About City

"The Princess of Hill Stations"
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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Devil's Kitchen
A natural and unique heritage site also known as the Devil's Kitchen, the Guna Caves are situated on the outskirts of Kodaikanal, which can be reached from the Moir Point. This place was earlier not very famous and was visited only by hikers. However, it got famous after a Tamil movie with the name 'Guna' was shot here in 1992. This is a group of caverns located amidst the three huge boulders known as Pillar Rocks. In addition to being a great location for photography, the gorge also remains filled with thick clouds in the monsoon and winter seasons. To reach the hilltop, visitors need to walk 400 meters from the main entrance.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

28. 80 Mile Round
80 Mile Round is an exciting trekking route which begins at the Berijam Lake and lasts at the Poombaral Village of Kodaikanal. If you are an adventure lover, then 80 Mile Round is the perfect place for you to experience the adrenaline rush in your body.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The top activities in Kodaikanal are Kodaikanal Organic Farm Camping, Camping with Trekking and Meals, Kurangani Hills, Camping and Trekking in Kodaikanal, Forest Tour in Kodaikanal, Trekking Tour of Kodaikanal, Hill Top Camping in Kodaikanal.

How to Reach Kodaikanal
One can catch a flight to Trichy or Madurai which are 150 km and 120 km away from Kodaikanal. You can also board a train which will halt at Kodai Road. From Kodairoad station, one has to travel only by road. Taxis are available for hire up to Kodaikanal but since these might the only mode of transport here, the prices are often not negotiable. From Dindigul city, Kodaikanal is located at a distance of 90 km approximately and there are plenty of buses plying from various parts of the state.

What is the best time to visit Kodaikanal?
The best time to visit Kodaikanal is from October to June, however, the weather remains a bit chilly during December and January. Ideal for a vacation in each season, Kodaikanal is the most colourful in summers and most picturesque in monsoons. If your trip consists of an itinerary that includes a lot of sights to see, then summer is the best time to visit this place and those who wish to go for trekking, plan your trip to Kodaikanal between October and February.

Kodaikanal in Summer ( March-June ) 
Summers (March to June) in Kodaikanal is ideal with comfortable 20 degree Celsius to 32 degree Celsius temperature and flowers in full bloom.
The ten days long Grand Annual Summer Festival, which takes place in May, attracts many tourists. From elegant fruit exhibitions to enthralling boat races, flower art-works, classical dance performances and melodious musicals, the Summer Festival is a platter of different shows. Kodaikanal also holds fantastic festivals like Panguni Uthiram in March and the Annual Horticulture Show in May.

Kodaikanal in Winter ( December-February ) 
With a temperature that rarely falls below 8 degree Celsius, winter in Kodaikanal (between December and February) is the best time to enjoy various treks, and attend the famous Pongal festival celebrated during January.

Kodaikanal in Monsoon ( June-September) 
Kodaikanal receives a considerably average amount of rainfall during the monsoon season. Without a doubt, the place wears a new look in the monsoon with the fresh greenery all around, however, the hill slopes become slippery and the waterfalls begin to overflow. It is advisable to not travel to Kodaikanal in the monsoon unless you are ready to bear the rainfall.

Events in Kodaikanal

Annual Horticulture Show, Bryant Park
15th May
The best time to visit Kodaikanal, is during the annual flower show, where you can see an astounding 4 lakh plants in full bloom.

Annual Summer Festival
20th May - 18th June
Kodaikanal has long been referred to as the 'princess of hill stations' as it provides a perfect refuge from the tropical heat during summers. The summer festival has routine cultural programmes such as folk dance, folk music and bharatnatyam festival as well as fun activities like flower shows and 'catch a fish' events.

Food of Kodaikanal
Chocolates, Sandwiches, Brownies, cheeses and some hot 'chai' are the most sought after eateries of Kodaikanal. Other than these, there is a lot that stands out in this town such as locally produced organic foods, a rich and spicy dash of Punjabi cuisine, popular items of Tibetan cuisine, an absolutely lip-smacking variety of Biryanis, as well as an elaborate Gujarati platter. Find local and traditional platters here too, with essentials like Dosas, idilis, Upma, Parota, Sambhar, Rasam, Paysam, Kesari, Sweet pongal and lots more.

Your trip to Kodaikanal cannot be complete without a trekking excursion; treks along 80 Mile Road, Kukkal Caves, Mnajalar etc., are pretty popular. In addition, viewpoints like Moir Point and Silent Valley View offer stunning views of the valley. Moreover, there are different holy sites for you to visit like Subramanya Temple, Kurinji Temple and La Salette Church and museums like the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory and Shenbaganur Museum.

A breathtaking hill station and the summer headquarters of the East India Company, Ooty boasts fabulous weather, lush green hills, gorgeous views of the Nilgiri peaks, lakes, Rose Garden etc. Mysore, however, is known for its royal connections and houses majestic palaces, temples, gardens, sanctuaries, museums and silk sarees. We offer you numerous Kodaikanal travel packages that are fully customizable for a fantastic trip with family and friends!