kodaikanal ki tourist places

37 Incredible Tourist Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

(courtesy: prasantakrdutta)

A paradise on Earth, Kodaikanal is one of the popular tourist destinations in India promising a memorable vacation to each and every one. Often called as "Princess of Hill stations", it greets you with a refreshing and soothing environment, mesmerising scenic beauty, exciting activities and a luxurious stay with all kinds of modern comfort and facilities. There are many interesting sightseeing places to visit in Kodaikanal.

With natural forms varying from rocks to trekking routes, from temples to museums and caves, from waterfalls to parks and lakes, the hill station of Kodaikanal presents amazing holidaying options catering to tourists coming from all over the world.

Located in the southern crest of the Palani hills under the administrative control of Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, the hill station of Kodaikanal is at a distance of about 120 km from Madurai and is at an altitude of 2100 metres. "The Gift of the Forest", Kodaikanal offers everyone with a complete tour package with a wide range of activities to do while holidaying.

Some of the prominent places to visit in Kodaikanal are:

Lakes in Kodaikanal

One of the best hill stations that the country has, Kodaikanal has bagged the honour with the help of its hustling lake waters and their serenity around. The hill station presents not just one or two but many lakes in and around, ensuring a relaxing holidaying for everyone.

This lake has an exceptional role to play not just in the beauty of the land but also its name. It is Kodai Lake from which the name of Kodaikanal has been derived and thus making it one of the most crucial places to have at least one visit of yours.

Built in 1983 by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, a former District Collector of Madurai, it is 500 metres (1,600 ft) and is spread out in a star shape over 60 acres along with being surrounded by fine tarred road of 5 Kms length. Boating on the lake along with pony rides around the lake are enjoyable and relaxing.

Berijam Lake

This 3 km long lake is 21 km away from Kodaikanal. If you are looking for some relaxed time or a picnic, this is one of the best places in Kodaikanal not to miss. Surrounded by pine forest, this lake makes for an amazing picnic spot.

A simple walk here can also be immensely relaxing. However, boating at this lake is prohibited as this lake also provides drinking water to the nearby area. To visit this lake, a tourist requires a permit which can be availed by approaching the forest department one day in advance.

Mannavanur Lake

(courtesy: suresh31589)

Another lake that one can visit when on their Kodaikanal tour is the Mannavanur Lake, situated about 34 km away from the hill station. An ideal place for a picnic with your loved ones or even for spending some time alone, this lake can be reached within one and half hours to two hours from Kodaikanal.

Roads surrounded with eucalyptus and pine trees make the drive to this lake as enthralling as the destination. Coracle rides are also offered at this lake by the forest department for a minimal fee. Other activities like horse riding, walking are also popular here.

Viewpoints in Kodaikanal

A hill station cannot be called so without its viewpoints, the places from where tourists or even residents get a glimpse of its actual beauty. There are many viewpoints in Kodaikanal offering the nature lovers the opportunity to explore the impressive extent of its scenic charm.

Coaker’s Walk

Built by Lt Coaker in 1872, Coaker’s Walk is a constructed walking plaza that cannot be missed when you are holidaying in Kodaikanal. A popular tourist spot, it is around half a kilometre from Kodaikanal Lake.

People are often seen taking morning or evening walks here. It opens at 7 in the morning and closes at 7 in the evening. The surrounding lush greenery and a refreshing atmosphere makes the walks even more enriching.

Dolphin's Nose

It is located about eight km from the lake, and presents you with a breath-taking view of the chasm that is 6,600 metres (21,700 ft) deep. It is a flat projecting rock that is quite secluded and undisturbed. It can be reached through a rocky trail that begins soon after the Pamban Bridge.

Famous especially among adventure lovers, the climb up to the Dolphin’s Nose is steep and a bit difficult. If interested, one can trek up to the end of the Dolphin’s nose and reach at Echo Point. Located on Upper Shola Rd, it is open from 6 AM to 5.30 PM.

Moir Point is named after Sir Thomas Moir, a European engineer who laid the foundation for the construction of the Goschen road (also known as Forty Mile Road) in 1929. Offering a captivating view of the verdure hills, spread all across the hill station, Moir Point is a must visit.

Located only 3 km away from Pillar rocks, another popular tourist attraction in Kodaikanal, Moir Point is around 10 km away from the town’s bus stand. Another sightseeing place nearby is the Berijam Lake.

Silent Valley View Point

(courtesy: sivaramakrishnannageswaran)

Located on the Berijam road, Silent valley View Point is one of the best viewpoints of Kodaikanal. With enriching greenery everywhere, what makes this viewpoint special is the sight of clouds intersecting with the mountains. Once reaching here, it is impossible to not feel at the top of the world with a picturesque view at your disposal.

Green Valley View

Presenting an incomparable view of the Vaigai Dam and the rich foliage around, Green Valley View is definitely a place one must visit while enjoying their time on Kodaikanal tour. Also known as Suicide Point, this place got its aberrant name owing to the depth and density of the valley which makes it dangerous as well.

Situated about 5.5 km from the Kodaikanal Lake, it can be visited between 10 to 3 in the evening. The fog that starts to accumulate as the day progresses makes it difficult to get a view in late evenings.

Telescope House

It is located at Coaker's Walk, constructed by Lt.Coaker in 1872 and is a 1-kilometre paved pedestrian path that runs along slopes on the southern side of Kodai. Telescope house offers tourists the opportunity to have a breathtaking view of the valley and other nearby towns.

Vembadi Peak

It is the second highest peak and has a height of 2466m. You can reach the place by taking a right turn on Berijam road along with a steep climb. You are offered a splendid view of Berijam lake, Vandaravu range, Mannavanur sheep farm, Poombarai valley and many other places from top. The hike for the Vedambi Peak begins from Kodaikanal TV Tower.

Perumal Peak

(courtesy: neumeyer)

Nestled in the Western Ghat, Perumal Peak is around 11 km away from Kodaikanal. This peak, with an interesting anecdote and awe-inspiring scenic beauty is the one of the highest mountain ranges in Western Ghats. It is believed by the local residents that this peak used to be an active volcano and has been dormant for more than thousand years.

View of the Nilgiri Hills and the Western Ghats along with an adventurous trekking trail make this peak a popular tourist attraction. There is also the facility of overnight camping here.

Pillar Rocks

Located 8 Km away from the lake, Pillar rocks consist of three granite boulders and each of a height of 400 feet standing shoulder to shoulder. It also makes for an interesting picnic spot. The chamber between the two pillars is called Devil's kitchen.

Pillar Rocks is a great place for relaxing and enjoying the freshness of a hill station. It opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM. There is a small garden which adds to the charm of these rocks.

Upper Lake View

(courtesy: sungold79)

Located near Coaker’s Walk, at a distance of 3.2 km, Upper Lake View is the place you can visit to get a memorable view of not just the hill station but also of the lake. Once here, you can watch the star shaped lake from above, and fall in love with its unparalleled beauty. The lushness around and the sparkling water amidst it make the view exceptional.

Waterfalls in Kodaikanal

Visiting a hill station and not exploring its waterfalls can be the biggest parameter of an incomplete holiday. Kodaikanal boasts of a few mesmerising waterfalls that can dazzle every visitor. Waterfalls in and around Kodaikanal also tickle your adventurous bone with their exciting trekking routes.

Bear Shola Falls

Located only 2 km away from the famous Kodaikanal Lake, Bear Shola Falls offer a stunning view of streams of water rustling down the lush mountains. It received its name from the belief that bearshttps://kodaikanaltourism.co.in/images/headers/bear-shola-falls-kodaikanal-timings-entry-fee-kodaikanal-tourism-header.jpg often come here to drink water. Presently you will encounter a lot of monkeys while on your way to the falls. The sight of this waterfall is especially enchanting after the monsoon season.

Thalaiyar Falls

Thalaiyar Falls is the highest waterfall in Tamil Nadu and the sixth highest waterfall of India. Water cascades down to the bottom from a height of 975 feet, and despite the thin strips, the waterfalls can be clearly viewed with naked eyes even from a distance. Also known as Rat Tail Falls, it is located at a distance of 40 km from Kodaikanal.

Pambar Falls

Located in Pambar Village, which is about 4 km away from the hill station, Pambar Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls that you will come across on your Kodaikanal tour. Also known as Grand Cascade, Pambar Waterfalls descend on a twisty rock formation and at the end forms a water body.

Ideal to take a quick dip in its refreshing water with nature all around, this fall is a must visit in Kodaikanal. One can visit these waterfalls from 10 in the morning till 6 in the evening.

Silver cascade Falls

Falling from a height of 180 feet while creating a sight to behold, Silver Cascade Falls is aptly named so. It gets its water from the Kodai Lake. The excess water of the lake falls from a steep rock and eventually forms a water pool. This can be seen from the Ghat Road and is easily accessible.

Various small stalls selling chocolates and snacks and toys can be found near these waterfalls. However, beware of the monkeys that can be seen sitting and playing all around the area. It is located at a distance of 8 km further on the Kodai-Madurai Road. Hence, people can visit this waterfall while on their way to Madurai as well.

Fairy Falls

(courtesy: swaminathanm)

Fairy Falls, as the name suggests, has an overabundance of exceptional beauty. Located in the Pambarpuram area, it is the major source of the Pambar River. Falling from the top of a mountain range, this falls creates an impressive view.

Visitors can also spend some time swimming in the pool created by the waterfall. It is ideal for a relaxing picnic with families and groups of friends. It is about 6 km from the Kodaikanal bus stand and can be visited from 9 AM to 6 PM. It can be easily reached as it is connected to the road.

Vattakanal Falls

Situated at a distance of 3 km from the Kodaikanal town, Vattakanal Falls not only offers a view worth admiring but also presents an adrenaline-inducing trekking route. For those who are looking for a more relaxed way, they can reach either by a taxi or bus.

The water pool created at the bottom of the fall is ideal to step in and enjoy the refreshing water. With rich flora around, the waterfalls offer an apt place for tourists to unwind, as well as click some memorable pictures.

Parks and Caves in Kodaikanal

There are multiple sightseeing places in Kodaikanal which keep tourists busy through the duration of their Kodaikanal holiday. However, if one wants to take a break from exploring and spend a few quiet moments amid nature then visiting one of these parks and caves will serve the need as well as offer some thrilling trekking experience too.

Bryant Park

Almost everyone who visits Kodaikanal spends some time at Bryant Park. A botanical garden, it enjoys a close proximity with Kodai Lake. With beautifully laid out lawns and ample space for sitting and relaxing, it is indeed a must visit of a Kodaikanal tour.

Named after Glen Bryant, who was behind the conceptualisation of this park, it houses more than 325 species of trees, plants and shrubs. The major attraction here is the Eucalyptus tree which is around 160 years old and a religious Bodhi tree. Every year an annual horticulture show is also organised which draws attention from nature lovers around the world. It is located on the Lower Shola Rd and is open from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Chettiar Park/ Chettiyar Park

Manicured lawns, and an extensive range of flowering plants greet visitors at the Chettiar Park. The major attraction however are the Kurinji flowers in the park, that bloom once in 12 years. Nestled on the north eastern corner of the hill station, this park is around 3 km away from the Kodaikanal Bus Stand.

This park is en-route to Kurunji Temple, which is another popular place to visit in Kodaikanal. It's a good stop for a quick relaxation or to spend some time capturing the sheer beauty of nature. A minimal fee of Rs.25 is charged for the camera. It can be visited between 9 in the morning to 5 in the evening.

Pine Forest

(courtesy: roy)

Undeniable one of the most popular sightseeing places in Kodaikanal, Pine Forest attracts enthral visitors. This forest was initially cultivated by Mr. Bryant in 1906. The view of tall Pine trees, creating a thick yet scattered blanket which seems to be touching the clouds, make it an ideal place for capturing pictures and videos.

One can either spend time exploring this dense foliage or can sit and relax amid the pine trees and rich fauna. It is also popular for horse riding and walking. Situated on the southwestern corner of the hill station, it can be easily accessed by road.

(courtesy: sureshkanna)

Located in Kukkal, it is 40 km away from the hill station of Kodaikanal. These caves are made from the slabs of different metamorphic rocks such as granulite and charconite. Kukkal caves used to be the earliest residing place for Palaiyar tribes and is now a popular trekking destination for adventure seekers.

One can see paintings by the tribe on the walls of the temple here. Standing on one of the highest altitudes of the hill station, it presents a much cooler atmosphere thought-out the year. These caves can be visited from 10 AM to 5 PM. Visitors can reach the caves by reaching Poombaraj by a bus or cab and then walking on foot till the caves.

(courtesy: naveenrajgowthaman)

Named after a popular actor Kamal Hassan’s Tamil movie Guna, which was shot here, these caves are also known as Devil’s Kitchen. Located on the Pillar Rocks Road, Guna Caves are an interesting place to visit in Kodaikanal. These Caves are primarily three huge rock pillars which stand attached to each other and are surrounded by the Shola trees.

Found in the year 1821 and an ideal place for those looking for adventure, these caves can now be seen from Pine forest. The entry inside the caves have been closed for many years now, owing to many suicide cases atGuna Caves the site.

Museums and Observatory in Kodaikanal

If you are travelling with your children or family, or if in case you are interested in further enriching your Kodaikanal tour then plan a visit to these museums and observatories. A visit to these places will allow you to get a deeper understanding of nature, astrophysics as well as inform you about history and culture.

Shembaganur Museum of Natural History

It was founded in 1895 and presents an excellent opportunity to have a close look at various artefacts of ancient Palaiyars tribes. Along with this, you also have an exceptional collection of more than 300 exotic orchid species, and almost 500 species of animals, birds and insects. This museum presents an opportunity to explore and understand varied handicrafts, fauna and flora.

One can visit the museum with their children as it creates an environment to learn about plants, taxidermy and anthropology. Located at a distance of about 6 km from Kodaikanal Lake, it can be visited on all days of the week except Thursdays, between 10 AM to 11.30 AM and 3 PM to 5 PM.

Wax Museum, Kodaikanal

(courtesy: ilakkiarajs)

Wax Museum of Kodaikanal presents an impressive collection of wax statues of International and popular national personalities. Ranging from Indian saints like Adi Shankara, Sai Baba, to leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and even statues of the infamous sandalwood smuggler, Veerappan, the collection here is worth seeing.

Religious settings like Lord Krishna with gopikas, Last Supper, Jesus, as well as folk dances are also depicted with intricate wax work here. Opening timings of the Wax Museum are 10 AM to 5.30 PM. Easily accessible, it is situated on the Gold Links Road and is near to the Green Valley.

Astrophysical Observatory/ Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

Situated at the tip of Palani Hills, Kodaikanal Solar Observatory was built in the year of 1899. Also known as Astrophysical Observatory, it is run by Indian Institute of Astrophysics. Mesmerising surroundings, impressive collection of solar data and an extensive range of equipment make this solar observatory a place worth visiting in Kodaikanal.

High frequency Doppler, Watson magnetometer, solar tunnel telescope and broadband seismograph are a few of the equipment that are being used here. It is one of the most renowned observatories in the country. One of its major achievements is the Evershed effect which was discovered in 1909 owing to the data collected here.

Religious Sites in Kodaikanal

The hill station of Kodaikanal not only offers lakes and viewpoints but also many religious sites, each presenting a mesmerising view, beautiful architecture in addition to the religious importance.

Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple

The temple is dedicated to the Lord Murugan who is referred as 'God of hill'. Just 3 km from the lake, it is very famous for its Kurinji flower which blossoms in the area only once every 12 years. In addition to admiring its marvellous architecture, you can also have an amazing view of the Palani and Vaigai dam from this temple.

Apart from this temple, there are many other religious places as well such as the Mariamman Temple, Vinayagar Temple, Murugan Temple, two mosques at Ellis Villa and Munjikal, sacred Heart Church and many more.

Mother Saleth Church/ La Saleth Church

(courtesy: umakantmishra)

More than 130 years old, La Saleth Church is one of the prominent places to see in Kodaikanal. Not only for its religious significance, this church can also be visited for its historical building, which impresses visitors with a beautiful architecture.

The structure is a blend of French and Tamil architecture. It is decorated with graceful statues of Our Lady of La Salette above the altar as well as the statue of St. Joseph. Inside of the church you will find statues of Our Lady of La Salette and St. Joseph.

Situated on a cliff and surrounded with striking greenery, this oldest Catholic Church in Kodaikanal, is indeed a sight to behold. An annual nine days festival is organised at the church every year in the month of August. This festival is conducted in the honour of Mother May.

One of the most attractive features of the church are its decorative windows which were painted by Madame Coile, a French noblewoman.

Christ the King Church

(courtesy: johnsteedman)

Constructed in the year of 1895, Christ the King Church is the one of the oldest Protestant churches in Kodaikanal. Presenting a traditional gothic architecture in granite stones, this church is worth exploring even if you are not religiously inclined. Interiors of the church are also equally captivating with wooden benches, and painted glass windows.

When visiting this church you can plan a visit to Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk and also Bryant Park, as all these sightseeing places are located in its close proximity. It is located on the Club Road and is easily accessible.

Lutheran Church

Located near Kodai International School, Lutheran Church is another place to visit if you have enough time during your Kodaikanal tour. It is situated quite near to the Christ The King Church. It was constructed in the year of 1932 in a gothic architectural style.

Made up of granite stone, this church presents an attractive structure and boasts of artistically stained window glass and paintings and murals. The art within the church showcases various stages from Jesus Christ life.

Subrahmanya Temple

(courtesy: prabakaranvinayagam)

Dedicated to Lord Kartikeya, the Subrahmanya Temple is a popular religious site that receives devotees all around the year. Located at a distance of 65 km from the centre of Kodaikanal, this temple can be visited by those looking for an adventure. It stands at a height of 135 meters presenting a breathtaking view which can be seen after steep climbing of around 600 steps.

Other sightseeing Places in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal boasts of many places to visit with their envy-inducing beauty. Hence if you have some time at your disposal or if you are on an extended Kodaikanal tour then don’t miss visiting these tourist attractions.

Dolmen Circle

Situated 18 km away from Berijam Lake, and around 8 km from the Kodaikanal lake, Dolmen Circle is hard to miss when in Kodaikanal. Holding a special place among anthropologists, this place has prehistoric remains that date back to 5000 BC. There are burial as well as dwelling remains such as urns, models of dolmens, belonging to the Stone Age and Iron Age.

In addition to this, even copper and brass utensils and ornaments were also found. It is believed that this place was used for storing valuables as well as to hide by the prehistoric human beings, while Kistavens were mostly used as burial grounds.

Poombarai Village

(courtesy: mohang)

Located at a distance of 18 Km from Kodaikanal, Poomabari is another place to visit. This small village is nestled amid the exuberant greenery of Palani Hills at a height of more than 1400 meters. It is home of the Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple. More than 3000 years old, this temple attracts devotees and history enthusiasts alike. Poombari is also famous for its garlic cultivation.

80 Mile Round

(courtesy: tamilnadufavtourism)

If you are seeking an entirely adventurous experience then plan a visit to the 80 Mile Round. It is a trekking route offering twists and turns that will offer many picturesque views and an exciting experience. This trail begins at Berijam Lake, which is another popular tourist attraction and ends at Poombarai.

Golf Course Club

(courtesy: rjinnkodaikanal)

More than 100 years old, Golf Club of Kodaikanal was established in 1895. Located in Pambarpuram Village it is around 6 km away from the hill station’s centre. It was conceptualised by 12 British golfers. Boasting of an admirable beauty, this golf is surrounded with towering mountains and a rich flora.

Enjoying a comfortable closeness to Pillar Rocks and Green Valley View, Kodaikanal Golf Club is a private membership club with around 600 members. It also offers the facility of accommodation.

Shopping in Kodaikanal

No holiday is complete without taking back a few souvenirs. Buying during tour is a way to preserve the memories of the destination for yourself and sharing the experience with your loved ones back at home.

