kodai tourist places

37 Incredible Tourist Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

(courtesy: prasantakrdutta)

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

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

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

Some of the prominent places to visit in Kodaikanal are:

Lakes in Kodaikanal

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

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

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

Berijam Lake

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

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

Mannavanur Lake

(courtesy: suresh31589)

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

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

Viewpoints in Kodaikanal

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

Coaker’s Walk

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

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

Dolphin's Nose

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

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

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

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

Silent Valley View Point

(courtesy: sivaramakrishnannageswaran)

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

Green Valley View

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

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

Telescope House

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

Vembadi Peak

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

Perumal Peak

(courtesy: neumeyer)

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

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

Pillar Rocks

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

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

Upper Lake View

(courtesy: sungold79)

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

Waterfalls in Kodaikanal

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

Bear Shola Falls

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

Thalaiyar Falls

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

Pambar Falls

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

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

Silver cascade Falls

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

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

Fairy Falls

(courtesy: swaminathanm)

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

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

Vattakanal Falls

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

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

Parks and Caves in Kodaikanal

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

Bryant Park

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

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

Chettiar Park/ Chettiyar Park

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

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

Pine Forest

(courtesy: roy)

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

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

(courtesy: sureshkanna)

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

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

(courtesy: naveenrajgowthaman)

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

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

Museums and Observatory in Kodaikanal

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

Shembaganur Museum of Natural History

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

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

Wax Museum, Kodaikanal

(courtesy: ilakkiarajs)

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

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

Astrophysical Observatory/ Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

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

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

Religious Sites in Kodaikanal

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

Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple

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

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

Mother Saleth Church/ La Saleth Church

(courtesy: umakantmishra)

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

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

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

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

Christ the King Church

(courtesy: johnsteedman)

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

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

Lutheran Church

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

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

Subrahmanya Temple

(courtesy: prabakaranvinayagam)

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

Other sightseeing Places in Kodaikanal

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

Dolmen Circle

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

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

Poombarai Village

(courtesy: mohang)

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

80 Mile Round

(courtesy: tamilnadufavtourism)

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

Golf Course Club

(courtesy: rjinnkodaikanal)

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

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

Shopping in Kodaikanal

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

Anna Salai Market

(courtesy: sensd)

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

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

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

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Top Tourism Places to visit in Kodaikanal

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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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• 35 Places To Visit In Kodaikanal That’ll Make You Fall For The Western Ghats

They say “the best things in the world are free”, and you begin to realize/believe it as soon as you set your foot in Kodaikanal. The satisfying, woody, and sharp scent of pine blowing in the air, dewdrops on rose petals, trees stretching their limbs in the morning sun, and the Kurinji flowers turning the upper hills of Kodai purplish-blue, all of these things often leave people at a loss for words, and that’s when the real magic begins. The entire town is made of tiny tourist spots that make it a paradise, and I’m not sure whether this list of 25 places to visit in Kodaikanal can do justice to its old-world charm, but let’s give it a shot!

35 Best Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

Looking for the finest Kodaikanal tourist places for your next escapade? Here is a list of some of the most amazing places to visit in Kodaikanal for a fun and memorable vacation with your friends and family.

1. Kodaikanal Lake – A Serene Lake

On a fine day when clouds hover above Kodaikanal and cool breeze flows through the forests, visit Kodaikanal Lake. Covering an expanse of 60 acres, this man-made, star-shaped lake has been welcoming countless tourists since 1863. Created by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the then Collector of Madurai, the lake is fed by the waters that come from Palani Hills. The lake’s outflow creates a breathtaking waterfall, which is called “Silver Cascade”. At a height of 180 ft, the cascade is also one of the popular places to visit in Kodaikanal.

Timings: 24 hours Suggested visiting duration: 1-2 hours Entry fee: No entry charges Places To Stay: The Carlton, Kodai Resort Hotel, Adhithya Holidays, Sterling Kodai Lake, Wood green cottage

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2. Berijam Lake – With A Refreshing Setting

A reservoir located amid non-native trees and vast grassland, Berijam Lake is just a few km from Kodaikanal, which makes it one of the best places to see in Kodaikanal. The lush greenery and refreshing setting of the lake make it a wonderful picnic spot. Since the lake is connected by motorable roads, it is not a difficult task to reach here. However, tourists need a forest pass to enter the area. Those interested in fishing will have to take permission from the Fisheries Department. Apart from this, tourists can also go for a scenic boat ride.

Timings: Monday to Sunday. 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: No entry charges Places To Stay: Pine Castle Kodaikanal, Eco Escape, Eco Hostel, Rose Flower Nest, Shreyas, Radiance Art Residency 

3. Mannavanur Lake – A Natural Paradise

One of the most serene places to visit in Kodaikanal, Mannavanur Lake is nothing less than a paradise. The drive to the lake is absolutely scenic as the road on both the side is lined with eucalyptus and pine trees. Mannavanur area is blessed with a rich fauna. One can see exotic birds flying and spot wild animals. The lake is located inside a sheep farm where one can see flocks of sheep grazing. The Forest Department of the area offers coracle ride at a nominal fee, one can also go for horse riding. Try these things to do in Kodaikanal for a great vacation.

Timings: Monday to Sunday. 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: INR 10 per person Places To Stay: Red Rabbit Guesthouse, Campers Valley Camping, Eco Hostel, Radiance Art Residency 

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4. Guna Caves –  Inspired From A Movie

Image Source

Located at a distance of 12 km from Kodaikanal, Guna Cave remained unknown for many years, but then came a Kamal Hassan starer movie “Guna” in 1991 and changed the fate of this cave. The cave was discovered by an English officer named BS Ward in 1821 CE. If you’re interested in exploring the hidden wonders in the pine trees of Kodaikanal, you must explore this cave. The list of Kodaikanal tourist places is not complete without Guna Cave. Some of the best   adventure sports in Kodaikanal are hiking, camping, and more which are a must-try for all adventure enthusiasts.

