you'll find me writing code for a living.

Saturday, May 26, 2012

Trip to kodaikanal, 75 comments:.

This comment has been removed by the author.

can you give me the contact of this Raj guy, I am going in April and it would be great to have a guy like Raj taking me all over the place :) thanks

Very nice post. Thanks for sharing. Its a best place to spend holidays with friends, family and loved ones. Explore best Kodaikanal tour packages for wonderful vacations.

nice blog...I'm new to blog,do visit my blog http://incredible4holiday.blogspot.in

i been looking forward to going to kodaikanal next month with my family and ur blog had lot of good info about it Thanks

It is really a great experience. Perfect destination for honeymooners.

Great travelogue. Wish, I checked out this one before heading to Kodaikanal. Here's my Travelogue, http://reveringthoughts.com/2015/10/25/travelogue-kodaikanal/, do take time out to read this.

Nice post on trip to Kodaikanal with the beautiful pictures. Its an amazing city in Tamil Nadu. Refered as the "princess of hills", its a famous tourist destination and the amazing places to visit in Kodaikanal are famous among visitors.

When you visit Kodai again, stay at The Calton Kodaikanal (http://www.carlton-kodaikanal.com/). It is the only 5 star hotel in Kodaikanal and as a bonus it is situated right next to the picturesque Kodai lake

Excellent article. Very interesting to read. I really love to read such a nice article. Thanks! keep rocking. Tour Supreme

Thanks for sharing such a nice article. I am searching this type of article. Very helpful. Keep sharing. morachi chincholi getaways from pune

Thanks for posting the photographs and the blog is very unique.Very helpful for the trip to Kodaikanal

Hi., very helpful trip to kodaikanal. Separate Cottage at Kodaikanal near Lake (Just 1 Km) The room rates can be discussed further on call. Contact Number: 9655914340

Great post!! Thanks for sharing this lovely post. I loved reading this post. It is one of my favourite place. Well written and more informatice blog. Make your trip to those places in National Travels and enjoy your trip with family.

Hope you enjoyed the trip very well and descriptions and photos are really great. Good to read about your experience about kodaikanal. keep updating with the future posts. Chennai to Bangalore Cabs Online Booking

Kodaikanal is a city in the slopes of the 'taluk' division of Dindigul area in Tamil Nadu, India. Its name in Tamil dialect signifies "The Gift of the Forest". Tour Packages Adventures activitis

I constantly like to read a top quality content having accurate info pertaining to the subject and the exact same thing I found in this article. Nice job. ทัวร์ฮ่องกง

Thanks for sharing the information. Car rental in Bangalore

We are urgently in need of A , B , O blood group KlDNEY organs with the sum of $500,000.00 USD in Kokilaben Hospital India Contact For more details Email: [email protected] WhatsApp +91 7795833215

Now day, everything is going to find a new but well settled and successful stream for their career. When I came to this blog, I really impressed by all the knowledge points mentioned here. Thank you for this assistance. Now day, everything is going to find a new but well settled and successful stream for their career. When I came to this blog, I really impressed by all the knowledge points mentioned here. Thank you for this assistance. vuelos

Enthusiastic beginning is very common in every sector when anyone enters into a new world. But it is very hard to keep such enthusiasm for a long time after huddles come out from invited sources. Read this blog and know more about this topic. โปรโมชั่น บัตรเครดิต

Are you looking for bangalore tour packages? india's top travel portal, india's top travel company, Book bangalore Tour Package, visiting places in bangalore, Top travel agent in bangalore, travel agent in bangalore, tour operator in bangalore, travel agent in bangalore, car rental agent in bangalore, hotels in bangalore, cab service in bangalore, car rental in bangalore, airline ticketing agnets in bangalore,, best travel agent in bangalore, budget tour in bangalore, Travel Tourister. Travel Agent in Bangalore

Nice blog info. I love the way of representing your blog Trip to kodaikanal .

Informative Blog About best tours and travels in Bangalore

Mesmerized article written on this blog with other relevant information. It is straight to the point that how we can improve our skills as well as how we can be represented to a new stream of professionalism. Krabi transfer

Thanks for such a nice information. http://traveldaynight.com/

Available factory faridabad with plot area 260 sq yds and covered area 3000 sq ft which is west facing ,,this property is newly built and it is ready to move. view more- Factory for Rent in Faridabad

Kodaikanal is a lovely place to visit during vacation. Love to visit this place with family & friends. Thanks for sharing about this place. I used to visit these places during my vacation. Check out HeyHolidays they are providing best vacation rentals in Kodaikanal

Wonderful post about your trip to Kodaikanal. Thanks for sharing about this place. This is one of the best places to visit during vacation either with family or friends. I have visited this place twice , it was an awesome experience at this place. If anyone wants to travel this place, then book bus tickets in bus ticket booking portal to enjoy the trip.

Travel tourister is india's top travel agencies in ooty. We are provided best tour packages in ooty and best travel agent in ooty and tour operators in ooty. view more - Travel Agent in Ooty

awesome one by best budget hotel in ooty

Nice post! It is helpful information for travelers. Thanks. India Trip Designer, A Leading Travel Agent in India Offers Luxury Rajasthan Tour Package India , Get Rajasthan Tours Packages With Discount Offer, Rajasthan, A Cultural State of India Which Shows Real Beauty of India Thanks and best regards Manoj Sharma www.indiatripdesigner.com ☎+91-9837332533

Wonderful blog with such a useful information, i really like it. There are many Taxi rental services in Bangalore , Car rental packages bangalore , Book cab online in bangalore , Cab rental Services in bangalore , Cab Hire in bangalore , Taxi Rental Company in Bangalore , Mini Bus rental in Bangalore , Tempo traveller rental in bangalore , Tempo traveller hire in bangalore , tempo traveller rental bangalore , tempo traveller rental company in bangalore , Tempo traveller for outstation bangalore , Travel agents in bangalore for easy travel.