Anna Salai Market

(courtesy: sensd)

Anna Salai Market is one of the most popular markets of Kodaikanal. It offers shoppers with plenty of options to choose from. Situated on the Bazaar Road, it is a place where you will find something for everyone.

Items varying from handicrafts, jewellery, homemade chocolates to brass wares and products made of leather and wood, you will find all kinds of shops in this market. A wide variety of oils and spices can also be found at reasonable rates, provided to use your bargaining skills well. Baked items are also worth trying here in Kodaikanal.

You can visit the hill station at any time of the year as the temperature is always moderate. However, the best time to visit Kodaikanal is in the months of April to June and September to October. Reaching Kodaikanal is also an easy task as it is well connected through various modes of transportation such as air, railways and roads.

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Top Tourism Places to visit in Kodaikanal

Top 15 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

If you’re planning a trip to Kodaikanal and wondering about the best places to visit in Kodaikanal , there are numerous options available. However, we’ve compiled a list of the top 15 places to visit in Kodaikanal during your trip. Visiting these places will leave you with beautiful memories of the time you spent with your family and friends.

Kodaikanal, a hill station in Tamil Nadu, offers breathtaking views and numerous scenic spots to visit. Some of the must-visit places in Kodaikanal include the Kodaikanal Lake , Berijam Lake , Pillar Rocks , Bryant Park , Silver Cascade Waterfall  and the Coaker’s Walk . Each of these destinations offer a unique experience and memories that will last a lifetime.

Discover the beauty of Kodaikanal, nicknamed the “ Princess of Hill Stations ” in Tamil Nadu. Explore the stunning Kodai Lake , Guna Cave , Pillar Rocks and Bryant Park . Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the region, which means “ The Gift of the Forest ” in Tamil. Kodaikanal is also a popular honeymoon destination for its breathtaking sights and romantic atmosphere.

History of Kodaikanal

The history of Kodaikanal dates back to the early 19th century when Lieutenant B. S. Ward , a British surveyor, discovered the stunning location in the Palani hills of Tamil Nadu, India. He was searching for a healthy and suitable environment for foreign missionaries working in Madurai to escape the summer heat and epidemics. As a result, Kodaikanal became the only Hill Station in India developed by the Americans.

Top 15 places to visit in Kodaikanal

• Bryant Park

Berijam Lake

Pine forests, green valley view (suicide point).

• Pillar rocks

Coakers Walk

• Devil’s Kitchen – Guna caves

Vattakanal Falls

Dolphin’s nose, silver cascade falls.

• Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

Upper Lake View

• La saleth Church
• Liril Falls

Kodaikanal Lake , also known as Kodai Lake , is a popular tourist attraction in Kodaikanal that you must visit.

• Located in the heart of the City.
• Lake was created in 1863 by Sir Vere Henry Levinge.
• Who was the collector of Madurai, with the help of American missionaries.

The lake is within walking distance from the Kodaikanal bus stand and offers a range of entertainment activities.

• Horse riding 🏇

Tourist can also go shopping at the nearby shops selling a variety of items.

• Chocolates 🍫
• Ornaments 💍
• Herbal products 🌿
• Tibetan handmade artifacts, gifts, and more. 🧣

To reach Kodaikanal, you can either take a transportation option from Palani town or Kodai Road, both of which offer convenient travel options.

To know more about Kodaikanal Lake, visit the Kodaikanal lake page.

• Berijam Lake is a must visit destination in Kodaikanal .
• Visitors are required to get Berijam lake permission from the forest department before their visit.
• The lake is located 21 km away from the town of Kodaikanal .
• You can visit berijam lake from 9 AM to 3:30 PM.
• Only four-wheel vehicles are allowed due to the presence of crossing wildlife.

You can see the wildlife animals when you travel to Berijam Lake. If you’re lucky, you can spot the Bison, Nilgiri langur, Malabar giant squirrels, and Indian Elephants. This trip will be a memorable one for you. Berijam Lake is definitely one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal

To know more about Berijam Lake, visit the Berijam Lake page.

Pillar Rocks

• Pillar Rocks is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kodaikanal.
• It is a group of three massive rock formations located in the Kodaikanal hills.
• This viewpoint is a must-visit spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
• Standing at a height of over 122 meters.
• Rocks offer a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys.
• The place is also famous for picnics and camping.

Visitors can reach the Pillar Rocks through a short trek and can enjoy the breathtaking view from the viewing platform. With its stunning scenery, serene environment, and adventurous activities, Pillar Rocks is one of the must-visit places in Kodaikanal.

To know more about the Pillar Rocks, visit the Pillar Rocks page.

Devils Kitchen

Guna Caves is one of the top places to visit in Kodaikanal . This caves, once referred to as Devil’s Kitchen, was named after the film Guna featuring actor Kamal Haasan .

In the past, the British named it Devil’s Kitchen due to smoke that appeared to be coming from the caves, leading them to believe it was a site of evil power. However, the caves has proven dangerous in the past and as a result, the Tamil Nadu government has banned tourists from visiting it, with a rope fence set up 100 feet before the entrance. It’s crucial to exercise caution, especially during rainy seasons.

To know more about Guna Caves, visit the Guna Caves page.

Bryant park

One of the must-visit tourist spots in Kodaikanal is Bryant Park, a botanical garden located near Kodai Lake . This park is easily accessible on foot from the Kodaikanal bus stand and is close to other popular attractions such as Kodai Lake and Coaker’s Walk .

Bryant park is well-maintained by the Department of Horticulture and was developed by H.D. Bryant, a Madurai forest officer, in 1908. Spanning over 20.5 acres, Bryant Park features old eucalyptus trees, ancient bodhi trees, and a variety of 85 different flowering plants and 325 species of trees.

To know more about Bryant Park, visit the Bryant park page.

Coakers Walk is a scenic walking path that is located on a mountain and was constructed in 1872 by Lieutenant Coaker. This man-made pathway is just half a kilometer away from the famous Kodaikanal Lake .

• Popular destination for tourists who want to spend an hour or two amidst beautiful green valleys and hills.
• With its breathtaking views, misty atmosphere and great photo opportunities.
• Coakers Walk is considered as one of the must-visit places in Kodaikanal.

To know more about Coakers Walk, visit the Coakers walk page.

The Upper Lake View is a popular tourist spot that offers a breathtaking view of the Kodaikanal lake . It is located on the Upper Lake Road and has a few shops nearby where visitors can purchase snacks, toys, wooden handicrafts, and other items. Additionally, the Upper Lake View point is known for its beautiful flowers and is a great spot for photo shoots.

To know more about Upper lake view, visit the Upper Lake View page.

Green Valley View , also known as Suicide Point, is a breathtaking scenic spot located in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the must-visit places for tourists in the region. This viewpoint offers a amazing panoramic view of the valley and the hills surrounding it.

• Located on the way to Dolphin’s Nose , the Green Valley View offers a mesmerizing view of the green rolling hills and the sprawling valley below.
• Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking scenery, relax and soak in the beauty of nature.
• Apart from the scenic beauty, Green Valley View is also a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts who love trekking and hiking.
• The place is surrounded by lush green forests, and the trek to the viewpoint is a thrilling experience for nature lovers.

The Green Valley View is easily accessible from Kodaikanal and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can spend a few hours here, taking in the breathtaking views and capturing memories through photographs. Whether you are an adventure seeker or just someone who appreciates nature’s beauty, the Green Valley View is a must-visit place in Kodaikanal.

Moir Point is a scenic viewpoint located in Kodaikanal. It is a popular tourist destination for those looking to take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

The viewpoint is named after a British officer, Mr. Moir , who served in the area during British rule. It offers panoramic views of the rolling hills, forests and the beautiful city of Kodaikanal. Visitors can also enjoy the cool and fresh mountain air while taking in the breathtaking views.

Moir Point is easily accessible, as it is located on a well-paved road that leads up to the viewpoint. There are several small shops and stalls selling souvenirs, refreshments, and snacks at the viewpoint, making it a convenient place to stop and relax while exploring the city.

Visitors are recommended to visit Moir Point early in the morning or in the evening to enjoy the views in the best light. Whether you are a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Moir Point is a must-visit destination for those visiting Kodaikanal.

To know more about Moir Point, visit the Moir Point page.

Pine forests in Kodaikanal are one of the main attractions for tourists visiting the hill station. The pine forests offer a unique and breathtaking view of the surroundings, and the crisp and fresh air that surrounds the area makes it a popular spot for picnicking, trekking and nature walks.

The Pine forests are located in a scenic and serene environment, making it an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature. Visitors can take a stroll along the well-maintained walking trails and take in the beauty of the towering pine trees, as well as the diverse array of flora and fauna that call this place home.

Apart from being a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, the Pine forests in Kodaikanal also offer a range of adventure activities like trekking, rock climbing and camping. Visitors can experience the thrill of climbing up the rugged terrain and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the top.

The Pine forests in Kodaikanal are a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the stresses of daily life and connect with nature. Whether it’s for a leisurely walk or an adventurous trek, the Pine forests are sure to provide a memorable and enriching experience.

To know more about Pine Forests, visit the Pine forests page.

The Silver Cascade Falls in Kodaikanal is a popular tourist destination and a must-visit spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The falls are located just 8 kilometers from the main town of Kodaikanal, and offer a breathtaking view of the waterfall and its surroundings.

This Falls is formed by the Pambar River , which flows down from the Kodaikanal hills, creating a spectacular and picturesque waterfall. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests, making it a peaceful and serene location to spend some time.

Visitors to the Silver Cascade Falls can enjoy a picnic or take a refreshing dip in the cool and crystal clear waters of the falls. The surrounding area is well maintained and offers many opportunities for hiking and trekking.

Whether you are a nature enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating experience, the Silver Cascade Falls in Kodaikanal is the perfect place to visit. With its stunning scenery and tranquil ambiance, the Silver Cascade Falls is sure to leave a lasting impression on all those who visit.

To know more about Silver Cascade Falls, visit the Silver Cascade Falls page.

La Saleth Church

The La Saleth Church in Kodaikanal is a popular tourist destination, located on St Mary’s Road. Visitors can easily reach the church from either Coaker’s Walk or Bryant Park , as it is within walking distance from both places. In addition to the church, visitors can also visit the Palani Hills Conservation Council and Doordarshan Kendra , which are also located on St Mary’s Road.

To know more about La Saleth Church, visit the La Saleth Church page.

Liril Falls Kodaikanal

Liril Falls Kodaikanal is a stunning waterfall located in the beautiful hill station of Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The waterfall is located in a lush green forest and is surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. The sound of the waterfall is soothing and tranquil, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and meditation.

To reach the Liril Falls, visitors need to take a short hike through the forest. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, making it accessible for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. The waterfall can be best viewed during the monsoon season, when the water flow is at its strongest and the surrounding landscape is at its greenest.

Visitors can also enjoy a picnic or a meal at the nearby restaurants, which offer delicious local cuisine. There are also a number of souvenir shops in the area, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and local handicrafts as a reminder of their visit to the waterfall.

Liril Falls Kodaikanal is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the hill station. Its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Vattakanal Falls is a hidden gem located in the hill station of Kodaikanal. It is a serene and tranquil waterfall surrounded by lush green forests and rocky cliffs. This picturesque waterfall is a popular tourist destination and a must-visit spot for nature lovers.

The waterfall is located in the Vattakanal village, which is around 5 km from the main town of Kodaikanal. To reach the waterfall, visitors must embark on a short trek through the forest, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

At Vattakanal Falls , visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool and clear water or simply sit and admire the beauty of the waterfall. The waterfall is also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.

In addition to its natural beauty, Vattakanal Falls is also known for its spiritual significance, as it is believed to have healing properties. Many people come here to meditate and seek peace and serenity.

Overall, Vattakanal Falls is a must-visit destination for those who want to experience the natural beauty of Kodaikanal and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

To know more about Vattakanal Falls, visit the Vattakanal Falls page.

Dolphin’s Nose is a popular tourist destination located in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India. This breathtaking location offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the rolling hills, vast valleys, and majestic mountain ranges.

The Dolphin’s Nose is a large rock formation that resembles the nose of a dolphin and provides a unique viewing platform over the cliffs and valleys below. The rock formation is located at a height of 6,600 feet and can be reached by hiking or trekking.

Visitors to Dolphin’s Nose are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Kodaikanal region and can enjoy the peace and serenity of the natural surroundings. The region is also known for its diverse flora and fauna, including exotic birds, flowers, and animals.

In addition to the stunning views, Dolphin’s Nose is a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts, who come to hike and trek in the surrounding hills and valleys. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Dolphin’s Nose is a must-visit destination in Kodaikanal.

To know more about Dolphin’s Nose, visit the Dolphin’s Nose page.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comment section below. I’ll do my best to provide you with a helpful answer.

Have a great journey,

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12 Epic Places To Visit In Kodaikanal: A Comprehensive Guide

Although North India is famous for its hill stations all across India, did you know that the tag of ‘Princess of Hill Stations’ belongs to a hill station in South India?

Established in 1845 as a summer retreat by British bureaucrats and Christain missionaries, this title belongs to Kodaikanal.

Famous for homemade chocolates and eucalyptus oil, Kodaikanal is a popular hill station in South India known for its cool weather and natural sceneries.

Kodaikanal, meaning “The Gift of the Forest”, attracts tourists from all across India for its lakes, valleys, mountains and forests.

I have visited Kodaikanal twice, and in this article, I would like to give you my itinerary of the 12 best places to visit in Kodaikanal so that you experience the best of this hill station.

5. Bryant Park/Kodaikanal Lake

9. Berijam Lake

12. Coakers Walk

International Kodaikanal Coffee Country

Cafe cariappa.

• Which are the places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days?

Where is Kodaikanal?

Kodaikanal sits on the Palani Hills, a mountain range in the Western Ghats that spreads across Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Due to its location, you’ll find plenty of meadows, grasslands and other natural attractions.

It is located in the Dindigul district (Tamil Nadu), neighbouring Munnar in Kerala. Madurai is the closest major city to Kodaikanal, at a distance of 112 km.

12 places to visit in Kodaikanal

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when planning a trip to Kodaikanal as there are many tourist attractions. Moreover, you need an itinerary that helps you visit all the places (in chronological order) to make the most of your time.

I have listed down below the top 12 places to visit in Kodaikanal based on my own experiences so that you can plan an effortless and amazing trip here:

On Day 1, you cover the major tourist destinations within the town.

1. Vattakanal Water Falls

Vattakanal Water Falls is on the way to the famous Dolphin Nose. It is a step-cut waterfall inside a thick forest with eucalyptus and pine trees, 100 metres from the road.

You have to walk inside the forest to reach the falls. When the water flow is less, you can take a dip in the cold water and refresh yourself. But be careful when walking on the rocks as they’re slippery.

After visiting the Vattkanal Falls, you can trek further along the stream to reach the Lion’s Cave. It takes you deep inside the forest.

Note: Although there are no lions in the Western Ghats, it has been named Lion’s Cave by the locals.

It may take up to twenty minutes to reach here.

If you have a guide, they may also show you other hidden spots/waterfalls inside the forest.

After visiting the waterfall, you can take a quick bite from one of the food and tea stalls outside.

The best time to visit this waterfall is between October and February when the weather is misty and rainy. However, summers are better if you want a dip in the falls as the water flow is less.

There is no entry fee for this waterfall. You can also park your vehicle on the main road next to the waterfall.

2. Dolphin Nose

The only trek you’ll have in Kodaikanal is the trek to Dolphin Nose. Hence, it is among the most highly recommended places to visit in Kodaikanal.

It’s an easy trek that covers 2 km in total (to and fro).

You’ll be going downhill, and the terrain will be irregular and slippery from the starting point. Hence, you’ll need proper trekking shoes for a good grip.

Depending on your speed, it can take up to half an hour to reach Dolphin Nose. On the way, you’ll be witnessing a waterfall, crossing a pine forest and a few shops which serve maggie, fruits and other energy drinks.

You can take a break at one of these spots to refresh.

Note : Carry a bottle of water as you’ll get thirsty often.

You may get tired, but the trek will be worth it once you reach Dolphin Nose. It is a protruding rock shaped like a dolphin’s nose with mountain and valley views. You can pose there for photos (which is a popular activity here) or enjoy the views around.

Be careful while walking on the rock or posing for photos because one slip could be fatal.

After Dolphin Nose, you can visit the Echo Rock, which hardly takes another five minutes. As the name suggests, it is a place where you can hear echoes of sounds.

More than echoes, you’ll love the views here, especially when the weather is clear. Much like Dolphin Nose, this is also another protruding rock where you can get amazing valley views and pose for photos.

After spending some time at Dolphin Nose and Echo Rock, it’s time to get back to the starting point. The return will be more tiring as it’ll be an uphill trek, but you can take breaks in between or have refreshments.

Once you reach the starting point, don’t forget to have a meal at Altaf’s Cafe. It is one of my favourite cafes in Kodaikanal.

Altaf’s Cafe is an Israeli cafe which serves delicious Lebanese food with a valley view. They’re known for their falafel, hummus and pita, and lemon honey tea.

It’s ideal to start the trek to Dolphin Nose early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a pleasant climate.

You can also park your car near the starting point.

3. Pillar Rocks Viewpoint

Our next destination is the Pillar Rocks Viewpoint. As the name suggests, it is a viewpoint where you can see two naturally-formed pillar-shaped rocks together at the height of 400 metres from the ground.

Depending on the weather, the Pillar Rocks may or may not be covered with mist. If it’s covered with mist, you can wait for some time to see if it goes away because apart from the rocks, you’ll also be able to see the nearby mountain ranges.

The only con with this place is that it becomes crowded especially during the weekends because it is one of the most commercial places to visit in Kodaikanal.

Apart from the viewpoint, there is also a small garden and a waterfall where you can spend some time.

You can also shop for souvenirs and have snacks nearby.

The entry to the viewpoint is only INR 5 and you can park your car on the roadside.

4. Guna Caves

Less than 1 km away from the Pillar Rocks Viewpoint is Guna Caves.

Also known as Devil’s Kitchen, it later became famous as ‘Guna Caves’ as the famous movie ‘Gunaa’ by Kamal Haasan was shot here.

But don’t let the name fool you because the cave present here is now closed as many people lost their lives previously.

However, you’ll still enjoy walking through the dense forest that leads to Guna Caves. It is full of tall trees and trees with roots that spread like the legs of an octopus on the ground giving it an eerie vibe.

It was one of my favourite sights on the trip.

Apart from that, there is also a viewpoint which offers you a stunning viewpoint of the Kodaikanal mountains.

You’ll also be seeing the cave beneath the ground covered by a steel cage and bushes.

After visiting Guna Caves, you can munch on some snacks at one of the food stalls outside.

You can park your vehicle at the roadside. 

The entry fee to Guna Caves is INR 10.

After visiting all the aforementioned places, I suggest you end your day 1 at Bryant Park.

It is one of the most well-maintained parks I’ve come across in South India.

It is a big park with various varieties of flowers, walking paths and a nursery that sells plants at reasonable rates.

You can easily spend up to an hour exploring this park or relaxing on the lawns.

Outside the park, you’ll find many shopping stalls where you can buy jackets, and tees or have your favourite snack.

Here, you can also hire a bicycle or a horse and ride around Kodaikanal Lake.

The park is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Next to the park, you’ll find the main attraction of Kodaikanal i.e. the Kodaikanal Lake.

At 2,000 metres above sea level, it is a huge star-shaped man-made lake which is at the centre of Kodaikanal.

You can go boating here and enjoy the various viewpoints around the lake.

The best time to visit both Bryant Park and Kodaikanal Lake is during the evening.

On Day 2, you cover the remaining tourist destinations within Kodaikanal before driving down to Berijam Lake.

