historical places to visit in kodaikanal

Top 32 Amazing Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

Saransh agarwal.

• August 16, 2020

I am sure you have always thought of having a home amidst the hills with nature all around you. If you haven’t, this place with all its waterfalls, lakes and parks is going to leave you craving for more. Tucked in the Palani Hills of the Western Ghats, Kodaikanal embodies peace and is undoubtedly one of the gems of Tamil Nadu. I’ve compiled a list of all the places to visit in Kodaikanal based on headings like lakes, treks, waterfalls, viewpoints and more to give you a complete picture of what you should be visiting when in Kodaikanal!

KODAIKANAL TRAVEL GUIDE VIDEO XPLAINER

The Most Amazing Places to Visit in Kodaikanal!

Kodaikanal map.

Lakes in Kodaikanal

1. kodaikanal lake.

Lakes are a gift of nature. Kodai lake in that regard makes a mark of its own. It is a man-made lake and a bird’s eye view would show you that it is shaped like a star. How cool is that! The lake receives its water from the beautiful Palani Hills. Boating, cycling and horse riding are some of the popular activities at the lake. Kodaikanal sightseeing has to start with this one!

2. Berijam Lake

Berijam Lake is a reservoir about 21km from Kodaikanal town. It is known for its endless greenery, bird watching and is a heaven for photography. The route to Berijam Lake is as scenic as the lake itself. You would need prior permission from the forest department as only limited number of vehicles are allowed per day. Try and hit the road early as the lake closes by 3pm.

3. Mannavanur Lake

Mannavanur Lake is situated in a sheep farm about 33km from Kodaikanal. Being located in a farming village, the lake is settled amidst farms for carrots, potatoes, peas etc. The lake is one of the more popular picnic spots for the tourists, amongst vast greenlands and flocks of sheep grazing. Wild horses and other other wild animals can also be spotted here. Mannavanur is popular for its trek too.

Waterfalls in Kodaikanal

4. vattakanal falls.

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One of the popular Kodaikanal falls, is Vattakanal Falls. The white water flowing from above with the greenery all around, really gives it a magical touch. The water forms a pool at the bottom where tourists can swim. Travelers also choose to hike up the waterfall to see the beauty all around. It is magnificent. Sightseeing in Kodaikanal isn’t complete without a visit to these wonder falls. Suggested Read: Complete guide to visiting Vattakanal

5. Pambar Falls

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Pambar Falls, popularly also knows as the Grand Cascade or Liril Falls, is situated about 4km from Kodaikanal. Accessible following a steep and slippery path behind the Pambar House, this waterfall is a good picnic spot boasting some endemic birds and butterflies. A pond is created at the bottom of the waterfall where swimming can be really fun.

6. Bear Shola Falls

Bear Shola Falls gets its unusual name from the legend that it was the favourite spot of a bear for drinking water. Situated about 2km from Kodaikanal, this waterfall is more of a reserved and private spot letting one feel totally at home with nature. It also boasts of rich flora and fauna. Monsoon is the best time to visit Kodaikanal if you want to see this waterfall in all its life.

7. Thalaiyar Falls

Talking about Kodaikanal tourist places, Thalaiyar Falls (also known as Rat Tail Falls) has a lure of its own. Standing at a height of 297m, it is the highest waterfall in Tamil Nadu and the 6th highest in the country. Located in the ever green Palani Hills, this long and narrow strip of water can be viewed from the Dum Dum Rock view tower. And yes, ideal to capture the perfect photo! If it isn’t already, this needs to make your list of places to visit in Kodaikanal.

8. Silver Cascade Falls

Silver Cascade Falls gets its water from the over flowing Kodai-lake with water falling from a height of 180m. As a result of its magnificence and beauty it has become one of the popular tourist places in Kodaikanal. If the temperature is right and the weather gods are with you, one can go for a dip as well. Local vendors offer some delicious fruits to munch on.

Viewpoints in Kodaikanal

9. green valley view point.

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Green Valley View Point is one of those Kodaikanal places which gives you a panoramic view of the hills, valleys and plains making it look surreal. One can also see the Vaigai dam from here which is definitely a stunning sight. Formerly it was known as the Suicide Point, because of more than 5000ft deep valley. Make sure you travel safe.

10. Dolphin’s Nose

Dolphin’s Nose has to be one of the most popular places to see in Kodaikanal. This view point has it all, the trek up to the view point, waterfall along the trek and at the end of it all the mesmerizing scenery which is not to be missed. And the viewpoint gets its name from the dolphin’s nose-shaped like rock it is based on. Going a bit further on the trails gets you to the another viewpoint by the name Echo Rock.

11. Moir Point

Moir Point marks the entrance of the forest that takes you to the beautiful Berijam Lake. The point was named after Sir Thomas Moir who kicked off the contruction of Groschen Road in 1929 CE. Moir point is always bustling with tourists and its no surprise that the reason for that is the spectacular view of the valley from this point. This one definitely has to make your list of Kodaikanal sightseeing places.

12. Upper Lake View Point

Upper Lake View Point is the perfect point to get the closest possible birds eye view of the star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake. This may not be the most popular Kodaikanal tourist place, but it offers a splendid view of the lake and the greenery all around. Given the perfect background, drive here for a quick photography session.

Parks and Forests in Kodaikanal

13. bryant park kodaikanal.

Bryant Park is definitely one of the most popular attractions in Kodaikanal. If Kodaikanal is nature’s treat, Bryant Park is the dessert. Bryant Park is a botanical park and is home to a wide variety of flowers, hybrids and grafts. During the Annual Summer Festival, Department of Horticulture organizes a flower show at Bryant Park which is a thing of enthralling beauty. Any list of places to visit in Kodaikanal, is incomplete without Bryant Park!

14. Chettiar Park

Chettiar Park, situated about 3km from Kodaikanal, is a relatively small park. Most popular for its Kurinji Flower that blooms every 12 years, Chettiar Park is a good picnic spot amongst the nature. The park is enroute to Kurinji Andavar Temple and boasts a wide range of flowering plants.

15. Pine Forest Kodaikanal

If you think you have seen this place before, you most probably have. A number of movie scenes have been shot here. Pine Forest has a mystical feeling about it. It has vibes that are so peaceful and a walk amongst the majestic pine trees can really unwind you. This picturesque Kodaikanal forest provides you with the perfect backdrop for photography.

16. Coaker’s Walk

If there ever was a way to really feel the nature, this 1km long walking plaza carved in the mountains is definitely the closest experience. The walk offers some of the most splendid views you are ever likely to see and is always bustling with people. Constructed in 1872 by Lt. Coaker, is one of the most popular places to visit in Kodaikanal.

Rocks and Caves

17. pillar rocks kodaikanal.

Pillar Rocks are a marvel of nature getting its name from three boulders standing 400ft high at the edge of the Guna caves. Providing you with the opportunity to get the perfect view of the hills from this point, Pillar Rocks has definitely become a checklist item for everyone taking a trip to Kodaikanal. Also, the mini garden at this place makes it a good picnic spot.

18. Guna Caves

Tucked amidst the Pillar Rocks, the clouds surrounding the Guna Caves gives it a mysterious feel. Discovered by an English Officer, B.S. Ward in 1821CE, Guna Caves were known as Devil’s Kitchen. Since the Tamil movie “Guna” was shot here, the caves have been popularly known as the Guna Caves. Head here for some out of the world photos. Unfortunately, for security reasons you can only see the caves from a distance.

19. Kukkal Caves

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At about 40km from Kodaikanal, it is one of the farthest places to visit in Kodaikanal on this list. Nonetheless it is worth it for its trekking and camping experinence. However, prior permission from the Forest Department is required. At one point in time, these caves were the settlement for the Paliyan Tribe. Now, one can witness overhanging slabs of various types of metamorphic rocks.

Kodaikanal Churches and Temples

20. la salette church.

Built over a century ago, the church is dedicated to “Our Lady of La Salette” (believed to be an apparition of Mother Mary). Inspired by French architecture and influenced by Tamil architecture, this was the first church in Kodaikanal. Church is open to locals and tourists alike. Feel free to visit the place to appreciate the architecture as well as sit in masses for its spiritual essence.

Another popular church is Lutheran church. Built in 1932, it is a marvel of Gothic architecture. This place displays the life of Jesus Christ through its varied batiks and modern paintings.

21. Kurinji Andavar Temple

Kurinji Andavar Temple is dedicated to Lord Muruga. This temple is really a good starting point to feel and learn more about the South Indian culture. Lord Muruga is also referred to as “God of Hill”. Additionally, the Kurinji temple has connection with the Kurinji flower that blooms every 12 years. Last time it bloomed was 2018. Be sure to visit this Kodaikanal temple for some peaceful time.

Kodaikanal Trekking and Biking

22. perumal peak.

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Perumal Peak is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal for all the adventure seekers. Standing at 8005ft high, the peak offers one of the most splendid views of the Western Ghats. This 7km long trek takes about 4 hours to reach to the top and travelers are allowed to camp without any permissions. Alongside trekking, Perumal Peak offers mountain biking trails which is very rare to do in Kodaikanal.

23. 80 Mile Round

80 Mile Round is a 3-4 days long trek from Berijam Lake to Poombarai Village. Known for its beautiful scenery throughout the trek, this is the perfect place to get your daily dose of the adrenaline rush. It is advised to hire local guides for the trek as it can prove out to be confusing for first timers. Also, one needs to take prior permission to stay at the jungle resorts. This is definitely one of the more scenic places near Kodaikanal.

24. Canopy Hill, Vattakanal

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The Canopy Hill trek starts from the town of Periyakulam and ends at Vattakanal. One gets to trek through the lush green Vellagavi forest and get lost the in the sweet chirping of the birds. Generally people finish this trek over two days, taking a halt at the Vellagavi Village. The people at this village are extremely hospitable and will welcome you with open arms. It is recommended to hire a local guide for the trek. Some of the views from this trek will definitely leave you wanting more of Kodaikanal hill station.

Best Bakeries in Kodaikanal

25. kodai chocolate factory.

Incepted in 1999, Kodaikanal Chocolate Factory has been at it for a couple decades now and in turn have mastered the art of making homemade chocolates. Who misses on chocolates? Let alone the homemade ones with perfect ingredients? Their product line extends to essential and aromatic oils, herbal teas, coffee and spices. Make sure you visit and indulge yourselves with some quality products.

26. Pastry Corner

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Pastry corner is in the heart of Kodaikanal and always packed with people. There has never been a sweet tooth that came here and left unsatisfied. The place is popular for its pastries, brownies and ice creams. Also, they serve filter coffee which is definitely one of the better ones in the town. And rest assured they always serve everything fresh.

Science, History and Fun

27. kodaikanal solar observatory.

Built in 1899, this Kodaikanal observatory is held in high regard amongst the Astrophysics circles. Geographically, it was built so as to minimize any disruptions in its observation of the solar activity. The library at the observatory boasts of invaluable data. Tourists have this on their list of Kodaikanal places to visit in order to appreciate its contribution to Science and visit the Solar Observatory Museum. If you are lucky enough to be able to convince the officials, make sure to observe stars and planetary movements at night.

28. Wax Museum

One of the oldest wax museums in India, this Kodaikanal Wax Museum is home to a wide array of wax statues. Right from, freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, to saints like Adi Shankaracharya. There are other statues like that of Lord Krishna and Sai Baba to reflect the religion’s influence on India. Beyond this, the museum has some interesting statues representing the ways of the lives of natives and an interesting take on Da Vinci’s “The Last Supper”.

29. Anna Salai Market

Anna Salai Market is quite the shopping hub selling a wide variety of things. Handicrafts are one of the popular things that tourists indulge themselves in. The market also sells shawls, jewelry, walnut wood items and leather products amongst other things. This is the best place for shopping in Kodaikanal.

30. Shembaganur Museum of Natural History

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Shembaganur Museum boasts of one of the best orchidariums in the country hosting about 300 species of flowers and plants. Other than that the museum holdings reflect the Anthropology, Handicrafts and Fauna with some very good compilations. Given the wide variety of its collections, historical information associated with it and pleasantly beautiful plants, this place makes it to most of the Kodaikanal tourist places list.

31. Dolmen Circle

As close to nature as Kodaikanal is, it has enriching history as well. Dolmen circle is a testament to that fact. It is known to have pre-historic remains dating back to 5000BC. Anthropologists believe the pre-historic man from the Stone Age and Iron Age used this site as the burial ground and for dwelling. It is not daily that you get to see an element from the stone age first hand.

32. Night Safari

Night Safari is one of the interesting things to do in Kodaikanal. It gives you some breathtaking views of Mango City, Palani Temple and the Upper Lake. You also get to see bisons, wild boars and porcupines strutting in their natural habitat.

With this, we come to an end to this amazing list of places that you can visit on your trip to Kodaikanal. Safe travels!

Have you made a list of places to visit in Kodaikanal yet? Let us know some of your favourite ones in comments below!

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Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

Top hotel collections.

Near Kodaikanal Lake

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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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 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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A Guide to the Top 15 Must-Visit Places

The Enchanting Kodaikanal: A Guide to the Top 15 Must-Visit Places

Kodaikanal, known as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” is a serene retreat in the upper Palani hills of Tamil Nadu. This travel guide is your key to unlocking the wonders of Kodaikanal , offering a curated list of the top 15 must-visit places along with entry fees, timings, and best places to visit at kodaikanal ,your activities that will make your trip unforgettable.

Table of Contents:

• Bryant Park
• Coaker’s Walk
• Pillar Rocks
• Silver Cascade Falls
• Bear Shola Falls
• Kurinji Andavar Temple
• Pine Forest
• Green Valley View (Suicide Point)
• Shenbaganur Museum
• Dolphin’s Nose
• Thalaiyar Falls
• Mannavanur Lake
• La Saleth Church

Kodai Lake: Tranquil Bliss Amidst the Waters

• Entry Fees: Rs 30 (Adult), Rs 15 (Child), Rs 50 (Still Camera)
• Timings: 9 AM to 5:30 PM
• Activities: Paddle boating, strolls, photography

Kodai Lake is the jewel of Kodaikanal, offering a serene environment for visitors to unwind. The star-shaped lake is centrally located and is a hub for various activities like paddle boating and cycling around the path that encircles the lake.