Timings: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. All days. Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: INR 5 per person and INR 10 for still camera Places To Stay: Premium Cottage stay, Holiday Home, Sunrise Rooms, Pine Castle Kodaikanal, Shreyas

5. La Saleth Church – Become Spiritual

A highly attractive church with a wonderful architecture, La Saleth was built in 1846 and was expanded over the course of the next century. A right blend of culture and Tamil French architecture, this shrine is located 7,000 feet above sea level. Offering a panoramic view of the lush mountain range, this catholic church in Kodaikanal is one of the most popular churches in Kodaikanal .

Timings: 8.00 am to 6.00 pm Suggested visiting duration:  1 hour Entry Fee: No Entry Fee Places To Stay: The Tamara Kodai, The Green House, Amherst Cottage By The Lake, Ruban house, Single studio Cottage 

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6. Vattakanal Falls – A Grand And Gorgeous Falls

Right in the middle of a peaceful forest, Vattakanal Falls is among the most amazing places to see in Kodaikanal. During monsoon season, the waterfall is in full swing making it look grand and gorgeous. Vattakanal Falls is one of those waterfalls in Kodaikanal that are absolutely safe to be around, but you’re still suggested to wear footwear that isn’t slippery.

Timings: 24 hours Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: NA Places to stay: NA

7. Pambar Falls – With Pristine Waters

3 km from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Pambar Falls is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the entire hill station. The town’s reservoir overflows creating a waterfall called “Fairy Falls”, which then continues to join the Vaigai River creating the Pambar Falls. Down below, there’s a pond-like formation where you can bath in the cool and pristine water of the waterfall. The green and wild vicinity makes this place absolutely picture-perfect.

Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. All days Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: No entry charges Places to stay: NA

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8. Astrophysical Observatory – A Perfect Spot

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

• April 1st to June 15th. 10:00 am to 12:00 noon and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
• For the rest of the year, it remains open to the public only on Friday between 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.

Suggested Visiting Duration: 2-3 hours Entry Fee: NA Places to stay: NA 

9. Kodai Chocolate Factory – Breathe Through Aroma

Started in 1999, Kodai Chocolate Factory is a leading manufacturer and supplier of chocolates, aromatic oils, coffees, etc. They specialize in making delicious homemade chocolates and their products are 100% vegetarian. If you are a die-hard chocolate fan, it is among the must-visit places to see in Kodaikanal for you. Do pay a visit to Pot Luck, Cloud Street, Chocolate Factory, and SG Cottage Industries to buy and try different varieties of chocolates.

Timings: 9.00 am to 9.00 pm Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: NA Places To Stay: Hotel Jc Grand, Hotel Raindrops, JC Woodville Manor, Hotel Anjay, Sky villa, Pleasant Stay Kodai

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10. Lutheran Church – Attain Some Peace

Built in 1932, the Lutheran Church of Kodaikanal is an impressive Gothic-style structure. The church is adorned with stained glass window, modern paintings, and murals depicting the life of Jesus Christ. Anyone interested in a beautiful piece of architecture must pay a visit to this shrine.

Timings: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm. All days Suggested visiting duration : 1 hour Entry Fee: NA Places to stay: NA

11. Perumal Peak – Witness Sweeping Views

A gorgeous part of the might Western Ghats, Perumal Peak is for everyone who wants to witness sweeping views of the valley. A trekker’s delight, the peak is located at a distance of 8,005 ft above sea level. The trek may be a bit tedious but you get paid with the breathtaking views. Those trekking the peak can also traverse the gorgeous and quaint Perumal Malai Village on their way or while coming back.

Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. All days. Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: No entry charges Places To Stay: Deluxe Suit, Kodai elegance, Country Club Valley Vista, SaffronStays Nandanvan Estate, ZACS VALLEY RESORT

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12. Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple – Lord’s Home

Whether you’re a religious one or not, Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal for everyone. Dedicated to Lord Muruga (the God of hills), the temple is known for the blossoming of Kurinji flowers that grow once every 12 years. One can also witness the mesmerizing views of Vaigai Damn and Palani hills from here, which is why it’s one of the best temples in Kodaikanal .

Timings: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. All days Suggested visiting duration : 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: No entry charges Places to stay: NA

13. Bear Shola Falls – A Mesmerizing Place

Image Source Situated just 2 km away from Kodaikanal Lake, Bear Shola Falls is among the most popular Kodaikanal places to visit. Cascading down from a considerable height, this seasonal waterfall comes to life to the fullest during the rainy season when the water gushes down the mountain, making its way through verdant greenery and making a frothy base at the bottom. It is believed that this used to be the favorite place of a bear for drinking water, and that gave it its unusual name. However, now this quiet and peaceful waterfall is among the most favorite places to visit in Kodaikanal for nature lovers, couples, and adventure seekers.

Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: No entry charges Places To Stay: Wood green cottage, Hotel Cliffton, Hotel Sivapriya, Bruton resorts, Maruti Villa, Hill Heaven Home Stay

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14. Pillar Rocks – A Rich Aura Of Charm

Image Source The Pillar Rocks in Kodaikanal are 400 meter long boulders naturally positioned in a particular order that has become a lovely picnic spot for families with kids and couples. Also constituting a beautiful mini garden, this place has is said to have a rich aura of affection which makes them visiting them one of the most wonderful and romantic things to do in Kodaikanal . The breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and villages from these rocks is not something you’d like to miss when you’re here. Don’t forget to get yourself a plate of potato and onion bhaji from outside the mini garden.

Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: INR 5 | INR 20 for camera Places To Stay: The Tamara Kodai, The Carlton, Kodai Resort Hotel, Sss Home Stay, Adhithya Holidays

15. Suicide Point – For Stunning Views

Image Source The Green Valley View, also called the Suicide Point, offers a stunning view of the Kodainakal plains, deep valleys, and hills. The enchanting views of the Vaigai Dam can also be seen from here and leave travelers in awe. The place got its name as a suicide point since the valley is quite dangerous, dense, and deep, with more than 5000 feet drop. Situated at a distance of 5.5 km from the Kodaikanal Lake, this point is one of the most famous Kodaikanal places to visit not only because it offers gorgeous views, but also because it is surrounded by plenty of shops selling homemade chocolates, ornaments, and a wide range of flowers.

Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1 hour Entry Fee: Free Places To Stay: The Tamara Kodai, The Carlton, Kodai Resort Hotel, Sss Home Stay, Adhithya Holidays, SkyHighVilla

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16. Devil’s Kitchen – A Unique Heritage Site

Image Source This is a natural and unique heritage site and cave system in Kodaikanal that is called the Devil’s Kitchen. It’s a group of caverns tucked amidst the enormous Pillar Rocks. It’s a great sight for photography as this unique gorge usually bears thick clouds and mist in the monsoons and winters, giving it a dreamy look. Situated on the outskirts of the city near Moir Point, this place shot to fame after the popular movie was shot here in the 1900s, making it a frequently visited Kodaikanal tourist place. In order to reach this hillock, one needs to trek 400 meters to the top starting from the main entrance, which to is one of the best things to do in Kodaikanal .

Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1 hour Entry Fee: INR 5 | Camera – INR 10 Places to stay: NA

17. Thalaiyar Falls – A Beautiful Waterfall

Image Source Thalaiyar Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kodaikanal and it is located in the lush green slopes of Palani Hill ranges in the Dindigul District. The locals call it the Rat Tail Falls because of its unique appearance. Cascading from a height of over 290 meters, this one is the highest waterfall in Tamil Nadu, as well as the sixth highest waterfall in India and 267th highest in the world. There is a view tower located right in this park at the Dum Dum Rock to help photographers click awesome pictures of this awesome Kodaikanal tourist place as well as the Manjalar Dam.

Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (Closed on Sundays) Suggested visiting duration : 2 to 3 hours Entry Fee: No charges Places To Stay: Regular Rooms, Estate Bungalow, Tree House, The Hills Views House, Rockstone villa, Kodai elegance

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18. Coakers Walk – Take A Lovely Stroll

Image Source Coakers Walk is among the most beautiful Kodaikanal tourist places and is essentially a man-made 1 km long walking plaza that is set on the mountains of Tamil Nadu. The lovely path of Coakers Walk curves beautifully at the edge of the gorgeous mountain and has been built mainly for visitors to catch a glimpse of Paradise on Earth. It is the perfect place to get a morning and evening walk amidst the goodness of nature and with such mesmerizing views to greet you of the lush valleys and hills of Kodaikanal. In fact, taking a leisurely walk on this platform is among the most relaxing things to do in Kodaikanal.

Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM Suggested visiting duration : 2 hours Entry Fee: INR 10 | Camera – INR 30 | Telescope House – INR 20 Places To Stay: The Carlton, Kodai Resort Hotel, Adhithya Holidays, Amherst Cottage, Sky villa, Surya Holidays

19. Dolphin’s Nose – Gorgeous Views Of Valley

The Dolphin’s Nose is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kodaikanal. With views of scenic valleys, lush green surroundings, rugged terrain, clear skies, and a soothing breeze, this viewpoint is where you can experience Kodaikanal at its best. The place got its name from the flat, protruding piece of rock here that is shaped like a dolphin’s nose, but it’s famous more for the awesome views it offers than the shape it has. Set at a height of 6,600 feet, this locale is perfect for a lovely picnic where you can sit and chat with loved ones amid serene vistas.

Timings: Sunrise to Sunset Suggested visiting duration : 1 hour Entry Fee: No entry fee Places To Stay: Tea Nest, Kurumba Village Resort – Nature Resorts, Hanging Huts Resorts, Teanest Nightingale, Pear Tree Inn

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20. Bryant Park – Cool Down

Image Source Bryant Park is what adds to the charm and elegance of the city of Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu. Located on the eastern side of Kodai Lake, this beautiful park is bejeweled with a diverse range of plant and shrub species that lures in a huge influx of nature lovers and botany enthusiasts into the park every month. You’ll find everything from flowering plants, hybrids, to grafts in this park. And as it is located right after Coakers Walk, you can enjoy two scintillating activities while visiting this park – a leisurely stroll as well as a rendezvous with nature’s beautiful creations!

Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM Suggested visiting duration : 2 to 4 hours Entry Fee: INR 30 Places to stay: Mistycove, Maha Village and Cottage, Kodai Resort Hotel, Hilltop Towers

21. Pine Forest – Hike All The Way

Image Source The Pine Forest of Kodaikanal is probably its most scenic and tranquil attractions that would make you feel you’ve just entered your favorite fairytale! Located in southwest Kodaikanal, Pine Forest is among the most popular Kodaikanal places to visit courtesy its matchless beauty. It is home to the most serene and rare forms of nature that have been preserved to date with strict supervision on the part of the Tamil Nadu government. It also happens to be an essential heritage site in the town that came into existence owing to the tireless efforts of Mr. Bryant who had put the pine plantations in the first place in the year 1906. Offering activities like horse riding, nature walks, hiking, trekking, and camping, it’s the most favorite spot of nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers.

Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM Suggested visiting duration : 2 hours Entry Fee: No entry fee Places to stay: The Carlton, The Tamara Kodai, Kodai Resort, Hotel Kodai International

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22. Moir Point – Prominent Viewpoints

Image Source Tucked at the entrance of a serene jungle that leads all the way up to the exquisite Berijam Lake, Moir Point is among the most prominent viewpoints in Kodaikanal that you just can’t miss. Named after Sir Thomas Moir who had constructed the Goschen Road in 1929 CE, this monument stands to commemorate his contributions and his efforts in building the Goschen Road, which actually starts from this point on the road joining the Kodaikanal-Berijam Lake. other than being an important historical landmark, this place also offers stunning views of the lush green valleys and hills of Tamil Nadu, bringing a huge crowd of tourists here every month.

Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: INR 10 Places To Stay: Premium Cottage stay, Pine Castle Kodaikanal, Shreyas, SUNRISE ROOMS, Kodai-Home Stay

23. Wax Museum – A Different Experience

India’s first Wax Museum is among the tourist places in Kodaikanal situated near Green Valley. It is a small museum which displays the Crib, the Last Supper, and some internationally known personalities. In Addition to these, there are some highlights which include Indian saints and personalities such as Adi Shankara, Sai Baba, Gandhiji, Lord Krishna with Gopikas, Indian musicians, and Veerappan, the sandalwood smuggler.

Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: INR 30 Places To Stay: Holiday Home, Sss Home Stay, SUNRISE ROOMS, campers abode, The Green House, Ruban house

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24. Upper Lake View Point – Truly Mesmerizing

From the Upper Lake View Point, the star-shaped lake looks amidst the greenery which was created in 1863 by Sir Vere Henry Levinge. Tourists say that the contrast they find between the lake and lush greens is just appealing to the eyes. It makes this place very much close to perfect for a good photography session. Other activities you can expect in the lake are boating, cycling, and horse riding on the top of the hill.

Timings: Open all the time Suggested visiting duration : 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: Free entry Places To Stay: Sterling Kodai Lake, Kodai-Home Stay, Wood green cottage, campers abode, Shreyas, Pine Castle Kodaikanal

25. Anna Salai Market – Top Place For Shopping

Anna Salai Market is one of the definite places to visit in Kodaikanal. It is an impression of the metropolitan culture of Kodaikanal where there is a rainbow of people. It is a loaded market where you can hop from shop to shop and buy one thing for everyone in your family.  You can pick up fresh fruits and vegetables, a variety of homemade chocolates, craftworks, shawls, jewelry, bone and walnut items, and other products made of leather and brass. It is one of the top places for shopping in Kodaikanal .

Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM Suggested visiting duration : 3 to 4 hours Entry Fee: Free entry Places To Stay: Hablis, Le Royal Meridien, Grand Tiara Hotel, FabHotel NK Courtyard, Klase Hotels, SRI GANESHA PALACE AND BHAVAN

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26. Silver Cascade Falls – Take A Fresh Bath

Welcome another of the great places to see in Kodaikanal which is a picturesque natural area located in a lush landscape. The resultant of the Kodai Lake, the waterfalls fall from a height of 180 feet. Get a refreshing break, enjoy the views of the frothy water, or take a fresh bath which has some medicinal value. If you like Instagram, then you are going to love capturing pictures at this place. And if you want to visit the waterfalls near Kodaikanal during the rainy season, then expect a heavy flow of water.

Timings :  9:30 AM – 3:00 PM Suggested visiting duration : 2-3 hours Entry fee : Free entry Places To Stay: Hotel Kodai International, Jehovahs Tent, Pine Tree View Stay, Isolated Family Home, Jem Valley

27. Silent Valley View Point – Calming Views

Almost anything that you do in Kodaikanal will give you an experience of a lifetime. So, one of the best Kodaikanal travel tips that we can give you is visiting the Silent Valley. Apart from the tranquil environment that you find, you will be really amazed by the lush green trees around, so much so, that you will want to camp here. But an astounding place here is a hillside observation area otherwise popular as a viewpoint. Visit here for a calming natural session, see the cloud touching mountains, and embrace one of the best places to see in Kodaikanal for natural therapy.

Timings : 6 AM to 5 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1-2 hours Entry fee : Free entry Places To Stay: Hotel Kodai International, JEHOVAS TENT, Isolated Family Home, Jem Valley, The Tamara Kodai

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28. Shembaganur Museum Of Natural History – An Old Significance

If you miss out on a museum tour to Kodaikanal, then you have surely missed a peaceful time. One of the most unique places to visit in Kodaikanal is the Shembaganur Museum Of Natural History. It is obviously a lesser-known place that has won the hearts of historians and travelers, alike with its 123-year-old collections. With an unbelievable collection of 500 animals (taxidermy), an orchidarium of 300 species, and specimens of wildlife creatures like snakes, butterflies, and moths. Another great collection are the remnants of the Paliyar tribes, the former nomadic people living in lower Kodaikanal

Timings : 10 AM – 11:30 AM; 3 PM – 5 PM, closed on Tuesdays Suggested visiting duration : 1 hour Entry fee : INR 20 for adults; INR 10 for children below 10 years of age Places to stay: Queen Annes Bungalow, Marian Villa, Hilltop Towers

29. Subramanya Temple – For Alluring Architecture

This Kodaikanal temple deserves a mention in the list of top Kodaikanal tourist places due to its rising popularity and its alluring architecture. Located at a high altitude, you have to climb approximately 650 steps to reach the temple. Not to worry, you don’t have to climb at once. In fact, you can sit, relax, and feel the spiritual aura of the temple with the scenic beauty that the area has to offer. Try visiting in January as the Thaipusam festival is celebrated in the month. You can feel a whole lot of vibrancy and enthusiasm around the time. 

Timings : 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM; 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM Suggested visiting duration : 2 hours Entry fee : Free entry Places To Stay: Shesha Kuteera, Hotel Akshayadhara, Hotel Adhithya Nest, SLR Residency, Hotel Sheshnaag Aashraya

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30. Kukkal Caves – Great For Hikers

If you are trekking, hiking, or camping in Kodaikanal, it does not matter as the archaeological site called Kukkal Caves will be your preferred destination any which way. Considered as one of the top places to visit in Kodaikanal for adventure, the caves are made up of rocks and located at an altitude of 1500 meters and post-exploration reveals traces of the Paliyan tribes that used to live in the region. You can have an exciting view of the Manjampatti Valley and the nearby forests. And if you are not exploring adventure, you can plan to stay at the best Kodaikanal guest houses here.

Timings :10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1-2 hours Entry fee : Free entry Places to stay: NA

31. Dolmen Circle – With Anthropological Beauty

Dolmen Circle is a popular Kodaikanal sightseeing destination that promises pre-historic and anthropological beauty. As you gaze through the site, you realize them to be the burial grounds of people belonging to the Stone and Iron age. Due to their ancient nature, you will find many to be destroyed with time and some few to be standing. Kodaikanal is not just a place for admiring natural beauty. The historic and archaeological significance can be very well visible in attractions like the Dolmen Circle.