6. Upper Lake View

You can start your day 2 with a drive to the Upper Lake View. 

It gives you a bird’s eye view of the Kodaikanal Lake, its surrounding trees and grasslands, the mountain ranges in the background and the blue skies at the top.

The contrast of colours between all the natural attractions you see here is what makes it special. Hence, don’t forget to capture this place with your camera.

Another reason why I want you to start your day from this place is because of the amazing masala chai you get here. There’s nothing more refreshing than sipping your masala chai while enjoying this view.

You can wrap this place in 15 minutes.

7. Kodaikanal Pine Forest

Kodaikanal Pine Forest is another major attraction in Kodaikanal not just for tourists but also for film shootings. 

It is an ideal place to visit if you enjoy long walks through tall pine trees or you want to spend some peaceful time in nature. If you’re adventurous, you can also go horse riding here.

It is also a great place to take pictures in the backdrop of the huge pine trees especially when the weather is misty.

You can easily spend up to half an hour here.

No entry ticket is required at this place.

8. Moir Point

Less than 1.5 km away from the Kodaikanal Pine Forest is Moir Point. This is also another place in Kodaikanal that receives a lot of footfall.

It is a watchtower inside a park from where you can get panoramic views of the mountain ranges and the blue skies from height.

When I went, the entire sky was covered with clouds neighboured by the mountain ranges. It was one of the most breathtaking sights I’d seen in Kodaikanal.

You may get a different view depending on the climate at the time. 

In any case, you’ll enjoy the cold breeze at Moir Point. Hence, you can relax in the park on one of the benches or take a stroll around the walking tracks.

I suggest you try the local carrots and sweet corn here because they’re very fresh and tasty. 

Note : Be careful of the monkeys while munching on food.

In total, you can spend up to 20 minutes here.

The entry ticket to Moir Point costs INR 10 and the closing time is around 5 pm.

Berijam Lake is one of the best offbeat places to visit in Kodaikanal.

It is a natural freshwater lake inside a reserved forest area between Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu and Munnar, Kerala.

The best thing about seeing Berijam Lake is that you’re visiting not one but five places in total (in chronological order) inside a reserve forest – Silent Valley View, Berijam Lake View, Caps Fly Valley View, Mathikettan Forest View and finally, Berijam Lake.

Hence, even if you decide to skip the other tourist places in Kodaikanal, I urge you to visit Bejiram Lake without fail.

Berijam Lake is a 13 km drive from Moir Point.

Since you’re passing through a reserved forest, only 150-200 passes are issued per day. To make it easier for you, let me tell you how you can obtain the pass for Berijam Lake (and the other places on the way) if you’re driving down with your car.

On the day of your journey, you need to obtain a pass from the District Forest Office in Kodaikanal. The counter at the office opens from 8:30 to 9:30 am.

Note : You cannot take two-wheelers to Berijam Lake. Only local cabs, private cars and forest vans are allowed.

Try to reach the office and stand in the queue by 8 am. If you plan to visit Berijam Lake on a weekend/public holiday, you may have to reach the office by 7 am at least due to the increased demand.

Note : Local cab operators are given priority over tourists/visitors and they obtain multiple passes. Hence, if you hire a local cab, the cab driver will take care of obtaining the pass for you.

Keep your driving license/Aadhar Card handy and carry a pen. Get the form from the office staff when your turn comes, fill it and hand it to them.

Thereafter, they’ll call your vehicle number which is when you make a payment of INR 200 and obtain the permit.

After obtaining the pass, you need to drive to Moir Point and show your pass at the check post there. They allow entry only up to 12 pm so plan your trip accordingly.

After visiting Berijam Lake and the remaining points, you have to return to this check post at Moir Point by 3:30 pm.

Note : Instead of driving your vehicle or hiring a cab, a third option is to hire a forest van from Moir Point. It is a 25-seater van that starts every two hours from Moir Point and it’ll take you around all the five points. It costs INR 250-300 per person.

When it comes to the experience of driving through the reserved forest, you’ll enjoy the journey. The roads may not be good and there are some rough patches as compared to the other roads you see in Kodaikanal.

But the fresh air you feel as soon as you enter the reserved forest and the scenic views on the way to Berijam Lake make the journey worth it.

Ensure you stop at all five places and take pictures. But apart from that, don’t stop unnecessarily because the reserved forest is home to wild animals.

The highlight of the trip is Berijam Lake, the last stop. The lake surrounds itself with mountains and forest ranges in the background.

While boating is restricted and you cannot enter the lake, you can spend some time here enjoying the beautiful scenery.

It takes around 45 minutes to reach Berijam Lake, the last point in the reserved forest from Moir Point.

On Day 3, you cover the tourist destinations that are on the outskirts of Kodaikanal before returning.

10. Poombarai Village View Point

On Day 3, we start our journey with a drive to the quaint Poombarai Village, 18 km away from Kodaikanal. 

It is a tiny and colourful village known for its terraced green fields which makes it an attractive landscape. 

There is a viewpoint on the main road where you can stop your vehicle and get a panoramic view of the village with the mountain ranges and the blue sky in the background.

It looks like a miniature village from this viewpoint and as a landscape photographer, I loved capturing Poombarai Village from here.

You can also visit the village if you have time. It has a famous temple and is known for its unique variety of garlic that is available for purchase.

In any case, don’t forget to have a bite from Passiflora Ristorante Italiano – an Italian restaurant which serves some amazing food with a view of the Poombarai Village. It is right next to the Poombarai Village View Point at the edge of the cliff.

11. Mannavanur Lake

The next stop after visiting Poombarai Village is Mannavanur Lake, 17 km away. It was among my favourite places to visit in Kodaikanal.

The drive to Mannavanur is also exciting as you’ll be travelling through forests and pine trees with many uphill and downhill curves on the way.

Note : There won’t be many shops/restaurants on the way to Mannavanur, hence, I recommend you carry some snacks.

Located in Mannavanur Village, Mannavanur Lake is a heart-shaped lake inside a forest and another offbeat place in Kodaikanal like Berijam Lake.

It surrounds itself with lush greenery in the form of trees, vast green pastures of land and a cool climate. It is a great place to have a picnic or indulge in some sports activities like frisbee as I did with my friends.

In terms of other activities, you can go for the coracle boat ride, kayaking or even ziplining on top of the lake. You can enquire about the same from the forest officials present here.

I also recommend you to go to the other side of Mannavanur Lake where you can visit the sheep farm, and rabbit farm and get another view of Mannavanur Lake from a different angle.

As a photographer, I loved exploring both sides of Mannavanur Lake.

In case you’re hungry, you can have some snacks at the entrance of Mannavanur Lake. Parking is also available outside.

You can easily spend up 2-3 hours exploring Mannavanur Lake before returning to Kodaikanal.

To reach Mannavanur Lake, you need to walk less than 1 km from the entrance. They charge INR 30 per person for entry.

As you return to Kodaikanal, you can wrap up your journey by visiting Coakers Walk in the evening.

Next to Kodaikanal Lake, is a 1 km stretch of a walking path with a panoramic view of the valley and hills right next to you. You can go for a relaxing walk here, sit on one of the benches and enjoy the views or shop for souvenirs or eateries that are present here.

It gives the vibe of a Mall Road that you see in the hill stations in North India.

Depending on the weather, you may or may not see the valley views. When I went, the entire valley was covered in fog hence we couldn’t see anything.

There is also an observatory here with a telescope that gives you a clear view of the valleys and mountain ranges. It costs INR 20 per person.

Coakers Walk is open between 7 am and 7 pm and it costs INR 25 per head.

How to reach Kodaikanal?

Kodaikanal is well-connected to nearby and major cities by various modes of transport.

The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is the Madurai Airport, at a distance of 134 km followed by the Coimbatore Airport which is at a distance of 178 km from Kodaikanal. 

The nearest railway station to Kodaikanal is the Palani railway station, at a distance of 66 km followed by the Kodai Road (or Kodaikanal Road) railway station which is 80 km away.

You can check the availability of a train from your location to either of the aforementioned railway stations if you’re planning to visit Kodaikanal via train.

In case you’re not getting any direct train, you can also book a train to Madurai railway station and Coimbatore railway station, at a distance of 114 km and 169 km, respectively from Kodaikanal.

Kodaikanal is well-connected via local buses to the other nearby cities within Tamil Nadu like Palani, Madurai and Coimbatore.

You can also book private buses from cities like Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad to Kodaikanal on apps like Redbus .

How to travel within Kodaikanal?

Self-driving car/bike.

For the best experience, I recommend driving your vehicle (if you’re coming from a nearby city) or hiring a Zoomcar from Madurai or Coimbatore, near Kodaikanal.

We hired our car from Zoomcar in Coimbatore and apart from visiting all the places in Kodaikanal, we also enjoyed the drive from the plains of Coimbatore to the high mountain ranges of Kodaikanal.

You can also hire a cab from Kodaikanal town. There are plenty of cab drivers. Moreover, you can enquire about them from your accommodation as most of these stays have a tie-up with the local cab drivers.

Best time to visit Kodaikanal

I’ve visited Kodaikanal twice – once in June and once in December. And both times, the weather in Kodaikanal didn’t disappoint.

Based on my experience, I suggest you visit Kodaikanal in December if you love having a colder climate and want to enjoy the company of fog and mists.

If you want to experience sunny but cool weather with clearer views, June is your best bet.

In any case, you can avoid the monsoon season in Kodaikanal i.e. from July to September. The terrains may be slippery in Kodaikanal at this time and you may not be able to visit all the places.

Best hotels in Kodaikanal

You’ll find different types of hotels in Kodaikanal but I suggest you have a look at the ones I’ve suggested below if you want something different.

Cloudscape15

I stayed in Cloudscape15 with my friends and I can happily recommend this homestay in Kodaikanal if you’re travelling here with a big group of friends/family and want an entire property to yourself.

The only drawback with Cloudscape15 is that it is 7 km away from Kodaikanal but that is also a positive because it is in a remote location with no noise or crowd. 

Additionally, you’ll enjoy the views from the balcony, and the starry night skies. There are caretakers as well on the property who’re very friendly and helpful.

Econut Farmhouse

If you want a calm and peaceful stay in a natural setting, Econut Farmhouse is my recommendation. 

Located 16 km from Kodaikanal on the top of a hill, it is a homestay inside an organic farm with amazing views of the mountain ranges, home-cooked food and friendly hosts.

It also has excellent wifi and UPS for power backup and therefore is a great place for a staycation. 

The best thing about them is that they grow their vegetables and leafy greens on an organic farm and use them for their meals.

You can explore the various trekking routes around their property and you can also spot elephants and bison.

Zostel Kodaikanal

If you’re a solo traveller, Zostel Kodaikanal has you covered. Located 2 km away from Kodaikanal, Zostel Kodaikanal has private rooms and dorms apart from great views and an in-house cafe.

As a solo traveller, you can save money with Zostel while also meeting like-minded people in Kodaikanal.

International Kodaikanal Coffee Country is an offbeat place to stay in Kodaikanal located 10 km from the town.

As the name suggests, this homestay is an old property inside a coffee plantation on the slope of a hill.

The accommodation is basic but clean and the hosts are very friendly.

They also serve delicious home-cooked food, have nice walking trails around the property and friendly dogs that give you company.

You can also spot some wildlife while you’re here.

Best restaurants in Kodaikanal

One of the best things to do in Kodaikanal apart from visiting all the tourist places is to try the variety of cuisine you get here. 

Apart from having nice weather and beautiful natural attractions, Kodaikanal is also famous for its cafes and restaurants. Ensure that you try food from the following cafes/restaurants for a wholesome experience.

Cloud Street

Could Street was our go-to place for having wood-fired pizzas. Their portions have good quality and quantity. 

Apart from serving a variety of wood-fired pizzas, they also have pasta and coffee. The beef steak is one of their signature dishes.

You’ll also enjoy their homely vibe where you can chill and relax, read a book or play board games. There is a lot of space to host big groups.

The staff is also friendly.

Muncheez is a small Italian cafe known for serving wraps, rolls, burgers, sandwiches, pasta, and pizzas apart from brownies and cakes.

Their coffee, cheesecakes, chocolate brownies and chocolate cakes are a must-try.

As their dining space is limited, I suggest you come here early in the evening to occupy a seat. Apart from food, they have board games and a variety of books in the cafe.

If you’re looking for a quick finger food experience, Muncheez is ideal.

Altaf’s Cafe

I’ve visited Altaf’s Cafe twice and both times, I enjoyed the quality and quantity of food. 

Located at the start of the Dolphin Nose trek, Altaf’s Cafe is known for its Middle-Eastern Cuisine and Italian Food.

Based on experience, I can recommend their Falafel Platter and Hummus Pita apart from Hot Chocolate.

You can also try their ginger lemon honey tea which comes highly recommended.

They also have a nice vibe as they have friendly waiters and nice music playing in the cafe always.

Apart from that, you get sweeping valley views as they’re located on the edge of a mountain.

One of the lesser-known but must-visit cafes in Kodaikanal is Cafe Cariappa.

It is a small cafe run by a lady known for their coffee, cakes and chocolate.

The best thing about the cafe is that they locally source and brew their coffee which gives it an authentic taste.

I recommend their Tosca Cake and Hot Chocolate based on my experience. Apart from that, you can also have their Carrot Cake and Caramel Cashew Cake.

Their menu has limited options but you will be delighted by the quality that this cafe maintains on all its items.

Cafe Cariappa opens after 11 am.

Best travel tips for Kodaikanal

For the best experience in Kodaikanal, ensure that you keep the following tips in mind:

• You don’t need to hire a guide for Kodaikanal as most of the tourist destinations can be covered without any guidance.
• As Kodaikanal is highly commercial, I recommend you visit this place on weekdays because, during weekends/public holidays, you may find a lot of crowds which may spoil your experience.
• Carry a jacket/sweater if you’re visiting Kodaikanal in December or January.
• Carry swimwear/towel if you plan to take a dip in Vattakanal Water Falls.
• Having a good quality camera is essential if you want to capture the different sceneries of Kodaikanal.
• You can buy the famous eucalyptus oil and homemade chocolates from Kodaikanal but not every seller sells authentic stuff. Enquire at your homestay/hotel asking for recommendations for the same.
• Apart from eating from the restaurants/cafes in Kodaikanal, don’t forget to munch on the fresh carrots and corn you get in the roadside stalls.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit kodaikanal.

The best time to visit Kodaikanal is during the summer and winter months i.e. April-June and October-March, respectively. You can avoid the monsoon season i.e. July-September due to the slippery terrains at that time.

Is 2 days enough for Kodaikanal?

Two days are enough for you if wish to explore the tourist destinations within Kodaikanal. If you wish to visit the other places on the outskirts of Kodaikanal, you’ll need a third day.

How can I spend 2 days in Kodaikanal?

Following are the places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days:

Is 3 days enough for Kodaikanal?

Three days are more than enough if you want to explore all the places in and around Kodaikanal. Another benefit of keeping aside three days is that you can have a relaxed trip.

Which are the places to visit in Kodaikanal in  3 days ?

Following are the places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days:

Although Kodaikanal is a commercial hill station in South India, I urge you to visit it to experience the beautiful sceneries and natural attractions that it holds. After all, there is a reason why it’s called the ‘Princess of Hill Stations’.

Based on my experiences, the best way to explore Kodaikanal is to do it on weekdays (excluding public holidays) so that you can spend time with nature and avoid crowds. Kodaikanal will be as good as Valparai (an offbeat hill station in Tamil Nadu) if you can do so.

You can visit Kodaikanal in summer if you prefer clear skies with a pleasant climate or you can choose the winter season if you want to experience the cold climate along with fog and mists.

If you’re coming from a nearby city, you can drive down to Kodaikanal or you can hire a Zoomcar from Madurai or Coimbatore. You can also hire cabs in Kodaikanal.

Keep aside three days for Kodaikanal and follow the itinerary I’ve shared in this article so that you’re able to experience the best of Kodaikanal in a relaxed manner.

Also, don’t forget to visit the amazing cafes/restaurants in Kodaikanal, especially the ones I’ve shared in this article because they’ll leave you mesmerized.

If you follow everything as I’ve told you here, I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time at Kodaikanal, unlike most tourists who don’t plan properly while coming here.

With that said, I hope you enjoyed reading this article on the ’12 places to visit in Kodaikanal. If you’ve any doubts, do drop them in the comments and I’ll be happy to help.

Jerry quit his 9-5 job to become a digital nomad and travel the world. Through Framedventures, he helps people have experiential and immersive travel adventures across India. He has travelled to 15+ states/UTs in India so far. Besides travelling, he's also passionate about landscape photography. Connect with him on his social media channels to get his latest travel updates!

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Jerry, Thanks for the write-up. But please be careful with your research. Lions aren’t found in Western Ghats. Even though lions could inhabit a variety of regions, they haven’t found in tropical rainforests in India. So, the Lion’s Cave could probably a title to draw more tourists and probably little to do with actual lions.

Thanks for the heads up, Abhy! While you’re right, this place is called as Lion’s Cave on Google Maps. So I can’t give it any other name, unfortunately.

Moreover, I recommend this place based on my personal experience as it takes you deep inside the forest. I’m sure adventure lovers would enjoy it, irrespective of lions.

Anyways, I’ll add a disclaimer in the article.

Thanks again!✌️

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10 Kodaikanal Tourist Places You Can't Skip

Blessed with abundant natural beauty, scenic landscapes, majestic lakes, romantic trails and more, Kodaikanal has always managed to lure travellers & nature seekers from near & far. Not only, Kodaikanal is regarded as one of the most popular hill stations in South India but it’s also been crowned the title of ‘The Princess of Hills’. It is also a popular honeymoon destination in Tamil Nadu because of its breathtaking beauty.

The name Kodaikanal translates to "gift of the forest," and the hill station was developed into a retreat in the mid-nineteenth century by British missionaries who used it as their summer capital.

Slowly over time, more tourists got attracted to the area, and Kodaikanal became one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Witness the captivating charm of the mist-covered hills or catch the cottony clouds playing hide and seek with the highlands. When it comes to visiting Kodaikanal tourist places, travellers, particularly nature lovers, have plenty of options.

Here are the top 10 Kodaikanal tourist places that you can bookmark for your upcoming trip to ‘The Princess of Hills’.

1. Kodai Lake

Located in the heart of Kodaikanal, Kodai Lake makes for a perfect place to soak in nature or take a stroll in the evening, zipping through pristine beauty. Kodai Lake is a man-made lake, and also ranks as one of the most exquisite tourist places in Kodaikanal. Vera Levinge was the man behind the creation of this lake.

The star-shaped lake is strategically located in the heart of Kodaikanal, surrounded by the lush green Palani Hills Range, which serves as the lake's main watershed.

(c) Wiki Commons

Kodaikanal Lake

Timings: 6 A.M. to 5 P.M.

Time Required: 1.5 hours

Entry Fee: None

How to reach: You can either hire a taxi from the nearest Palani Railway Station (64 km away from Kodai Lake) or directly catch a bus from the Kodaikanal main road. The lake is well connected by road via bus services.

2. Green Valley View (Suicide Point)

Voted as the second-best Kodaikanal tourist place, Green Valley View, also known as Suicide Point, truly deserves to be on your itinerary to Kodaikanal. The viewpoint offers mesmerizing views of the dark & dense valleys, dropping down to 5000 feet below the point.

(c) Holidays Zone

Green Valley View Point

Timings: 7 A.M. to 6 P.M.

Time Required: 1 hour

How to reach: The suicide point is well connected to the town and other Kodaikanal tourist places by road. You can either catch a bus from the Kodaikanal bus stand (5.5 km away from Green Valley View) or hire a taxi from your hotel.