Bryant Park: A Horticultural Delight

• Entry Fees: Rs 30 (Adult), Rs 15 (Child), Rs 50 (Still Camera), Rs 100 (Video Camera)
• Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
• Activities: Exploring botanical wonders, photography, picnicking

Bryant Park is a well-maintained botanical garden that houses a rich collection of flora, including a stunning variety of flowers, ferns, and even a glasshouse with an assortment of exotic plants.

Coaker’s Walk: A Stroll Above the Clouds

• Entry Fees: Rs 10 (Entry), Rs 20 (Telescope), Rs 30 (Camera)
• Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
• Activities: Panoramic views, photography, sunrise, and sunset watching

Coaker’s Walk offers an enchanting walkway with breathtaking views of the valleys and hills surrounding Kodaikanal. It is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset when the play of colors in the sky is truly magical.

Pillar Rocks: Geological Marvels in Stone

• Entry Fees: Rs 5 (Entry), Rs 20 (Camera)
• Timings: 9 AM to 4:30 PM
• Activities: Sightseeing, nature photography

The Pillar Rocks are a set of three giant rock pillars that stand majestically and provide a spectacular view. The chambers between the pillars are called the Devil’s Kitchen and add to the mystique of the place.

Silver Cascade Falls: Nature’s Cascading Symphony

• Entry Fees: Free
• Activities: Nature photography, meditation

Silver Cascade Falls is a breathtaking waterfall formed from the overflowing waters of Kodai Lake. It’s a great spot for those looking for a tranquil environment to meditate or capture the beauty of nature in photographs.

Bear Shola Falls: A Pristine Hideaway

• Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM
• Activities: Bird watching, photography

Bear Shola Falls, located in a quiet part of the town, comes to life during the monsoon and is an ideal picnic spot. The path leading to the falls is a popular trail for bird watchers.

Kurinji Andavar Temple: Spiritual Awakening

• Activities: Ritual participation, meditation

Dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Kurinji Andavar Temple is famous for its Kurinji flower which blooms every 12 years. The temple offers a peaceful atmosphere for spiritual introspection.

Pine Forest: A Tranquil Retreat

• Timings: 10 AM to 6:30 PM
• Activities: Nature walks, photography

This man-made forest provides a unique and refreshing walking experience through the tall pines. It’s a popular location for movie shootings and a great place for photography enthusiasts.

Green Valley View (Suicide Point): Panoramic Vistas Unveiled

• Timings: 7 AM to 6 PM
• Activities: Landscape photography, sightseeing

With a sheer drop of 5000 feet, it offers some of the most breathtaking, panoramic views of the deep valleys and hills. The monkeys in the area add a playful element to the visit.

Shenbaganur Museum: A Dive into Natural History

• Entry Fees: Rs 20 (Adult), Rs 10 (Child)
• Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
• Activities: Educational exploration, garden walks

Shenbaganur Museum is home to an impressive collection of artifacts, flora and fauna of the region, and historical and archaeological finds, providing an excellent educational outing for all ages.

Dolphin’s Nose: A Theatrical Cliffside Vista

• Timings: Open throughout the day
• Activities: Trekking, photography

This flat rock projecting over a breathtaking chasm is a thrilling spot. It’s called Dolphin’s Nose because of the unique shape of the rock, and it offers some of the most adventurous trekking trails in the region.

Thalaiyar Falls: Majestic Beauty Unleashed

• Timings: Daylight hours
• Activities: Nature observation, photography

Also known as Rat Tail Falls, Thalaiyar Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in Tamil Nadu. The falls are best viewed from afar due to the deep ravine, but the sight is spectacular.

By visiting these sites, you’ll not only witness the kodaikanal tourist places but also have a chance to delve into its rich cultural background. Remember to respect the local environment and cultural practices as you enjoy the myriad experiences that this hill station offers.

Conclusion :

Kodaikanal, with its 15 enchanting destinations, offers a serene escape into nature’s embrace. from kodai lake to pillar rocks, each spot is a testament to the hill station’s unparalleled beauty. trust travel2kodaikanal to curate your journey , ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience amidst kodaikanal’s wonders..

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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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Journeying Through The 11 Best Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

Where the hills whisper and the lakes sing songs of serenity.

Nestled amidst the lush hills of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal stands as a reflection of nature’s boundless beauty and serenity. Dubbed as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” this spellbinding vacation spot bewitches tourists from all corners of India with its crisp climate, verdant landscapes, and picturesque charm. The splendor of Kodaikanal distinguishes it, painting a lush canvas that stands out when compared to other similar destinations. Kodaikanal altitude is  approximately 2,133 meters above sea level and the weather in Kodaikanal is usually very pleasant ranging from 15° to 25° C. From cascading waterfalls and serene lakes to viewpoints complimenting the cute little homes that are consciously decorated by the locals living a strictly healthy lifestyle. All the Places To Visit In Kodaikanal resound with your inner child!

Table of Contents

11 Best Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

To help you make the most of your Kodai trip, we have meticulously curated a list of the best places to visit, making for an unforgettable journey through this idyllic paradise.

1. Kodai Lake 

Are you looking out for Kodaikanal tourist places? Nestled amidst the flourishing greenery of Kodaikanal, Kodaikanal lake stands as the essential centerpiece of this picturesque hill station. This artificial wonder not only captivates visitors with its serene leafy terrain, it also gives a wide selection of engaging sports that you can participate in, Boating is a famous choice here, walk around and try the home made chocolates sold by independent vendors and indulge in some hot treats sold along the lake or engage in some balloon shooting, yes that is quite popular here too. Alternatively, you can rent a bicycle and ride along the lakeside promenade offering enchanting vistas of the encircling hills and nature’s bounty. Kodai lake is part of the tourist places in Kodaikanal but it has its own beauty.

Cost of Boating: Approximately ₹40 per person

Boating Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Time Required to Explore: 3-4 hours

How to Reach: Kodai Lake is placed about 3.8 km from Kodaikanal Central Junction, the nearest railway station.

2. Dolphin’s Nose

Perched on the edge of a rugged cliff, Dolphin’s Nose offers a panoramic vista that overlooks the sappy valleys of Kodaikanal. This pleasant spot, named for its resemblance to the nose of a dolphin, delights visitors who are curious enough to explore the depths of the valley, making it one of the most talked about places to visit in Kodaikanal.

Visitors can go on a scenic trek to Dolphin’s Nose, through lush forests and winding trails. Upon reaching the point,they will be greeted with a breathtaking spectacle of the progressing terrain that intertwined with hills veiled in ethereal mist. It is one of the thrilling activities that you can enjoy.

Entry Fee: None

Timings: Open from dawn to sunset

Time Required to Explore: 1-2 hours

How to Reach: Dolphin’s Nose is located approximately 8 km from Kodaikanal town center. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the starting point of the trek.

3. Anji Veedu Waterfalls

Meant for those with a wilder spirit, this is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal! Explorers embarking on a journey to Anjiveedu Waterfalls hidden in the enigmatic Perumalmalai will be in for a surreal experience. Though Kodai valley has its share of beauty, Permalmalai, sitting 14 kms from the town, is a great getaway for those looking to go a bit off the tourist trail. Here, nature unfolds its mystique, revealing an enchanting cascade amidst the verdant incline of the mountains. As the water tumbles gracefully down the rugged cliffs, it paints a picture of serene beauty against the carpet of greenery of Shola forests. Adventurers bold enough to seek out this hidden gem will be rewarded with a sight that transcends the normal.

How to Reach: Anji Veeju Waterfalls is located approximately 14 km from Kodaikanal town center. Visitors can take a local bus from the Kodai Bus Stand to Perumalmalai.

4. Pillar Rocks

Adventure seekers who wish to go on a quest, look no further than Pillar Rocks! Though these rocks are hiding in the captive rugged terrain of Kodaikanal, this is a spectacle like no other and is one of the grand places to visit in Kodaikanal. Situated 8 km from the heart of Kodaikanal hill station, Pillar Rocks gives a tranquil retreat for the ones seeking solace amidst nature’s grandeur. The enormous rock formations stand tall against the backdrop of lush greenery, creating a scene straight out of a fairy story. As the daylight dances at the rugged cliffs, shadows and mist dance in a delicate harmony with the clouds. 

How to Reach: Pillar Rocks is located about 8 km from Kodaikanal. Visitors can rent a taxi or take a nearby bus from the Kodai Bus Stand to reach the destination.

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

5. Thalaiyar Falls

Thalaiyar Falls is tucked away inside the majestic folds of the Western Ghats, a nature’s wonder that is designed to leave you mesmerized. Located within the lush greenery of the Palani Hills close to Kodaikanal, Thalaiyar Falls is a hidden gem waiting for the curious explorers. Standing at an impressive peak of 975 toes, it is one of the tallest waterfalls in India. As the water cascades down the rocky cliffs, forming a delicate veil in opposition to the verdant backdrop, it creates a view that is awe-inspiring and humbling at the same time. Adventurers who make their way here will be rewarded with a sight that transcends the banal reality and the daily quota of Kodaikanal sightseeing is sure to be checked off the list!

Timings: 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM (Closed on Sunday)

How to Reach: Thalaiyar Falls is located about 40 km from Kodaikanal city center. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus from the Kodai Bus Stand to reach 

6. Coakers Walk

Coakers Walk gives those who want to visit an attraction near the town an opportunity to enjoy a serene evening walk along the hills of Kodaikanal. This one is a pride of Kodai town which is why you must have it on the list of places to visit in Kodaikanal. Located at an elevation of 133 meters above sea level, it imparts panoramic perspectives which are nothing short of breathtaking. This scenic pathway gives visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Palani Hills from a bird’s eye view that is always adorned by misty clouds floating by, which is why many people come here to witness the Kodaikanal view point. As you stroll along the pathway, you will be treated to stunning vistas of the encircling valleys and mist-covered hills.

Entry Fee: Rs. 10 per person, Rs. 30 for digicam

Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

How to Reach: Coakers Walk is effortlessly accessible from the Kodaikanal town. You can practically walk leisurely to reach.

7. Berijam Lake

Tucked away in the dense foliage and tranquil environment of the Palani Hills, Berijam Lake stands as a serene oasis of natural beauty in Kodaikanal. This picturesque lake, located approximately 20 kilometers from the city center is one of the best places to see in Kodaikanal. It offers visitors a peaceful retreat away from the bustling markets and banters of vendors. Enveloped in dense forests and undulating hills, the lake’s crystal-clear waters reflect the verdant landscape, giving rise to a hypnotizing sight. Berijam Lake isn’t only a scenic spot but also serves as an important water source for the area keeping the flora blooming and fresh.

Birdwatching enthusiasts are in for a treat as there is a possibility to identify a whole lot of avian species amidst the plush greenery.

Entry Fee: 100 INR per person

Timings: 9:00 AM to a 3:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)

Time Required to Explore: 2-3 hours

How to Reach: Berijam Lake is located about 20 kilometers from Kodaikanal city center. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus from the Kodai Bus Stand and then hike a rickshaw to reach the lake.

8. Poombarai

You cannot visit Kodaikanal and not visit Poombarai! One of the main reasons why this village is on the list of places to visit in Kodaikanal is because it offers unique landscapes of terraced hills unlike traditional villages that sprawl across flat terrain. These terraced hills have been meticulously carved out over generations by skilled farmers and are stunning examples of sustainable farming.

Visitors coming to Poombarai can discover the lush green fields, have interaction with local farmers, and sample fresh produce straight from the farms.

One of the highlights of Poombarai is the Poombarai Ecotourism Center, wherein visitors can find out about the rich biodiversity of the place and participate in guided nature walks and birdwatching expeditions.

Timings: Access to this village is open at all times

Time Required to Explore: Half-day to full-day

How to Reach: Poombarai is located a quick distance from Kodaikanal town. Take the Kodai Observatory Road and travel for a few kilometers. Once you hit the 10 mile road, continue until you are at the intersection with Poombarai Road.

Tucked away in the heart of the Western Ghats, Kookal is a hidden gem waiting to be found by curious vacationers. This idyllic village is esteemed for its pristine natural beauty, with dense forests, gushing waterfalls, and meandering streams dotting the landscape. Visitors to Kookal can embark on scenic hikes through the surrounding hills, exploring hidden trails that offer breathtaking views of the valley below. If you are looking for those authentic conversations with villagers and want to discover the silent cottage industry that drives the Kodaikanal tourism, then this is one of the places to visit in Kodaikanal.

One of the highlights of Kookal is its tranquil surroundings, Kookal is also home to a vibrant local community, acknowledged for its warm hospitality and rich cultural historical past. Visitors can engage with locals, find out about traditional customs and rituals, and enjoy authentic cuisine cooked with fresh, regionally sourced ingredients.

Timings: Access to the village is open at all times

Time Required to Explore: 1 or 2 days

How to Reach: Poombarai is approximately 18 km from Kodaikanal. The most convenient way to reach is to hire a taxi. It is a 30-minute drive from Kodaikanal. The nearest railway station is in Coimbatore.

10. Pambar Falls

Hidden in the warm embrace of the Western Ghats, Pambar Falls is a hidden oasis of breathtaking vistas. This picturesque waterfall which is a result of the confluence of two water bodies; Kodaikanal’s water reservoir and Vaigai river cascades down a chain of rocky cliffs, creating an mesmerizing spectacle of gushing water and misty spray against your body. Visitors to Pambar Falls can soak in the electrifying ambiance of the hypnotic forest, listening to the soothing sounds of dashing water and chirping birds, making it one of the unforgettable places in Kodaikanal.

One of the highlights of Pambar Falls is its accessibility, making it an excellent picnic spot for families and nature enthusiasts. visitors can be relaxed when hiking through the forest as the trails here are well-defined and lead right up to the bottom of the falls. The falls are just big enough to make you feel safe to get into the pool and the water is not too deep or has no dangerous currents. For those who are seeking for something more intense and adventurous, there are options for mountain climbing and rappelling down the rugged boulders.