Thanks for sharing the really nice information . we are also from mysore has a travel agent we can provide travel facility to your next trip Mysore coorg tour

thanks for shar9ing your experience, Great content, love the pics. Book rooms near Manyata tech park

Hi Kodaikanal is known for its rich flora. Of the big trees, cypress, eucalyptus and acacia are the dominant varieties. Pear trees are numerous and the fruits are of high quality. Competing with the fruit trees are the flowering ones, mainly rhododendron and magnolia. Large dahlias of different hues are the main attraction of Bryant Park, situated close to the Kodai lake. Water lilies in the park's pond are another pleasing sight. The town abounds in beautiful yellow wild flowers. Very interesting post, we enjoyed each and everything as per written in your post. Thank you for sharing this article because it’s really informative. If you are planning for your holiday and Bus Ticket Bookings , searching for the beautiful place to spend your time then you can wander around this vibrant city. It really helps people to plan for future trips. If anyone want go to visit these places and your online bus ticket booking advance in Kodaikanal to Chennai Bus and get more Bus Ticket Offers .

taxi in chandigarh taxi service in chandigarh

Awesome, Thank you so much for sharing such an awesome blog. Great post. Thanks for update good images and articles. https://www.bharattaxi.com/

Hi Kodaikanal is a hill town in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It’s set in an area of granite cliffs, forested valleys, lakes, waterfalls and grassy hills. At 2,000 meters above sea level, the town centers around man-made, star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake, bordered by evergreen forest. Rowing boats can be hired, and hikers and cyclists follow the 5k Lake Road path around the shore. Very interesting post, we enjoyed each and everything as per written in your post. Thank you for this article because it’s really informative. If you are planning for your holiday and searching for the beautiful place to spend your time then you can wander around this vibrant city. It really helps people to plan for future trips. If anyone want go to visit these places book your online bus tickets advance in Kodaikanal to Chennai Bus and get more offers.

You will find dissertation online sites via internet settle purchase not surprisingly well-known while in the web pages. cheap travel packages

Create your dream tour with us and make your trip more wonderful & memorable that you can cherish forever. Have a happy & safe Journey”!!! Reach Us Email: [email protected] Mobile: +91-9837332533, Our Websites: http://www.culturalholidays.in

Hi Kodaikanal is a city near Palani in the hills of the Dindigul district in the state of Tamil Nadu, India.[2] Its name in the Tamil language means "The Gift of the Forest".[3] Kodaikanal is referred to as the "Princess of Hill stations" and has a long history as a retreat and popular tourist destination. Very interesting post, we enjoyed each and everything as per written in your post. Thank you for this article because it’s really informative. If you are planning for your holiday and searching for the beautiful place to spend your time then you can wander around this vibrant city. It really helps people to plan for future trips. If anyone want go to visit these places book your online bus tickets advance in Kodaikanal to Chennai Bus and get more offers.

Very nice blog and articles. I am really very happy to visit your blog. Now I am found which I actually want. I check your blog everyday and try to learn something from your blog.Thanks for sharing this amazing blog. We are providing car rental service in all over India. For more detail click on- https://www.bharattaxi.com/

thanks for sharing your information. Hotels in Mysore road, Bangalore-Airavatha Residency

The Surya Village is the best budget hotels in Ooty . Proximity to Ooty town with Family, Deluxe and Suite Rooms to our guest as per their preferences.

very nice your article, thanks for more information, we are sharing for jyothi tours and travels, Chennai To Kanchipuram One Day Tour Package: Kanchipuram is one in all the attractive temple town that square measure nearly 75 kms from Chennai. it’s the place which might have at some point tour and then the Kanchipuram Tour Packages would provide you with the choice to steer round the town. it’s the place that has best temples of town designed by ancient folks. Chennai To Kanchipuram One Day Tour Package

Hi, this is very nice blog... thanks for sharing us

Hi nice post Thanks for Sharing information. we will cover 9 best tourism places in Hyderabad in a Single day 1 Day Local Hyderabad Sight-Seeing package,

Hello Friend, This blog is really helpful regarding all educational knowledge I earned. It covered a great area of subject which can assist a lot of needy people. Everything mentioned here is clear and very useful. Thanks chennai city sightseeing tour packages

Thanks for your valuable information shared on this site.This information very useful to me. Thanks for your valuable information shared on this site.This information very useful to me. Ooty tours and travels | Car Rental in Ooty Travels in Ooty | Ooty Car Rentals | Best Ooty Taxi

Wow, your blog is very impressive and informative. Nice Blog!! Thanks For Sharing!!! Coimbatore to Ooty Cabs

you have shared a valuable information regarding tour and travel which would be very helpful for Canada Visa . thanks for sharing this blog

Very nice… I really like your blog… Top 10 Event Management in Chennai / Chennai Best Tours and Travels Agency

Thanks for sharing the details about the kodaikanal trip with us. keep blogging. Have a look at. Hotel in Kanyakumari Hotels at Kanyakumari Hotel Booking in Kanyakumari Hotels in Kanyakumari near beach Budget hotels in Kanyakumari Hotels in Kanyakumari with tariff

Hey brother, I also started my journey from Sam shanthi nagar bus stand, 2 years back. I read your blog and it is just fantastic. Please support my blog also on Kodaikanal and Magic Mushroom

Thanks for sharing. Its a best place to spend holidays with friends, family and loved ones. Bangalore to Ooty Cabs

I read & saw your blog that given me good information. It's lovable and interesting and it has good collection. Thanks. Our Services - Outstation Cabs Car Rental Cab Service Taxi Booking Car Booking Online Taxi Booking Car on Rent Online Car Booking Online Cab Booking Cab Rental

This article is so informative. Xploreindo is a full service Vacation rental company dedicated to creating authentic travel experiences. We help travelers fell at home no matter where their journey takes them, by offering unique, home-like experiences across the globe. Best vacation rental listing site Best vacation rental Company