Timings : 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1-2 hours Entry fee : Free entry Places To Stay: Tropical Rain Farmstay, Sachinhomestay, StaySimple Spicefarm, Double Occupancy room, Standard Room

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32. Chettiar Park – An Exotic Flora

Visiting Kodaikanal in Summer is a gratifying experience rather than challenging when you are to visit attractions like the Chettiar Park. A very small park that has a soothing vibe and pleasant surroundings will let you enjoy a sustainable picnic when you spend some time with your family or loved ones. You will be impressed with the amazing flora, in particular the Kurinji Flowers, which bloom every 12 years. An awesome Kodaikanal sightseeing attraction, it has been featured as a major shoot location in many feature films.

Timings : 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Suggested visiting duration : 3-4 hours Entry fee : INR 10 per person; INR 20 for cameras Places To Stay: SaffronStays Kurinji Estate, Lilly’s Valley Resort, Green Woods Homestay, Pears Tree Suite, Le Poshe

33. Poombarai Viewing Point – A Serene View

Poombarai is a scenic village located about 18 km from Kodaikanal. The inspiring hike and breathtaking views of the valley makes it one of the top Kodaikanal tourist places. Nestled between the terraced hills, the village is very popular for garlic farming. The combination of tranquil mountains and that breadth of fresh air with a view of the tiny colorful houses would be like a dream come true for you. Eat the local food in an open-air restaurant to give you a memory of a lifetime.

Timings : Visit any time of the year Suggested visiting duration : 1 day Entry fee : None Places To Stay:  Radiance Art Residency, Red Rabbit Guesthouse, Campers Valley Camping, K Camp, Leaf inn blossom Kodaikanal

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34. 80 Mile Round – A Spectacular Trek

80 Mile Round is an amazing trekking route that starts from Berijam Lake and finishes at the Poombarai Village of Kodaikanal. This is the perfect trek for adventure lovers and those who love a good adrenaline rush. The trek can be confusing for the first time, so you can take a local guide along the way. The trek takes around 2-3 hours, but requires 3-4 days to visit the places along the way. It offers great views along the way. Scenic views of cliffs, peaks, mountains, valleys, villages, and more can be enjoyed while on this trek. During the trek you can stay at the jungle resorts, however, you need permissions beforehand.

Timings: NA  Suggested Visiting Duration: 3-4 days Entry Fee: NA Places To Stay: jungle resorts

35. Canopy Hill, Vattakanal – Experience The Beauty

Image Credit: Author Name for Wikimedia Commons Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

One of the most popular tourist places in Kodaikanal is Canopy Hills which is a great destination for adventure enthusiasts as they can go trekking and spot wildlife creatures like wild goats, porcupines, bison, and many more. If you are looking out for Kodaikanal places to visit, then you must surely add Canopy Hills in your itinerary.

Timings: 24 hours Suggested Visiting Duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: INR 4,200 per person Places To Stay: Western Valley Homestay, The Hamuse Hotel, Hotel RT Hill View

How To Reach Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal by bus: Regular buses from Dindigul, Chennai, Pondicherry, Trichy, Madurai, Palani and Coimbatore run to Kodaikanal. Kodaikanal by train: Kodai Road at a distance of 100 km is the nearest railway station from Kodaikanal. From the station, one has to take a taxi for about INR 1,300, so the train is not a comfortable way of traveling to Kodaikanal. Kodaikanal by air: At a distance of 120 km, Madurai airport is the nearest one. From there you can either hire a taxi or take a regular TNSTC bus.

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Already in love with the gorgeous Kodai? Pack your bags and let the charm of this rustic and old town amaze you with its incredible vistas. Plan your trip to Kodainakal and don’t forget to visit these best places to visit in Kodaikanal. 

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Frequently Asked Questions Related To Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

What are the top attractions to visit in Kodaikanal?

The following are the top attractions in Kodaikanal - Kodaikanal Lake, Berijam Lake, Mannavanur Lake, Guna Caves, La Saleth Church, Vattakanal Falls, Pambar Falls, Astrophysical Observatory, Kodai Chocolate Factory, Lutheran Church, Perumal Peak, Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple, etc.

What are the top sightseeing places in Kodaikanal?

Kodaikanal Lake, Berijam Lake, Mannavanur Lake, Guna Caves, La Saleth Church, Vattakanal Falls, Pambar Falls, Astrophysical Observatory, Kodai Chocolate Factory, Lutheran Church, Perumal Peak, and Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple are the famous sightseeing sites in Kodaikanal.

Is it safe to visit Kodaikanal during Covid times?

You need to follow all the mandatory safety guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Remain masked while stepping out of the hotel and maintain social distance. Avoid visiting crowded places and keep sanitizing your hands after touching surfaces.

What is Kodaikanal famous for?

The beautiful hill station of Kodaikanal is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty which includes gorgeous waterfalls, rivers, viewpoints like the Moir viewpoint.

What are the places I can visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days?

Some of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal on 2 days trip are: 1. Kodai Lake 2. Silver Cascade 3. Bear Shola Falls 4. Dolphin’s Nose 5. Bryant Park

Is Kodaikanal good for a honeymoon?

Kodaikanal is a great honeymoon destination in India. The place has pleasant weather throughout the year. You can enjoy the romantic breeze with your loved one and also go trekking if you are an adventurous couple.

When is the best time to visit Kodaikanal?

Although Kodaikanal experiences pleasant weather throughout the year, an ideal time to visit the place is from March to early June.

How many days are sufficient to visit Kodaikanal?

2-3 days are sufficient to visit Kodaikanal. You can cover all the amazing things this hill station has to offer in this duration. The place is home to natural escapes, historic sites, verdant surroundings, and more.

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Kiran Bisht

A journalism graduate with a love for reading, writing, and travel, Kiran has trekked through various offbeat paths in the Himalayas. She writes travel stories and indulges in landscape photography every now and then, which, considering where you’re reading this, makes perfect sense.