Timings: 10.00 am to 6:00 pm

Time Required to Explore: 3- 4 hours

How to Reach: Walk along the pathway that’s made behind Pambar House, beware of the slippery pathway.

11. Fairy Falls

Fairy Falls is a hidden treasure flowing in the Pambarpuram area. This waterfall is an essential part of the Pambar river that later goes on to join the river Vaigai. Tucked away inside the heart of the forest, this enchanting waterfall cascades gracefully down the rocky cliffs, growing delicately into the hearts of the visitors. As the crystal-clear waters glisten in the daylight, surrounded with the aid of lush greenery, visitors are transported to a mystical realm instantly.

Timings: 09:00 am to 06:00 pm

How to Reach: Fairy Falls is located approximately 6 km from Kodaikanal bus stand and 5 kms from Kodai Lake. You can easily take the bus or hire a taxi to reach the falls.

Best Time To Visit Kodaikanal

The best time to visit Kodaikanal is between October to March as the climate is at the right temperature making it best for sightseeing and outdoor sports. This duration, post-monsoon and early summer time, gives you access to clean skies and lush greenery.

Final Thoughts  

Concluding your trip to Kodaikanal can be a bitter sweet moment as the experience is so rich and rejuvenating that you somehow don’t feel like going back home just yet. The spellbinding places to visit in Kodaikanal will manage to strum the strings of your heart. 

From the mystical Fairy Falls hidden deep in the Pambarpuram region to the tranquil oasis of Kookal village, each nook of Kodaikanal holds tales of nature’s bounty in the best regard possible. The locals maintain the beauty of the valley and have strictly adopted an eco-friendly and sustainable approach to living that literally makes the air more fresh.

Whether it is the panoramic vistas of Dolphin’s Nose, the majestic cascade of Anji Veedu Waterfalls, or the serene appeal of Coakers Walk, every experience will be embedded as a core memory in your heart.

The best part is that this town is not only meant for the adventure seekers, the misty and hilly energy of the valley is just perfect for a cozy holiday where you simply order in and look out the hotel room, making it all the more perfect for the newly weds.

In conclusion, Kodaikanal is a sanctuary that is protected wildly and will continue to be an otherworldly indulgence that each and every person must experience at least once in their lifetime.

When you are in Kodaikanal, make sure you indulge in some boating on Kodai Lake and hiking to Dolphin’s Nose for panoramic views, if you like to go off the beaten path then head over to Perumalmalai for a wild experience.

Top sightseeing places in Kodaikanal consist of Coakers Walk for stunning vistas and Pillar Rocks for majestic rock formations.

Commuting within Kodaikanal is easy as there is a well planned schedule for local buses, taxis, and even rented bicycles for exploring at your own pace.

Best one-day places to go to in Kodaikanal for couples include Berijam Lake for serene surroundings and Pambar Falls for a romantic waterfall and day out.

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Unveiling the wonders of culture and tradition!

Are you ready to embark on a journey filled with adventure, culture, tradition, and exciting attractions? Let your explorer's spirit soar and make unforgettable memories as you explore the beauty of our diverse world.

Tourist Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

Southern India’s popular hill station, Kodaikanal, fondly referred to as the ‘Princess of hills’ is a mesmerising tourist destination that offers scenic views full of lush green hills, waterfalls, lakes and dense pine forests. Surrounded by the Parappar and Gundar valleys on both sides, the Tamil Nadu hill station is situated at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea-level atop the Palani Hills. It is a favourite among all kinds of travellers - budget travellers, backpackers, nature lovers and honeymooners with a variety of tourist places near Kodaikanal. From caves and treks through pine forests to boating in lakes and religious spots, it has got it all!

The list of Kodaikanal tourist places is nearly endless. One can visit the numerous lakes and waterfalls and soak in the calm from its soothing waters or enjoy a boat ride amidst the natural wilderness. If you love adventure, you will find plenty of places to visit in Kodaikanal that will give you a shot of adrenaline such as Dolphin’s Nose, Kumabkarai or the Pillar Rocks. You can choose from the following list of places to visit in Kodaikanal as you enjoy white clouds playing hide and seek with the beautiful green mountains covered in purplish blue Kurinji flowers when you visit this gorgeous domestic destination.

Places to Visit in Kodaikanal: Lakes and Falls

Kodaikanal Lake
 One of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal, Kodaikanal lake is an artificial star-shaped lake located at 2,285 meters above sea level. It was built in 1863 and since then has ranked high amongst Kodaikanal tourist places with thousands of tourists flocking to the destination during summer months for its cold breeze and cloud covered surroundings. Originating from the Palani hills water, the lake that covers a stretch of 60 acres finally flows into a mesmerising waterfall at a height of 180 ft, called the Silver Cascade. When in Kodaikanal, you can’t miss boating at Kodai Lake and visiting the Silver Cascade waterfalls.

Bear Shola Falls
 One of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal is the Bear Shola Falls, located just 2 km off the Kodaikanal Lake. Legend has it that this was a bear’s favourite place to drink water and gave it its interesting name. The water gushes out of the Parappar River Stream falling off the mountains against the green backdrop, making it a sight to behold. This Kodaikanal tourist place is loved by nature enthusiasts, adventurers and couples alike. If you want to enjoy these falls in full glory, the best time to visit Kodaikanal would be the monsoons.

Berijam Lake

Spread across vast forested lands, Berijam Lake in Kodaikanal is a perfect option if you’re looking to explore tourist places near Kodaikanal. Make sure you take the mandatory permit from the forest department before visiting the Berijam Lake. Lose yourself to the refreshing green backdrop of lust forests as you picnic on the lakeside. This quaint lake should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Kodaikanal if you’re looking to spend some quality time with your loved ones or want to try your hand at fishing. But make sure you’ve all the necessary permits!

Mannavanur Lake

Another popular spot in the list of places to visit in Kodaikanal is the Mannavanur Lake. Crossing pine and eucalyptus trees on either side of the road, a scenic drive paves the way for this Kodaikanal tourist place. Just like most places in Kodaikanal, surroundings of the Mannavanur Lake also offer rich fauna. You will find exotic birds flying around and may even spot some wild animals. You can even enjoy coracle ride or horse riding or simply soak in the views of the nearby sheep farm where flocks of sheep graze and make for a beautiful backdrop. 

Vattakanal Falls


Vattakanal Falls is one of the top choices if you are looking for places to visit near Kodaikanal. The best time to visit Kodaikanal is during the monsoon when you can visit the grand Vattakanal falls for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Surrounded by vast landscapes of forest and hills, this tourist place near Kodaikanal promises great views and is quite safe to be around but you should be wearing non-slippery footwear. You can even click pictures for the ‘gram from a bridge near the falls.

Pambar Falls

If you’re looking to unwind by taking a dip in cool, clear waters of a natural waterfall, Pambar Falls is a great option to consider when deciding on places to visit in Kodaikanal. Located at a meagre 3km distance from the Kodai bus station, this waterfall flows into a natural pool where you can take a dip! The wild and green setting of the Pambar falls makes visiting it a picturesque affair. Thalaiyar Falls

Thalaiyar Falls or the Rat Tail Falls as the locals refer to it, is a unique shaped waterfall which is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kodaikanal. Located along the Palani Hill ranges along its green trails in the Dindigul District, the waterfall falls off a height of over 290 meters. Thalaiyar Falls is the highest waterfall in Tamil Nadu and the sixth highest waterfall in India and ranks as the 267th highest in the world. You can click some amazing pictures of the falls from a view tower at the Dum Dum Rock.

Fairy Falls

The name of the falls is interesting enough to attract a number of tourists. A popular swimming spot, the Fairy Falls located in Pambarpuram, offer a great space to spend some quality time with your loved ones or even just by yourself. Watch the water gushing out from the top of the hill and rejuvenate your city-wrecked soul.

Places to Visit in Kodaikanal: Viewpoints and Landmarks

The list of places would remain incomplete without a mention of the Guna caves. Discovered in 1821 CE by BS Ward, an English officer, the cave remained hidden from the tourists for many years till 1991 when a Tamil movie ‘Guna’, that starred the famous actor Kamal Hassan changed its fate. Located 12 km away from Kodainal, Guna caves is one of the best places to visit near Kodaikanal. If you want to make your trip adventurous, exploring the beauty of Kodai pines at Guna caves should definitely be on your list of things to do in Kodaikanal.

La Saleth Church

Built in 1846, La Saleth Church is the oldest catholic church in Kodaikanal. A perfect blend of Tamil and French culture and architecture, the church offers a panoramic view of the hills at 7,000 ft above sea level. If you want to get an insight into the local culture of the hill station or simply put your mind at peace, don’t miss a visit to this 150 year old shrine.

Kodai Chocolate Factory

Bring your Willy Wonka dreams alive as you take in the aroma of the delicious cocoa at the Kodai Chocolate Factory and witness the making of a variety of chocolates. One of the most recommended places to visit in Kodaikanal, Kodai Chocolate Factory was started in 1999 and specializes in chocolates, coffees, aroma oils etc. Their products are completely vegetarian. If you love chocolates, don’t forget to visit the Cloud Street, PotLuck, SG Cottage Industries and of course, the Kodai Chocolate factory to treat yourself with delicious chocolate varieties.

Perumal Peak

If you love trekking and rewarding yourself with a great view at the end, Perumal Peak is one the best places to visit near Kodaikanal. Located at a height of 8,005 ft above the sea level, this peak of the mighty Western Ghats offers panoramic views of the valley. Adventurers will love the trek as it may get slightly tedious. You can also visit the quaint Perumal Malai Village on the way and get a taste of the local culture. Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple

This Lord Muruga or God of hills temple is one of the most spiritual places to visit in Kodaikanal. You shouldn’t miss it even if you’re not religious as the temple offers gorgeous views of the Palani hills and Vaigai Dam. The temple is also popular for the Kurinji flowers that turn the hills into a beautiful purplish blue and grow once every 12 years.

Pillar Rocks

If you want to enjoy the mesmerizing views of the valley and sit out to enjoy the hill station’s ethereal surroundings, Pillar rocks is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal. The 400 meter long rocks naturally shaped as pillars stand together seemingly piercing the sky. This adorned with a mini garden creates the perfect picnic spot and is a top tourist place for families in Kodaikanal. Don’t miss the enchanting view of the surrounding villages and hills while gorging on a plate of potato and onion bhaji available outside the garden. Monsoon is probably the best time to visit Kodaikanal as misty white clouds and mist dance all around these Kodaikanal tourist places and make the whole experience quite magical!

Suicide Point

You can enjoy stunning views of the Kodaikanal valleys, plains and hills from the Suicide Point or the Green Valley View. The Kodaikanal tourist place also offers views of the Vaigai Dam that will leave you awestruck. The Green Valley View is called Suicide point because of its dangerous 5,000 ft drop. It is situated just 5.5 km off the Kodaikanal Lake and is one of the best places to visit near Kodaikanal. You can pick up some souvenirs from the local shops around that sell ornaments, a wide variety of flowers and even handmade chocolates.

Dolphin’s Nose

This protruding flat rock at the height of 6,600 feet like the shape of a Dolphin’s nose isn’t for the faint-hearted. Popular for the scenic views and the adrenaline rushing experience of standing at the edge of the rock, Dolphin’s nose is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal for adventure lovers. One can also trek up to this Kodaikanal tourist spot and enjoy some quality time amidst the lush greenery.

An important historical monument, Moir point is a tourist place in Kodaikanal that is tucked right at the entrance to a serene jungle leading all the way up to the Berijam Lake. One of the best viewpoints in Kodaikanal, the monument was constructed in 1929 to commemorate Sir Thomas Moir’s contribution in building the Goschen Road. Moir point is one the many places to visit in Kodaikanal from where you can soak in the views of lush green hills of Tamil Nadu.

A unique place that should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Kodaikanal is the Wax Museum which is also India’s first Wax Museum. Located near Green Valley, the cozy museum displays the Last Supper, the Crib along with a few other known personalities. Interestingly it also hosts wax statues of Indian personalities such as Sai Baba, Gandhiji, Adi Shankara, Lord Krishna among others.

Places to Eat in Kodaikanal

Altaf’s Cafe

One of the top eating places to visit near Kodaikanal is Altaf’s cafe, offering a wide range of Mediterranean dishes to cater to tourists from abroad. Located on the way to the Dolphin’s nose, Altaf’s cafe offers a natural sit-out area to serve you some mesmerizing views on the sides. Try their hummus and tahini or the falafel and shakshuka plates. Order a comforting cup of ginger lemon honey as you wash it all down along with soaking misty clouds that cover up the valley.

Woody’s

You must try food at this 100-years old building when you’re visiting Kodai Lake. Laid out on its own private valley, Woody’s ambiance and food makes it one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal for some yummy vegetarian dishes. With a wide variety of cuisines on its menu ranging from North Indian, South Indian, Chinese and Continental, you can eat to your heart’s content as you gorge on appetizers, mains, and desserts sitting in the pretty garden area or by the rustic fireplace.

The Royal Tibet

The Royal Tibet, as you can figure out from its name, offers lip smacking Tibetian dishes and non-vegetarian food options in Kodaikanal. Sip on its flavourful soup or steaming hot momos or binge on the most delicious variety of authentic momos including chicken, cheese, potato and mutton options.Winter is the best time to visit Kodaikanal when you can gulp down on the hot soups and noodles.

Cloud Street

If you’re a pizza lover, there is no better place than Cloud Street to try out thin-crust pizzas loaded with fresh ingredients and generous doses of cheese. Located on the PT road, this restaurant is a popular tourist place near Kodaikanal that is a favourite because of its great food quality. Don’t miss out on their signature dishes including pastas, BBQ chicken, and sizzlers. If you have a sweet tooth, lemon cake at Cloud Street is a must-try.