Plan you trip to visit the Delhi in One Day Tour , Delhi is huge city which is the pride of India, there are many government places, parliament, Supreme Court and other tourist destination, so don’t waste your precious time book your tour and gain the wonderful knowledge of Delhi… http://www.splendidtajholidays.coml Golden Triangle Tour 4 Days | Golden Triangle Tour 3 Days | Golden Triangle Tour 5 Days #IndiaGate #Parliament #LotusTemple #CannaughtPlace #RedFort #Qutubminar #PresidentHouse #ChandniChowk #JantarMantar #AkshardhamTemple #HanumanTemple #Gurudwara etc…. Thanks and Best wishes Splendid Taj Holidays +91-9927841719 (whatsAPP) E-mail- [email protected]

thanks for sharing this information ONE WAY TAXI SERVICE IN JALANDHAR

Nice blog. Thanks for sharing nice information Ooty Travels Ooty Cab Service Bangalore to ooty packages Ooty tour packages from Bangalore

Shop for Organic Products Online: Many online stores have an array of herbal, organic, and natural products, cosmetics with various discount criteria. Organic Products Online Shopping solves the searching problem from different places. At one place someone can find various types of organic products with high quality and first and timely delivery to the valuable customers for sustainable and healthy living. The incredible and comprehensive range of organic products, herbal products, and natural products commences the same. Ayurvedic Herbal Product Online Shopping Nowadays it is really difficult to find Herbs Products, expressly online as you first have to trust them in order to buy their products. When you are ownership of natural supplies products online you moreover have to ensure they are really made of natural items. Many websites say they use Coconut Oils to make Banana Chips but they usually use refined oils the ways they pass through scrutinizing 20 layers of filtration process which drains all nutrition’s from the oil and makes the snacks unhealthy. Order the Exclusive Quality Herbs: Ordering the weightier quality and tested organic and health superintendency products are necessary for good health and beauty. You need to order products as per the trademark and exclusivity and fetch the weightier quality and long term user benefits. A top worldwide supply uniting will help you get all products at your doorsteps within a specified time frame. You can order the weightier quality organic soaps, shampoos, minerals and organics through a top and licensed supplier agency. Never order through nonreplicable and lesser-known organic supplier chains, as you might not get surety of quality and ingredients. kodaikanal beauty products Best Return Policy for Organic Products: When you select a certified organ for Herbal Oils Online Shopping you get the weightier return policy for all ordered items. Besides quick shipment and return you have to get quality guidance on the range of misogynist products and organics. Only a top-ranked organic supplier uniting will offer you quality supplies and weightier after-sales services. You can plane subscribe to your nomination heath organic products and get regular repeat deliveries as and when required. Ordering quality products will ensure you zero harmful chemical intake on worth of weightier supplier chain. Besides fetching the weightier prices for all kinds of organic products you can get a quick return for all delivered products. So choosing the weightier organic product supply uniting is most essential for weightier order delivery. Health Benefits of Natural Products: You are well-considered to order through a licensed supplier keeping in mind the health benefits of the ordered organic products. Ordering the weightier quality creams, lotions, vitamin dose becomes easy when you have chosen a certified organic products agency. Compare the price tags and ingredients of the variegated supplier surpassing placing an organic product order. Kodai Spices There are several types of advantages people get when they buy organic foods online. They will get lulu offers and discounts on each product. They will get guaranteed organic foods at their doorstep within a short time. They moreover save you valuable time. You don’t need to visit any local shop to buy supplies and grocery products. So, search the net and segregate any reputed online site and buy foods now! Author Resource:- We provide different kind & types of Organic Products Online Shopping avoiding chemical and gives special discounts for Herbs Products. For more visit to our website www.kodaiherbal.com

Thank you for the valuable... Travel essay... I am studying in class plus one.. It is very valuable message for my study

Hi, Nice blog. Thanks for sharing this fabulous post. If anyone here who looking for the best deals on Online Cab Booking and Online Hotel Booking then must contact us. best hotel booking site in india | Bike Rent in Manali Thanks!

Hello Sumit, We are from billiontrips.com , a travel based web portal. Good detailed information. Connect with us if you are interested to share your travel experiences in our website.

You have written very well. However, the information is never complete. But you have tried your best to understand this. You are a good writer. Cordelia Cruise Packages Cordelia Cruise Mumbai to Goa Cordelia Cruise Mumbai to Goa

I wanted to thank you for this great read!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you post. Hotels in Coimbatore visit to the link.

This was actually what I was looking for, and I am glad to come here! Thanks for sharing the information with us. Tourist cab in Kodaikkanal Tourist cab in Udumalaipettai Tourist cab in Theni Tourist cab in Hosur

If looking for budget resort near abbey falls then contact IBNISPRING. It offers best resort near abbey falls with great facilities and hospitality. Contact at +91 8877118861 to get more details.

Explore the vibrant city without breaking the bank by visiting these top indoor places in Dubai for free . Immerse yourself in cultural wonders at the Dubai Museum or revel in the artistic ambiance of the Alserkal Avenue arts district.

Travel Through Stories

6 Things You Must not Miss While Visiting Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a small hill station in Tamil Nadu that offers the perfect escape from the heat and crowds of India’s larger cities. Hills, tea plantations, and valleys with waterfalls surround the city, making it a great destination for nature lovers . It should be on your list of things to do while visiting Kodaikanal !

Table of Content

Things to see in Kodaikanal

Many people ask me what to see in Kodaikanal . There is a long list. Nevertheless, don’t miss out on visiting these popular tourist destinations while you’re visiting Kodaikanal:

Bryant Park

Bryant Park is a heaven for nature lovers, with its well-manicured gardens and stunning views of the valley below. Located on 20.5 acres, the park is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers. There is a glasshouse, a lake, and several walking paths in the park, which attracts both tourists and locals. There is a spectacular display of blooming flowers and plants on display at its annual flower show.

Coakers Walk

Coakers Walk offers some of the best views in the region and is a popular spot for photographers. On the edge of a steep hill, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley, mountains, and Madurai city. A kilometer-long trail with benches allows visitors to enjoy the scenery while seated. Both tourists and locals enjoy this popular destination, especially during sunset.