3. Bear Shola Falls

Bear Shola Falls is one of the most visited among all the other Kodaikanal tourist places due to its undying charm, crystal clear waters & rich biodiversity, marooned by dense woods. This place also makes for an ideal picnic spot and an adventurous trekking destination.

Bear Shola Falls

Timings: 10 A.M. to 6 P.M.

Time Required: 2–3 hours

How to reach: You can directly catch a bus from Kodaikanal Bus Stand (3 km away from Bear Shola Falls). Or you can also hire a cab and club this destination with Kodai Lake for a fun-filled day.

4. Thalaiyar Falls

Thalaiyar Falls, also known as Rat Tail Falls, is located on the lush green hillsides of the Palani Hills ranges in Kodaikanal. It is the highest waterfall in Tamil Nadu and the sixth highest waterfall in India, standing at 297 metres. There is a view tower in the park at Dum Dum Rock, from which you can see the falls and the Manjalar Dam.

(c) Holidify

Thalaiyar Waterfalls

Timings: 10 A.M. to 6 P.M. (closed on Sundays)

Time Required: 1-2 hours

How to reach: The only way to reach Thalaiyar falls is by hiking as the route is quite inaccessible to the public because of poor road conditions.

5. Pillar Rocks

Pillar Rocks is one of the highly-rated & must-visit destinations among the Kodaikanal tourist places. The location is named after three vertically positioned boulders that reach a height of 400 feet, forming a beautiful mini garden. The allure here is full of passion - David Gell's excellent tribute to love was represented by the 'white cross' that once stood on these rocks. The view of the rocks is not to be missed. They are an unexplored miracle for tourists visiting Kodaikanal.

(c) TourismTN

Pillar Rocks Viewpoint

Timings: 9 A.M to 4 P.M.

Time Required: 45 minutes

Entry Fee: INR 5 per person & INR 20 for a camera

Read more about Kodaikanal trips & weekend getaways here .

6. Coaker's Walk

A beautiful place to stroll in the evening & feel the romance in the air, Coaker's Walk makes for a must-visit spot in Kodaikanal and ranks among the top 10 Kodaikanal tourist places. It is about a half-kilometre walk from Kodaikanal Lake and is built on a steep hillside. The walk begins near Van Allen Hospital and ends just across St. Peter's Church on the main road.

(c) Karthi Travels

Coakers Walk

Timings: 7 A.M. to 7 P.M.

Entry Fee: INR 10 per person and INR 30 for a camera

How to reach: Coaker's Walk is quite accessible by road and you can reach the destination either by a public bus via St Mary’s Road or hire a private cab.

7. Devil’s Kitchen (Guna Caves)

One of the most unique & natural heritage sites, Devil’s Kitchen, also boasts to be the best hiking destination amongst all the other Kodaikanal tourist places and deserves to be on your itinerary. It rose to popularity only after a Tamil movie named ‘Guna’ was filmed here in 1992. The enigmatic beauty of the caves is truly a sight for sore eyes and makes for an ideal place to visit for nature lovers & photographers.

(c) blogspot

Timings: 9 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.

Time Required: 30 minutes

Entry Fee: INR 5 per person and INR 10 for a camera

How to reach: Devil's Kitchen is located on the Pillar Rocks road, which is easily accessible by car. You can also walk down to get a better view of the caves. You can also opt for a trekking trail & make your way to the caves zipping through the Pine Forests.

8. Bryant Park

Situated on the other side of Kodai Lake, Bryant Park boasts to be one of the most popular botanical gardens & attracts a huge number of tourists than any other Kodaikanal tourist place. It’s a great spot to go on a picnic with your family & kids or observe various types of plants.

Bryant Park

Timings: 9 A.M. to 6 P.M.

Time Required: 1 hour or more

Entry Fee: INR 30 for Adults & INR 15 for kids

How to reach: Bryant Park is located at a walkable distance from Coaker's walk & can be covered on foot.

9. Kodai-Palani Trek

A popular trekking route, the Kodai-Palani trek is for the ones who crave adventure with a side of scenic beauty. At a height of 6, 998 feet, it is situated on a plateau above the southern cliff face of the Upper Palani Hills and makes for a beautiful yet not-so-explored destination in Kodaikanal.

(c) TripInvites

Palani-Kodaikanal Road

Time Required: 1 day

How to reach: It’s quite accessible by road and you can reach the destination from Coimbatore, Bangalore, Madurai or Chennai via public bus services.

10. Kukkal Caves

Granulite and charconite, two types of metamorphic rocks, have overhanging slabs that make up the Kukkal Caves. More than 30 families resided on the hilltop, where a small temple was also located, up until the mid-1980s. The Kukkal caves are one of the highest points in Kodaikanal, tucked at the height of 6200 feet above sea level.

Timings: 10 A.M. to 5 P.M.

How to reach: You can catch a bus to Poombaraj (the nearest spot to the Kukkal’s caves) and then reach the destination on foot. Hiring a local is advisable.

Where to stay in Kodaikanal for a perfect nature escape & proximity to Kodaikanal tourist places?

If you are thinking of where to stay in Kodaikanal? Well, fret not. We have got your back! Kodaikanal is sprouted with several beautiful resorts & eco retreats located near the popular tourist places, where you can gaze at the clouds & watch the rolling hills or sense the aroma of coffee as you sip on a freshly brewed one.

You can find more about the best resorts in Kodaikanal here

Best time to plan a visit to Kodaikanal tourist places

The best time to visit Kodaikanal tourist places is around the summer from April to June, when the temperature stays between 20-30 degrees Celsius, and makes for an ideal time to explore Kodaikanal tourist places, go sightseeing, trekking, or venture out on other outdoorsy activities.

Book a trip to Kodaikanal on Tripoto here .

So, of all the places listed above, which of the following Kodaikanal tourist places are you most likely to visit? Do let us know in the comments below.

Ready to travel for free? Earn credits and redeem them on Tripoto’s weekend getaways, hotel stays and vacation packages after the pandemic is over!

Think we missed out on something? Tell us about it in the comments below. Or write about it here on Tripoto and earn Tripoto Credits!

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20 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

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#1 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

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 .....

...read more

Coaker's Walk

#2 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

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 .....

Bryant Park

#3 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

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 .....

Pillar Rocks

#4 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

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 .....

Silver Cascade

#5 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

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 .....

#6 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

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 .....

#7 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

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.

Dolphin's Nose

#8 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 8 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Dolphin's Nose is flat rock projecting over a breathtaking 6,600 feet deep. It is an undisturbed area 1 km down a very steep rocky trail beginning soon after Pambar Bridge. It is one of the most scenic places in Kodai . Orange juice vendors along the trail offer a welcome rest stop. Beautiful views of steep rocky escarpments rising from the plains can be seen. The old village of Vellagavi can be reached through a rugged bridle path here. A short paved walkway leads from the road here to Pambar falls. This place demands 20-30 mins of moderate level trekking.

Bear Shola Falls

#9 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

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 .....

Berijam Lake

#10 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 21 km from Kodaikanal, Berijam Lake is an artificial lake situated in Kodaikanal. It is one of the popular places to visit near Kodaikanal . Berijam Lake is at the old site of Fort Hamilton and is situated in the upper Palani hills, overlooking the surrounding landscape. It was formed as the result of the construction of a dam with sluice outlets and is part of a micro-watershed development project. Berijam Lake supplies drinking water to Periyakulam town. It is one of the must include places in Kodai Tour . Surrounded by the lush green pine plantations, the Berijam Lake with its serene beauty has caught the imagination of artists, nature lovers, and tourists. The lake is also an important conservation center for local flora and fauna. Birds such as serpent eagles, rosefinch, leaf-warblers, and pale rumped swallows can be spotted .....

#11 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 41 kms from Kodaikanal, 108 Kms from Coimbatore & 487 Kms from Chennai, Palani is one of the padi veedu for Lord Muruga and is an important pilgrim centre for Hindus. Palani is one of the popular pilgrimage sites in Tamilnadu and another popular attraction not to miss in a Kodaikanal tour package . Puranas have a story that Lord Muruga disappointed for Gnanapazham came here to stay alone. Lord Shiva & Goddess Uma Devi convinced him by saying that he itself is the fruit of knowledge (Gnanapazham) and called him as Pazham Nee. Thus the town got its name 'Pazhani'. The temple of Pazhaniandavar is situated in the Palani Hills at the height of about 1400 feet from the sea level. From the temple prakaram one can see the Idumban Hill, the Kodaikanal Hills, the rivers flowing around Palani, the greenfields and even the Kurinjiandavar temple in Kodaikanal hills on a clear day.

Chettiyar Park

#12 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 3 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station (on the way to Kurinji Andavar Temple), Chettiar park is a nice park managed by the township. This park is very quite and a large variety of exotic flowers can be seen here. Bushes cut and kept in beautiful shapes adorn the garden. The amazing purple bloom of the Kurinji Flowers can be seen here once in every twelve years. It last bloomed in 2004. A well kept grass meadow and shady trees create an atmosphere of cool calm and make the Chettiar park a pleasant resting place. It has decked floors for flowering plants, and lots of lush green lawns. Timings: 8:30 AM to 5 PM

Kurinji Andavar Temple

#13 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 4 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station (on the edge of Kurinji Andavar Road), the Kurinji Andavar Temple is dedicated to Lord Muruga, the God of Hills. As per the Tamil literature, Kurinji means 'hill region' and Andavar means 'God', hence Lord Muruga is referred as 'God of hill'. The Kurinji Andavar Murugan temple is famous for its Kurinji flower which blossoms in the area only once every 12 years. The deity here is called Sri Kurinji Easware. The temple was built by Leelavathi Ramanathan. Born as a European, she was influenced by the religion of Hinduism and adopted the religion. She patronized the construction of the temple that was erected in the year 1936. Thousands of devotees visit this temple during the summer festival to seek the blessings of Lord Muruga. It gives you beautiful views of Northern Plains and Palani Hills. Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM

Shenbaganur Museum

#14 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

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.

Perumal Peak

#15 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 18 km from Kodaikanal & 55 km from Palani, Perumal Peak is a trekker's delight situated near Perumalmalai village close to Palani road. Perumal Peak or Perumal Malai Peak is a high peak at kodaikanal in the Perumalmalai hills, which are part of the greater Western Ghat mountain range in Tamil Nadu. It is one of the popular places for trekking in Kodaikanal and also one of the top attractions you must include in Kodaikanal packages . The trek begins from the foot of the Peak near Perumal Malai Village which is 11 km from Kodaikanal. The trek distance is about 7 km one way and takes about 3-4 hours one way. Most of the trekking stretch is of moderate difficulty while few parts are little steep. Overnight camping is also possible on the peak while most of the trekkers visit the peak and return on the same day. Perumal Malai Village can be reached from Palani .....

Kukkal Cave

#16 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 40 kms from Kodaikanal, Kukkal Cave is a favourite camping site for trekkers. The Kukkal caves are some of the oldest carved caves of the region. The caves are actually overhanging slabs of rocks. This rock shelter is at an altitude of 1500 meters. The cave reveals traces of earliest settled tribals Paliyans who used to wear leaf clothing. Kukkal caves provide the tourists with a captivating view of the Manjampath valley. The valley is home to a number of bisons. The journey from Kodaikanal to Kukkal caves takes the tourists through the rich forested area near Kodaikanal. The flora of the region is rich in the variegated growth of the orchids and the shola trees. A stroll in the early morning through the wooded regions is an exciting experience for the traveler.

#17 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 120 km from Kochi, 284 km from Trivandrum, 142 km from Coimbatore, 134 km from Kottayam, 153 km from Thrissur, 100 km from Athirapally Falls, and 150 km from Madurai, Munnar is a fascinating hill resort located in Idukki district of Kerala. It is one of the best hill stations in India , and among the must include places in Kerala tour packages . Munnar town is situated at an altitude ranging from 5000 to 8000 feet on the Kannan Devan Hills in Devikulam taluk and is the largest town in the Idukki district covering an area of nearly 557 sq. km. It is also called the Swiss of South India. This is also one of the famous places to visit near Kochi , Coimbatore & Madurai cities. Mattupetty Dam, Pothamedu Viewpoint and Tea Museum are among the must include places in your Munnar tour packages . Munnar ..... Distance (From Kodaikanal): 162 Kms Trip Duration (From Kodaikanal - Including Travel): 1-2 Days .....

Pambar Falls

#18 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

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.

Fairy Falls

#19 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

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.

Thalaiyar Falls / Rat Tail Falls

#20 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 40 Kms from Kodaikanal & 485 Kms from Chennai, Thalaiyar Falls, also known as the Rat Tail Falls is the highest waterfalls in Tamil Nadu and third highest falls in India. It is also one of the popular sites for trekking near Kodaikanal. With a height of 975 feet (297 meters), the falls is visible from a great distance on the ghat road towards Dindigul. This falls is considered inaccessible to the general public, as there is no access road to it. However, one can reach these falls with 6 kms trekking after 34 Kms of road journey on ghat road from kodaikanal . The trek duration is around 2-3 hours one way. The trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty. The very edge at the top of the falls has a concrete wall. One can walk along the wall and get near the center of the falls. The water here is considered polluted and it's better to avoid bathing here. One can catch Dindigal / Madurai buses .....

Most Asked Questions on Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal can be visited through out the year, however, the best time to visit Kodaikanal is April to June during the summer. Monsoon from September to October. This is also the time when the waterfalls & lakes are pleasant and enhance the beauty of beautiful hill station of Kodaikanal. Summer is the busiest season in Kodaikanal and often hotels run full and tourist places are crowded.

Kodaikanal usually requires complete 2 days to visit the most important attractions. However, there are several wonderful places to visit around Kodaikanal like Palani, Perumal Peak which usually take additional one day. Kodaikanal can be mixed with near by wonderful destinations like Ooty, Munnar, Thekkady and Madurai by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Kodaikanal trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Kodaikanal tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 5150 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 8000 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Kodaikanal like Kodai Lake, Coaker's Walk, Bryant Park, Pillar Rocks, Silver Cascade, Guna Cave and Moir Point. If you have time, you can dedicate a day to visit near by places like Madurai.

Kodaikanal is very famous for Tea and buying local made of Tea powder is a great idea. Kodaikanal is also well know for spices like Aromatic oils and natural spices are some popular offerings from the local vendors, You can get these spices at low prices in Kodaikanal if you bargain a bit. Ensure to check the quality.

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Top 12 Tourist Places in Kodaikanal – 3 Day Itinerary

Known as the “Princess of Hill Stations”, Kodaikanal is blessed with unparalleled natural beauty. This hill town is nestled at 7,000 ft in the upper Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu. Replete with verdant forests, serene lakes and gushing waterfalls , it is an ideal place for those looking to escape the monotony of daily life and reconnect with nature. If you are planning to visit Kodaikanal, here is all you need to know to plan your trip, including a rundown of the top 12 tourist places in Kodaikanal.

A Quick Glance Through

• How to Reach Kodaikanal
• Top 12 Tourist Places

1. Kodaikanal Lake

2. coaker’s walk, 3. pine forest, 4. bear shola falls, 5. bryant park, 6. silver cascade falls, 7. vattakanal falls, 8. pambar falls.

• 9. Dolphin’s Nose View Point

10. Silent Valley View

11. berijam lake, 12. pillar rocks, where to stay, best time to visit, other nearby tourist attractions, how to reach kodaikanal.

Madurai airport (120 km) is the nearest airport to Kodaikanal. It has direct flights from cities, like Mumbai, Bangalore and Chennai.

Other nearest airports are in Coimbatore (175 km) and Trichy (198 km). You can easily get a cab or a bus from the airport to drop you at your hotel in Kodaikanal.

The nearest railhead is in Kodai Road (80 km), which is well connected to Madurai and Trichy by train. It’s just about 2 hours and 15 minutes drive from Kodai Road station to Kodaikanal town.

By road, it is easily accessible from the major cities in Tamil Nadu, like Madurai, Dindigul, Trichy, Coimbatore and Chennai. Buses also ply at regular intervals from all these cities to Kodaikanal.

Refer to the map above for driving directions from Kodai Road to Kodaikanal.

Tourist Places in Kodaikanal

The hill town of Kodaikanal is dotted with numerous scenic attractions. You should be able to cover most of the popular tourist spots on a three-day trip. Scroll down to know what awaits you in Kodaikanal.

Surrounded by lush green Palani Hills , the star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake lies right in the heart of Kodaikanal town.

Also referred to as Kodai Lake by locals, it dates back more than 150 years into history. The lake was built in 1863 by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the then Collector of Madurai. Kodaikanal Lake is one of the most buzzing tourist places in Kodaikanal.

There are a plethora of things to do near the lake. You can ride a horse, rent a rowboat or a pedal boat and spend some quiet time admiring the entrancing beauty of the lake.

Those who enjoy cycling can hire a bicycle and go cycling around the panoramic Kodai lake.

One more unique attraction of Kodai Lake is a flower called neelakurinji (blue-coloured kurinji). It is said that the flower blooms once in 12 years. So, even a glimpse of this flower is extremely rare.

Less than a kilometer away from the Kodaikanal lake, Coaker’s Walk is a 1 km long walkway on the steep slope of the gorgeous Palani Hills.

It is one of the most preferred places for photography in Kodaikanal since it offers spectacular views of the rolling hills, lush green valleys and the plains below.

You can get some breathtaking shots of the picturesque landscape on your camera. Clouds are all around the pathway on a cloudy day and you get a feeling of walking in the clouds.

Coaker’s Walk is named after Lieutenant Coaker who is credited with the construction of this beautiful pathway.

About 20 minutes drive away from Coaker’s Walk, a vast expanse of pine trees adds to the splendour of this hilly town.

Pine trees are not native to the state of Tamilnadu. In 1906, Kodaikanal pine plantations were started by H.D. Bryant, a British forest officer from Madurai.

Over the years, pine forests have emerged as one of the must-visit tourist places in Kodaikanal. 

This picturesque forest is so inviting that you can’t stop yourself from taking a long walk on the floor covered with dried pine leaves and cones.

It is a perfect spot to spend some relaxing moments away from the chaos of the city and delve into nature’s pure beauty.

Head next to the charming Bear Shola Falls which is not more than 25 minutes drive from Pine Forest.

The falls are known to be the watering hole for bears living in the surrounding forest area. However, bears have not been spotted for many years now. Shola is a type of forest that surrounds these beautiful falls.

It is a seasonal waterfall and can be best seen during monsoon or right after the rainy season when the falls are in full swing.

There is about a km nature trail for adventure seekers through the woods starting from the base of the falls.

Keep aside about an hour’s time to visit this lovely garden located at a distance of 2.5 km from Bear Shola Falls.

The park is named after H.D. Bryant, the then forest officer of the region who got this park built in 1908 with a view to preserving the natural beauty of Kodaikanal.

Sprawling more than 20 acres of land, there are several types of flowering plants, shrubs and cactuses on display in the garden.

Also Read: 15 Most Beautiful Gardens in India .

The park organizes a magnificent flower show every year in the months of May-June displaying a wide variety of flowers. It attracts flower lovers from all over the world.

If the sight of gorgeous flowers leaves you awestruck, be sure to check: 77 Short Flower Quotes You’ll Love .

This well-maintained botanical garden is one of the most loved tourist places in Kodaikanal.

On day 2, start with Silver Cascade Falls which is almost 8 km away from Kodaikanal. About 180 feet high, this waterfall originates from the overflowing of Kodaikanal lake.

The silvery water of the falls gushing through a rugged hilly terrain presents a scenic picture to the visitors.

The falls look absolutely gorgeous during the rainy season. It is one of the most preferred tourist places in Kodaikanal for photography.

Situated on the main Ghat road it is the first attraction to lay your eyes on if you are approaching Kodaikanal from Madurai.

You are bound to stumble upon this beautiful waterfall on your way to Dolphin’s Nose. Surrounded by dense evergreen forests on both sides Vattakanal Falls is a treat to the eyes of the viewer.