When you’re looking to grab a quick bite and craving some good old rolls, just head to Muncheez. With a variety of options for rolls, shakes and smoothies, Muncheez is a hot favourite tourist place near Kodaikanal. Choose from Indian and Continental options and wash it down with some hot tea when you’re enjoying it with the cold weather, one of the best times to visit Kodaikanal.

Silver Oak is a great option when you’re looking for fine dining in Kodaikanal. Located at the Carlton Hotel, the stylish restaurant will satiate your cravings for Continental, Mughlai and North Indian delicacies. If you’re tired of cafe food and want to treat your taste buds to some spicy curries and North Indian dishes, this is one of the best tourist places near Kodaikanal that has a buffet available.

Aromas of Kodai

Offering great food without burning a hole in your pocket. Aromas of Kodai is a multi-cuisine delicacies which is one of the most loved tourist places near Kodaikanal. You can indulge in their sandwiches or pancakes or go for the authentic North Indian, South Indian, Chinese or Continental dishes. The casual dining restaurant attracts many foreigners and tourists because of its great service and yummy food options.

A must-try for non-vegetarians, Mann Manam in Kodaikanal is a rustic outdoor restaurant offering the most delectable meat, seafood, chicken dishes cooked in an authentic South Indian style and served on a banana leaf. Giving you a taste of the local cuisine, Mann Manam is one of the finest eateries in Kodai that treats your taste buds as well as eyes with scenic views of the hill station.

A great option to get a taste of the Kodai cafe culture, PotLuck is a cozy outdoor café that serves the best coffee along with Spanish omelettes, Quesadillas, pasta, sandwiches, and more at affordable prices. A European styled setting with some great beverage options like tea, cold coffee and cappuccino will offer you a refreshing break from your daily exploring.

15 Hidden gems in Kodaikanal that will take your breath away

Hey, travel bugs! Kodaikanal, the "Princess of Hills", needs no introduction. But what if we told you there's more to this hill station in Tamil Nadu than just boating on the lake and shopping for chocolates? We're here to spill the beans on some hidden gems that'll leave you wide-eyed and speechless!

1. Poombarai: Where Serenity Reigns Supreme

Location: Poombarai village is located around 12 km from Kodaikanal town.

You can reach Poombarai by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Kodaikanal bus stand.

Insider Tip: The Kulanthaivelappar temple here is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its intricate carvings and peaceful atmosphere. Visit the temple early morning to experience the tranquility at its best.

Read more: Explore Tranquebar or Tharangambadi - A Hidden Gem in Tamil Nadu

2. Kookal: A Cascading Paradise

Calling all adventure seekers! Kookal boasts a cascading waterfall and a serene lake, perfect for a day trip. Trek through lush greenery, take a dip in the cool water, and capture the beauty of nature at its finest. Remember, this gem requires a bit of effort to reach, so be prepared for a short hike.

Location: Kookal is located around 15 km from Kodaikanal town.

The easiest way to reach Kookal is to hire a taxi or take a bus from Kodaikanal bus stand and ask the driver to drop you at Kookal Waterfalls.

Insider Tip: The trek to Kookal Waterfalls is moderate and can be completed in about 30 minutes. Wear sturdy shoes and carry water bottles as there are no shops on the way.

3. Mannavanur: Eco-Tourism at its Best

If you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, Mannavanur is your answer. This village is all about eco-tourism, offering sustainable activities like nature walks, birdwatching, and boat rides on the pristine Mannavanur Lake. Embrace the local culture, interact with the friendly villagers, and witness the beauty of responsible travel.

Location: Mannavanur is located around 20 km from Kodaikanal town.

You can reach Mannavanur by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Kodaikanal bus stand.

Insider Tip: Mannavanur is a great place to experience responsible tourism. Stay in an eco-friendly homestay, participate in nature walks and birdwatching activities, and enjoy a boat ride on the pristine Mannavanur Lake.

Read more: 10 Fun Things to Do in Chennai on Weekends 2023

4. Poondi: Unveiling Hidden Waterfalls

Calling all waterfall enthusiasts! Poondi boasts the Polur Falls, a cascading beauty tucked away in the hills. The trek to reach the falls is a bit challenging, but the reward is definitely worth it. Take a refreshing plunge in the natural pool, surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of cascading water.

Location: Polur Falls, also known as Poondi Falls, is located around 30 km from Kodaikanal town.

The trek to the falls is challenging and can take up to 2 hours. It's advisable to hire a local guide who knows the trails well.

Insider Tip: The trek to Polur Falls is not for the faint of heart. Be sure to wear proper hiking shoes and carry plenty of water and snacks. The reward at the end, however, is a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the falls.

5. Berijam Lake: A Serene Escape

If you're looking for a serene escape close to town, Berijam Lake is your answer. This smaller lake offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and a peaceful atmosphere. Rent a paddleboat, explore the surrounding forests, or simply relax on the shores and soak in the tranquility.

Location: Berijam Lake is located just 5 km from Kodaikanal town. You can easily reach the lake by hiring a taxi, taking an auto rickshaw, or even cycling.

Insider Tip: Berijam Lake is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Kodaikanal. Rent a paddleboat and explore the lake, or simply relax on the shores and soak in the tranquility.

6. Pillar Rocks:

Location: Pillar Rocks is located around 8 km from Kodaikanal town. You can reach Pillar Rocks by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Kodaikanal bus stand.

Insider Tip: The trek to Pillar Rocks is easy and takes about 30 minutes. The views from the top are simply breathtaking, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Read more: 9 Best Trekking spots in Tamil Nadu

7. Guna Caves:

Feeling adventurous? Dive into the ancient Guna Caves, carved out of the mountains over millions of years. Explore the natural rock formations, spot hidden chambers, and whisper secrets to the age-old walls. Just remember to wear sturdy shoes and carry a torch for this spelunking adventure.

Location: Guna Caves are located around 8 km from Kodaikanal town. You can reach the caves by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Kodaikanal bus stand and asking the driver to drop you at Guna Caves.

Insider Tip: Exploring Guna Caves is an adventurous activity. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, carry a torch, and have a guide with you as the caves can be quite dark and slippery.

8. Green Valley View Point:

Escape the hustle and bustle and head to Green Valley View Point. Breathe in the fresh mountain air, soak in the panoramic views of rolling hills and lush greenery, and let your worries melt away. This spot is perfect for a picnic with your loved ones or simply to relax and reconnect with nature.

Location: Green Valley View Point is located around 7 km from Kodaikanal town. You can reach the viewpoint by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Kodaikanal bus stand.

Insider Tip: Green Valley View Point is a great place to enjoy panoramic views of the rolling hills, lush valleys, and the Vaigai Dam. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a meal with your loved ones while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Also read: Explore Tranquebar or Tharangambadi - A Hidden Gem in Tamil Nadu

9. Bear Shola Falls:

Location: Bear Shola Falls is located around 25 km from Kodaikanal town. Reaching the falls requires a moderate trek through dense forests. It's advisable to hire a local guide who can help you navigate the trails.

Insider Tip: The trek to Bear Shola Falls can be muddy, so wear proper shoes with good grip. The reward at the end is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

10. Manjampatti Valley:

Location: Manjampatti Valley is located around 18 km from Kodaikanal town. This trek is challenging and requires a good level of fitness. It's recommended only for experienced trekkers.

Insider Tip: Be sure to plan your trek carefully and carry all the necessary gear, including proper hiking shoes, a backpack, plenty of water and snacks, and a first-aid kit.

11. Dolmens:

History buffs, rejoice! Dolmens are prehistoric burial chambers believed to be over 3000 years old. Explore these fascinating structures, step back in time, and ponder the mysteries of the past.

Location: The Dolmens are located around 10 km from Kodaikanal town. You can reach the Dolmens by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Kodaikanal bus stand and asking the driver to drop you at Periyakulam. From there, you can take another auto rickshaw to reach the Dolmens.

Insider Tip: The Dolmens are believed to be over 3000 years old. Hire a local guide who can explain the history and significance of these ancient burial chambers.

12. Silent Valley:

True to its name, Silent Valley offers a tranquil escape from the noise of everyday life. Take a stroll amidst the tall trees, listen to the soft chirping of birds, and find your inner peace in this serene haven.

Location: Silent Valley is located around 12 km from Kodaikanal town. You can reach Silent Valley by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Kodaikanal bus stand.

Insider Tip: As the name suggests, Silent Valley is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Go for a nature walk, listen to the sounds of the birds, and simply relax and rejuvenate in the peaceful surroundings.

Read more: Complete travel guide to Coimbatore -Things to do Places to visit and more!

13. Kurinji Andavar Temple:

Nestled amidst the hills, the Kurinji Andavar Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan. This ancient temple, with its intricate carvings and peaceful atmosphere, is a must-visit for anyone seeking cultural and spiritual experiences.

Location: Kurinji Andavar Temple is located around 6 km from Kodaikanal town. You can easily reach the temple by hiring a taxi, taking an auto rickshaw, or even walking.

Insider Tip: The Kurinji Andavar Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant festivals. Visit the temple during a festival to experience the local culture and traditions.

14. Palani Hills:

Location: Palani Hills are located around 60 km from Kodaikanal town. You can reach Palani by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Kodaikanal bus stand.

Insider Tip: The Palani Hills are home to the famous Palani Murugan Temple, a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. Apart from the temple, you can also visit the Palani Fort and enjoy the scenic views from the top.

15. Kodaikanal Solar Observatory:

Location: Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is located around 3 km from Kodaikanal town. You can reach the observatory by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Kodaikanal bus stand.

Insider Tip: The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is one of the oldest in Asia. You can book a guided tour of the observatory and learn about astronomy from the experts. On clear nights, you can also gaze at the stars through the observatory's telescopes.

Read more: Discover Ooty's Charm: 15 Must-Visit Spots to Include in Your Itinerary

Bonus Tip: Don't forget to try the local fare! Kodaikanal offers a variety of delicious South Indian dishes, from steaming idlis to flavorful dosas.

So, ditch the usual tourist trail and embark on an adventure to these hidden gems. Kodaikanal has something for everyone, and these off-the-beaten-path experiences are sure to leave you breathless with their beauty and serenity.

Happy travels!

Published at 28 Feb 2024

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Anushka Dongre

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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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Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal in 2 Days – A Complete Guide

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This blog post contains a list of all the best places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days.

Kodaikanal or Kodai, fondly known as the princess of hill stations, is a picturesque little hill station in the western ghats of India. The Kodaikanal lake lies at the heart of the town and is the most popular tourist attraction in Kodaikanal. Terrace farms, eucalyptus trees, flower-laden valleys, and green meadows define the landscape of Kodaikanal. Due to the vast influx of tourists, Kodaikanal has turned into yet another busy tourist hot-spot. Hotels have come up all around the town and there are more tourists on the road than locals. I visited Kodaikanal during the Republic Day weekend of 2019. Based on my observations and experiences, I’ve compiled this complete guide on Kodaikanal - covering all the Kodaikanal attractions, how to reach Kodaikanal from different cities, where to stay in Kodaikanal, some cost-saving tips as well as a list of all the places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days.

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How to Reach Kodaikanal

The closest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai, which is located approximately 135 km away.  The nearest railway station to Kodaikanal is Kodaikanal Road, which is at the distance of roughly 80 km from the city center. There are regular buses to Kodaikanal from Madurai and Coimbatore, both of which have an airport.

Bangalore to Kodaikanal - By Bus or Car

The most convenient and cost-friendly way to reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore is to take an overnight bus. The journey takes about 9-11 hours which can be spent sleeping comfortably in a volvo bus. I heard one horror story where a girl reached the bus stop only to realise that the bus got cancelled due to less number of bookings. Thus keep in mind to call up the bus operator a few hours before your journey to ensure that the bus is still in operation. Another convenient way to get from Bangalore to Kodaikanal is to take a road trip by car. Who doesn’t love a road trip with friends?!

Madurai to Kodaikanal - By Bus

The most cost-effective and picturesque way to travel from Madurai to Kodaikanal is to take a bus. A taxi from Madurai to Kodaikanal costs Rs 3300 whereas a government bus from Arapalayam Bus Stand in Madurai to Kodaikanal is as cheap as Rs 98. The bus takes approximately 3.5-4 hours to reach its destination, with one rest stop along the way. The views leading up to the hills are breathtaking. Be sure to grab yourself a window seat on the left side of the bus for the best views!

Kodaikanal Map

Where to Stay in Kodaikanal

There is absolutely no shortage of hotels within Kodaikanal. If you want to stay within walking distance of most attractions in Kodaikanal, get a hotel closer to the bus stand, which is located at the heart of the city. If you’re looking for peace and quiet though, then look for a hotel towards the outer section of Kodaikanal. During my visit to Kodai, I stayed at Zostel Kodaikanal , which is a backpacker hostel facing a breathtaking view of the hills. While I’ve stayed at multiple Zostel properties, Zostel Kodaikanal was by-far the most charming one. In fact, I loved this hostel and it's peaceful vibes so much that I canceled all my plans for an entire evening and the next day just to chill out, sip coffee and read a book.

Find hotels in Kodaikanal on Booking.com

How to Get Around Kodaikanal

Walking is the best way to explore this town. Being a hill station, there are no auto-rickshaws ( tuk-tuks ) or 2-wheelers for rent. The only option to travel within the city is to take taxis, which can get expensive. Going from any one spot to another costs a minimum of Rs 200 by taxi. Half-day tours start at Rs 1500 where they rush you through various tourist stops in a hurry. In such a scenario, it's best to take things at your own pace, walk around and explore the town. Kodai is a tiny town and most sights are within a few meters from one another. Walking also lets you stop and admire the breathtaking views all around! Another fun way to get around Kodaikanal is to hire a bicycle for the day!

Must Read: Pondicherry Itinerary: Places to Visit in Pondicherry in 2 Days

Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal in 2 Days

Being a tiny town, Kodaikanal does not have a whole lot of things to do. There are a few attractions in Kodaikanal, the most popular one being Kodaikanal lake. Apart from that, there are some churches, viewpoints to witness the sunrise as well as trekking routes. Vattakanal, also known as an Israeli town, is a village south of Kodaikanal. The village has great views of the valley and is located close to the popular viewpoints. Take a look at some of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days.