Kodaikanal Lake

The Kodaikanal Lake is a man-made lake in the center of the city. Sir Vere Henry Levinge, a former Madurai collector, created the lake and garden in 1863 and it covers an area of approximately 60 acres. With its lush greenery and boating facilities, the lake is a popular spot for picnics and leisure activities. The lake is also a great place for horseback riding and cycling.

Pillar Rocks

Visiting these towering rocks offers some of the best views in Kodaikanal, and they are well worth the hike. These two giant rock pillars rise to a height of 400 feet and are believed to be a few thousand years old. They are especially popular during cloudy weather when the mist creates a dramatic effect on the surrounding valley. Visitors can take in the stunning scenery from a viewing platform near the rocks.

Kurinji Andavar Temple

Hindus worship Lord Murugan, also known as Kurinji Andavar, at Kurinji Andavar Temple. According to legend, he appeared in the region to protect the locals. Located in beautiful surroundings, the temple is particularly popular for its architecture and scenic views of the hills. Moreover, the temple is associated with the blooming of the Kurinji flower, which blooms once every twelve years, which holds a special significance for devotees.

The Green Valley View

Suicide Point, also known as Green Valley View, is a popular viewpoint in Kodaikanal. It provides a stunning view of the surrounding hills, forests, and Vaigai Dam. Located at an altitude of 5,800 feet, the viewpoint is surrounded by lush greenery. The viewpoint is popular for hiking and photography, but visitors should be cautious due to the steep drop-off.

This might interest you – 12 Stunning Places to Photograph in Kodaikanal

Things to eat in Kodaikanal

You’ll find an array of delicious local dishes in Kodaikanal. While there are plenty of Westernized restaurants around town, it’s worth seeking out authentic South Indian eateries for a true taste of the region. From spicy curries to aromatic lentil dishes, there’s something to suit everyone’s palate. Be sure to try some of the local staples, such as dosas, idlis and vadas.

Things to buy in Kodaikanal

When you visit the princes of Hill Stations, make sure to do some shopping! There are plenty of unique shops and items that you can only find in this area. Here are some of the best things to buy:

Handicrafts Kodaikanal is known for its incredible handicrafts, which can be found in shops all over the city. Be sure to check out some of the local artisans’ work, including wood carvings, paintings and traditional textiles.
Spices The organic spices grown in Kodaikanal are also well-known, and they are used in everything from curries to chutneys. Head to one of the local spice markets and stock up on some of these flavorsome spices.
Homemade Chocolates If you are visiting Kodaikanal, do not miss the opportunity to try the delicious homemade chocolates. These chocolates made with the finest cocoa beans and are very popular among tourists. There are many chocolate shops in city, and the chocolates are available in a variety of flavors such as milk, dark, wine and nuts.
Jams and Jellies Another specialty of Kodaikanal is its delicious jams and jellies, which can be found in most local stores. These sweet treats are perfect for a quick snack or for taking back home with you.

How to get there

Kodaikanal is a hill station in the Dindigul district of the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is about 7,000 feet above sea level. The road from Madurai to Kodaikanal is one of the most scenic hill roads in India. The journey from Madurai to Kodaikanal takes about four hours by road or by train.

The Best Way to Reach Kodaikanal

Where to stay in Kodaikanal

When it comes to finding a place to stay in Kodaikanal, you’re spoiled for choices. There are plenty of options, whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or something a little more budget-friendly including hostels. I have been to Kodaikanal several times. My trips have included solo backpacking, family and group tours. I have used following websites to book my accommodation in Kodaikanal. I have got good deals during off-peak seasons.

Booking.com – you can choose from hotels, luxurious resorts, homestays and tented accommodations.

Hotelworld.com – A backpacker’s paradise, Kodaikanal is a great place for solo travelers on a budget. Kodaikanal hostels are located at scenic locations, making this the best way to find them.

What are the best times of year to visit

The best time to visit Kodaikanal is from September to May. The temperature is pleasant during these months and the tourist attractions are not too crowded.

What are you waiting for…

Kodaikanal is a beautiful destination with plenty of things to do. I hope that this list has given you plenty of ideas for your visit and I can’t wait to hear what you think about the region. Things are always changing in Kodaikanal, so be sure to keep up-to-date on all the latest happenings by checking out our blog.

Disclaimer:

This blog may contain affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, we may get a small commission if you buy anything. All products and services we endorse have been personally used or come highly recommended to us. These incomes allow us to keep the community supported and ad-free.

Related Blogs

Add a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Join our Newsletter!

Subscribe to my monthly newsletter for all of my travel updates and blogging/influence tips!

We bring together a diverse travel community through storytelling. With a treasure trove of travel stories, we share personalized travel experiences and start conversations that inspire fellow travelers.

Top Destinations

United States
Other Destinations

Travel Resources

Food & Drink
Story Glimpse
Travel Itinerary
Travel Plannig
Travel Tips
Travel Route
Things To Do
Things To Know
Travel Guide
Other Resources
About Turuhi
Contributors
Travel With Me
Collaborate with us
Privacy Policy
Terms Of Use

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

Experience Kodaikanal In Summer Which Is As Blissful And Tranquil As It Can Get!

23 Mar 2023

The most famous hill station in South India, Kodaikanal is located around 465 km from Bangalore in the state of Tamil Nadu in Palani Hills. The hill station is known for its beautiful location covered with granite cliffs, forested valleys, lakes, waterfalls, and grassy hills. The main attraction of this area is a man-made, star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake, bordered by evergreen forest. Kodaikanal can be visited at any time of the year due to the amazing weather conditions and especially between June and September because the summer season in Kodaikanal is really soothing and allows you to explore the place well.

If you have always wanted to visit Kodaikanal during summer , then here is a sneak-peek into the same with this guide:

Weather In Kodaikanal During Summer

A Kodaikanal trip in summer can be taken between the months of April to June; and more preferably so because it will help you escape the hot and humid climate of the rest of the country. Summer is the best time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The pleasant and breezy days can be the best time for trekking, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The temperature in Kodaikanal in summer varies from 20 degrees Celsius to 36-degree Celsius.