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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., comment (0).

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• Travel Guides

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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Kodaikanal – complete travel guide.

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Why it’s a must-visit?

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

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

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

How to reach?

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

Distance from Madurai airport – 130 km

Distance from Coimbatore airport- 180 km

Distance from Trichy airport – 199 km

Distance from Chennai airport – 500 km

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

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

Distance from Dindigul station – 96 km

Distance from Madurai station – 115 km

Distance from Virudunagar station – 152 km

Distance from Coimbatore station – 169 km

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best time to travel

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

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

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

Top 10 Places to visit

1. bear shola falls.

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

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

2. Berijam Lake

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

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

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

3. Kodai Lake (Kodaikanal Lake)

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

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

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

4. Bryant park

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

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

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

5. Coakers Walk

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

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

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

6. Dolphin’s Nose

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

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

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

7. Pillar Rocks viewpoint

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

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

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

8. Guna Caves

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

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

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

9. Green Valley View (Suicide Point)

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

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

10. Silver Cascade

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

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

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

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

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

Laxmi mohan

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

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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.

Hills and valleys filled with the enigmatic hug of mist, lush mountain ranges that offer a warm welcome to visitors, enjoyment and experiences that proffer beautiful memories for a lifetime – Kodaikanal is a wonder in ways much more than one.

If you’ve ever dreamt of being pampered by the lulling lullabies of Nature, and being embraced affectionately by the cool breeze that flows in from picturesque hill slopes, then Kodaikanal is indeed the place to be in to make those dreams come true. The scenic beauty of Kodaikanal never ceases to amaze travellers.  Referred to as the “Princess of Hills”, Kodaikanal is one of the most sought-after hill station destinations in Tamil Nadu and the whole of India. Located at about 7000 ft above the sea-level, Kodaikanal was established as a destination by British bureaucrats and Christian missionaries in the year of 1845. However, the earliest references to the stunning hill station can be found as early as the Sangam literature time. However the modern era of Kodaikanal began only after the British came in. It served as a summer retreat and a vacation spot for the colonial power. Ever since those days, Kodaikanal has been a popular choice among hill station lovers for a quick escape up the mountains.  The verdant hills, the cascading waterfalls, picturesque lakes, pristine countrysides – the reason why Kodaikanal has been popular among tourists are many. For a discerning traveller, the locale offers much to see, enjoy and experience. Plenty of activities await a visitor here. Boating, cycling, horse riding and trekking are some of the most common among them. One of the other spectacles of this region is the Kurinji flower that blooms only once in 12 years, making itself a unique spectacle to watch.

• How to Reach
• Best Time to Visit

Kodaikanal Bus Stand, within the town itself. Frequent bus services are available from Madurai Aarappalayam, Batlagundu, Palani, Oddanchatram, Kodai Road, and Dindigul.

Madurai International Airport, about 115 km away. Coimbatore International Airport, about 170 km away.

Palani Railway Station, 64 km away. Kodai Road Station, 80 km away. Regular train services from Madurai, Tiruchirappalli and Coimbatore.

Kodaikanal enjoys a cool and pleasant climate round the year. However, the best time to visit the hill station is from April to June when the weather is at its best.

Top Attractions

Berijam Lake

Situated in a forest conservation area, Berijam Lake is a haven for all Nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. If a quiet morning or evening by the lakeside surrounded by lush green woods is what you imagine as a place to unwind, then Berijam Lake is the perfect spot for you.

Pine Forest, Kodaikanal

Pine Forests are cloaked in a rustic charm, and walking under the canopy of these old pine trees will offer much-needed solitude for those seeking it.

Situated at an altitude of 2,200 metres, the Guna Caves are a thing of mystery and wonder that attracts travellers in hordes. Known earlier as 'Devil’s Kitchen', the place got its name 'Guna' after the 1992 Tamil blockbuster movie “Guna'' was shot here.

Kodaikanal Lake

The fame of Kodaikanal lake or Kodai lake has spread across states and it has become one of the favourite photographic spots and movie locations, even in Bollywood. There are resorts and hotels available around the lake where you can sit and enjoy the tranquillity of the lake and the enticing landscape around it.

Coaker’s Walk

Enjoy a mystic walk among the clouds at the Coakers walk, near Kodaikanal Lake. Nature enthusiasts and shutterbugs should not miss the place, for the view and ambience it offers are indescribable. Open from 7 am to 7 pm, the walkway is very near the Kodaikanal Lake.

Things to do

Hiking in Kodaikanal

Kurinji Trail

Boat Trip in Kodaikanal

Bicycle Ride in Kodaikanal

Nearby destinations.

Bryant Park

Shembaganur Museum of Natural History

Bear Shola Falls

Silver Cascade Falls

Pambar Falls

Fairy Falls

Rose Garden Kodaikanal

Dolphin’s Nose

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory & Museum

Pillar Rocks

Devil’s Kitchen

Kumbakarai Falls, Theni

Dolmen Circle

Silent Valley View

Thalaiyar Waterfalls

Mannavanur Lake

Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary

Manjalar Dam

Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, Palani

Amaravathi Reservoir

Kolukkumalai

Accommodation.

Hotel Tamilnadu - Kodaikannal

Fern Hill Road

Gift of the Forest

One of the top hill stations of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal has many well-known attractions. Yet, in spite of its popularity, it remains a serene island and retains the simple charm of a century ago. Part 10 of an Outlook special series on tourist spots of Tamil Nadu.

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"The Princess of Hill Stations"

Kodaikanal tourism.

Located in the state of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is one of the most famous honeymoon destinations in India. A Lakeside resort town of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal has a beautiful climate, mist-covered manicured cliffs and waterfall that come together to create the ideal setting for a perfect getaway. Kodaikanal means 'the gift of the forests'.

Nestled amidst the rolling slopes of the Palani Hills, Kodaikanal stands at an altitude of 7200 feet above sea level, and once you visit this hill station, you will find that every bit of what you have imagined it to be is real. Kodaikanal is a place you can go to take a break from the rigours of daily city life, and this hill station lets you sit back and connect with nature as you head out on biking or trekking trails or take a stroll through the vast forests surrounding the town.