Those who enjoy bird watching will love this place. The scenic location of the falls is also a perfect place for photography.

Known as the “Grand Cascade” Pambar Falls is another picturesque waterfall on the way to Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint. It requires trekking through a steep path starting from a point behind Pambar House.

The crystal clear waters of the falls cascade down to form a plunge pool. Pambar Falls and the area surrounding it also offer birding opportunities. Several types of birds can be sighted around the streams.

9. Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint

Amongst the many scenic tourist places in Kodaikanal, Dolphin’s Nose is one of the most popular spots for adventure seekers.

The viewpoint gets its name from a natural formation of the rock that resembles the nose of a dolphin. On a sunny day when the sky is clear, you can see a spectacular view of the surrounding hills and the valley below.

A steep rocky trail to Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint begins soon after you reach the Pambar bridge. It also offers enchanting views of Periyakulam town and the Vaigai river.

On your way to Berijam lake, don’t miss the awe-striking landscape of the lofty hills and echoing valleys near the Silent Valley View. This is a popular stop for tourists and photographers for clicking awesome shots of the beautiful surroundings.

A picturesque drive through the woods will take you to Berijam Lake located deep inside the forest. Permission from the Forest department is required to visit the lake.

It’s a serene place away from the chaos of the city to spend some quiet time amid nature. Keep aside half a day for the Berijam lake trip.

Tip: Only 25 private vehicles per day are allowed inside the forest. Make sure to reach the Moir point check post by 9 am. In case the maximum number of vehicles limit is reached, you can still travel by forest department buses that run at a frequency of 30 minutes.

If you are interested to know about the top 20 major and stunning lakes in India , check this post.

On your way back from Berijam lake to Kodaikanal, make a halt to visit these naturally placed rocks looking like giant pillars. It offers awe-inspiring views of the majestic mountains and echoing valleys on a sunny day.

Tip: Don’t visit this place on a cloudy day. You will miss the wonderful views this place has to offer.

Kodaikanal is a well-developed hill station with adequate facilities for tourists. So, there is no shortage of accommodation options. From budget-friendly to lavish, you can choose from a range of options that suits your travel needs.

Kodai Resort Hotel is an excellent mid-priced hotel located within walking distance from Coaker’s walk. They have well-appointed cottages with a private balcony.

Should you require a more affordable stay, Lilly’s Valley Resort is pretty much ideal for that. The resort lies roughly 3 km away from the lake. It offers a homely ambiance and is also a pet-friendly place.

For luxury seekers, The Carlton Hotel can be a great choice. It lies smack in the heart of the city alongside the scenic Kodaikanal lake. The resort offers a vast range of amenities and services to make guests feel pampered.

If you are looking for more choices, read this post: 10 Best Resorts in Kodaikanal .

Kodaikanal experiences pleasant and cool weather throughout the year. You can plan a trip to this hill station whenever you want.

Avoid monsoon season if you are interested in trekking because the slippery tracks make it extremely difficult to trek.

If you have a few more days to spare, visit Mannavanur lake which is almost 30 km away from Kodaikanal. A scenic drive through eucalyptus and pine forests takes you to this lake.

Guna cave is another attraction that you can see but it’s more like a viewpoint as visitors are not allowed inside the cave.

Kurinji Andavar temple also known as Murugan temple, dedicated to Lord Muruga (The God of Hill) is quite popular amongst religious tourists. Devotees can visit the temple to seek the blessings of Lord Muruga.

Ooty, counted amongst one of the best hill stations in India , is approximately 252 km from Kodaikanal. The enchanting hill town, Munnar in Kerala lies some 166 km away from Kodaikanal, roughly 5 hours drive.

Further Reading

For more inspiration and tips for your South India vacations, please read our posts:

• Top 12 Tourist Places in Munnar – 2 Day Itinerary .
• 8 Most Amazing Forest Resorts in Munnar .
• Best Heritage Hotels in Mysore .
• 10 Best Tourist Places in Mysore – 2 Day Itinerary .
• 6 Best Places To Visit in Ooty in 1 Day .
• 7 Best Nature Resorts in Ooty For A Getaway .
• 12 Awesome Two-Day Trips From Bangalore For A Quick Getaway .
• 10 Best Forest Resorts For Memorable Stay in Wayanad .
• Amazing Places To Visit in Coorg in 1 Day .

Over To You Now…

Encircled by misty rolling hills and green valleys Kodaikanal truly embodies nature’s best.

Which all spots have you seen from this list of the top 12 tourist places in Kodaikanal? Tell us in the comments below.

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About the author.

A passionate traveler, nature and wildlife enthusiast, Rashmi loves to explore places filled with natural beauty. She believes there is nothing more fulfilling than wandering in nature. She is here to show you beautiful places around the world, from the most popular to the most offbeat spots.

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20 Thrilling Things To Do In Kodaikanal

Come let's explore the paradise of activities to experience in the princess of hill stations.

Kodaikanal, has many names, it is mostly referred to as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” and it is a heart warming vacation spot in Tamil Nadu, if you are someone that wants to dive deep into the mysterious forests and are brave enough to explore the depths until you come across hidden waterfalls then the many things to do in Kodaikanal is your best bet!

Table of Contents

Things To Do In Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a gem of a hill station in Tamil Nadu and a natural splendor. Many come here because it is one of the best hill stations near Chennai to beat the heat. Let’s dive into the top 20 sports that make Kodaikanal a must-visit vacation spot.

1. Boating On Kodaikanal Lake

Kodaikanal Lake, also known as Kodai Lake, is the centerpiece of the town and the town’s most loved enchantment. This man-made lake was built in 1863 during the British generation. Spanning across 60 acres, as you waft across the water, you can soak in the banter of surrounding vendors and market areas as the crisp breeze caresses your face. All roads circle around the lake and move on to other locations, making this place a hub for tourists.

Entry Fees:  INR 100 per person

Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Time Required to Explore: Approximately 1-2 hours

How to Reach: Kodaikanal bus stand is 3 kms away from the Kodai lake. After you reach the bus stand you can board the taxi or simply walk to the lake.

2. Observe The Majestic Rock Formations At The Pillar Rocks Viewpoint

Pillar Rocks is one of the most famous viewpoints in Kodaikanal, The 3 big granite boulders reach as high as 122 meters, yes, you read that right! They offer breathtaking panoramic views of Kodai. The summit is also equipped with telescopes that can help you get a closer look of the Pillar Rocks and the lush greenery that surrounds them. 

Entry Fees:  INR 5 per person

Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM

Time Required to Explore: Approximately 1 hour

How to Reach : Kodaikanal bus stand is the closest bus stand to the pillar rocks. It is 7.5 km from the point of view.

3. Dive Into The Refreshing Waterfall Retreat At The Bear Shola Falls

Bear Shola Falls is a seasonal waterfall in the midst of the dense forests of Kodaikanal. Cascading down from approximately 40 feet, the waterfall allows visitors to relax and give into the refreshing retreat faraway from the hustle and bustle of town life. The soothing sound of cascading water makes it a great region to unwind in the lap of the protected Shola Forest.

Entry Fees:   INR 20 per person

Timings: Open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

How to Reach: Located at a distance of 2 km from the Kodaikanal Lake, the falls are 3 kilometers from the bus-stand.

4. Take A Scenic Walk On Coaker’s Walk

Coaker’s Walk is a picturesque pedestrian pathway that gives panoramic perspectives of the plains and the valley below. Named after Lt. Coaker, who prepared the map of Kodaikanal, this scenic walkway stretches for approximately a kilometer with 360 degree views of the plush green valleys, mist-covered mountains, and the whole town underneath. 

Entry Fees:  INR 10 per person

Timings: Open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

How to Reach: The distance between Coaker’s Walk and Kodaikanal Bus Stand is 0.8 km and would take mostly 10 mins to cover.

5. Experience The Panoramic Gorge View Of The Dolphin’s Nose

This has to be the top Things to do in Kodaikanal! Dolphin’s Nose is a flat rock projecting over a wide ranging gorge, it imparts splendid panoramic views of the encompassing hills and valleys. The viewpoint gets its name from its resemblance to a dolphin’s nose. To reach Dolphin’s Nose, you’ll want to trek through the rich biodiversity and rocky boulders surrounded by dense forests and rocky cliffs. 

Entry Fees: INR 20 per person

Timings: Open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

How to Reach: Hire a cab or auto to reach Pambar Bridge, which is the starting point of the trek. Dolphin’s Nose is approximately 8 km from the Kodai Bus Station.

6. Trekking In Pine Forest

The Pine Forest in Kodaikanal hill station is a popular spot for hiking amidst the towering pine bushes and plush greenery. The forest area is spread across acres of land and offers various trekking trails for adventurers and you’ll be surrounded by the soothing aroma of pine bushes and the chirping of birds. The trails are well-defined, making it easy to navigate through the forest and explore its hidden gemstones.

Entry Fees: Free

Timings: Open all day

Time Required to Explore: Approximately 2-3 hours

How to Reach: The pine forest is 10.9 kms from the Kodaikanal Bus stand, you can reach it through the Observatory road.

Book Now: Kodaikanal Sightseeing Tour Package 3 Days & 2 Night

7. Indulge In Mystical Cave Exploration At The Guna Caves

Guna Caves, also called Devil’s Kitchen, are a fascinating labyrinth of dark chambers and narrow passages and one of the most divine Things to do in Kodaikanal . Legend has it that these caves have been once utilized by the Pandavas at some stage in their exile and have been later named after the Tamil movie “Guna,” which was also shot here. The caves are surrounded by dense forests, and interconnected roots that are carpeted throughout the forest floor.

Entry Fees: INR 5 per person

How to Reach: The distance among Guna Caves and Kodaikanal Bus Stand is 8.5 km and the best way to reach is by taxi.

8. Take In The Silent Valley View

Silent Valley View gives a warm and resplendent setting particularly during the sunrise and sunset time. The perspective is far from the banters of the market and chitter chatter of villages, making it one of the best Things to do in Kodaikanal. it is a peaceful retreat amidst nature. From Silent Valley View, you can see the plush valleys stretching as far as the eye can see.

How to Reach: The Silent Valley View is located 15.2 kms from the Kodaikanal Bus stand on the Berijam road.

9. Lie Down Under The Thalaiyar Falls

How can taking a dip in nature’s bountiful waterfalls not be on the list of Things to do in Kodaikanal? Thalaiyar Falls, also referred to as Rat Tail Falls, stands as one of the biggest waterfalls in India, cascading down from an amazing peak of approximately 975 feet. To reach Thalaiyar Falls, visitors can prepare for a thrilling trek through the rugged terrain and dense forests, making it an exciting adventure for trekking enthusiasts. 

How to Reach: The cheaper way to reach is to take the state bus which can take you to the falls.

10. Feel One With Nature At The Berijam Lake

Berijam Lake is a pristine reservoir surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills, making for a peaceful Kodaikanal trip . The lake is renowned for its crystal clear waters, reflecting the lush greenery and blue skies, visitors need to get permission from the woodland branch, it is an attempt to ensure the pristine environment stays untouched and preserved. Boating and fishing are famous activities at the lake, allowing visitors to explore its beauty up close.

Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

How to Reach: Berijam lake is at a distance of 22 Km from the Kodaikanal bus stand. After reaching the bus stand you can rent a rickshaw to the lake.

11. Pedal Through Vattakanal

Vattakanal is a quaint village close to Kodaikanal recognised for its scenic splendor and alternate way of life, making it a really perfect spot for biking enthusiasts. Cycling in Vattakanal has to be on the list of Things to do in Kodaikanal as it lets you discover the village and its environment at your own pace. The gentle slopes, tiny markets, misty landscapes and the unique cascading waterfalls add to the location’s beauty all the more

How to Reach: Vattakanal is approximately 7 km drive from Kodaikanal. The taxi takes Rs 200 whereas the state bus takes Rs 50 to drop you to Vattakanal.

12. Explore The Splendid Mannavanur Lake

Mannavanur Lake is a tranquil spot surrounded by rolling hills, pine forests, green pastures that impart the brightest of the green hue, Imagine horseback riding through the rolling hills with the backdrop of the most beautiful lake’s! Sounds like one of the best Things to do in Kodaikanal? The lake is also a famous picnic spot among locals and tourists alike, you can even choose to boat in the lake for a nominal fee.

Timings: Open from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

How to Reach: It is situated about 33 kilometers away from the main town of Kodaikanal, and it is easily accessible by road. 

13. Shimmering Entrance Of Silver Cascade Falls

Silver Cascade Falls is an impressive waterfall right at the entrance of Kodaikanal presenting a fresh entrance for visitors. The waterfall cascades down from the top amidst lush greenery, creating a shimmering spectacle that just prepares you for the long list of beauty Kodaikanal has to offer. Visitors can take a quick trek to the base of the waterfall to feel the cool mist. A lot of tourists stop at the entrance to capture this wonder.

How to Reach: En route to Kodaikanal. 

14. Explore The Floral Paradise, Bryant Park

Bryant Park is a botanical lawn recognized for its extensive variety of flora, plants, and a lovely glasshouse. The park is a famous spot for nature fans, photographers, and picnickers. If you are a botanical enthusiast then the colorful blooms here will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy. .The park is home to an extensive variety of vegetation, including roses, lilies, cacti, and more. 

Entry Fees: INR 30 per person

Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

How to Reach: Distance of Bryant Park from the Kodaikanal Bus stand is 0.7 kms. You can easily walk to the park from the bus stand.

15. Green Valley View

Green Valley View, also known as Suicide Point, offers a bird’s-eye view of the lush inexperienced valleys and plains below. The point of view is perched atop a steep cliff, presenting breathtaking panoramic perspectives of the encircling panorama. Visitors also can spot the Vaigai Dam and the Periyakulam metropolis from this point of view on clean days. The cool breeze and the panoramic perspectives make it an excellent region to loosen up and unwind amidst nature’s splendor.

Entry Fees: INR 10 per person

Timings: Open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM

How to Reach: Green Valley View, (previously called Suicide Point) 5. kilometers (3.4 mi) from the bus-stand and near the golf course.

16. Indulge In An Agricultural Experience At The Mannavanur Sheep Farm

Have you ever dreamt of having livestock on your own farm? Haven’t been able to manifest that yet? Then you can at least experience that and more, this is one of the top things to do in Kodaikanal as well. Mannavanur Sheep Farm is a unique experience, giving visitors a glimpse into the rural practices of the area. Spread across acres of lush green pastures, the farm is home to a large flock of sheep and other livestock. Visitors can take a guided tour of the farm to find out about sheep farming, wool production, and the everyday life of a shepherd. 

Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

How to Reach: Mannavanur Sheep Farm is approximately 32 kms from the Kodaikanal Bus stand on the Poombarai Road.

17. Unravel The Spiritual Abode Of Kurinji Andavar Temple

Kurinji Andavar Temple is a famous pilgrimage site in Kodaikanal, dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple is known for its beautiful structure and intricate carvings, the temple exudes a royal aura from the bygone eras. The annual Chithirai Festival celebrated here attracts devotees and travelers from all around the world adding to the cultural richness of the location.

How to Reach: Near Coaker’s Walk in Kodaikanal city.

18. Explore The Culture At Shenbaganur Museum

Shenbaganur Museum, additionally known as the Shenbaganur Museum of Natural History, is a must-visit for those inquisitive about the wealthy cultural and natural history of Kodaikanal. The museum houses a numerous collection of artifacts, fossils, taxidermy specimens, and greater. The museum also has a library with a giant collection of books and manuscripts on herbal history and archaeology.

Timings: Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)

How to Reach: The museum is located about 5 kilometers from Kodaikanal. You can rent a taxi or a rickshaw to reach the museum.

19. Go For A Hike Near Vattakanal Falls

How can we miss out on the Vattakanal Falls, when we are talking about the things to do in Kodaikanal? additionally called the “Small Niagara Falls,” it is a hidden gem nestled amidst the dense forests of Vattakanal. Coming here you will realize why this place is acclaimed as one of the coldest places in India .

The waterfall cascades down from the top, creating a captivating spectacle of cascading water and plush greenery. To reach Vattakanal Falls, visitors can go on a brief trek through the forest area, coming across a variety of flora and fauna making it an exciting adventure for nature enthusiasts. 

How to Reach: Short distance from Vattakanal village

20. Indulge In A Star Gazing Experience At The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is an astronomical observatory located atop a hill, you get a very unique opportunity to examine the sun and the stars through powerful telescopes. Visitors can take a guided excursion of the observatory to find out about sun physics, astronomy, and the research activities carried out here. 

Entry Fees: INR 10

Timings: Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

How to Reach: Near Sacred Heart College in Kodaikanal town.

Best Time To Visit Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year, making it a year-long vacation spot. However, the best time to visit Kodaikanal is from October to March while the weather is cool, best for exploring the natural beauty and indulging in outdoor sports. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall, though it can make the green hues pop out and make the waterfalls look divine, we will recommend you to be cautious as the rocks and trails will be slippery.

Kodaikanal, with its scenic beauty, rich cultural history, a slow lifestyle and plethora of activities, gives a really perfect escape from the chaotic city life. This town is a special place for those who wish to appreciate things happening at the pace of nature. This place is perfect for the mountaineers because even though the hills are not as tall as the Himalayas, the hikes will surely give you a run for your breath!

When it comes to things to do in Kodaikanal, from boating on the tranquil Kodaikanal Lake and exploring the majestic Pillar Rocks to trekking in the Pine Forest and stargazing at the Solar Observatory, the Princess of Hill Stations guarantees an unforgettable indulgence. So, pack your bags and prepare to embrace all things wild and free!

Top sports in Kodaikanal include boating in Kodaikanal Lake, trekking to Pillar Rocks, exploring the scenic Coaker’s Walk, and traveling the serene Bryant Park.

Top sightseeing locations in Kodaikanal consist of the picturesque Bear Shola Falls, the majestic Silver Cascade Waterfall, the tranquil Kurinji Andavar Temple, and the breathtaking viewpoints at Dolphin’s Nose and Green Valley View.

Within Kodaikanal, you may commute using rickshaws or hire taxis, state buses also run throughout Kodaikanal, you can also rent bicycles or simply walk around casually from one place to another.

For couples traveling Kodaikanal for a day, the ideal locations to go to include the romantic Berijam Lake, the captivating Guna Caves with their mysterious charm, and the serene Palani Hills Wildlife Sanctuary for a peaceful nature retreat.

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Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

• Kodaikanal Lake
• Coaker's Walk
• Bryant Park
• Pillar Rocks
• Bear Shola Falls
• Pine Forest Kodaikanal
• Kurinji Andavar Temple
• Guna Caves (Devil's Kitchen)
• Silver Cascade Falls
• Dolphin's Nose
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Top 10 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

Table of contents.

Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

• 1. Kodaikanal Lake
• 2. Coaker's Walk
• 3. Bryant Park
• 4. Pillar Rocks
• 5. Bear Shola Falls
• 6. Pine Forest Kodaikanal
• 7. Kurinji Andavar Temple
• 8. Guna Caves (Devil's Kitchen)
• 9. Silver Cascade Falls
• 10. Dolphin's Nose

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Other Suggested Reads for Kodaikanal

• About Kodaikanal Tourism
• Things to do in Kodaikanal
• How to Reach Kodaikanal
• Best time to Visit in Kodaikanal
• Kodaikanal Tourism History
• Food in Kodaikanal
• FAQS about Kodaikanal
• Kodaikanal Tourist Map

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Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

• Places To Visit

The scenic beauty of the ‘Princess of Hills’, as it is famously known will lure you to come again. This enticing city is a perfect destination for your weekend getaway from Bangalore. Kodaikanal means ‘The gift of the forest’. This city of Tamil Nadu is situated in Dindigul District of Tamil Nadu.

Distance from Bangalore: A total distance of 470 kms approx needs to be covered to reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore.

Attractions : The enchanting waterfalls, beautiful sceneries and rich diversity of trees and animals make it a must-visit place.

Dolphin’S Nose Kodaikanal

Situated at a distance of 8km from the Queen of Hills, Dolphin’s Nose Kodaikanal is something you should never miss on. With an altitude of 6600 feet, the Dolphin’s Nose offers enthralling views of the entire city. Rugged terrains, clear skies, plunged valleys, and the splendour of lush green surroundings is what sums up the beauty of Dolphin’s Nose. The cliff is tucked atop a flat and protruding rock piece. It gives it a resemblance to the shape of the nose of a dolphin. This how the cliff got its identity worldwide. Even at such a height, Mother Nature has made this place available and easily accessible for tourism. So, if you are looking to spice up your Kodaikanal visit with an additional flavor, get on your adventurous sporting shoes and start ascending the route of Dolphin’s nose. For some, the path to the Dolphin’s Nose may seem to be easily accessible; for others it’s a moderately difficult one. Your trekking route to the Dolphin’s Nose is a 3 km long making its way through the rocks and pines of the Palani Hill Range. There is a village nearby and a waterfall to adore on your way to the Dolphin’s Nose. You can get along with the locals, sip a cup of tea of their style, and then move forward. Occasionally, you might come across a scenario where a mystical fog will be seen wrapping up the huge mountain ranges and the valley that goes along. Tourists usually plan a quiet retreat in the lap of the mountains here and engage themselves into a soulful introspection — the beautiful transitions at the onset of both sunrise and sunset adds-on glory to the moment. Besides, the peace and tranquillity which you experience here remain unparalleled! Sometimes, you may find the local vendors dotting the region to sell their food and fresh fruit juices. However, it might cost more than usual on your wallet.

Kodaikanal Lake

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Pillar Rocks

Pillar Rocks, in the small town of Kodaikanal, is not only a stunning tourist attraction but also a place with a fascinating history. The place is known for its scenic beauty and serenity, which people seek out for a rejuvenating holiday. While there are many interesting places to see when you are in Kodaikanal, there are none quite like the Pillar Rocks. These consist of three giant rock formations that stand tall at a height of 400 feet from the ground. Towering over the plains of Kodaikanal, they offer a breathtaking view of the surrounding natural beauty from its many vantage points. The Pillar Rocks are sought out by rock climbers, trekkers, hikers, mountain climbers and even families and friends who are in for an adventure-filled time in Kodaikanal. These rocks rise vertically upward from the ground and have remained untouched by the human hand which makes it even more interesting. There are several hidden nooks and crannies in the rocks that are worth exploring, with each offering a unique view of the surrounding landscape. There are also other natural attractions in the nearby areas such as the Devil’s Kitchen, which is the crags in between the rocks, as well as a scenic mini-garden, which itself is also an attractive viewpoint. You can also find food stalls selling local delicacies near the garden. All in all, the Pillar Rocks is the perfect place for a serene picnic or an adventure-filled weekend with your loved ones, when you are in Kodaikanal.

Coakers Walk

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Guna Caves, located in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, are a hidden gem known for their eerie beauty and historical significance. Formed naturally between massive boulders, these caves gained fame after featuring in the Tamil movie "Guna." Surrounded by dense forest and offering stunning views, Guna Caves attract adventurers and nature enthusiasts seeking a unique and thrilling experience.

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

The Kodaikanal Observatory is situated on the tip of Southern India's lovely Palani range hills. Today Indian Institute of Astrophysics operates Kodaikanal Solar Observatory that was earlier Madras observatory. The observatory is currently managed by Indian Institute of Astrophysics, IIAP. Earlier the observatory was known as Solar Physics Observatory that later converted to its current name. The longitudinal setting of this scientific abode makes it one of a kind spot to examine solar behavior. The observatory houses the most comprehensive compilation of solar data, from as far as the 19th century. Furthermore, the place has an unusual geography that makes it especially the perfect spot to experience proper cosmic observations.  At present, it features all the modern imaging apparatus and is the must-visit location to observe the celestial events. Visitors can see a 20 cm refractor here that helps in comet observations and to view relevant occultation event. The Observatory also boasts a famous Astronomy museum on campus for the tourists. The displays here are chiefly pictorial, backed by a couple of models. Visitors can also see the live solar image and the Fraunhofer spectrum while museum touring. The trip to the epitome of learning ground will present all the visitors with a core knowledge and display of all the astronomical elements researched here by far. Also, the biggest highlight is trying your own hands with the equipment present here to upgrade your aptitudes and enjoy discovering the magical galaxy.

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Silver Cascade Falls

Silver Cascade Falls is heaven for those who love to view the beauty of nature at different locations. The waterfall is located at an altitude of 2318 meter, on the road to Madurai and Kodai. The water flows down from a height of 180 feet, which makes it a beautiful sight for the onlookers. The waterfall is believed to be a remain of the Kodai Lake, where tourists can even take a dip in the water flowing down from the falls. Tourists can be seen taking a break from their ride towards Kodaikanal at the various tea stalls which can be found lined up near the falls. The remaining distance to Kodaikanal from the falls is merely 8 km. It is believed that the water from the falls is laden with various minerals, which gives these waters their healing and refreshing properties. It is a sight to watch monkeys playing on the cliff and slippery rocks of the fall. 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. On either side of the cliff, you can find rugged rocks and wild foliage springing up in all directions. There is a dedicated viewing platform in front of the waterfall, which serves as an excellent point to view the flowing water fall down in a pool. One can easily reach the silver Cascade falls via local transport such as auto or rickshaw, in Kodaikanal.

Thalaiyar Falls

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Kumbakkarai Falls

The Kumbakkarai Falls is a scenic, peaceful and pleasant waterfall that can be found in the state of Tamil Nadu, in Dindigul district. The district of Dindigul is about 9 kilometres away from the town of Periyakulam, which is a municipality in Theni district in the region of Madurai. Located in the foothills of the Kodaikanal Hills, the Kumbakkarai Falls is one amongst the many well-known Falls in the same region. The water of this waterfall originates in the Kodaikanal Hills and flows down the rocks in two natural stages. In the first stage, the water collects in the deep cradles of a wide rock, then flows down a stretch of 0.5 km in the form of the Pambar River, before it drops down into a breathtaking waterfall over a steep rock face. The pools formed by the river in the first stages of the waterfall are named after various wild animals such as elephants, lions, tigers, snakes, etc. Kumbakkarai is the spot where the water of the river drops at the foothills of the Kodaikanal Hills. This area in the foothills has become a popular tourist spot now, as people visit this place from all over the country to take in its natural, scenic beauty. The peace and tranquillity of this place, along with a soothing expanse of undisturbed nature makes it the perfect getaway for city-dwellers. Tourists are also allowed to bathe in the waters of the Kumbakkarai Falls. The crystal-clear water of the Falls is enriched with natural minerals and herbs which has incredibly therapeutic benefits as well.

Berijam Lake

Berijam Lake is a natural freshwater lake that is situated at a distance of 22 Km from the Kodaikanal bus stand. It has moved ahead to be one of the leading tourist destinations in Kodaikanal since 1990. The lake not only offers amazing refreshing scenic beauty for nature lovers but at the same time it also serves as a home to numerous other wildlife creatures. Tourists who love to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city mostly visit this lake. You can come here with your family and friends to make memories that will last for ages. The major attraction of the Berijam lake is the sparkling blue crystalline water. This makes it difficult for nature lovers to resist the grandeur of the place. There are a number of activities like fishing, bird watching, safari tours to do here in the middle of this stunning and surreal location. In the early days, tourists used to relish boating in this wonderful lake, however,  the local administration has banned boating in this lake to preserve the natural freshwater. The main reason for banning boating in the lake is that the water from the lake is used as drinking water for a nearby town.  Let us uncover bit by bit about this treasured natural treasure trove of Kodaikanal.

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Kurinji Andavar Temple

The Kurinji Andavar Temple, located in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan, also known as the "God of the Hills." Built in 1936 by a European woman who converted to Hinduism and took the name Lady Ramanathan, the temple is named after the Kurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years.

Green Valley View Point

Green Valley View Point, previously known as Suicide Point, is one of Kodaikanal's most popular tourist attractions. Located about 5.5 kilometers from the Kodaikanal Lake, this viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the verdant valleys, dense forests, and the Vaigai Dam below.

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Pine Forest

A pine forest features evergreen trees, needle-like leaves, resinous wood, diverse wildlife, and serene landscapes, often found in temperate regions.

Moir Point, located in the picturesque hill station of Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, is a popular tourist destination known for its breathtaking panoramic views. Named after Sir Thomas Moir, who initiated the construction of the Goschen Road in 1929, this vantage point offers stunning vistas of the verdant valleys and lush greenery that surround Kodaikanal. 

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Fairy Falls, Kodaikanal

Fairy Falls in Kodaikanal is a picturesque waterfall located within the lush greenery of the Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu, India. This serene spot is known for its crystal-clear waters cascading down from a height of about 30 feet, creating a mesmerizing sight and a soothing sound that enchants visitors. The falls are situated near the Agricultural Research Station, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike.

Pambar Falls

Pambar Falls, located near the popular hill station of Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu, is a serene and enchanting natural attraction. Also known as the "Grand Cascade," this waterfall is part of the Pambar River and offers a tranquil retreat amidst lush greenery. The falls cascade gracefully over smooth rocks, creating a soothing symphony of flowing water that enhances the serene atmosphere.

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Bryant Park

Nestled in the heart of Kodaikanal, Bryant Park is a serene oasis that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and well-maintained gardens. This meticulously landscaped park offers a tranquil escape, featuring a diverse collection of horticultural wonders, including vibrant flowers and lush greenery.

Dolphin Nose

Dolphin's Nose in Kodaikanal is a stunning viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lush valleys below. Located at an altitude of 6,600 feet, this cliff resembles a dolphin's nose, providing a unique and memorable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers visiting the picturesque hill station.

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Upper Lake View Point

Upper Lake View Point, located in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, is a picturesque vantage spot offering breathtaking views of the Upper Lake, also known as Bhojtal. This lake, created by Raja Bhoj in the 11th century, is a significant part of Bhopal's landscape and a vital source of drinking water. The view point itself is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors with its panoramic vistas of the expansive lake and the surrounding greenery.

Chettiar Park

Chettiar Park is a charming botanical garden nestled in the serene hill town of Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India. Established and maintained by the Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swami Temple, the park is named after the Chettiar community, known for their philanthropy and contribution to local development.

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Silver Cascade Waterfalls

Silver Cascade Waterfalls, a breathtaking natural wonder, is located in Kodaikanal, a popular hill station in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. This stunning waterfall is formed by the overflow of the man-made Kodai Lake, which cascades down a height of 180 feet, creating a mesmerizing and powerful flow of water. The falls are named for their silver-like appearance, particularly when sunlight glints off the water, giving it a dazzling, ethereal quality.

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Top 35 Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal : As soon as you step into Kodaikanal, you start to believe the saying that “the best things in life are free.” The refreshing aroma of pine needles in the breeze, the glistening dew on rose petals, trees basking in the morning sunlight, and the mesmerizing sight of Kurinji flowers painting the hills in purplish-blue hues—all of these leave visitors speechless, ushering in a sense of magic. Kodaikanal is a town dotted with numerous charming spots that collectively create a paradise-like ambiance. Although a list of 35 places to visit in Kodaikanal might not fully capture its old-world allure, let’s attempt to showcase its beauty!

1. Kodaikanal Lake

When the skies are clear and a gentle breeze sweeps through Kodaikanal’s forests, take a trip to Kodaikanal Lake. Spanning 60 acres, this star-shaped lake, crafted by Sir Vere Henry Levinge in 1863 during his time as the Collector of Madurai, has been a beloved destination for tourists for generations. Fed by the waters of the Palani Hills, the lake’s overflow cascades down into the stunning “Silver Cascade” waterfall, standing at a majestic height of 180 feet. This cascade is among the top attractions that draw visitors to Kodaikanal.

2. Berijam Lake

Nestled amidst exotic trees and expansive meadows, Berijam Lake is a gem located just a short distance from Kodaikanal, earning its place among the top attractions in the area. Its verdant surroundings and serene ambiance make it an ideal spot for a relaxing picnic. Accessible via motorable roads, reaching the lake is convenient. However, visitors must obtain a forest pass for entry, and fishing enthusiasts should secure permission from the Fisheries Department. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a delightful boat ride to take in the scenic beauty of the lake and its surroundings.

3. Mannavanur Lake

Mannavanur Lake stands out as a tranquil haven amidst the beauty of Kodaikanal , offering a slice of paradise to visitors. The journey to the lake itself is a scenic treat, with roads flanked by eucalyptus and pine trees that create a picturesque drive. The Mannavanur region is teeming with diverse wildlife, providing opportunities to witness exotic birds in flight and catch glimpses of wild animals. Nestled within a sheep farm, the lake offers a unique experience of observing grazing flocks of sheep. Moreover, the Forest Department facilitates coracle rides at a reasonable cost, and visitors can also opt for horseback riding adventures in this serene setting.

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4. Guna Caves

Situated 12 km away from Kodaikanal, Guna Cave remained undiscovered for many years until the release of the 1991 Kamal Hassan movie “Guna,” which brought it into the limelight. Originally found by English officer BS Ward in 1821 CE, this cave holds a mysterious allure within Kodaikanal’s pine-laden landscape. It’s a must-visit spot for those keen on uncovering the hidden wonders of the area, making it an essential part of any Kodaikanal tourist itinerary. For adventure seekers, Kodaikanal offers a range of thrilling activities like hiking, camping, and more, promising unforgettable experiences in its scenic environs.

5. La Saleth Church

La Saleth Church, renowned for its captivating architecture, was constructed in 1846 and underwent expansions throughout the following century. Combining elements of Tamil and French architectural styles, this shrine beautifully merges cultural influences. Perched at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level, it provides a stunning panoramic vista of the verdant mountain ranges. As a prominent Catholic church in Kodaikanal, La Saleth attracts a significant number of visitors and stands as one of the cherished landmarks in the region.

6. Vattakanal Falls

Nestled amidst a serene forest setting, Vattakanal Falls ranks among the mesmerizing sights of Kodaikanal. Its allure peaks during the monsoon, showcasing a grand and picturesque spectacle. Known for its safety, this waterfall is a must-visit spot in Kodaikanal where visitors can safely enjoy its beauty. Although it’s generally safe to be around, wearing non-slip footwear is recommended to enhance your experience.

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7. Pambar Falls

Just a short 3 km journey from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Pambar Falls stands as one of the hill station’s most spectacular natural wonders. Originating from the town’s reservoir overflow, the enchanting “Fairy Falls” cascades down, merging with the Vaigai River to form Pambar Falls. Below this picturesque cascade lies a serene pond-like area, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the refreshing and crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by lush greenery and untamed wilderness, this spot epitomizes natural beauty and offers an ideal setting for capturing breathtaking photographs.

8. Astrophysical Observatory

One of the oldest observatories in the world, Astrophysical Observatory is perfect for Kodaikanal sightseeing. Located in the rolling hills of Palani, it was established in 1899. The observatory has a 20 cm refractor, which is sometimes used for cometary and occultation observations, and sometimes made available to visitors for night sky viewing. It also has an astronomy museum displaying models and pictures. This observatory deserves to be on the list of places to visit in Kodaikanal.

9. Kodai Chocolate Factory

Established in 1999, the Kodai Chocolate Factory has emerged as a prominent producer and provider of chocolates, aromatic oils, coffees, and more. Renowned for their delectable homemade chocolates, all their offerings are 100% vegetarian. For chocolate enthusiasts, this factory is a must-visit destination in Kodaikanal. Don’t miss out on exploring places like Pot Luck, Cloud Street, Chocolate Factory, and SG Cottage Industries to indulge in a wide array of chocolate varieties and flavors.

10. Lutheran Church

Constructed in 1932, the Lutheran Church in Kodaikanal stands as a remarkable example of Gothic architecture. Its grandeur is accentuated by stunning stained glass windows, contemporary paintings, and intricate murals portraying scenes from the life of Jesus Christ. If you appreciate exquisite architectural marvels, a visit to this church is highly recommended.

11. Perumal Peak

Perumal Peak, nestled within the majestic Western Ghats, offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding valley, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Rising to an impressive altitude of 8,005 feet above sea level, this peak is a delight for trekkers seeking adventure and stunning vistas. While the trek may be challenging, the rewards include unparalleled views that make every step worthwhile. Along the trekking route, visitors can also explore the charming and scenic Perumal Malai Village, adding a touch of cultural immersion to their outdoor experience.

12. Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple

The Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple in Kodaikanal is a must-visit destination regardless of one’s religious beliefs. Devoted to Lord Muruga, the deity associated with the hills, this temple holds a special significance for its rare Kurinji flower bloom that occurs once every 12 years. Apart from its religious and botanical charm, the temple also offers mesmerizing vistas of the Vaigai Dam and the majestic Palani Hills, making it a top choice among Kodaikanal’s temples for its scenic allure and spiritual ambiance.

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13. Bear Shola Falls

Nestled just 2 km from Kodaikanal Lake, Bear Shola Falls ranks high among the most sought-after destinations in Kodaikanal. This seasonal waterfall, known for its impressive height, truly comes alive during the rainy season, as torrents of water cascade down the mountainside, weaving through lush greenery before forming a frothy pool below. Legend has it that this serene spot was once a favored watering hole for bears, lending the falls its unique name. Today, it remains a beloved retreat for nature enthusiasts, couples seeking tranquility, and adventurers drawn to its serene yet adventurous charm.

14. Pillar Rocks

The Pillar Rocks of Kodaikanal are a natural wonder comprising 400-meter-long boulders arranged in a striking formation. This scenic spot has evolved into a delightful picnic destination, attracting families with children and couples alike. Adjacent to these majestic rocks is a charming mini garden, adding to the overall allure of the place. Visitors often describe the atmosphere here as imbued with a sense of warmth and romance, making a visit to these rocks one of the most enchanting experiences in Kodaikanal. The panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills and villages from this vantage point are truly captivating and shouldn’t be missed. And while you’re there, treat yourself to a plate of potato and onion bhaji from the vendors near the mini garden for a complete sensory experience.

15. Suicide Point

The Green Valley View, known as the Suicide Point, presents a breathtaking panorama of the Kodainakal plains, sprawling valleys, and majestic hills. The mesmerizing sight of the Vaigai Dam adds to the awe-inspiring experience for travelers. Its name stems from its perilous and deep valley, featuring a staggering 5000 feet drop, making it a risky spot. Located approximately 5.5 km from Kodaikanal Lake, it stands as one of the most renowned attractions not just for its scenic beauty but also for the bustling local market offering homemade chocolates, ornamental items, and a delightful array of flowers.

16. Devil’s Kitchen

The Devil’s Kitchen is a natural wonder and cave system nestled in Kodaikanal, set amidst the imposing Pillar Rocks. Its charm lies in its unique geological formations and the ethereal ambiance it offers. During the monsoons and winters, thick clouds and mist often envelop the area, creating a mystical and picturesque setting, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Located near Moir Point on the outskirts of the city, this site gained popularity after being featured in a prominent movie in the 1900s, attracting a steady stream of tourists ever since. Accessible via a 400-meter trek from the main entrance, reaching the hillock is an adventure in itself and ranks among the top experiences in Kodaikanal.

17. Thalaiyar Falls

Thalaiyar Falls stands as a captivating gem among Kodaikanal’s waterfalls, nestled amidst the verdant slopes of Palani Hill ranges in Dindigul District. Known locally as the Rat Tail Falls due to its distinctive appearance, this waterfall is a sight to behold. Plummeting from a height exceeding 290 meters, it reigns as Tamil Nadu’s tallest waterfall and ranks as the sixth highest in India, marking its place as the 267th highest globally. A view tower situated at Dum Dum Rock within the park offers photographers an ideal vantage point to capture stunning views of this enchanting Kodaikanal attraction, along with the picturesque Manjalar Dam.

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18. Coakers Walk

Coakers Walk stands out as one of the most captivating attractions in Kodaikanal, offering visitors a unique experience on its 1 km-long man-made walking plaza nestled in the Tamil Nadu mountains. This scenic pathway gracefully winds along the edge of the mountain, providing breathtaking views of what many describe as Paradise on Earth. It’s an ideal spot for leisurely morning and evening strolls, immersing oneself in the serenity of nature while being treated to mesmerizing vistas of Kodaikanal’s lush valleys and hills. Walking along this platform is not just a leisure activity but also one of the most rejuvenating experiences one can have in Kodaikanal.

19. Dolphin’s Nose

Dolphin’s Nose stands out as one of Kodaikanal’s most enchanting destinations. Offering panoramic views of picturesque valleys, verdant landscapes, rugged terrain, clear skies, and gentle breezes, this viewpoint encapsulates the essence of Kodaikanal’s beauty. Its name is derived from a flat rock formation resembling a dolphin’s nose, yet its true allure lies in the breathtaking vistas it presents rather than its shape. Perched at an elevation of 6,600 feet, it provides an idyllic setting for a delightful picnic, allowing visitors to unwind amidst tranquil surroundings while enjoying quality time with loved ones.

20. Bryant Park

Bryant Park contributes significantly to Kodaikanal’s allure and sophistication in Tamil Nadu. Situated on the eastern shores of Kodai Lake, this picturesque park is adorned with an array of plant and shrub species, attracting a large number of nature enthusiasts and botany aficionados each month. From vibrant flowering plants to unique hybrids and grafts, the park boasts a rich diversity of botanical treasures. Positioned adjacent to Coakers Walk, a visit to this park offers the opportunity to indulge in two delightful experiences: a leisurely stroll amidst serene surroundings and a close encounter with nature’s captivating creations.

21. Pine Forest

The Pine Forest in Kodaikanal is a haven of tranquility and natural beauty, evoking the enchanting atmosphere of a beloved fairytale. Nestled in the southwest region of Kodaikanal, this forest stands as one of the town’s premier attractions due to its unparalleled scenic charm. Maintained under strict supervision by the Tamil Nadu government, the Pine Forest is a testament to the serene and unique aspects of nature that have been carefully preserved over time. Its historical significance is underscored by its establishment in 1906 by Mr. Bryant, adding to its status as a cherished heritage site in the area.

Visitors to the Pine Forest can partake in a variety of activities such as horse riding, nature walks, hiking, trekking, and camping, making it a favored destination among nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and photographers alike.

22. Moir Point

Nestled at the gateway of a tranquil forest path that meanders to the stunning Berijam Lake, Moir Point is a standout vantage point in Kodaikanal that should not be missed. Its name honors Sir Thomas Moir, the architect behind the Goschen Road constructed in 1929 CE. This monument serves as a tribute to his significant contributions, marking the starting point of the Goschen Road connecting Kodaikanal and Berijam Lake.

Beyond its historical significance, Moir Point offers captivating vistas of the verdant valleys and hills of Tamil Nadu, attracting a steady stream of tourists each month. It’s a place where nature’s beauty intertwines with historical remembrance, creating a memorable experience for visitors.

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23. Wax Museum

Kodaikanal boasts India’s inaugural Wax Museum, located near the picturesque Green Valley, adding to the region’s array of tourist attractions. This compact museum showcases a variety of exhibits, ranging from religious scenes like the Crib and the Last Supper to wax figures of globally recognized personalities. Moreover, it features a unique collection highlighting Indian saints and notable figures such as Adi Shankara, Sai Baba, Gandhiji, Lord Krishna with the Gopikas, along with depictions of Indian musicians and even Veerappan, the infamous sandalwood smuggler.

24. Upper Lake View Point

At the Upper Lake View Point, you’ll gaze upon a star-shaped lake nestled amidst verdant surroundings, conceived in 1863 by Sir Vere Henry Levinge. Visitors often remark on the captivating contrast between the lake’s azure waters and the lush greenery, creating a picturesque scene perfect for photography enthusiasts. Besides admiring the view, visitors can enjoy various activities such as boating, cycling, and horseback riding atop the hill.

25. Anna Salai Market

A must-visit spot in Kodaikanal, the Anna Salai Market reflects the vibrant metropolitan culture of the city, bustling with people from all walks of life. This lively market offers a plethora of shopping opportunities, allowing you to explore numerous shops and find something for every member of your family. From fresh fruits and vegetables to a wide array of homemade chocolates, crafts, shawls, jewelry, bone and walnut items, as well as leather and brass goods, the market is a treasure trove of diverse products. It stands out as one of the premier shopping destinations in Kodaikanal.

26. Silver Cascade Falls

Introducing yet another magnificent attraction in Kodaikanal, nestled in a breathtaking natural setting amidst lush greenery. These picturesque waterfalls are born from the Kodai Lake, cascading from a height of 180 feet. Take a rejuvenating pause, marvel at the frothy waters, or indulge in a refreshing dip known for its medicinal properties. Photography enthusiasts will find this spot Instagram-worthy, offering stunning photo opportunities. During the rainy season, brace yourself for a powerful cascade as the waterfalls near Kodaikanal exhibit a robust flow.

27. Silent Valley View Point

Every experience in Kodaikanal promises to be unforgettable, making it a destination where memories are made. One of our top travel tips for Kodaikanal is to explore the serene beauty of Silent Valley. Besides the peaceful atmosphere, the lush greenery and towering trees will captivate you, enticing you to consider camping amidst this natural wonder. However, the real gem lies in a hillside observation point known as a viewpoint. This spot offers a tranquil retreat, showcasing majestic mountains kissing the clouds, making it one of Kodaikanal’s premier destinations for rejuvenating natural therapy.

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28. Shembaganur Museum Of Natural History

A museum tour in Kodaikanal is a serene experience not to be missed. One of the city’s hidden gems is the Shembaganur Museum Of Natural History, a lesser-known yet captivating destination cherished by historians and travelers alike. This museum boasts a remarkable collection spanning 123 years, featuring 500 taxidermy animals, an orchidarium showcasing 300 species, and exhibits of various wildlife specimens including snakes, butterflies, and moths. Additionally, the museum houses remnants of the Paliyar tribes, offering insights into the lives of the former nomadic inhabitants of lower Kodaikanal.

29. Subramanya Temple

This temple in Kodaikanal is a standout among the city’s top tourist spots, gaining fame for its captivating architecture and increasing popularity. Perched at a high altitude, reaching the temple involves climbing around 650 steps, though you need not rush as you ascend. Take your time, savor the spiritual ambiance of the temple, and soak in the surrounding scenic beauty. For a vibrant experience, consider visiting in January during the Thaipusam festival, when the area bursts with energy and enthusiasm, adding a whole new level of vibrancy to your visit.

30. Kukkal Caves

No matter if you’re trekking, hiking, or camping in Kodaikanal, the Kukkal Caves archaeological site is a must-visit destination. Regarded as one of the prime adventure spots in Kodaikanal, these caves, formed from rocks and situated at an altitude of 1500 meters, offer a glimpse into the past with traces of the ancient Paliyan tribes. Exploring the caves unveils breathtaking views of the Manjampatti Valley and the surrounding forests, adding to the thrill of your visit. Alternatively, if adventure isn’t your focus, you can also plan a comfortable stay at one of the excellent guest houses nearby, ensuring a memorable experience in Kodaikanal.

31. Dolmen Circle

Dolmen Circle stands out as a favored spot for sightseers in Kodaikanal, offering a glimpse into prehistoric and anthropological wonders. Surveying the site, you’ll discover these are ancient burial grounds from the Stone and Iron ages. Over time, many of these structures have succumbed to erosion, yet a few resilient ones still stand tall, bearing witness to a distant past. Kodaikanal isn’t only about appreciating natural beauty; its historical and archaeological richness shines through sites like the Dolmen Circle, reminding us of the region’s deep-rooted heritage.

32. Chettiar Park

Exploring Kodaikanal during the summer months brings joy rather than difficulty, especially when visiting charming spots like Chettiar Park. Despite its small size, this park exudes a calming atmosphere and offers delightful surroundings, perfect for a sustainable picnic with your family or loved ones. You’ll marvel at the diverse flora, including the renowned Kurinji Flowers that bloom once every 12 years, adding to the park’s allure. Notably, this picturesque park has served as a prominent filming location for many feature films, further solidifying its status as a must-visit attraction in Kodaikanal.

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33. Poombarai Viewing Point

Poombarai, situated approximately 18 km away from Kodaikanal, is a picturesque village renowned for its captivating landscapes and invigorating hiking trails, making it a top tourist destination in Kodaikanal. Embraced by terraced hills, this village is famous for its garlic farming, adding to its unique charm. The serene mountains and refreshing breeze, coupled with panoramic views of the quaint colorful houses, create a dreamlike setting that’s sure to enchant you. Indulge in the local cuisine at an open-air restaurant to create lasting memories of your visit to this idyllic paradise.

34. 80 Mile Round

Embark on an exhilarating journey along the 80 Mile Round trek, a thrilling route that commences at Berijam Lake and culminates at Poombarai Village in Kodaikanal. This trek is tailor-made for adventure enthusiasts and thrill-seekers craving an adrenaline-packed experience. While the trail may be a bit perplexing for first-timers, consider hiring a knowledgeable local guide to navigate your way through. Although the trek itself spans around 2-3 hours, allocating 3-4 days allows ample time to explore the captivating spots en route. Prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking vistas of cliffs, peaks, mountains, valleys, and charming villages dotting the landscape. For accommodation, jungle resorts offer a rustic yet comfortable stay, but securing permissions beforehand is essential for a seamless trekking experience.

35. Canopy Hill, Vattakanal

Canopy Hills stands out as a highly sought-after tourist destination in Kodaikanal, especially appealing to adventure enthusiasts. It offers an ideal setting for trekking adventures while providing opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife such as wild goats, porcupines, bison, and more. For anyone compiling a list of must-visit places in Kodaikanal, Canopy Hills deserves a prominent spot on the itinerary.

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Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal : Are you captivated by the beauty of Kodai? It’s time to pack your bags and immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of this quaint, time-honored town, where breathtaking vistas await your discovery. Embark on your journey to Kodaikanal and make sure to explore its finest attractions for an unforgettable experience.

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The Best Kodaikanal Itinerary for 3 Days in 2024

Last Updated on May 9, 2024

Often referred to as the “Princess of Hill stations,” Kodaikanal is located in the state of Tamil Nadu. Situated in the Dindigul district, this hill station stands atop the upper Palani hills of the Western Ghats.

Kodaikanal is famous for its beautiful lake, lush forests, and pleasant weather, making it a popular tourist retreat.

Today I'm going to share with you a perfect Kodaikanal itinerary while being honest about my experiences there.

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?

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!

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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

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? 🥴

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.

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.

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

Mannavanur Lake

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 🚔

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

🚶🏼‍♂️ Free walking tours on Freetour

🛏️ For free accommodations, use Trusted House Sitters

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

• Bangalore to Bekal Road Trip
• Wayanad Travel Guide
• Chikmagalur Road Trip

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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.

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Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

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Must Visit Places in Kodaikanal

Green Valley View (Suicide Point)

Bear Shola Falls

Pillar Rocks

• Filter (35)
• Waterfall (6)
• Viewpoint (5)
• Hills & Valleys (3)
• Church & Cathedral (3)

1. Green Valley View (Suicide Point)

3 km from city center 1 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Green Valley View, or the otherwise known Suicide Point, is a magnificent spot in Kodaikanal, popular mainly for its enroute fun. One must walk through misty woodlands and panoramic walks to reach this heaven like spot.

2. Kodaikanal Lake

1 km from city center 2 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal Lake that lays in the heart of Kodaikanal, is a star-shaped man-made lake that is draped on an area of 60 acres. Boating, horse riding, cycling and angling are a few of the adventure activities tourists can appease themselves with, near the lake.

3. Bear Shola Falls

1 km from city center 3 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Located at a mere distance of 2 kilometres from the Kodaikanal Lake, the Bear Shola Falls is a popular picnic spot in the region. This cascade is a seasonal attraction that comes to life in its fullest during the monsoons. An interesting legend behind the unique name of this place is that it was a favourite haunt of a bear who used to frequent this water body to drink water, hence imparting it the name Bear Shola Falls.

4. Dolphin's Nose, Kodaikanal

3 km from city center 4 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

The Dolphin's Nose viewpoint in Kodaikanal is based on a flat, protruding piece of rock that is shaped like a dolphin's nose. This forms a visible cliff at the height of 6,600 feet, where you can experience Kodaikanal at its best - plunging valleys, rugged terrain, clear skies, and the splendor of green.

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Cheapest kodaikanal tour packages - 2 nights 3 days, idyllic ooty and kodaikanal honeymoon package, 4 nights 5 days magical kodaikanal with munnar tour package, honeymoon at kodaikanal with resort stay, candle light dinner and sightseeing tour, banglore mysore ooty kodaikanal tour package, 5. pillar rocks.

3 km from city center 5 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

The famous Pillars Rocks of Kodaikanal are located around 8 km from the lake and are an exquisite picnic spot. Constituting of a beautiful mini garden, the place is so named as it has three vertically positioned boulders reaching up to a height of 400 feet.

6. Thalaiyar Falls

12 km from city center 6 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Also known as Rat Tail Falls, Thalaiyar Falls is located in the lush green slopes of Palani Hill ranges in the Dindigul District, in Kodaikanal. With a height of 297m, it is the highest waterfall in Tamil Nadu, the sixth highest waterfall in India. There is a view tower in the park at the Dum Dum Rock, from where you can get a beautiful view of the falls and the Manjalar Dam. There is a hiking route near the waterfall.

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7. Vattakanal

3 km from city center 7 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

This is the village of Vattakanal, and it’s quite the charming little hill station in the Western Ghats. At a height of about 2011 m and towards the western edge of Tamil Nadu, Vattakanal is a small hamlet at a distance of about 7-8 km from Kodaikanal. In Tamil, ‘vatta’ suggests circle whereas ‘kanal’ translates to the forest. Vattakanal is popular among tourists from Israel and that can be seen in the overall hippie vibe of and the food served in cafes.

8. Mannavanur

16 km from city center 8 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Mannavanur is a serene farming village in Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu - 35km away from Kodaikanal. This quaint village has terrace farms that are cut into the hill slopes. It offers nature-lovers a chance to experience the farm life, especially spotting rabbits, sheep and other animals. The Mannavanur Lake adds tranquillity to this picturesque town. This is also a stop on many trekking routes in the area.

9. Devil's Kitchen

4 km from city center 9 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

A natural and unique heritage site, previously known as the Devil's Kitchen, the Guna Caves are situated on the outskirts of Kodaikanal and can be reached from Moir Point. This group of caverns is located amidst the three huge boulders known as Pillar Rocks. Discovered by English Officer B.S. Ward in 1821, the caves are situated at a height of 2230 meters. The location is very accessible, being just 8.5 km away from Kodaikanal Bus Station and 1.5 km from Pillar Rocks.

10. Coakers Walk

1 km from city center 10 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Coakers Walk is a beautiful man-made one-kilometre-long walking plaza built on the mountains in the mesmerizing city of Kodaikanal. The lovely path of Coakers Walk that curves by the edge of the gorgeous mountain have been constructed mainly for morning and evening walks. One can also choose to ride a bicycle to explore the scenic location. . It costs INR 30 per hour for adults and INR 20 per hour for children. The sight is breathtakingly beautiful, and it almost makes one feel like they are walking in the clouds.

11. Berijam Lake

12 km from city center 11 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Berijam Lake is a quaint reservoir located 22 km from Kodaikanal main stand. With several activities like fishing, safari tours and bird watching, the lake is nature's unhindered beauty in the midst of a forest conservation area. The lake also facilitates the habitat of many animals such as Bison, Indian Elephant, Nilgiri Langur and Deer, and if you're lucky, you will also be able to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures. Boating has been banned in the lake to preserve the natural freshwater.

12. Kodai-Palani Trek

16 km from city center 12 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Known as the Princess of Hill Stations, Kodaikanal is a popular destination for those seeking adventure. The town of Kodaikanal is established on a plateau above the southern escarpment of the Upper Palani Hills at a height of 6, 998 ft.

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13. Trekking in Kodaikanal

32 km from city center 13 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

A trekkers delight, Kodaikanal has some exquisite locations to offer to both the professional trekkers and the novice ones. Trekking routes with varying difficulty levels are present and a tourist can select the route according to the fitness, time factor and one's trekking ability.

14. Bryant Park

1 km from city center 14 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

One of the most popular botanical gardens in Kodaikanal, the Brayant Park is known for its fauna, rafts and hybrids. The best time to visit this marvelous park is during the annual horticulture show that is held during the month of May.

15. Silver Cascade Falls

2 km from city center 15 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Just 8 km from Kodaikanal town, is the scenic Silver Cascade Falls, known for its celestial and exquisite flow of silvery waters. It is a delight to see the pure crystalline water flowing down from a 180 ft tall cliff.

16. Silent Valley View

5 km from city center 16 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Silent Valley View is located in close proximity to the Pillar rock garden in Kodaikanal. The point is famous for proffering some astounding and stunning views of the Silent Valley.

17. Kurinji Temple

2 km from city center 17 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Kurunji Temple is mainly dedicated to Lord Murugu and is dexterously based at a distance of 3 km from the lake. Providing delightful views of small villages, Palani Hills and Northern plains, and carrots plantation on the terraced slopes, the temple is also associated with the Kurunji Flower which blooms once in 12 years carpeting the whole area with purple flowers.

18. Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

3 km from city center 18 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Established in the year 1899, the Kodaikanal Observatory is a part of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics and was earlier known as Solar Physics Observatory.

19. Shembaganur Museum Of Natural History

1 km from city center 19 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Shenbaganur Museum in Kodaikanal makes up for one of the most famous tourist spots and is an interesting place to visit. The museum is also one of the best orchidoriums in the country and is located 5.6 km away from the Kodaikanal Lake.

20. Subrahmanya Temple (Kartikeya Temple)

54 km from city center 20 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 65 km from Kodaikanal lies the holy Subramanya temple, also known as Kartikeya Temple. Dedicated to Lord Subramanya, the temple is located at a height of 135 meters and the pilgrim needs to undertake a 659 step climb to reach the temple.

21. Pine Forest, Kodaikanal

2 km from city center 21 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Situated in the southwest of Kodaikanal, Pine Forest is one of the most famous tourist spots in the city. It showcases the mesmerising nature around which has been preserved to date which is why it is also an important preserved heritage in the town.

22. La Salette Church

1 km from city center 22 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

The Mother Salette church is one of the oldest churches, about 133 years old. Every year on 14th and 15th August, a grand celebration takes place in the church.

23. Kukkal Caves

15 km from city center 23 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

The now camping site of trekkers was once the earliest settlement of the Paliyan tribals. Situated at the height of 6200 feet above sea level, the Kukkal caves reside on of the highest altitudes in Kodaikanal which is why it receives a yearlong frigid climate along with misty and never-ending rains.

24. Moir Point

5 km from city center 24 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Situated at the entrance of the forest which leads up all the way to the exquisite Berijam Lake, Moir Point is one of the most significant viewpoints present in Kodaikanal. Since this place offers terrific views of the valleys, it remains one of the most crowded places in Kodaikanal.

25. Christ The King Church

1 km from city center 25 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

A prominent CSI Church situated in Kodaikanal, Christ the King Church has a history of over a hundred years. It is one of the deeply admired places for worship situated in the Queen of Hill Stations.