Things To Do In Kodaikanal In Summer

If you are bored sitting in your living room and watching “Friends” series over and over again, its time to head to Kodaikanal and indulge in these adventures.

1. Scenic Walks: Take A Glimpse Of The Hill Station

Image Source

The best way to enjoy the glimpses of the hill station is to take a walk on the Coakers’ Walk. It is preferable to go for a walk early so that you can experience the sunrise and feel the warmth of the sun on yourself as the first thing in the morning! There is a telescope house located at the main gate from where you can take a close look at the alluring beauty of Kodaikanal. You can also go cycling at the Walk!

Must Read: Kodaikanal Honeymoon Guide: What You Can Expect From The Queen of Hills

South Weekend Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

Delightful South Weekend Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Plan your trip today!

South Weekend Family Tour Package 3D/2N @ Rs 4,999

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Exciting South Weekend Tour 4D/3N @ Rs 6,999

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

South Weekend Tour 5D/4N Packages @ Rs 9,999

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Enchanting South Weekend 5D/4N Packages @ Rs 12,999

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Boating: At The Kodaikanal Lake

Kodaikanal Lake is a major attraction in the city and invites all its tourists to enjoy boating, which is one of the best things to do in Kodaikanal in summer. During winters and monsoons, the lake gets covered with fog and mist, making it heavenly. You can click amazing photographs, walk along the lake, bike, and even experience horse riding!

Suggested Read: 10 Best Resorts In Kodaikanal That’ll Chase Your Blues Away

3. Explore: The Haunting Guna Cave

Also called the Devil’s Kitchen, Guna Cave is a must for the daredevils. Guna Caves are a group of caves between three giant boulders. The dark rocks, spine-tingling exposed tree roots, and the bats give the caves a scary look and is one of the best places to visit summer in Kodaikanal.

Suggested Read: Off To Kodaikanal? Here’s A List Of 34 Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

4. Sightseeing: Visit The Pine Forest

Pine Forests are located on the way to Guna Caves. Many tourists like to trek through this forest to reach the caves. The forest is famous for its picturesque views and has been featured in many Bollywood and South Indian movies.

Suggested Read: Kodaikanal vs Ooty For Honeymoon: What’s Your Pick?

Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

These places in Kodaikanal are a must visit if you are all set to explore the city to the fullest.

1. Green Valley View

The tourists visit Green Valley View to have a bird’s eye view of the Vaigai Dam. The spot is one of the dangerous viewpoints owing to its tricky route and height. The spot gets covered with clouds and mist post afternoon so it should be visited in the first half of the day.

Location: 5.5km from Kodaikanal Lake. Timing: 07.00 AM to 06.00 PM Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: 7 Amazing Homestays In Kodaikanal: For Absolute Freedom And Privacy

2. Canopy Hill

Canopy Hill is the favorite spot of nature lovers and trekkers. Nature lovers get a chance to view mountain peaks covered with green grass in the midst of moving clouds and a fresh breeze. For trekkers, there is an option for going for a 15 km trek and after 10 km, they visit a village called Vellagavi. The villages have shops for buying fresh spices and fruits like oranges, butter fruit, papaya, banana, guava, passion fruit, and jack fruit.

Location: Canopy Hill, Vattakanal, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu Timings: Open 24 Hours Entry Fees: 4,200 INR per person

Suggested Read: 15 Kodaikanal Hotels To Pick From For Your Next Trip To Tamil Nadu

3. Dolphin’s Nose

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Kodaikanal in summer, Dolphin’s Nose is a viewpoint on a rock that is shaped like that of a dolphin’s nose. While most tourists like to trek for around 1 km to reach the summit, some continue their trek uptick the Echo Point. Even though this route is a bit challenging and steep, it all seems worth it once to reach the top to experience the splendid view of the Catherine Falls.

Location: 8 Km. from Kodaikanal on Upper Shola Rd, Kodaikanal, India Timing: 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: 8 Best Cottages In Kodaikanal For A Peaceful Holiday In The Hills

Places To Stay Near Kodaikanal

These exquisite stays in Kodaikanal offer comfortable beds along with beautiful views and great amenities.

1. Kodai Resort

Kodai Resort is a romantic getaway in Kodaikanal located near all the major attractions of the city like Christ the King Church, Lake View Point, Coakers Walk, Vattakanal Waterfalls and Kurinji Andavar Temple. The property provides many amenities like a flat-screen TV, free internet, free parking, 24-hour front desk, fitness center, and free breakfast. Major restaurants like Astoria Veg Restaurant, Pastry Corner, or Muncheez, are located a short distance from Kodai Hotel. The hotel has friendly staff.

Location: Coaker’s Walk, Kodaikanal 624101 India Price per night: ₹ 6,741 TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Website | Reviews

Suggested Read: World’s 15 Most Romantic Mountain Getaways: The Coziest Retreats

2. Sterling Kodai Valley

The unique feature of this beautiful place is that it is in shape of a ship, the accommodation block is leaf-shaped, the business block is lotus shaped and there is an array of dome-shaped rooms. The property is located in the lap of nature, making your stay really comfortable and soothing. The amenities include free parking, free internet, free breakfast, game room, Table Tennis courts and Indoor play area for children. Each room is equipped with a balcony and a flat-screen TV.

Location: Attuvampatti Pallangi Road Villapatti, Kodaikanal 624101 India Price per night: ₹ 6,922 TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Website | Reviews

Suggested Read: 7 Airports In Tamil Nadu For An Awesome Flying Experience

3. Sterling Kodai Lake

Sterling Koda Lake is located in the vicinity of the star-shaped Kodai lake which is the main tourist attraction of the city. The rooms are designed in the form of English style Villas in the midst of landscaped gardens. The beautiful infrastructure and location make it a good choice to spend time with family and friends and some of the property amenities include free parking, free internet, fitness center with gym, restaurant, game room, and indoor play area for children.