Must Visit Places in Kodaikanal

Green Valley View (Suicide Point)

Bear Shola Falls

Pillar Rocks

Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

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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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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!

ENJOYED READING ABOUT PLACES TO VISIT IN KODAIKANAL?

Read more articles related to this beautiful hill station: Visiting Kodaikanal in 2 Days Complete guide to visiting Vattakanal

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Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

• Places To Visit

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

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

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

Dolphin’S Nose Kodaikanal

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

Kodaikanal Lake

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Pillar Rocks

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

Coakers Walk

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

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

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

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Silver Cascade Falls

Silver Cascade Falls is heaven for those who love to view the beauty of nature at different locations. The waterfall is located at an altitude of 2318 meter, on the road to Madurai and Kodai. The water flows down from a height of 180 feet, which makes it a beautiful sight for the onlookers. The waterfall is believed to be a remain of the Kodai Lake, where tourists can even take a dip in the water flowing down from the falls. Tourists can be seen taking a break from their ride towards Kodaikanal at the various tea stalls which can be found lined up near the falls. The remaining distance to Kodaikanal from the falls is merely 8 km. It is believed that the water from the falls is laden with various minerals, which gives these waters their healing and refreshing properties. It is a sight to watch monkeys playing on the cliff and slippery rocks of the fall. The name ‘Silver cascade’ is given to this fall, owing to the colour of the water which appears silver when flowing down the 55 meter high cliff. On either side of the cliff, you can find rugged rocks and wild foliage springing up in all directions. There is a dedicated viewing platform in front of the waterfall, which serves as an excellent point to view the flowing water fall down in a pool. One can easily reach the silver Cascade falls via local transport such as auto or rickshaw, in Kodaikanal.

Thalaiyar Falls

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Kumbakkarai Falls

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

Berijam Lake

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

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Kurinji Andavar Temple

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

Green Valley View Point

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

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Pine Forest

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

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

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Fairy Falls, Kodaikanal

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

Pambar Falls

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

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Bryant Park

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

Dolphin Nose

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

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Upper Lake View Point

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

Chettiar Park

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

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Silver Cascade Waterfalls

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

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

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

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

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

Quick Kodaikanal Travel Information

Popular Kodaikanal Sightseeing Tour Packages

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

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

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

Also Read: Information About Tourism in Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal Lake – Serene Solace

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

Other Interesting Blog to Read

• Best Places to Visit in Ooty

Green Valley View- Views That Can Cure Stress

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

Timings – 10:00am to 2:30pm

• Popular Hill Stations to Visit in Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal Pine Forest- Be Wild

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

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

• Must Visit Famous Temples in Tamil Nadu

Perumal Peak – Mesmerizing Piece of Nature

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

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

• Best Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

Mannavanur Lake – Embrace the Tranquility

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

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

• Top Tourist Places of Tamil Nadu

Guna Caves- Mysterious and Sublime

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

Timings- 8:00amto 4:00pm

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

Coaker’s Walk – Hold Hands and Walk

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

• Must Visit Hill Stations in South India

Dolphin’s Nose- Be Enchanted with the Stunning Views

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

• Top 50 Worth Visiting Places in South

Bear Shola Falls- You Will Surely Fall for It

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

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

Bryant Park – Welcome Nature Lovers

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

Timings- 9:00am to 6:00pm

  Also Read: Adventure Tourism Activities in Tamil Nadu

Wax Museum, Kodaikanal- Awe Inspiring

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

Timings – 10:00am to 5:30pm

Also Read: Scenic Hill Stations of Tamil Nadu

Anna Salai Market – Shopping Time

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

Also Read: Heritage Tourism in Tamil Nadu

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

Other Important Tamil Nadu Tourism Resources

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

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

Q. How can I spend 2 days in Kodaikanal?

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

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

Popular festivals of Pushkar are:

• Suicide Point
• Wax Museums
• Pambar Falls

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

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

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

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

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

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

Published: 20 Dec, 2021

About the author

Pallavi Roy

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

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32 KM Loop Road in Yercaud

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Kodaikanal is 65 KM away from Palani and 115 KM away from Madurai. It is one of the best tourist places in Dindigul district and Tamilnadu state. The nearest airport is available in Madurai. From Palani, Madurai and Dindigul there are well-established bus services. Here we can explore the famous tourist places to visit in Kodaikanal.

Here Are The Top 15 Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

1. kodaikanal lake – kodaikanal tourist places.

Kodaikanal Lake is shortly known as Kodai Lake. In the 1860’s Madurai Collector Henry Levinge initiated the process of developing the Kodaikanal Lake. The Kodai lake is 60 acres and around 6KM and, it is star-shaped. Boating is available from 8 AM to 6 PM in the lake on a timely basis. Horse rides, Balloon shooting games and cycling are available around Kodaikanal lake. Know More about Kodai Lake here .

2. Pillar Rocks – Best Tourist Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

The three  gigantic Pillar-Shaped Rocks  in Kodaikanal attract 95% of the tourists who visits Kodaikanal. Chambers between the 2  Shoulder to Shoulder Pillars are best known as Devils Kitchen (Now Guna Caves). It is not only a tourist place which attracts tourists, but also it’ll seduce nature lovers. The small park is ready there to see the enchanting view of the Pillar Rocks. Additionally, The plot has miniature and beautiful flowers planted to attract tourists.

What to do when you’re in Pillar Rocks?

3. Guna Caves – Thrilling Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

It is a beautiful sightseeing place in Kodaikanal, which is famous for its 3 Pillar-type Rocks. Guna caves were earlier known as Devils Kitchen. It is a thrilling cave where 15+ adults lost their lives trying to get inside the cave. Currently, the cave is closed for safety reasons. However, we can enjoy the view from afar. Do you know the history of Guna Caves?  Read more about it here.