1. Kodaikanal Lake

The Kodaikanal Lake is located right in the heart of the town. It's the center of all sorts of activities ranging from boating, cycling, horse-riding to shopping and eating. There are plenty of boating renting centers around the lake. The boat options range from pedal boats to shikaras . A shikara ride for half an hour costs Rs 490 whereas pedal boats cost considerably less. Bicycles can be rented to take a ride around the stunning 5 km circumference of the lake. Apart from that, there are lots of shops set up all around the lake selling items ranging from clothes and bags to homemade chocolate and yummy street food.

2. Coakers Walk

Coaker's Walk is a 1 km stretch of path overlooking the hills and valleys. Before I went there, I heard negative reviews about the place saying it gets overcrowded and dirty. However, I reached Coaker's walk at 8 am in the morning when there was hardly anyone around. The mist had just begun to clear up, giving way to the sunlight. In my opinion, early morning is the best time to visit Coaker's walk. The entry fee is a minimal Rs 30. They charge an additional Rs 50 for a camera. I definitely recommend coming here early morning as it is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days.

3. Bryant Park

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Slightly underwhelming but charming in parts, Bryant Park is a stone's throw away from both Coaker's Walk and Kodaikanal Lake. While most of the park is just, well, a regular park, one section is really breathtaking. Once you enter the park from the main entrance near the lake, head left until you come to a clearing filled with trees and blue benches. You can spend hours sitting under the cooling shade of these trees with a book in hand. The Bryant Park opening timings are from 9 am to 6 pm.

4. The Kodaikanal Churches

With a 38% Christian population, it's a no-brainer that Kodaikanal has a bunch of scenic churches. The church in the picture above is the Mount Zion Lutheran Church which is located right in the heart of the city. Surprisingly enough, despite being located in the city, the church has a quaint appeal to it. The minute you walk through the gate, your pace will automatically slow down to take in the charm of the church and the adjoining building. The Saleth matha Church is another notable church in Kodaikanal.

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The Best Restaurants and Cafes in Kodaikanal

Most of the well-known eateries in Kodaikanal are located either on the Bazaar road or the P T Road. Both these roads are located in the city center. While there are plenty of great restaurants and cafes in Kodaikanal, I've only listed the ones that left a lasting impact on my taste buds and just can't be missed!

1. Pastry Corner Kodaikanal

Pastry Corner (daily bread) is located in close proximity to the Kodaikanal bus stand. It’s a tiny bakery which opens at 10.30 in the morning. Some of the tastiest items sold there include coriander sandwiches, egg sandwiches, pizzas, quiches, ice creams and of course, pastries. The items on the menu sound like everyday items, but the pastry corner does their own take on them, adding another depth of flavor. I went gaga over the sandwiches and the pizza there. They didn’t look any different from the ones I’ve had before, but tasted unbelievably amazing! Be sure to get here early, because it’s a popular bakery and they get sold out quite soon.

2. Aby's Cafe

PT Road is the place to go if you’re looking to stave off hunger pangs when in Kodai. Aby’s Cafe is located on this road, above a store. The interior is done up super cozy with wooden benches, tiny potted plants and a wall full of post-it reviews. The menu includes a wide variety of cuisines such as North Indian, Mexican, Indian street food, Italian, etc. The dishes are made to order and are full of flavor. Definitely a must-visit when in Kodaikanal.

3. Cafe Cariappa

Another cafe located on PT Road, Cafe Cariappa is the cafe to visit if you’re craving a good cup of coffee. It’s a snug little cafe that can only accommodate a handful of people at once. The decor exudes warmth and comfort, making you want to spend hours sipping coffee. Carrot cafe is one of their most-loved and talked about items. It was without a doubt, one of the lightest, yummiest cake I’ve had. Paired with a strong cup of coffee, they make a match made in heaven. Cafe Cariappa is highly recommended if you’re a coffee-lover like I am. This was my favorite place among all the places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days.

What to Pack for Kodaikanal

The weather in Kodaikanal is pleasant all-year round. During the winter months of November to February, temperatures drop as low as 12°C. Carry sweaters and warm jackets if you're visiting in those months. Summer months in Kodaikanal are from April to June. This is the most pleasant time to visit the town. However, the crowds also increase during these months. Kodai experiences monsoon showers from July to August. During this time, pack raincoats and waterproof shoes if you're going to be exploring the town.

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This is indeed a complete guide to Koidakanal! Map, food – you thought of everything. I would love to visit India, hopefully in the next year or so, and I am collecting guides for beautiful places. Koidakanal is now on my list. Thank you!

I’m delighted that you’ll be visiting India soon! Kodaikanal would be a great place for you to chill out and relax during your trip 🙂

I have been to kodaikanal once and this article brings back all the memories of Kodaikanal…looks like I missed some places.probably WL cover next time

It reminds me of my Kodaikanal trip…which was really nice..although I missed out on few things..will do it in my next visit

I have never heard about this place before but it sounds exciting! Thank you for putting it in my radar including the activities! Sounds like a great place for vacation

This looks so beautiful! I love your photos. Cafe Carriapa sounds amazing. I love my coffee so would definitely visit there

Oh yes, you’ll love Cafe Cariappa!!

Kodaikanal Lake looks one of the most beautiful places I have seen. I can just imagine spending some relaxing time there and messing around on the water! Fabulous!

It’s indeed a beautiful lake with lots of activities around it!

I’ve never heard of Kodaikanal before, so thank you for introducing me to this beautiful place! I would love to rent a pedal boat on the lake and then try the street food from the stands around the lake. I could easily see myself spending an afternoon just hanging out around the lake. Hoping I get to visit one day!

India is like a world of its own! I am always just so surprised by how varied the landscapes and cities are! There is so much unique, but I your pictures also hint at some little bits and pieces of European culture left behind. The colonial history there is tragic, but it does currently make for alot of variation. I have yet to visit India, but I really hope to someday. It looks amazing!

India does have a vastly diverse landscape. Each city, town and village is unique in its own way. I hope you visit India and experience the wonderful cultures soon 🙂

What a beautiful part of India to explore. I think i’d find myself well and truly based in pastry corner eating all the sweet treats 😉

I never knew there was so much to do in Kodai Kanal! I’m visiting Chennai this summer, maybe I can try to make a trip there 🙂

What a gorgeous looking place. I’ve not heard of Kodaikanal before. I’ve been to India twice and am currently putting together another adventure. Love finding out about places through blogs like yours, thank you.

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Took me back to my college days. Really nice article!

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Wohh precisely what I was searching for, regards for posting.

I need to to thank you for this fantastic read!! I definitely enjoyed every bit of it.I have got you book-marked to look at neww things yyou post…

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The Sole Speaks

9 Heritage buildings in Kodaikanal (That you can still visit)

One’s first impression of Kodaikanal, might be that of any other hill station in India. haphazard development, over-tourism, and tons of plastic pollution in and around the lake.

Kodaikanal has a remarkably rich history that’s old enough to add to the mystique but new enough to let people feel it through the walls and routes that were set up over a hundred years ago by American missionaries who first set up their homes here.

It was in 2018 when I first visited Kodaikanal . It was for a freelancing project (I was to project manage a hostel setup). I set foot there in the midst of peak tourist season, which meant lot of tourists by the lake, lot of picnic spots with trash left behind. But as the footfall started decreasing and I got hold of the thread of history in the form of KMU library, I woke up to a Kodaikanal that was entirely different from how I had been seeing. Since then, I have returned to Kodaikanal multiple times and would continue to do so.

Below are some of the historical buildings that I felt grateful to be able to visit (many historical buildings belong to the church and the Kodaikanal International School, making them inaccessible to the general public).

Shelton is one of the first two Bungalows that were build by the American missionaries who first moved to Kodaikanal. The house still stands today on the lower lake road.

2. Van Allen Hospital

It was the efforts of Dr. Van Allen that got Kodai its first hospital. A hospital that still stands today. Located near Coakers walk, Van Allen offers a scenic view of the valley.

Missionary doctors from CMU (Christian medical college), Vellore, like Dr. Lewis and Ida Scudder would come up during the summers to treat patients in Van Allen.

3. La Saleth Church

La Saleth church is one of the oldest in Kodaikanal. It takes its name from a village in the French alps where the church father Louis Saint Cyr was trying to commemorate is located.

Last Sunday of May every year, a grand festival used to take place here but it was later moved to August. What was earlier a 9 day celebration is now reduced to 2 days but that has not deterred the enthusiasm of people. Roads leading to La Saleth church is lined with vendors, and locals walking to the church, the festival is an occasion of spreading the joy.

4. German Church

Located near Swedish compound (on the way to Vattakanal) is the gorgeous German church that was shared by Swedish and German missions. The church’s distinctive feature is a large wooden bell tower right outside the church in the same compound.

This is one of my favorite church in Kodaikanl, it’s quite, beautiful, and still has the old charm.

5. Kohinoor Bungalow

Located on the Kurinji Andavar temple road, Kohinoor bungalow now serves as a government guest house.

This is where Sheikh Abdullah, the first Chief Minister of Kashmir was interned. Arrested upon his arrival to India on 8th May (over his meeting with the China’s prime minister over Kashmir conflict), he was released owing to his detoriating health on 2nd January 1968.

It’s unusual to see an old structure with two floors in Kodaikanal, this building is one of them.

6. Kodaikanal Club

Initially called the English Club, Kodaikanal club is located at the 7 road junction (the center of Kodaikanal). The club was earlier not open for Indians (except royalty) which to me makes it an embodiment of class difference we still live with. The membership fee being high, does keep the access restricted to a certain class of Indians. And therefore, I find the Indian Club much more interesting even though it’s not operational. As a structure of interest, I find it speak out loud through its very presence.

7. Indian Club

When I first read about Indian club, I wanted to drop everything and go visit. About a km away from where I was staying then, the Indian club still stands at original place.

Indian Club was started by an Indian to provide a place for fellow Indians as Indians weren’t allowed to be part of the Kodaikanal club back then.

On my visit, I came across a group of men playing cards inside, it was dark and nothing about that encounter felt comforting. They all stopped with a look in their eyes that compelled me to leave immediately and I did.

8. Kodaikanal Missionary Union (KMU) Library

KMU played a crucial role in history to foster goodwill in the community. Wednesday afternoons were reserved for tea.

While many of its parts were handed over to the Kodaikanal international school, the library and the reading room still function. There’s also a tea section right outside where residents come for a chat. Currently run by volunteers, the library is open twice a week for limited hours (It was closed during Covid).

9. The Observatory

The foundation stone for Solar Observatory was laid in 1895 and on April 1st, 1899, the observatory was ready.

Kodaikanal’s higher altitude, clear skies, and mild weather made it idea to continue the research that was earlier happening in Chennai (then Madras).

This is where the discovery of Evershed effect (the phenomenon of radial motion in sun spots) was made by Dr. John Evershed.

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20 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

• Kodaikanal Overview
• Top 20 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 .....

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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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21 Places to visit in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a gorgeous town with forests, valleys, waterfalls and vast stretches of green pastures and hills. Located at an elevation of 2000 meters above sea level it is an absolutely exotic hill station. It is a pristine location for a lazy weekend getaway or a fun filled adventure trip, as one can experience the balance of both the travelling experiences here at Kodaikanal.

How to reach Kodaikanal?

By Air – Kodaikanal has many airports which can be reached from the city centre and can thus be a source of travel for both international and luxury travelers. However air travel is not the best possible way of transport as the airports are quite far from the main township area. Here are some of the nearest airports from Kodaikanal:

1. Madurai International Airport (115 kilometer or 80 miles)

2. Coimbatore International Airport (170 kilometers or 110 miles)

3. Tiruchirapalli International Airport (197 kilometers or 122 miles)

4. Tuticorin Airport (262 kilometers or 163 miles)

By Rail – Kodaikanal being a hill station has nearest railway in the plains which is why the nearest railhead from the city centre of Kodaikanal is a little far from the railway station. One needs to avail a bus or a taxi or have a private vehicle to reach the Kodaikanal Lake or the city centre. The nearest railway stations are:

1. Palani Station (64 kilometers or 40 miles) north

2. Kodaikanal Road Station (80 kilometers or 50 miles) south east

3. Dindigul Junction (100 kilometers or 62 miles) east

4. Madurai Junction (114 kilometers or 71 miles) nearly east

By Road –Kodaikanal is well connected by road from Madurai Aarappalayam bus stand and Batlagundu via the frequent bus services that is provided by both the government as well as other private bus services. One can also reach the Kodaikanal Lake via the ghat roads from the railway station or airport on rented vehicles.

Places to visit in Kodaikanal

Historical monuments and places, 1) sacred heart college museum –.

It is a very old museum which was built during the British Raj in India. The museum has almost all the real animals preserved. At display you will get to varieties of butterfly, and other flies, birds, leopard, tiger skeleton was very huge, Elephant and crocodile head bone, and also preserved human baby of every month from 1 month to 9 month preserved. However, it is small size museum, but to imagine how all these would have been collected, methodical presentation, well researched and preserved from more than 100 years tells you about the effort and work undertaken by the staff. It is a must visit for people who have come to Kodaikanal for their weekend getaway trip.

Location – Laws Ghat Rd, Shenbaganur, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

2) Wax Museum –

A popular destination among tourists who visit the museum for learning about the brilliance of art in the area. The museum has numerous celebrity statues which also attracts many tourists.

Location – Golf Links Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Religious Places

1) kurinji andavar temple –.

Built in 1936 the Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, the God of Hills as per the Tamil literatures which is set in charming environment with Kurinji flowers surrounding the temple.

Location – Kurinji Andavar Temple Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Natural Structure and Sightseeing

1) berijam lake –.

According to the city tour guide the Lake is situated at the end of the Pillar Rock Road. The Lake is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kodaikanal for its serene and calm environment and sparkling water which is surrounded by beautiful hills on all sides and thus makes for a perfect weekend getaway picnic spot for family and friends.