Location: 44 Gymkhana Road, Kodaikanal 624101 India Price per night: ₹ 13,354 TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5

Website | Reviews

Suggested Read: 7 Famous Festivals Of Tamil Nadu Which Will Take You Close To The Ancient Traditions Of The State!

Tips For Visiting Kodaikanal

The area should be kept clean and litter-free as the Forest Ministry takes serious efforts to maintain the area
While hiking and trekking, wear good hiking shoes and carry bottles of water
Don’t forget to pack the woolens and rainproof jackets. It is also advisable to carry an umbrella and lastly, pack a good moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated at all times

Kodaikanal is the unsung hero of tourism in India and we believe, this blog successfully proves it. There are many things you can engage yourself in and many places you can visit during your visit to Kodaikanal in summer. The city can become whatever you want it to be – a tranquil place to relax, an adventurous place to have fun or simply a city with shores where you can sit and self-introspect. So, think no more and plan your trip to Tamil Nadu with TravelTriangle now!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kodaikanal

What is special about Kodaikanal?

Kodaikanal is known for its serene beauty and picturesque views.

What can one buy in Kodaikanal?

The tourists mostly shop for trinkets, souvenirs, jewelry, aromatic oils, ethnic rosewood and sandalwood woodcraft, along with perfumed candles and natural aromatherapy oils. The visitors also shop at Kashmir Handicrafts center in Anna Salai for shawls, Jewellery, Brass, Leather items, Bone and Walnut wood articles.

Which is the best time to visit Kodaikanal?

The winter season between October and March is the best time to visit Kodaikanal because the weather is comforting and warm.

How many days does one need to see Kodaikanal?

2 days are sufficient to fully explore Kodaikanal.

How can one go from Kodaikanal to Bangalore?

There are many well-connected trains and buses from Bangalore to Kodaikanal.

How many bends are there in Kodaikanal?

There are around 21 hairpin bends on the 50 km highway connecting to the city.

Which is the closest airport to Kodaikanal?

The Madurai Airport is the closest to Kodaikanal located at a distance of 120 km from the city.

Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

Spellbinding Cochin Family Tour 2D/1N Package @ Rs 2,750

Himachal Family Tour Package 4D/3N @ Rs 8,750

Exciting Andaman Family Trip 5D/4N @ Rs 10,250

Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000

Wonderful Goa Family Package 3D/2N @ Rs 6,500

Best prices guaranteed.

Riveting Rajasthan Vacation 3D/2N Package @ Rs 6,499

EMI option available.

Enchanting Uttarakhand Tour 4D/3N Package @ Rs 7,199

Explore best destinations with our experts.

Thrilling weekend full of fun.

Marvelous Gujarat Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Talk to our experts today.

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

TravelTriangle
kodaikanal »
Tour Packages
Honeymoon Packages
Family Packages
Budget Tour Packages
Luxury Tour Packages
Adventure Tour Packages
Group Tour Packages
Kerala Tour Packages
Goa Tour Packages
Andaman Tour Packages
Sikkim Tour Packages
Himachal Tour Packages
Uttarakhand Tour Packages
Rajasthan Tour Packages
Tour Packages From Delhi
Tour Packages From Mumbai
Tour Packages From Bangalore
Tour Packages From Chennai
Tour Packages From Kolkata
Tour Packages From Hyderabad
Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
Kerala Tourism
Goa Tourism
Sikkim Tourism
Andaman Tourism
Himachal Tourism
Uttarakhand Tourism
Rajasthan Tourism
Hotels in Kerala
Hotels in Goa
Hotels in Sikkim
Hotels in Andaman
Hotels in Himachal
Hotels in Uttarakhand
Hotels in Rajasthan

Tour Enquiry
Sign up | Login
My Bookings
New User? Sign-up
Domestic Tours
South India
Maharashtra
Golden Triangle
North India
North East India
International
Maldives (Discontinued)
All Domestic Tours
All International Tours
Offbeat Tours
Domestic Cruise Tours
Jungle Lodges by JLR
Kabini River Lodge
Bandipur Safari Lodge
JLR Kings Sanctuary
River Tern Lodge
Kali Adventure Camp
Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
K Gudi Wilderness Camp
Car Rentals
Destinations
Tourist Places on Drive
Driving Directions
* Workation
* Tour Plans
List Property
Itineraries
Best of Kodaikanal in 2 Days (from Kodaikanal)

BEST OF KODAIKANAL IN 2 DAYS (FROM KODAIKANAL)

ITINERARY SUMMARY

Day 1 : kodai lake - bear shola falls - silver cascade day 2 : coaker's walk - pillar rocks - moir point, trip starts from: kodaikanal, mode of travel: car (or cab), trip ends at: kodaikanal, total places visited: 11, trip starting point: kodaikanal town, total distance (round trip):, travel time (round trip):, trip duration: 2 days, ideal start time: 10 am (day 1) & 9 am (day 2), sightseeing time: %%itinerary_sightseeing_time%%.

DAY 1 : KODAI LAKE - BEAR SHOLA FALLS - SILVER CASCADE

Travel from to, 1 kodai lake.

At a distance of 1 km from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Kodai Lake is an artificial, star-shaped lake situated in Kodaikanal town. It is the most famous landmark of Kodaikanal & one of the top tourist places to visit in Kodaikanal town. The lake is often represented in promoting Kodaikanal Tourism. Spread across an area of 60 acres, the Kodai Lake was built in 1863. Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the then Collector of Madurai, was instrumental in creating the lake. The lake is surrounded by beautiful valleys, a boat club, and buildings from the colonial period. There is a walkway around the lake that offers wonderful views of the place as part of Kodai tour packages . The 5 kilometers path that skirts the periphery of this lovely lake is a favorite walk for the locals and tourists alike. Rowboats and pedal boats can be hired at the Boat Club. Horses and .....