4. Pine Forest – Greenery Place To Visit In Kodaikanal

H.D Bryant from Madurai started the development in 1908, of the Pine Forest plantation. He planted the Pine Tree all over the Kodaikanal. Especially from the Solar Observatory plant to Pillar Rock. Thus the result of Pine Forest Kodaikanal. After him, the next-gen officers took care of the trees to grow. And from time to time, the place is changed as one of the main tourist places in Kodaikanal. Read more about Pine Forest here.

5. Dolphin Nose Point

Dolphin Nose Point is the best place to trek when you go to Kodaikanal. The whole trek distance will be almost 2 KM. It’s deep down the way when you’re going into the Dolphin Nose point. We strongly suggest not to try for the trek for the people who have a heart problem. While getting down to Dolphin Nose Point, you may go like a pro. But while climbing back to the top is a real-tough for everyone.

6. Green Valley or Suicide Point

Green Valley is formerly called Suicide Point of Kodaikanal. It has an incredible view 😲 of hills, plains and cliffs. You can able to see what’s there below 5000 feet from the Kodaikanal Green Valley. Also, You can take selfies with the clouds as well. It’s been a horrible view from the top of Suicide point. So, For our safety, that is an iron bar fenced. It is open all the time but viewing from 10 AM – 2.30 PM is advisable.

7. Silver Cascade Waterfalls

The Silver Cascade Falls has located near the Kodaikanal entrance check post and is 9 km from Kodai Lake. The waterfall will make you fall in love at first sight. The waterfall is 180 feet high, which adds extra charm. It is very close to the road. Everyone who goes to Kodaikanal knows this waterfall. Silver Cascade Waterfall is a 2 step layered waterfall. Despite bathe here, you can enjoy the beauty of the waterfall.

8. Vattakanal Waterfalls

From the Kodaikanal Township Reservoir, the water goes via Fairy falls, Liril falls and give a beautiful origin to Vattakanal Waterfalls. The Vattakanal Waterfalls is small in size but surrounded by trees hence no stopping for enjoyment and sightseeing. Also, trekking is available in Dolphin Nose point, which is very near to the Vattakanal Waterfalls. Of Course, one must try the trekking experience who planned to visit the Vattakanal Waterfalls.

9. Bryant Park

Bryant Park is one of the most visited tourist places in Kodaikanal. And it is situated on the eastern side of Kodaikanal Lake. Bryant Park has two historical trees. One is C.N Bodhi Tree and 170+ Years Old Eucalyptus tree. Additionally, Glasshouse adds more enjoyment to the tourists. Explore More about Bryant Park here .

10. Kumbakarai Waterfalls

The only waterfall in Kodaikanal was invented to enjoy bathing and get free massages for tourists. Kumbakarai Waterfalls is 80KM away from Kodaikanal Lake. However, this place is worth visiting as it is situated inside the forest. Falls will be open from 8 AM to 4 PM. For the best experience, try visiting around 1 PM. No Food stalls are near. It is safe for Ladies and family.

11. Rose Garden Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal Rose Garden was built on  12 acres . It is bigger than what you’ve expected. Ultimately, it is bigger than the Ooty Government Rose garden as that is 9 Acres in total. Tamilnadu Government owns Kodaikanal Rose Garden. In 2018, the Mega Kodaikanal Rose Garden was open to the public. With this in mind, we have very few flowers that were groomed currently in 2020. From time to time, it’ll grow up very quickly.

12. Coaker’s Walk – One Of The Awesome Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

Coaker’s walk has the best hillside view. If you don’t want to go to every place in Kodaikanal but need to enjoy all aspects of the places, Coaker’s walk is the right place. It is a good place for photography. Coaker’s walk has the telescope to explore a different angle of the hill station.

13. Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple

The Kurinji Andavar Temple was inaugurated in 1936. Kurinji is a flower where the temple has a lot of Kurinji flowers🌼. It blossoms once in 12 years. The last time it bloomed was in 2018 at that time, many of the tourists enjoyed the view. The next time Kurinji flowers will bloom in 2030. The Temple will Open from 7 AM to 7 PM.

14. Liril Falls

Liril falls emerged from Kodaikanal Township Reservior near Kodaikanal Solar Observatory and comes through the Fairy waterfalls. It is 2.5KM away from the Kodaikanal Lake🏞️ or bus stand. So, you can book a call taxi, bus or auto-rickshaw to reach the falls. The falls will attract Kids all the time.

15. Chettiar Park

Chettiar Park is 5KM away from Kodaikanal Lake. With the beautiful Kurinji flowers and many trees, the park is well established in Kodaikanal. The park will be open from 9 AM to 5 PM. You can spend up to 3 hours peacefully in Chettiar Park. It is one of the best tourist places to visit in Kodaikanal.

16. Dolmen Circle

Dolmen Circle is 8KM away from Kodaikanal. Locals say there is a prehistoric burial ground for Stone Age and Iron Age peoples. Unlike other tourist places in Kodaikanal, this place is peaceful and less crowded.

Some Frequently Asked Questions

April, May and June is the best time to explore Kodaikanal.

Kodai Lake boating, Guna Caves, Pine Forest, Rose Garden, Silver Cascade Falls, Coaker’s walk and much more.

2 – 3Days if you’re new to Kodaikanal.

Kodaikanal Lake, Bryant Park, Chettiar Park and shopping.

Kodai Lake, Bryant Park, Chettiar Park, Kodai Lake Boating, Pine Forest Ride, Guna Caves sightseeing, Pillar Rocks sightseeing.

Falls, Echo Point, Dolphin Nose, Trekking in Vattakanal and Boating, Cycling, Purchasing Bryant Park in Kodaikanal Lake and Guna Caves, Pillar Rocks, Pine Forest and more places mentioned above.

You can visit all the above-mentioned places. Priority is Kodai Lake, Pine Forest, Pillar Rocks, Coakers Walk, Vattakanal.

Other Minor Places to Visit In Kodaikanal

Fairy Waterfalls

Bear Shola Waterfalls

Berijam Lake

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So lovely, waiting 2 explore

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