Location – Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu, South India

2) Dolphins Nose –

A hill station that has the background of a fairy tale destination. The Dolphins Nose is a rocky cliff which is located at a lofty elevation which helps the tourists sees the stunning panorama of the whole area. It is recommended to visit this place during early morning or during the dusk to experience the actual plethora of colors the blue sky emerges from. So among the many things to do in Kodaikanal, a visit to the Dolphins Nose is a must.

Location – Gangavaram, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

Timing – 3AM – 5PM

3) Kodaikanal Lake –

A stunning and exotic location which is also the heart of the Kodaikanal town, the lake is a sparkling blue water body which is famous among tourists for its picturesque scenery. The Lake glitters from the reflection of the sun rays and has exotic wild trees that surround it along with hills which give on the feeling of being in the natures lap. This is also why boating activity has hiked up in recent times and one can enjoy the activity here while being embraced by the beauty of nature. Best Kodaikanal package has to have a visit to this lake in their sightseeing list.

Location – Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

4) Kodaikanal Solar Observatory –

The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, located at the southern tip of the Palani Hills. It is a tiny dome shaped building that helps in the further study of the starts, constellation and the solar system. A great place for science buffs and students, it is also popular among tourists who are keen in learning something new while they are on their weekend getaway trip to Kodaikanal.

Location – Poombari Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Timing – 10AM–12PM, 2–4PM (Sunday closed)

5) Green Valley View –

Located near the Kodaikanal Golf Club towards the Pillar Rocks, the green valley view is a hit among all age groups. Tourists enjoy the amazing view of the lofty hills, the lush greenery and the blue sky which lets them hit the restart button to their life with a breath of the fresh air.

Location – Dindigul district, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

6) Thalaiyar Falls –

From a height of 297 m eter the water gushes down the hill like a giant. It is the highest waterfall in the state of Tamil Nadu and quite rightly it stays true to its charisma. The waterfall can be viewed from the Dum Dum view point and is one of the most important or popular location for photographers. Best kodaikanal trips are incomplete without a visit to this waterfall.

7) Vattakanal Falls –

A place for the thrill seekers and the adventure junkies as according to the city tour guide the path to this waterfall is a hilly trek though the beautiful forest which is a treat to the eye as well as the soul.

Location – Dindigul, Tamil Nadu

8) Guna Caves –

It is the perfect place for adventure lovers as the path to this place is not just beautiful but also is adventurous. The mystery and natural beauty that cloak these caves are breath taking. A little trek, adventure and oneness with nature are essential to make it the best Kodaikanal trip.

Location – Pillar Rocks Road, Tamil Nadu

Timing – 8AM – 5PM

9) Pine Forest –

A paradise for photographers this place as the name goes is covered in tall and beautiful pine forest. It has a cinematic appeal to it and is thus a shooting spot for many films.

10) Lake View Point –

Going by the name it is certainly a tourist spot to witness the beauty of the Kodaikanal Lake. It enthralls the traveler and provides a panoramic view of the town which is stunning. This place is a must go to for photographers and nature lovers.

11) Perumal Peak –

Being one of the highest peaks in Kodaikanal it is a great spot to go trekking with friends and family. According to the city tour guide the trek route is pretty simple and will only add more fun to your best Kodaikanal trip and thus is definitely of the things to do here is trekking and visiting this peak. The twisted green trees slung over the curvy hills will take your breath away.

12) Kukkal Caves

The caves are of immense historical value for it is popular to bear the traces of the ‘Palaiyar’ tribe which is extinct now. Thus due to its historical significance it is now a list in all best kodaikanal packages and has gained popularity among tourists and historians for the enchanting caves have many tales to tell.

13) Bear Shola Fall –

It is a seasonal waterfall quite far from the normal touristy area of Kodaikanal but is an exclusive spot during the monsoon trips. The area around is filled with different flora and fauna which are native to Kodaikanal.

14) Kodaikanal Golf Club –

The game of the elite. Golf at Kodaikanal is quite popular due to its vast stretch of green land which is an excellent ground to test the golfer in you. If not a game then a visit to this place is surely a must go to make it the best Kodaikanal trip.

15) Vaigai Dam –

At a height of 111 feet, this dam is undoubtedly the best manmade tourist location in Kodaikanal. There is a small park adjacent to the dam is it is a stunning view when the water gates are open. It is an amalgamation of modern architecture and natural beauty which sooths the eye to the very possibility.

Location – Guest House Road, Melmangalam, Tamil Nadu

16) Coakers Walk –

A walk through the clouds amidst the serenity and the beauty of nature. It is surely one of the bet locations in Kodaikanal and among the many things to do here a walk or a cycling trip though the little forest will enrich your soul.

Location –Coakers Walk, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Timing – 7Am – 7PM

17) Shenbaganur Museum –

Located at a distance of 5km from the city centre it is home to almost 300 species of flora and fauna which is why it is popular among students and other travel enthusiasts. The museum is a quaint place which upholds the unique cultures and traditions of South India. Thus all best Kodaikanal packages have this museum in the list of places to visit.

18) Bryant Park –

It is a relaxed garden park which is one of the largest in Kodaikanal and is close to the Kodaikanal Lake which is why it has gained its popularity as the scenery from this park is stunning, especially during dusk.

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The Comprehensive Kodaikanal Trip Guide

Kodaikanal has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century when it was ruled by the Palaiyar tribal people. The British discovered the little town in the early 19th century. Due to its cool climate and scenic beauty, the British established Kodaikanal as a hill station in 1845.

Kodaikanal became a summer retreat for British officers and their families. They built several churches, bungalows, and parks. After India’s independence in 1947, Kodaikanal continued to be a popular tourist destination. During the 1960s, Kodaikanal saw a surge in tourism due to its popularity among hippies and backpackers. Because of its natural beauty owing largely to the Western Ghats , this bustling hill station in Tamil Nadu today attracts tourists from all over the world.

Here is a detailed Kodaikanal city trip guide that will be helpful to all types of travelers.

Table of Content

What to expect from the Kodaikanal trip?

A trip to Kodaikanal promises a memorable experience amid lush forests, serene lakes, and picturesque hills. You can expect these things from a trip to Kodaikanal:

• Scenic beauty : Popular for its stunning natural beauty, Kodaikanal is home to beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and forests. No matter where you go, you’ll be surrounded by picturesque views.
• Adventure activities : There are plenty of adventure activities to choose from in Kodaikanal, including trekking, camping, cycling, and boating. Explore the hills and forests on a nature walk or hike, or take a peaceful boat ride on one of the many lakes in the area.
• Cultural heritage : There are many temples, churches, and museums in Kodaikanal, which offer a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage . Additionally, it is home to a number of historical bungalows and buildings that bear witness to its colonial past .
• Delicious food : There are several delicious dishes to choose from when you visit Kodaikanal, including spicy curries, rice dishes, and traditional desserts. There are many restaurants and cafes in the hill station where you can sample some of the local delicacies .
• Relaxation : It is the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. A leisurely stroll along the lake or one of the parks, or indulge a spa treatment are just a few of the things you can do in Kodaikanal.

A trip to Kodaikanal is a great way to relax and immerse yourself in nature and culture while escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.

How to Reach Kodaikanal?

There are many options to reach Kodaikanal:

• By Air : The closest airport is Madurai International Airport, which is 120 kilometers away. You can reach Kodaikanal by taking a taxi or a bus from there.
• By Train : Kodai Road Railway Station, located 80 km from Kodaikanal, is the nearest railway station. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus.
• By Road : There is good road connectivity to Kodaikanal. Buses or taxis are available from nearby cities, such as Madurai, Coimbatore, and Bangalore. It is a pleasant journey on well-maintained roads.

Also read: Best way to reach Kodaikanal

Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal

Visiting Kodaikanal during the best time of the year depends not only on the weather but also on the festivals and events that are held here. It offers a variety of festivals and events.

• Pongal : Among the most important festivals in Tamil Nadu, Pongal is a four-day harvest festival celebrated in mid-January. A great time to visit Kodaikanal is during Pongal, when you can witness the local customs and traditions and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Learn more about interesting facts of about Tamil Nadu

• Summer Festival : Kodaikanal’s Summer Festival takes place every May. This is an ideal time to visit Kodaikanal, as the festival features flower shows, cultural programs, and boat races on the lake.
• Natyanjali Festival : Natyanjali Festival is a five-day dance festival held every year in Kodaikanal in February. Lord Shiva is the center of this festival, during which dancers from all over the country perform traditional dances in front of the temple.

The best time to visit Kodaikanal is between October and May, taking into account the weather conditions and festivals. Rainfall is heavy from June to August, which you would like to avoid. However, there are many things to do in Tamil Nadu when it rains . If you are a nature lover, September to November is the best time to visit Kodaikanal when everything is lush green and waterfalls are gushing. The temperatures remain relatively low during the winter months of December and January.

Top Tourist Attractions and Photoshoot Places in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, also known as the “Princess of Hill Stations”, has some of the stunning places for a photoshoot. Kodaikanal offers breathtaking views of the mountains and pristine lakes, making it the perfect place for photographers who want to capture the natural beauty of South India. Here are 12 captivating places to photograph in Kodaikanal:

(1) Poombarai Village

Poombarai is a small village located in the Kodaikanal district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is famous for its picturesque landscape and rolling hills. If you are a photographer, then you will find no better place to capture glowing cascaded paddy fields.

(2) Mannavanur Lake

Mannavanur Lake is a freshwater lake located on the outskirts of Kodaikanal. It is famous for its tranquil atmosphere, which is perfect for those who love nature photography. The lake is also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, which makes it a great place to photograph wildlife.

(3) Vattakanal Viewpoint

Vattakanal Viewpoint is an offbeat spot in Kodaikanal that offers stunning views of the valley below. During the monsoon season, these mist-covered mountains are breathtaking.

(4) Kurinji Andavar Temple

Kurinji temple is located at the top of a hill and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The best time to visit is in the summer when the sky is blue and the hills are cloudy. The area is also famous for the Kurinji flower, which blooms every 12 years.

(5) Kodai Lake Viewpoint

Kodai Lake is the most popular tourist spot in Kodaikanal and for good reason. With its placid waters and beautiful surroundings, the viewpoint is a perfect place to capture the natural beauty of the area.

(6) Bryant Park

Located in the heart of Kodaikanal, Bryant Park is home to beautiful rose gardens. The best time to visit the park is during April and May when the roses are in full bloom.

(7) Berijam Lake

Berijam Lake is located 20 kilometers from Kodaikanal and is a popular spot for bird watching. If you are lucky, you might even get to see the elusive black eagle. The area is surrounded by dense forests and offers visitors a tranquil and serene atmosphere. Forest department permission is required for access to the lake.

(8) Coaker’s Walk

Coaker’s walk is a popular walking trail that offers stunning views of the mountains and valley below. When the mist shrouds the rain-drenched mountains during the monsoon season, this place looks beautiful. Additionally, it provides a glittering view of Madurai during the night.

(9) Pillar Rocks

These two gigantic rocks standing 122 meters high are popular tourist attractions in Kodaikanal. The best time to visit Pillar Rocks is during the early morning or evening when the rocks are bathed in sunlight.

(10) Dolphin’s Nose

This is a rock formation that resembles the nose of a dolphin. It is located at the end of a 2-kilometer long valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

(11) La Saleth Church

Known as the ‘Church of the Sleeping Lady’, La Saleth Church is a popular tourist attraction in Kodaikanal. The church is often referred to as the ‘Sleeping Lady’ because of its beautiful architecture. You must obtain permission before taking pictures inside the church.

(12) Chettiar Park

Chettiar Park is a beautiful park located near Kurinji Andavar temple. It is best known for its well-manicured bonsai trees, gardens and tranquil atmosphere. The park is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, which makes it a great place for photographers.

Also read: 6 Things You Must not Miss While Visiting Kodaikanal

Adventure Activities in Kodaikanal

There is a wide range of adventure activities available in Kodaikanal, including trekking, camping, rock climbing, rappelling, and mountain biking. Many locations offer rock climbing and rappelling, such as Dolphin’s Nose and Pillar Rocks.

• Trekking : Trekking trails in Kodaikanal provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Dolphin’s Nose trek, Green Valley View trek, and Perumal Peak trek are some of the most popular trekking trails. Beginners and experienced trekkers can both enjoy these treks due to their varied difficulty levels and durations.
• Camping : Kodaikanal is also a great place to camp. The serene and peaceful surroundings of the Western Ghats make it a perfect place to relax and unwind. Campers have the option of staying in tents, cottages, or eco-lodges.
• Paragliding : Kodaikanal is a popular destination for paragliding, where you can experience the thrill of flying like a bird. First-timers can enjoy tandem paragliding flights with several paragliding operators in and around the city.
• Cycling : Several cycling trails offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. You can rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in Kodaikanal and explore the town at your own pace. On the winding roads surrounding the town, mountain biking offers an adrenaline-filled experience.

Best Places to Eat in Kodaikanal

A variety of food options are available in Kodaikanal to suit different tastes and preferences. Among the local delicacies are Dosai, Idli, Vada, and Pongal for breakfast. Aside from continental cuisine, it also offers street food options like spicy bhajjis, masala omelet and masala peanuts. Homemade chocolates and baked items are popular souvenirs for travelers.

Local Cuisine

The traditional Tamil cuisine of Kodaikanal is a mixture of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Among the must-try local dishes are dosa, idli, sambar, rasam, vada, biryani, and fish curry. Astoria Veg Restaurant, Hotel Tamil Nadu, and Muncheez are some of the local restaurants that serve these dishes.

Popular Restaurants and Cafes

Various restaurants and cafes in Kodaikanal offer a range of cuisines to satisfy a variety of tastes. Here are some of the most popular restaurants and cafes:

• Cloud Street Cafe : Located in the heart of downtown, Cloud Street Cafe offers an array of breakfast, lunch, and dinner choices. This cafe offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and has an excellent ambiance.
• Pastry Corner : The Pastry Corner specializes in cakes, pastries, cookies, and breads, among other baked items. You can grab a quick snack or dessert here.
• Royal Tibet : There are a variety of Tibetan and Chinese dishes to choose from at Royal Tibet. It has a beautiful ambiance and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
• Muncheez : The Muncheez restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Sandwiches, pizzas, and burgers are popular items at the restaurant.
• Tava Vegetarian Restaurant : A variety of North Indian and South Indian vegetarian dishes are available at Tava Vegetarian Restaurant. You’ll love the ambiance and the view of the hills from the restaurant.

Shopping in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a shopper’s paradise, offering a variety of local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Kodaikanal offers a wide variety of souvenirs to take home with you. The most popular items to take home are handmade chocolates, eucalyptus oil, and herbal tea. There are a number of shops and markets where you can find these items, including the Kodaikanal Handicrafts Center, Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan, and Spencer Plaza.

Local Produce and Handicrafts

Local produce and handicrafts are also popular in Kodaikanal. Handcrafted items like pottery, silk and woolen shawls, embroidered tablecloths, and bamboo and cane decor are popular among the tourists. Several local markets carry these items, including the Coaker’s Walk Handicrafts Emporium, Anna Salai Market, and Chettiar Park Market.

Accommodation Options in Kodaikanal

A variety of accommodations are available in and around Kodaikanal, including luxury resorts, cozy cottages, budget hotels, and guesthouses. Guests can enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable stay at many of the accommodations that offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and include modern amenities such as spas, restaurants, and recreational facilities.

Luxury Hotels

There are plenty of luxury hotels in Kodaikanal that offer world-class amenities and services. Some of the most famous luxury hotels are:

• The Carlton
• Sterling Kodai Lake
• The Tamara Kodai

Each hotel has luxurious rooms, a spa, a fitness center, and restaurants that serve a variety of meals.

Budget Hotels

There are many mid-range budget hotels in Kodaikanal for those looking for comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. Some of the popular budget hotels are:

• The Kodai Resort
• Hotel Jem Valley
• Surya Holidays

Besides clean rooms, these hotels offer a range of amenities and services, including room service, laundry, and travel assistance.

There are several homestays in Kodaikanal that offer comfortable accommodation in a family-friendly environment if you are looking for a more authentic experience. Some of the popular homestays are:

• Hill Country Kodaikanal
• Villa Retreat (an excellent boutique property with breathtaking view)
• Cherry Blossom Homestay

Homestays offer clean rooms, home-cooked meals, and activities such as trekking, bird watching, and plantation walks.

Hostels in Kodaikanal are a popular option for travelers seeking budget-friendly lodging. The hostel is an excellent option for backpackers and solo travelers seeking to meet new people and save money on accommodations. Some of the popular hostels are:

• Trippr Kodaikanal Backpacker Hostel
• Hostel Jerusalem

The hostels offer shared and private rooms with Wi-Fi, hot water, and kitchen facilities. Guests can also participate in events and activities to interact and explore the city together.

Planning Your Itinerary

Depending on one’s preferences and interests, Kodaikanal offers a wide variety of attractions and activities to enjoy. You should spend at least 2-3 days exploring the major tourist attractions and taking part in adventure activities.

A typical 3-day itinerary for Kodaikanal would look like this:

• Arrive in Kodaikanal late in the morning or early in the afternoon and check into your hotel.
• Visit Coaker’s Walk, a scenic promenade with breathtaking valley views.
• Enjoy a boat ride on Kodaikanal Lake. Rent a bicycle and ride in the lake’s periphery, it’s fun.
• Enjoy an evening at Bryant Park, a beautiful botanical garden with a variety of flowers.
• Stroll through the market area and indulge in some shopping or window shopping.
• Get up early the next day and hike to Dolphin’s Nose and Echo Point, natural rock formations that offer stunning views. The trek should take about two hours and is not difficult.
• Visit Pillar Rocks, which features two towering rocks. The trek is moderate to difficult. It also takes about two hours to trek. It is possible to watch the pillar rocks from the platform if you are not comfortable with the trek.
• Take a trip to Poombarai and Mannavanur Lake in the late afternoon. Since these places are on the outskirts of Kodaikanal, you will need a vehicle. On your way, you can stop at the pine forest for some photoshoots.
• Visit Kurinji Andavar Temple in the evening, a famous shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan. From here, you can see the mesmerizing Western Ghats in all its glory . On your way to the temple, you might also want to stop at Chettiar Park.
• Trek to the Suicide Point, also known as Green Valley Viewpoint, in the early morning for a panoramic view of the valley. OR
• Experience the mesmerizing beauty of the cloud-covered Western Ghats from Vattakanal cliff viewpoint. It is also possible to trek to Vattakanal falls, which is an easy to moderate hike.
• Enjoy the beautiful countryside while paragliding or cycling.
• Bear Shola Falls (seasonal) – a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery
• La Saleth Church – the first church of Kodaikanal built in 1866.
• Silver Cascade Falls (seasonal)
• Silent Valley Viewpoint
• Chocolate Factory
• Shembaganur Museum of Natural History

Check out of the hotel and prepare to leave Kodaikanal.

What are you waiting for…

A magical and serene hill station in South India, Kodaikanal offers travelers a range of activities and experiences. From breathtaking viewpoints to tranquil lakes, adventure activities to shopping and food, the hill station has it all. Natural beauty combined with rich culture and traditions make it truly unique and memorable. It offers a variety of accommodation options to suit any budget and preference. A trip to Kodaikanal is a must if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and soak in nature’s beauty.

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2 Responses

Can we do coupleshoot in these places? Let me know which places permits in Kodaikanal.

I don’t have much idea about it. I suggest you check with the concerned authority in Kodaikanal.

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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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Historical Places Near 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
• View all 10 places
• Things to do
• Best time to visit
• How to Reach
• Tourist Map
• within 25kms
• within 50kms
• within 100kms
• within 150kms
• within 200kms
• within 250kms
• within 300kms
• within 500kms

72 Historical Places to Visit Near Kodaikanal

Table of contents.

Historical Places to Visit Near Kodaikanal

• 1. Chain Tree
• 2. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Pondicherry
• 3. Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace
• 4. Somanathapura Temple
• 5. Schwartz Church
• 6. Aurobindo Handmade Paper Factory (Pondicherry Paper Factory)
• 7. Varkala Light House
• 8. Bull Temple (Dodda Basavana Gudi)
• 9. Shakthan Thampuran Palace
• 10. Tellicherry Fort
• 11. Mysore Palace (Ambavilas Palace)
• 12. Pazhassi Raja Tomb
• 13. Kannur Lighthouse
• 14. Jaffna Fort
• 15. Padmanabhapuram Palace
• 16. Jetavanaramaya
• 17. Angelo Fort
• 18. Vizhinjam Lighthouse
• 19. Kuttam Pokuna
• 20. French War Memorial Pondicherry
• 21. Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)
• 22. Old Lighthouse Pondicherry
• 23. Thanjavur Palace
• 24. Chinese Fishing Nets
• 25. Samanar Hills
• 26. Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery and Auditorium
• 27. Madikeri Fort
• 28. Krishnapuram Palace
• 29. Alleppey Lighthouse
• 30. Mangala Devi Temple
• 31. Mishkal Mosque
• 32. Kuthira Malika (Puthen Malika) Palace
• 33. Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace
• 34. Vattakottai Fort
• 35. Palakkad Fort
• 36. Koodal Azhagar Temple
• 37. Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue
• 38. Malik Deenar Mosque
• 39. Bangalore Palace
• 40. Edakkal Caves
• 41. Shore Temple
• 42. Rama Setu (Adam's Bridge)
• 43. Brihadeeswara Temple (Peruvudaiyar Kovil)
• 44. Hosdurg Fort
• 45. Saraswathi Mahal Library
• 46. Jain Temple, Sulthan Bathery
• 47. Raj Niwas Pondicherry
• 48. Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)
• 49. Raja's Seat
• 50. Bekal Fort
• 51. Francis Church
• 52. Anjengo Fort
• 53. Anchuthengu and Anjengo Fort
• 54. Mirisawetiya Stupa
• 55. Belavadi
• 56. Valiyathura Pier
• 57. Halcyon Castle
• 58. Juma Masjid
• 59. Ezhimala Hill
• 60. Varkala Tunnel
• 61. Kuttichira
• 62. Mother of God Church
• 63. Fort Kochi
• 64. Veerabhadra Temple
• 65. Lepakshi
• 66. Lalitha Mahal Palace
• 67. Thanjavur
• 68. Lighthouse and the Lighthouse Heritage Museum
• 69. Stephen's Church Ooty
• 70. Vijayanagara Fort
• 72. Kallanai Dam (Grand Anicut)

Explore Places to Visit Near Kodaikanal by Type

Other Suggested Reads for Kodaikanal

• About Kodaikanal Tourism
• Places To Visit in Kodaikanal
• 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

The Revolving Compass

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

Lesser Known Places around Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, also referred to as the Princess of Hills, is a marvel of nature. This place has innumerable waterfalls, lakes, parks and hills. Each one offering a splendid view and vibes that are perfect for unwinding from the busy lives that everyone tends to be engrossed in. See this 3 days Kodaikanal itinerary to get an idea of what places to explore in the town and around.  Given how popular some other hill stations of south India like Ooty , Munnar and Coorg have become. One can be forgiven to assume that Kodaikanal in that regard is an offbeat location. However, with the ever-increasing number of tourists and travellers to this place, its becoming popular. And why not. As, this place has the perfect mix of nature and infrastructure for a comfortable vacation in nature’s lap.

Moreover, the drive to Kodaikanal from nearby cities like Bangalore is a scenic journey in itself. Also, it has similar weather conditions all through the year. Making it a year round destination. But the best part is that apart from the regular places to visit here there remain a handful of places that are off the beaten path. So, here is a list of 5 offbeat places that must make your list of places to visit in Kodaikanal. Although we are sure you must have visited many other locations in Kodaikanal itself. But many of you might not have explored these offbeat yet beautiful places around Kodaikanal.

Table of Contents

Dolmen Circle

As popular as Kodaikanal is for its natural and scenic beauty. At the same time, it also has a deeply rooted history. And the testament to how far back its history goes is the Dolmen or Kistaven at the Dolmen Circle. This is the first place on our list of beautiful and offbeat places around Kodaikanal. And an intriguing place for history lovers. According to Anthropologists, it dates to 5000BC !! And is believed to be the burial and dwelling ground for the Stone Age man. If you have visited the more popular Edakkal Caves in Wayanad , you will know what we are talking about here. The Dolmen’s structure includes, one horizonal slab of stone supported by two vertical slabs of stones. And the history associated with the Dolmens definitely calls for a visit to this place. Since it’s not often and everywhere that you get to see things related to stone age !!

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

Kodaikanal’s Solar Observatory has made contributions to science through its observations of solar activity. This has made it gain popularity in the Astrophysics circles. Observatory also boasts of a library with invaluable data and readings on the related topics. A glimpse of the magnificence of the work from the observatory can be seen at the Solar Observatory Museum. Especially for the families travelling to Kodaikanal, a visit to this place is a good way to help the kids appreciate science. And that is why we put it on our list of places around Kodaikanal that one must visit.

Berijam Lake

One thing that is a constant in every Kodaikanal itinerary, is the visit to a lake. As, all the lakes in Kodaikanal offer splendid views. And if it were up to me, I would visit them all. However, a well preserved one is Berijam lake. Actually it has a limited number of vehicles allowed per day. And that too with prior permission from the Forest Department! It is a reservoir with endless greenery around it. Given its preserved environment, Berijam lake offers a good scope for bird watching amongst the peaceful vibes of the place. Also, the scenic backdrop of this place is ideal for photography. And other fun activities offered at the lake include fishing and safari. So, apart from the Kodai Lake which is right in the heart of Kodaikanal, we highly recommend adding Berijam Lake to your list of places around Kodaikanal.

Shembaganur Museum

Shembaganur Museum is a museum of Natural History at Sacred Heart College. It is a 123-year-old museum with a beautiful collection of both flora and fauna. Also, it is one of the best orchidariums in the country, hosting about 300 species of flowers and plants. It also has an incredible collection of taxidermy of more than 500 species of insects, birds, animals. Other wildlife creatures on display are snakes, moths, mammals and butterflies. To add to its illustrious collection, are the artefacts from the time of Paliyar tribes . This is just the place for the young inquisitive minds. And highly recommended whether visiting solo or with family.

Kukkal (or “Kookal’) Village, at about 30km from Kodaikanal is the farthest place on this list. In fact it is also one of the lesser explored places around Kodaikanal. Actually, Kukkal is a terrace farming village with absolutely peaceful vibes. And is the perfect place to unwind and have a peaceful vacation. Here you can enjoy both the beautiful Kukkal Lake as well as the Kukkal caves. At one point in time the Kukkal cave was the settlement of the Paliyar Tribe. If you are planning to stay the night at this place, there are quite a few stays perfectly quipped to cater you. Head here for a relaxed couple of days with friends and family.

These are the top 5 locations that are not the most popular but definitely worth including in your itineraries when you visit the Princess of Hills, Kodaikanal. If you are not convinced yet about a trip to this paradise, read places to visit in Kodaikanal and you will have enough reasons to convince yourself. If you are interested in more interesting travel content, feel free to visit Xplore The Earth . Also, see here – the best places to stay in Kodaikanal .

This is a guest post by Saransh. A footballer and number cruncher. Saransh, loves to explore new places and talk about them. An adrenaline junkie who is almost always ready for an adventure. Above all, he likes to travel at a slow pace and enjoy the moment.

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

2 thoughts on “Lesser Known Places around Kodaikanal”

I Like Very Much This Post, Great Information for Travel to India

Great Post!!! I love it. Kodaikanal is the only place left on my India Travel Bucket List. I will definitely visit this beautiful place soon.

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• Destination

Travel With Family To The Wonderful City Of Kodaikanal In Tamil Nadu

If you're planning a family getaway, look no further than the serene town of kodaikanal in tamil nadu. it treats you with tranquil lakes, verdant landscapes, and enjoyable weather. not just for those who love nature, but also for sports buffs and folks who have a thing for hills, kodaikanal has plenty to offer. make sure to check out the top 10 family-friendly activities for a trip that's certain to leave echoes of laughter and memories to cherish..

Ishika Jain Updated: Sep 06, 2024 12:20 PM IST

In the planning of your family vacation Kodaikanal, a place in Tamil Nadu is a perfect destination that has its serene lakes, lush foliage and pleasant weather. For nature enthusiasts, sporting people and those who just find themselves among hills Kodaikanal provides all with something. It is therefore important to get some insights into these top 10 family friendly activities so as to make your trip worthwhile.

1. Boat Ride on Kodaikanal Lake

Start your exploration with a peaceful boat ride on Kodaikanal Lake also known as Kodai Lake. The lake has rowing boats, peddle boats and Kashmir shikaras which makes it a lovable experience for families since it offers mist-covered hills and scenic landscapes.

2. Coaker's Walk

Walking on the pedestrian path at the edge of Coaker Hill leads you to Coaker's walk where you get an impressive view of both valley and surrounding hill ranges. A good place for families to enjoy a slow walk along the beauty of nature while taking photos.

3. Bryant Park

Visit Bryant Park which is a beautifully landscaped botanical garden with colorful flowers, hybrids, and varieties of plants. Families can relax amidst this calm environment while others can visit the greenhouse or do picnics on the well maintained lawns.

4. Pillar Rocks

Explore the pillar rocks which are three giant rock pillars rising high amidst these green hillocks; they are popular viewpoints displaying panoramic views of their surrounding valleys and distant plains; there is always awe among kids when looking at them because of their mystique nature.

5. Bear Shola Falls

You will need to trek through forest to reach bear shola falls during wet season it is a seasonal waterfall totally surrounded by thick trees and shrubs for families' enjoyment especially if they want stunning views along with bathing in pools near falls during safe seasons".

This hill station has numerous family friendly activities due to its scenic beauty and favorable climate conditions. This hill station guarantees a memorable vacation for families whether you are exploring nature or taking part in recreational activities or simply relaxing amidst hills. Plan your itinerary around these top 10 activities so you can make most of your trip in Kodaikanal creating memories which would never fade away at all times but remain cherished forever while adapting to tiny little things.

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

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Top 10 Places to Visit In Palakkad, Kerala (UPDATED)

Silent Valley National Park, Ottapalam , Dhoni Waterfalls , Vadakkanthara Temple , and Attapadi are some of the best places to visit in Palakkad, Kerala . Whether you’re fascinated by untamed nature, exotic wildlife, ancient shrines, or historic architecture, you’ll love visiting these marvels!

Tucked in the foothills of the Nilgiris, Palakkad is a beautiful destination blessed with undisturbed natural beauty, diverse landscapes, vibrant local culture, and age-old archaeological wonders that are something to write home about.

Whether you’re looking for a couple’s vacation, seeking an adventurous sojourn with your friends, or browsing Kerala tour packages for a family holiday, you’ll find something for everyone in these brilliant tourist places in Palakkad.

Top 10 places to visit in Palakkad, Kerala

From waterfalls to forests, backwaters, hills, and wildlife sanctuaries, there are tons of delightful attractions in Palakkad that you can’t possibly explore in a single visit to Kerala.

So, we have compiled a list of the most unique and famous places in Palakkad that you shouldn’t miss!

See what they all offer before you add them to your Palakkad trip itinerary.

ALSO SEE – 📍Top 15 Places To Visit In Kerala this year (With Map)

1. Ottapalam

Ottapalam is a tiny village on the banks of the Bharatapuzha river and one of the most tranquil places to visit in Palakkad.

If you’re looking for a rustic village with untouched natural beauty, Ottapalam will make for an idyllic destination for your holiday!

Its swaying palms, clear blue skies, virgin meadows, and the azure river have also made it a popular shooting location among Tamil filmmakers!

Ottapalam is also among the most frequented tourist places in Palakkad district for its notable festival of Chinakathoor Puram.

2. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

If you’re seeking adventurous one day trip places in Palakkad, the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve should be at the top of your list!

Covering an expanse of over 400 sq meters, this wildlife sanctuary is home to a plethora of flora and fauna that brings wildlife enthusiasts here from all over the country.

In addition to a large population of Royal Bengal Tigers, you will also find lion-tailed macaques, wild boars, king cobras, Indian leopards, sloths, Malabar Flying Squirrels, and the Travancore Kukri snakes here.

It’s one of the best places to visit in Palakkad for a thrilling Jeep safari and trekking expedition in the mighty Anamalai and Nelliampathy hills.

Timings: 7 AM – 4 PM Entry fee:

• Light vehicles: INR 50/-
• Heavy vehicles: INR 150/-
• Jeep safari: INR 200/- (free for kids below 10)

ALSO SEE – Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: Timings, Booking, Forest Stay

3. Vadakkanthara Temple

Dedicated to Goddess Kannaki, the beautiful Vadakkanthara Temple is among the most revered tourist places in Palakkad among Hindu worshippers. The  Vadakkanthara  Thirupuraikkal Bhagavathy  Temple  is the only  temple  in Kerala that celebrates the goddess in her complete idolic form

It is located a mere 2 km away from Palakkad Railway Station in a stunning complex and attracts both Hindu and non-Hindu devotees with its brilliant architecture and spiritual aura!

You must visit during the evening aarti when the beautiful wooden carvings and traditional architecture of this holy shrine turn into a visually stunning spectacle under the light of a thousand fireworks!

Timings: 4:30 AM – 11:30 AM; 4:30 PM – 8 PM Entry fee: Nil

4. Silent Valley National Park

Spread over an area of 89 sq km, Silent Valley National Park tucked away in the Western Ghats is among the most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries in the country.

Though small in size, this park is among the most well-preserved nature reserves in India with virgin forests, untouched flora, and an eco-friendly safari schedule that ensures its wild inhabitants roam around undisturbed!

It’s among the most pristine places to visit in Palakkad to witness animals like Asian elephants, Royal Bengal Tigers, wild boars, lion-tailed macaques, gaur, panthers, langurs, and sambar deer among various endangered species of birds.

Known to be India’s last remaining virgin tracts of tropical evergreen forests, Silent Valley is decked with lofty peaks, rare herbs, and the crystal clear Kunthi River that runs through the forest.

Timings: 6:45 AM – 2:45 PM Entry fee: INR 50/-

• Still Camera: INR 25/-
• Video Camera: INR 200/-
• Jeep safari: INR 1,600

ALSO SEE – Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries In Kerala

5. Palakkad Fort

Palakkad sightseeing is incomplete without a visit to its most important historical marvel- the Palakkad Fort!

Also called Tipu’s Fort, Palakkad Fort is among the most famous places in Palakkad that attracts everyone from history lovers and archelogy enthusiasts to couples and families with kids!

Along with stunning French-style architecture, a state-of-the-art museum, well-preserved bastions, and an open-air auditorium, this square-shaped fortress has several green gardens fit for fun picnics.

Its other attractions like the Hanuman temple, sub-jail section, Martyr’s Column, and Anjaneya Swamy Temple also make it one of the most fascinating places to visit in Palakkad!

Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM Entry fee: Nil

6. Dhoni Waterfalls

Set 15 km away from Palakkad city center, Dhoni Waterfalls is a refreshing blend of untampered nature, boundless adventure, and scenic beauty!

One can reach this beautiful cascade set amid the lush Dhoni hills and a pristine forest in the heart of God’s Own Country with an easy three-hour-long trek.

The rejuvenating experience of trekking to this crystal clear waterfall has made Dhoni a popular locale among adventure seekers and one of the most mesmerizing tourist places in Palakkad!

Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM Entry fee: Nil

ALSO SEE – A Pocket Guide To Dhoni Waterfalls, Kerala’s Unspoiled Gem

7. Attapadi Reserve Forest

Located on the border of the Silent Valley National Park, Attapadi Reserve is a protected forest reserve in the Nilgiri Valley famous for the rare Attapadi black goats found here.

Spread over an area of 250 sq km, this offbeat and untampered piece of wilderness with endless natural beauty is known to be one of the largest tribal settlements in Kerala.

It’s a quaint little forest and village area under government protection unlike anywhere else, making it one of the most bizarre places to visit in Palakkad, Kerala.

Timings: NA Entry fee: Nil

8. Malampuzha Garden & Dam

Set in the foothills of the Western Ghats and on the banks of the Bharathapuzha River, Malampuzha Garden is one of the most fun tourist places in Palakkad for a picnic, boating, and a leisurely evening stroll! Malampuzha gardens , located in the lower hills of the Western Ghats, are the only rock-cut  gardens  in South India

This landscaped garden attracts families and couples with its enticing collection of well-maintained grasslands, artificial ponds and waterfalls, colorful flower beds, vintage sculptures, a rock garden, an aquarium, and an amusement park!

Home to artist Kanai Kanhiraman’s famed Yakshi Statue, this garden is the perfect place for relaxation as well as some delightful family photos with the stunning Malampuzha Dam in the backdrop!

Timings: 9 AM – 8 PM Entry fee:

• Adults: INR 25
• Kids under 12: INR 10
• Still camera: INR 100
• Video camera: INR 1,000

ALSO SEE – 11 Most Unique Places To Visit In Kerala: Beyond the Usual

9. Kollengode Palace

The Kollengode Palace, built by Kollengode town’s blacksmith community, is a must-visit if you wish to get familiar with the true cultural heritage and history of Palakkad.

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this palace-cum-hotel built in a mix of European and authentic Kerala style of architecture has a collection of murals, temples, manuscripts, and ancient stones and sculptures from all over Kerala.

Set in the midst of lush paddy fields and the majestic Nelliyampathy Hills, this palace is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Palakkad for history and archaeology fanatics.

10. Nelliyampathy

The last one on our list of Palakkad tourist places you shouldn’t miss is Nelliyampathy!

Palakkad’s crown jewel, Nelliyampahty is often referred to as the “tourist’s paradise” owing to its tranquil natural beauty, charming waterfalls, deep forests, and aromatic plantations of tea, coffee, pepper, and orange.

This small hill station is among the best attractions in Palakkad for adventure seekers given that it offers thrilling experiences like trekking, wildlife viewing, Jeep safari, and birdwatching.

Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM Entry fee: Nil

ALSO SEE – Nelliyampathy Tourist Places- Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do

Which of these fabulous places to visit in Palakkad will you explore first? If you’ve already picked your favorites, all you have to do now is reach out to our team and let them brew you an exciting holiday in God’s Own Country!

About Kanika S

Hello, I'm Kanika S and a travel content writer at Iris Holidays. I'm here to help you travel in Kerala through useful tips and helpful articles. Don't forget to get a FREE Customised Holiday Itinerary if you are planning to visit Kerala.

In case you have any questions, you can ask it in our Ask a Question and I would be happy to help you.

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Places to Visit in Yala

• Places To Visit

Here are some of the best places to visit in Yala:

Buduruwagala

Buduruwagala, located in the Monaragala District of Sri Lanka, is a remarkable ancient rock temple that dates back to the 10th century. Its name means "the rock of Buddha images," and it is renowned for its massive rock-cut statues, which are considered some of the finest examples of Mahayana Buddhist sculpture in the country.

Yala National Park

Spread across 979 square kilometres, the Yala National Park is one of the largest national parks in Sri Lanka. It is one of the most visited, thanks to the 200 bird species and 44 animal species that live here. This park continues to attract tourists from across the world for its pristine atmosphere and the lush greenery. 

Okanda Devalaya

Okanda Devalaya is a revered Hindu temple situated in the Kumana National Park in Sri Lanka's Eastern Province. It is dedicated to Lord Murugan, a popular deity in Hinduism, particularly worshiped by Tamil Hindus. The temple plays a central role in the annual Kataragama pilgrimage, a spiritual journey undertaken by thousands of devotees.

Kebiliththa

Kebiliththa is a fascinating, lesser-known historical and cultural site located in Sri Lanka. Situated in the Anuradhapura District, Kebiliththa is renowned for its ancient rock temple and the intriguing legends surrounding it. The temple, carved into a large rock formation, dates back to the 3rd century BCE, reflecting the rich architectural and religious heritage of the region.

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Sithulpawwa

Sithulpawwa is an ancient Buddhist monastery located in the Hambantota District of Sri Lanka. This sacred site, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, is renowned for its historical and cultural significance. The name "Sithulpawwa" translates to "The Hill of the Quiet Mind," reflecting the serene and contemplative atmosphere of the monastery.

Magul Maha Viharaya

Magul Maha Viharaya is a significant Buddhist temple located in the town of Tissamaharama in southern Sri Lanka. Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, this ancient temple complex is renowned for its historical and architectural significance. The temple was established during the reign of King Kavantissa and is associated with the early Buddhist history of Sri Lanka.

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Tsunami Memorial

The Tsunami Memorial in Sri Lanka stands as a poignant reminder of the devastating tsunami that struck the island on December 26, 2004. This catastrophic event, triggered by a massive undersea earthquake off the coast of Sumatra, resulted in a wave that swept across the Indian Ocean, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. In Sri Lanka, the disaster claimed over 30,000 lives and left countless others displaced.

Kataragama, located in southeastern Sri Lanka, is a significant pilgrimage site that attracts visitors from various religious backgrounds. It’s renowned for the Kataragama Temple, which is dedicated to Kataragama Deviyo, a deity revered in both Hinduism and Buddhism. This temple complex is a melting pot of cultural and religious traditions, reflecting the syncretic nature of Sri Lankan spirituality.

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Nuwara Eliya Golf Club

Galle Dutch Fort

The Galle Dutch Fort, located in Galle, Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its historical significance and architectural charm. Built by the Dutch in the 17th century, the fort stands as a testament to colonial-era maritime power. Its well-preserved walls enclose a captivating blend of European and South Asian influences, featuring cobblestone streets, impressive ramparts, and picturesque buildings. Today, the fort is a popular tourist destination offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich cultural past.

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