2 Bryant Park

At a distance of 700 meters from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Bryant Park is a wonderfully maintained garden situated towards the South-East corner of Kodai Lake. Along with Kodai Lake, this is one of the must visit places in Kodaikanal tour . Occupying an area of 20.5 acres, the park was planned and built-in 1908 by a forest officer from Madurai, H.D.Bryant, and named after him. With 325 species of trees, shrubs, and cactuses, the park is a rainbow of stunning flowers during the monsoon and winter season. A large section is dedicated to nearly 740 varieties of roses. Ornamental plants are cultivated in a nursery for sale. The park organizes horticultural exhibits and flower shows every summer, to coincide with the peak season. This is one of the most scenic Kodaikanal tourist places . There is a beautiful glasshouse inside the park with nicely organized .....

3 Bear Shola Falls

At a distance of 3 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station & 512 Kms from Chennai, Bear Shola Falls is a tall waterfall in a Reserve forest. It is said that bears used to drink water at top of the falls, and the falls are called so. This is one of the top places for sightseeing in Kodaikanal and one of the best waterfalls in kodaikanal . The approach road to the falls is bumpy and hilly. The falls offer best views just after monsoon during the months of September & October. You don't find any water in summer season. The pathway from the main road follows through dense forest amidst serene location. Apart from the majestic waterfall, the walk through the forest itself is a wonderful experience. Height of the falls is about 40 feet and the water drops into a small pool. Swimming here is safe if the water flow is not fierce. This place demands a 10 minute walk from the road point. The waterfall attracts large number of visitors during .....

4 Shenbaganur Museum

At a distance of 5 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Shenbaganur Museum of Kodaikanal boasts of a vast reserve of the relics of antique pieces of art and craft of the region. It is one of the popular sightseeing attractions in Kodai . A part of the Sacred Heart College of Kodaikanal, the museum reflects the rich traditional heritage and cultural ancestry of the region. The store house of traditional artifacts of Kodaikanal, Shenbaganur museum is easily accessible from any part of the city. A unique characteristic of Shenbaganur museum is its wide collection of rare and endangered species of birds and beautiful flowers that imparts a magical spell on the visitors. Timings: 10 AM to 11.30 AM & 3 PM to 5 PM. Entry fee - Rs 5.

5 Silver Cascade

At a distance of 8 km from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Silver Cascade is a mesmerizing waterfall situated in the town of Kodaikanal. This is one of the most popular waterfalls near Bangalore and among the prime place to visit on a Kodaikanal trip . Cascading down from a height of about 55 meters (180 ft, the Silver Cascade waterfall is formed from the outflow of Kodaikanal Lake. It is one of the most visited tourist places in Kodai . The name 'Silver cascade' is given to this fall, owing to the colour of the water which appears silver when flowing down the 55-meter high cliff. There is a dedicated viewing platform in front of the waterfall, which serves as an excellent point to view the flowing waterfall down in a pool. One can easily reach the silver Cascade falls via local transport .....

Overnight Stay in Kodaikanal

Day 2 : coaker's walk - pillar rocks - moir point, resume kodaikanal sightseeing, 1 coaker's walk.

At a distance of 0.5 km from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Coaker's Walk is a paved path situated in Kodaikanal. It is one of the most scenic places to visit in Kodai . Constructed by Lt. Coaker in 1872, Coaker's Walk is a 1-kilometer paved pedestrian path along the edge of steep slopes on the southern side of Kodai town. It is one of the must-visit places as part of Kodai packages . The path, winding around Mount Nebo, starts in front of the Van Allen hospital, running parallel to the Van Allen Hospital Road, and joins the main road beside St.Peter's Church, providing a stunning panoramic view of the valleys and plains. On a clear day, one can view as far as Dolphin's Nose, the valley of the Pambar River, Periyakulam town, and even the city of Madurai. The evening is the best time to experience the beauty of this place when the mystic clouds slowly .....

2 Pambar Falls

At a distance of 4 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station.This magnificent falls is also popularly called as the 'Grand Cascade'. The town water reservoir overflows southwards forming the Fairy Falls which continues to join the Vaigai River forming the Pambar Falls through its course. It can be reached by a steep, slippery path behind Pambar house. Racing down Pambar Ravine is the zig-zagging Levinge stream that cascades over a series of rock formations. The Pambar Ravine showers down the Waterfall and a series of steep and precariously slippery rocks during its meandering course. There is a pond like formation at the foot suitable for bathing. Three or four adjacent small cascading falls can be seen as you go downstream. The wild vicinity of the falls flourishes in rare flora and fauna. Endemic birds and butterflies create a center of attention to this soothing spot.

3 Pillar Rocks

At a distance of 7 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Pillar Rocks is a set of three giant rock pillars which stand 400 feet high from the ground. The rocks stand majestically and offer wonderful views amidst thick vegetation and cloudy mountains. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Kodaikanal and among the most scenic places in Kodai. Managed by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, the viewpoint of Pillar Rock is situated on the Moir Point road. A small and beautifully garden, glowing in the colors of the seasonal blooms adds to the charm and the picture perfect beauty of the place. In the shadows of the pillars are shady woods that invite picnickers. The dramatic view and the scenic surroundings make Pillars Rocks a popular picnic spot among locals and tourists. During winter and monsoons, the rocks are surrounded by thick clouds and tourists keep waiting for long time for the clouds .....

4 Guna Cave

At a distance of 8.5 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station and 1.5 km from Pillar Rocks, Guna Cave is wonderful tourist spot in Kodaikanal on Moir Point road. The cave is formed between two large Pillar Rocks. It is one of the best tourist places to visit in Kodaikanal . This large, dark and ancient cae is also called as Devil's Kitchen. Situated amidst thick forest on hilltop behind Pillar Rocks, Guna Caves is one of the top visited places in Kodaikanal. The path to Guna Cave passes through a beautiful pine forest with roots of the trees emerged on to the ground providing unique setting to this place. Apart from the historical importance, the beauty of the nature makes it a popular tourist spot in Kodaikanal. Visitors can view the cave from a distance as the surroundings of the cave are closed for security reasons. From the hill top, visitors can get a glimpse of beautiful valleys and Pillar Rocks on .....