26. Fairy Falls

3 km from city center 26 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Situated in the beautiful South-Indian station of Kodaikanal, the enchanting Fairy Falls is the source of the Pambar River which joins into the Vaigai River later on. Due to its breathtaking scenic beauty, the Fairy Falls also makes up for a popular picnic spot.

27. Pambar Falls

2 km from city center 27 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Also known as the Grand Cascade and situated at a distance of 4 km from the Kodaikanal Bus Station, the Pambar Falls are formed by the town reservoir flowing towards the south and forming the Fairy Falls which further continue to join the Vaigai River. The falls can be reached by following a steep and slippery path from behind the Pambar house.

28. 80 Mile Round

0 km from city center 28 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

80 Mile Round is an exciting trekking route which begins at the Berijam Lake and lasts at the Poombaral Village of Kodaikanal. If you are an adventure lover, then 80 Mile Round is the perfect place for you to experience the adrenaline rush in your body.

29. Upper Lake View

2 km from city center 29 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Situated 3.2 km away from the Coakers Walk, Upper Lake View is a famous tourist attraction in Kodaikanal and one which is worth visiting. After you reach here, you will get an appealing view of the star-shaped lake situated here and the surrounding lush greenery which looks stunning.

30. Dolmen Circle

0 km from city center 30 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Dolmen Circle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kodaikanal which promises a unique experience to all its visitors. Situated at a distance of 18 km from Berijam Lake and 8 km from Kodaikanal Lake, the Dolmen Circle boasts about its pre-historic remains which can date back to 5,000 BC.

31. Lutheran Church

0 km from city center 31 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

The Lutheran Church which is located in Lakshmipuram is one of the most iconic structures of the breathtaking hill station of Kodaikanal. The church is visited by a huge population of tourists which not only involves Christians but people belonging to other religions as well.

32. Perumal Peak

11 km from city center 32 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Perumal Peak which is situated at the height of 2,440 meters is the highest peak of the Perumalai Hills. Nestled in the majestic Western Ghats, it is a place that is worth trekking. Situated around 18 km from Kodaikanal, Perumal Peak provides stunning views of the surrounding Western Ghats and the Nilgiri Hills.

33. Vattakanal Falls

2 km from city center 33 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Vattakanal Falls situated at a distance of 3 km from the town of Kodaikanal is famous for its rich biodiversity. Surrounded by trees, hills and lush greenery all around, this attraction makes up for a perfect place to observe the wonder that is nature and all its elements closely.

34. Chettiar Park

2 km from city center 34 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Chettiar is a small park which is managed by the Kodaikanal Township and offers a calm and soothing environment to its tourists. Covered with lush greenery and exquisite scenic views all around, this place is worth spending your time at with your loved ones.

35. Poombarai

4 km from city center 35 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

Poombarai is a tiny village that is famous for its production of garlic. It is comfortably nestled among terraced fields and lush greenery. It stands at the height of 1,920 m in the Palani Hills and offers a picturesque view of the surroundings. You get to see colourful houses laid out in neverending greenery. Poombarai is as tranquil as it is mesmerising, and makes for a fantastic addition to any Kodaikanal trip.

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12 best and most visited places in and around kodaikanal, tamil nadu.

Always look for a place that can be a part of your memories to heal your soul….

Kodaikanal is known as the ‘Princess of Hills’ in South India. Situated amidst the upper Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu, its beauty is something you have never seen before. Sometimes it’s beyond the capacity to explain in words. Scenic hiking trails, serene lakes, pristine waterfalls, ancient caves and beautiful temples and churches adorn the land of the most beautiful hill station, Kodaikanal .

It is very popular for Kurinji Flowers which take 12 years to blossom. The rejuvenating experience from the pleasant ambiance makes Kodaikanal worth a visit for honeymoon couples. Itis one such destination which should visit at least once in lifetime to dive deep into tranquility if you are looking for peace, to seek adventure if you are a thrill seeker, to cherish moments of love if you are a couple, to enjoy boating and sightseeing for an escape from hustle and bustle of the city if you are with family. It is one of the best Hill stations to visit in South India.

Quick Kodaikanal Travel Information

Popular Kodaikanal Sightseeing Tour Packages

• 4 Nights 5 Days Ooty Kodaikanal Tour Package
• 6 Nights 7 Days Ooty Munnar Kodaikanal Tour
• 3 Nights 4 Days Bangalore Kodaikanal Tour
• 7 Nights 8 Days Best of South India Hill Station Tour

Here is a List of Top 12 Most Beautiful Destinations to Visit in Kodaikanal

• Kodaikanal Lake
• Green Valley View
• Kodaikanal Pine Forest
• Perumal Peak
• Mannavanur Lake
• Coaker’s Walk
• Dolphin’s Nose
• Bear Shola Falls
• Bryant Park
• Anna Salai Market

Also Read: Information About Tourism in Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal Lake – Serene Solace

The star shaped Kodaikanal Lake will be the joy of your heart and soul. The name Kodaikanal means ‘ forest gift’ (Kodai – Forest, Kanal- Gift). This lake is more than 150 years old. It was built by a collector of Madurai, Sir Vere Henry Levinge. Covering a space of around 60 acres, it is a place which will surely heal you with its serenity and tranquility. The gorgeous North-Western Palani Hills makes this place very alluring for photography. From boating, cycling and horse riding, this place will never make your day boring. It is one of the best destinations in Kodaikanal for a wonderful family holiday.

Other Interesting Blog to Read

• Best Places to Visit in Ooty

Green Valley View- Views That Can Cure Stress

Also known as Suicide Point, Green Valley View presents series of stunning vistas of plains, valleys and hills together. This gorgeous view of Vaigai dam will be there to seduce you again whenever you think of coming to South India for holidays. There are many small shops located in your way from where you get oils, chocolates, tea powder etc. The best time to visit here is November to February if you like the chilly weather of winters. It’s a perfect sight to get the most amazing pictures of nature. If you are lucky, you will definitely be able to see Vaigai dam as the clouds won’t allow you to see it most of the time.

Timings – 10:00am to 2:30pm

• Popular Hill Stations to Visit in Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal Pine Forest- Be Wild

If Mr Bryant hadn’t planted majestic pine trees in 1906, we would have been deprived of such a beautiful piece of nature today. In your Kodaikanal sightseeing tour, Kodaikanal Pine Forest will add delightful vibes to remember for lifetime. Hundreds of pine trees, lush vegetation of mushrooms and scenic and picturesque scenes of nature makes it one of the best sightseeing attractions in Kodaikanal.

If you are a nature lover then without any doubt you should visit this place once in a lifetime. Kodaikanal Forest gets muddy in monsoon but you will find this place amazing for photography. Horse riding facility is available to add more joy to the journey.

• Must Visit Famous Temples in Tamil Nadu

Perumal Peak – Mesmerizing Piece of Nature

If you love trekking then Perumal Peak in Perumalmalai Village is one of the best tourist destinations to visit around Kodaikanal. It is the highest peak in Kodaikanal which is connected to western Ghat mountain range. This scenic trek starts from Perumalmalai village which is of moderate difficulty. The most interesting fact according to the locals is that it is believed that an active volcano has been dormant for a thousand years.

Facility of overnight camp will enable you to gaze at the clear sky and feel the soothing weather. Refreshing views of Nilgiri hills and Western Ghats will be the sight of enchantment to your mind. How about telling stories to each other and sharing some romantic moments amidst the hills? Yes, it is also one of the best places for honeymoon couples around Kodaikanal.

• Best Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

Mannavanur Lake – Embrace the Tranquility

Don’t miss the most beautiful Mannavanur Lake if you are enjoying Kodaikanal sightseeing Tour. Located in poombarai village, surrounded by dense forest, Mannavanur Lake is a hidden gem that most of the travelers have yet to discover. Gorgeous meadows, pines, reeds and marshes will gaze at you with their soothing charm when you will be on your way to reach this lake. You will hear the sweet chirpings of barbets and woodpeckers around the lake in the morning.

The scenery around the lake is also very beautiful. You will witness the most stunning waterfall called Neptune’s pool and serene temples of Mahalakshmi Temple and the Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple. You can enjoy a good time with your family and friends around the lake and boating in coracles and kayaks is the best thing to do here.

• Top Tourist Places of Tamil Nadu

Guna Caves- Mysterious and Sublime

Surrounded by Shola trees, Guna caves is one of the most interesting and popular travel destinations in Kodaikanal. It is named after a popular Tamil movie named Guna which was shot here. Guna Caves are actually formed by three rock pillars of a mountain. The roots of pine trees, narrow ravines, and perplexing routes will delight your soul. It is said that this cave was used as a kitchen for Pandavas. No lights and the presence of bats make people believe that there is an essence of the devil here which is the reason why it is also known as Devil’s kitchen. (Kitchen comes from Pandava reference and devil from bats).

Timings- 8:00amto 4:00pm

• My Trip to Ooty, Tamil Nadu: A Mesmerizing Experience

Coaker’s Walk – Hold Hands and Walk

Lieutenant Coaker constructed Coaker’s Walk in the year 1872 on the slopes of mountains for nature lovers. It is one of the best nature tourist destinations to visit around Kodaikanal. A long nature walks with your loved ones along with the most stunning views of the greenery and mountains will seduce your senses. The greetings of amazing sunrises and sunsets to the mountains will be the most mesmerizing sight to behold. Your lenses will be enchanted to capture soothing images and your feelings will be reciprocated by the gaze of greenery. For couples, this place is one of the best ones to hangout by holding each other’s hand. Food lovers can try Masala mango bhel and bhel to tickle their taste buds.

• Must Visit Hill Stations in South India

Dolphin’s Nose- Be Enchanted with the Stunning Views

The rugged terrains of Dolphin’s Nose will enchant you forever. It offers a gorgeous view of the entire city. Partly closed sky, lush greenery all around, this soothing cliff resembles the nose of a Dolphin. The trail to the dolphin’s nose begins after Pamban Bridge and the climb is a bit steep and difficult. But if you are an adventurer and a thrill seeker, you will love the journey. On your way, you will behold stunning views of Palani range, adorable villages and a serene waterfall. Sometimes you will see a magical fog hugging the mountains and beautiful sunrises and sunsets will blow your heart away. It is one of the must visit places in Kodaikanal to blend with nature.

• Top 50 Worth Visiting Places in South

Bear Shola Falls- You Will Surely Fall for It

The stunning beauty of Bear Shola falls will be etched into your heart forever. This cascading waterfall is a form of nature’s laughter, serene water flows through the mountain and soul pleasing weather full of beauty, charm and pleasure will be enough to fine tune your tired soul who is looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you want to spend some quiet time with your loved ones, Bear Shola Falls is a place of secluded serenity to shut the chaos of your mind. It is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal.

• Popular Wildlife Sanctuaries & National Parks to Visit in South India

Bryant Park – Welcome Nature Lovers

Located just near the Kodai Lake, Bryant Park is one of the top travel destinations in Kodaikanal to give you the bliss of nature. Wonderful space for sitting and relaxation with your family and friends, beautifully laid out lawns to feel the healing touch of serene surroundings, around 325 species of trees and the center of attraction – 160-year-old Eucalyptus tree and a Bodhi Tree will compel you to stay here forever. Nature lovers from all over the world visit here to enjoy the annual horticulture show.

Timings- 9:00am to 6:00pm

  Also Read: Adventure Tourism Activities in Tamil Nadu

Wax Museum, Kodaikanal- Awe Inspiring

Wax Museum is an awesome awe-inspiring travel destination to see in Kodaikanal. It houses wax statues of National and International personalities. Statues of Indian saints like Adi Shankaracharya, Sai Baba, leaders like Mahatma Gandhi will amaze your curious mind. It also houses amazing settings like Last supper, Jesus, Lord Krishna with gopis and folk dances. The scenes and surroundings will definitely captivate your mind.

Timings – 10:00am to 5:30pm

Also Read: Scenic Hill Stations of Tamil Nadu

Anna Salai Market – Shopping Time

Bo Derek has aptly said – “whoever said that money can’t buy happiness simply didn’t know where to go shopping.” You would absolutely regret your decision if you don’t visit Anna Salai Market. It is one of the best shopping destinations in Kodaikanal. You will get everything from winter garments, vegetables, jewelries, wood products, brass wares, homemade chocolates to any kind of awesome souvenirs. Moreover, if you like baked items, it is the perfect place for you. This will definitely make your Kodaikanal sightseeing more interesting. The fun of travel increases if you have something to keep as a token of memory related to that place, so don’t miss this awesome place to do lots of shopping and spend an amazing time with your friends and family.

Also Read: Heritage Tourism in Tamil Nadu

Be it the bliss of nature, serenity of lakes and waterfalls, wilderness of the forests, delightfulness of the weather or the enchanting sublime mountains- Kodaikanal will always be the best travel destination in South India if you are looking for a peaceful escape from the chaos of the world for making wonderful memories with loved ones. So, if your heart is delighted to read this blog then please comment on the blog’s comment section and share your wonderful experiences with us.

Other Important Tamil Nadu Tourism Resources

• Wildlife Tourism in Tamil Nadu
• Waterfalls in Tamil Nadu
• Best Time to Visit Tamil Nadu

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Explore Other Tourism Guide: Chennai Tourism | Ooty Tourism | Kodaikanal Tourism | Maduari Tourism | Kanchipuram Tourism | Mahabalipuram Tourism | Rameshwaram Tourism | Kanyakumari Tourism | Chidambaram Tourism

Popular Tour Packages: Tamil Nadu Tour Packages | South India Tours | Karnataka Tour Packages | Wildlife Tour Packages | Kerala Tourism Packages | Religious Tour Packages | Hill Station Tour Packages | Heritage Tours | Chennai Weekend Getaways

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what is the best time to visit kodaikanal for holiday.

The weather of Kodaikanal is always soothing. You can visit this place throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Kodaikanal is October to June if you love sightseeing and if you like trekking then visit it during October and February.

Q. What is the nearest airport & railway station to Kodaikanal?

• Nearest Airport - Madurai International Airport
• Nearest Railway b- Kodai Road is the nearest Railhead. It’s basically a rail- to bus transfer point for people visiting Kodaikanal.

Q. How can I spend 2 days in Kodaikanal?

You are in one of the most beautiful places in South India. So, enjoy the best of Kodaikanal tourism by boating on pristine lakes, sightseeing of amazing temples and churches, nature walks and trekking will give you immense joy. Enjoy the best cuisines in some of the finest eat outs. Shopping is the best thing to do here, but lots of souvenirs for your loved ones. Enjoy the soothing weather and click lots of pictures of nature.

Q. What are the best places in Kodaikanal for a honeymoon couple?

Popular festivals of Pushkar are:

• Suicide Point
• Wax Museums
• Pambar Falls

Q. How many minimum days are required to explore Kodaikanal Tourism?

To enjoy the best of Kodaikanal Tourism, you need three days. One to enjoy sightseeing at a slow and relaxing pace. Another day to enjoy adventure activities and the third day to enjoy the nearby attractions.

Q. What are the top activities to do for tourists in Kodaikanal?

• Nature Walk at Coaker’s walk
• Picnic at lakes
• Temple Hopping
• Sightseeing
• Night Safari at forests and plantations

Q. What are other best places to visit nearby Kodaikanal?

• Pillar Rocks
• Berijam Lakes
• Green Valley
• Devil’s Kitchen

Published: 20 Dec, 2021

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Pallavi Roy

She is a candle who burns and melts in the chaos of infinity, from where her visceral whistles and leaves an imprint of desire in her heart to know the map of an Island where there are different sunrises and sunsets. Her curiosity brightens to conquer the hearts unrelieved and sometimes mysterious. Her name is - Pallavi Roy - A traveller by soul and a writer by Profession.

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• Top Adventurous Trekking Options Around Kodaikanal Of Tamil Nadu

Top 5 Adventurous Trekking Options Around Kodaikanal Of Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal or the 'princess of hill stations' in tamil nadu, india is much loved by visitors for her cool climate, panoramic landscapes, and crystal clear lakes. yet, there's more to this town than just mainstream attractions. for those adventurers at heart, the town presents lesser-known treks through the western ghats. so, pack your bags, discover the less explored trails, and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty that surrounds kodaikanal..

Ishika Jain Updated: Sep 12, 2024 11:00 AM IST

Kodaikanal is a popular tourist destination located in Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, India and it's often referred to as the "Princess of Hill Stations". This lovely town ensconced in the heart of Western Ghats is well known for its pleasant weather, picturesque views and clear lakes. Whereas Kodaikanal is famous amongst tourists for its common attractions; it also opens doors to some amazing offbeat treks around. Such treks offer adventure enthusiasts a chance to explore the remote corners of Western Ghats and enjoy nature at its best. Below are some top rated offbeat treks near Kodaikanal which assures thrilling experience for all adrenaline junkies.

1. Vattakanal Trek

Vattakanal is known as 'Little Israel of India' and is a small village located about 6 kms from Kodaikanal. The trek to Vattakanal is fairly simple where you can see lush green valleys and falling waterfalls down steep mountains covered with evergreen forests. These narrow trails have unusual plants along with birds and butterflies moving here and there while you walk on them. Dolphin Nose is the highlight of this trek which will offer one a panoramic view of hills around.

2. Perumal Peak Trek

Perumal Peak stands tall at 2,440 meters above sea level hence making it one of the highest peaks in Perumalai Hills. The trek up Perumal Peak involves passing through thick forests, grasslands and rocky terrains. The path looks colored due to vibrant wildflowers; besides that, one can feast their eyes on the surrounding landscape too. On reaching the summit you get an exhilarating bird's eye view all over Western Ghats including far off Kerala ranges as well enough mixture of adventure plus tranquility.

3. Berijam Lake Trek

Berijam Lake is a pure fresh water reservoir located about 21 kms away from Kodaikanal, surrounded by dense forests all around. In order to reach the Berijam Lake, one has to undertake an adventurous trek through Shola forests where you get to see the biodiversity of the place. Chirping birds, rustling leaves in the air and no noise pollution make this route ideal for those seeking an escape from city life. Once here you are completely lost staring at clear waters of the lake with its natural ambience. With fish and migratory birds it enhances its beauty.

4. Mannavanur Trek

Mannavanur is a small village situated some 35 kilometers far from Kodaikanal that is known for having scenic landscapes and abundance of greenery all over. En-route Mannavanur you will have to pass through lovely meadows, dense forests as well as cultivated fields on terraced lands. The most attractive part of this track is Mannavanur Lake which lies amidst rolling hills and lush pastures. This trek also provides an insight into rural lifestyle while meeting villagers' daily lives and culture too. It's perfect for someone who wants experience Tamil Nadu's peaceful countryside

5. Poombarai Tre

Situated about 18 kilometers from Kodaikanal at an elevation of 1,920 meters is the charming village of Poombarai. Through thick woods, rough ways and panoramic vantage points, the trek to Poombarai combines moderate as well as demanding terrains. It is a village known for its age-old Murugan Temple, lively terraced farms and stunning views of encircling valleys. The pathway is also filled with different colored wildflowers offering a cooling atmosphere for nature enthusiasts. Additionally, through this track visitors are given a chance to explore Tamil traditional village life and taste local dishes.

With its beautiful sceneries and peaceful nature, Kodaikanal provides an excellent platform for embarking on some unusual tracks in the area. These treks blend together adventure, peace of mind and natural beauty in a way that must compel any seeking traveler into visiting them.? For those who want to go wild or start out there first time in such expeditions, these offbeat trails around kodaikanal will leave memories which will linger forever.? Therefore, gather your belongings pack your bag ,tie up your boots tightly then undertake an adventurous journey discovering hidden stones lying westward Ghats.

• Topics News">Kodaikanal
• Topics News">Kodaikanal Tourism
• Topics News">Kodaikanal Tourist Places
• Topics News">Kodaikanal Travel Diaries