5 Moir Point

At a distance of 10 km from Kodaikanal Bus Station and 3 km from Pillar Rocks, Moir Point is a historic place and beautiful view point in Kodaikanal on Berijam Lake road. Moir Point offer breathtaking views of the highest peaks around Kodaikanal. It is one of the important view points in Kodaikanal and a beautiful tourist spot. There is a small park developed at this spot with a monument. The site is named after Sir Thomas Moir, an engineer who constructed the Goschen Road in 1929. This point joins the Berijam Lake raod with Kodaikanal here. There is a monument remembering Thomas Moir at the viewpoint. The park near the Moir Point was recently upgraded making it more attractive. This is a major tourist spot and attracts lot of crowd. There are several shops selling the basic needs. It is adjacent to the main road towards Berijam Lake and easily accessible.

6 Fairy Falls

At a distance of 6 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station and 5 kms from Kodai lake, Fairy Falls is the source of Pambar River, continuing to join the Vaigai River at the foot. Swimming at the foot of the falls will indeed leave you refreshed and revitalized. It is the spillover of the rural community water reservoir streaming southwards the hill to form the enchanting fairy falls. The sparkling waters that fill the basin at the foot of the Fairy fall is one of the most habitually visited tourist destination for the travelers for bathing during Kodaikanal tour.

END OF THE TOUR

Top 5 kodaikanal packages, similar tours.

Kodaikanal Related Pages

Enter email, * if you don't have access to this tour plan, you will be redirected to payment process, access tour plan, you don't access to this tour plan, please proceed to pay to access this plan, planning self-drive tour, get advanced tour plan for this tour which includes:, map overview of the places covered, day wise tour plan with distance & travel time for each place, driving directions from place to place, duration of visit & timings for all places, important alerts & notes about places, details of safari/entry ticket booking websites, get sample tour plan for free, access this advanced tour plan at only.

100% SECURE PAYMENTS

Domestic & international cards accepted.

Our WhatsApp Numbers

International tours, +91-8217845740, south india tours, +91-7995649483, goa, maharashtra, gujarat tours, +91-7032828835, north india tours, +91-9535139583, rest of india, +91-7799591230, request quote, travellers #.

Explore Tour Packages

Planning a Trip?

Discover affordable tour packages, need customized tour request quote, login / sign-up, your sign in was successful itinerary will be downloaded shortly., sign up with trawell.in.

Already Created Account? Login Here

Sign in with Trawell.in Account

Forgot Password?

New User? Sign Up Here

Activate Your Trawell.in Account

Your account is activated successfully. Login Here

Reset Your Trawell.in Password

Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here

Booking Policy

Meghnaunni.com

Paintings, Drawings, Articles, Speeches, Bharathanatyam

My English CCE Project : Travel Brochure for Kodaikanal Tour

← New Acrylic Painting : Water Gushing through the River
First Prize in Children’s Galatta 2016 by Children’s University →

3 thoughts on “ My English CCE Project : Travel Brochure for Kodaikanal Tour ”

Hi Meghna ,

Awesome presentation , i had never thought a school project can be so informative and lively .

The handwritten details but life to the words can see your hard work and sincerely .

I am sure you are brilliant and bright kid keep it up .

Thanks a lot 🙂

Thank you It was very informative

my trip to kodaikanal essay in english

IMAGES

VIDEO

COMMENTS

3 days in Kodaikanal – Princess of Hill stations

About Kodaikanal

Where to stay in Kodaikanal

Our travel plan to spend 3 days in Kodaikanal

To Dindigul

Our Destination : Kodai Resort

Coaker’s walk , Kodaikanal

2 / 3 days in Kodaikanal : Sightseeing

Pillars rock

Green Valley view

3 / 3 days in Kodaikanal : sightseeing continued

And some games in the resort

Finally at end of 3 days in Kodaikanal : Back to Bangalore

Other options for traveling to Kodaikanal

82 thoughts on “3 days in Kodaikanal – Princess of Hill stations”

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

A complete guide to Kodaikanal, the ‘Princess of Hills’

Uncategorized

Why it’s a must-visit?

How to reach?

Top 10 Places to visit

2. Berijam Lake

3. Kodai Lake (Kodaikanal Lake)

4. Bryant park

5. Coakers Walk

6. Dolphin’s Nose

7. Pillar Rocks viewpoint

8. Guna Caves

9. Green Valley View (Suicide Point)

10. Silver Cascade

Laxmi mohan

2 thoughts on “ Kodaikanal – Complete Travel Guide ”

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

The misty host - Kodaikanal | An awesome travel experience

How to reach Kodaikanal?

Where to eat in Kodaikanal

Things to do in Kodaikanal

Travel tips for visitors to Kodaikanal and Vattakkanal

About Author: Derryl Preetham Castelino

Popular Blog Posts

About IndiaTravelBlog.com

Travelholic

Travel Guide

My Kodaikanal Story

Understand [ edit ]

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

By train [ edit ]

By bus [ edit ]

By car [ edit ]

Get around [ edit ]

See [ edit ]

Lakes [ edit ]

Water Falls [ edit ]

Caves [ edit ]

Places of worship [ edit ]

Temples [ edit ]

Others [ edit ]

Do [ edit ]

Buy [ edit ]

Eat [ edit ]

Drink [ edit ]

Bars & lounges [ edit ]

Sleep [ edit ]

Mid-range [ edit ]

Splurge [ edit ]

Stay safe [ edit ]

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Go next [ edit ]

Navigation menu

How We Spent Our 2 Days in Kodaikanal

How we spent our 2 days in Kodaikanal

2 days in Kodaikanal – Day 1

Stay near Coakers walk

Visit places near Coakers walk

2 days in Kodaikanal – Day 2

Pillars Rock, Guna caves & Dolphin’s nose

Bear Shola Falls

Do You Love Traveling?

Explore these posts: