Kodaikanal Travel Guide

Get ready to explore Kodaikanal with this comprehensive travel guide that covers top attractions, best activities, food scene, accommodation, safety tips, and much more.


Introduction to Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a charming hill station located in the district of Dindigul in Tamil Nadu, India. Known as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” it is situated at an altitude of 2,133 meters above sea level in the Western Ghats. The town is blessed with a pleasant climate, lush green surroundings, and breathtaking views of the valleys, making it a popular tourist destination for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

List of Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal has a plethora of places to visit and explore. Here are some of the most popular ones that you should not miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kodaikanal Lake
  • Bryant Park
  • Coakers Walk
  • Kurinji Andavar Temple
  • Green Valley View
  • Bear Shola Falls
  • Pine Forest
  • Guna Caves

Natural Attractions of Kodaikanal: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dolphin’s Nose
  • Berijam Lake
  • Pillar Rocks
  • Thalaiyar Falls
  • Mannavanur Lake
  • Vattakanal Falls
  • Silent Valley Viewpoint

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kodaikanal

For adventure enthusiasts, Kodaikanal offers some of the best hiking and biking routes to explore its natural beauty. From the rugged terrain of the Palani Hills to the scenic paths around Kukkal, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some popular trails are:

  • Coaker’s Walk
  • Green Valley View Trek
  • Vattakanal- Dolphin’s Nose Trek
  • Berijam Lake Trek
  • Pillar Rock Trek
  • Silent Valley Trek

Best Things to Do in Kodaikanal: Activities and Tours

From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, Kodaikanal offers a wide range of activities to keep you engaged. Here are some of the best things to do in Kodaikanal:

  • Boating in the Kodaikanal Lake
  • Cycling around the town
  • Horse Riding in the Pine Forest
  • Kodaikanal Yoga Center
  • Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
  • Visit the local markets for shopping
  • Ayurvedic Spa and Massage

Week-Long Itinerary for Kodaikanal

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week spent in Kodaikanal:

Day 1: Arrive in Kodaikanal, visit the Kodaikanal Lake and botanical garden, stroll around the town.

Day 2: Headout for Dolphin’s Nose Trek and Vattakanal Waterfalls.

Day 3: Visit Kurinji Andavar Temple, and Green Valley Viewpoint.

Day 4: Trek through Berijam Lake and Pillar Rocks.

Day 5: Take a day trip to Mannavanur Lake.

Day 6: Visit the Guna Caves and Bear Shola Falls.

Day 7: Departure and Check-out from the hotel.

Food and Drink Scene in Kodaikanal

No visit to Kodaikanal is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Kodaikanal:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kuzhi Paniyaram
  • Masala Paniyaram
  • Coorgi Porotta with Mutton Curry
  • Tibetan Soup
  • Vada Curry

Local Beverages

  • Herbal Tea
  • Filter Coffee

Where to Stay in Kodaikanal: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kodaikanal has no dearth of accommodation options for every budget. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Kodaikanal:

  • The Carlton
  • Kodai Resort Hotel
  • Sterling Kodai Valley
  • Hotel J’s Heritage
  • Poombarai Village
  • Quality Inn Sabari Resorts

What to Buy in Kodaikanal: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kodaikanal offers a plethora of souvenirs as a perfect reminder of your trip to this quaint hill town. Here are some of the best things to buy in Kodaikanal:

  • Homemade Chocolates
  • Eucalyptus Oil
  • Handmade Soaps
  • Spices
  • Carvings made of Shola Wood

Local Culture and Customs of Kodaikanal

The culture of Kodaikanal is a mix of Tamil and Western culture. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and their way of life is deeply rooted in traditions and values.

Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal

The best time to visit Kodaikanal is from September to May when the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges from 20-30 degrees Celsius. June, July, and August are the monsoon months, making it less favorable for tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kodaikanal

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Kodaikanal:

Do:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites, and cover your head.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Carry warm clothes during the winter months.

Don’t:

  • Litter around the town or tourist spots.
  • Disturb the natural habitat of the indigenous flora and fauna.
  • Travel alone at night.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a safe town for tourists, but it’s always better to be cautious. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Keep an eye on your belongings.
  • Do not accept food or drinks from strangers.
  • Avoid traveling alone at night.

Health in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal has a high altitude and may cause altitude sickness to some people. Ensure to take necessary precautions before indulging in adventure sports. It’s also advisable to carry essential medications as there is no high-quality medical infrastructure in and around the town.

Getting to Kodaikanal: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some of the transportation options available to reach Kodaikanal:

Airports Near Kodaikanal

Madurai Airport is the nearest airport, located about 120 km from Kodaikanal.

Bus Stations Near Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal has regular and frequent bus services from all nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

One can also opt for taxi/cab options or self-drive well-maintained cars to reach Kodaikanal from the nearest cities.

How to Get Around in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a small town, and most tourist attractions are within walking distance. However, one can hire a cab, rent a bike or cycle to explore the town at your convenience.

Where to Go Next from Kodaikanal: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the nearby locations to explore from Kodaikanal:

  • Munnar
  • Ooty
  • Yercaud
  • Thekkady
  • Madurai Temple City

Conclusion

Kodaikanal, with its lush greenery, scenic views, and vibrant culture, is among the most popular destinations in South India. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip to Kodaikanal, covering all the tourist attractions, cultural experiences, food scenes, and much more. So, pack your bags, get ready for an adventurous trip, and explore the beauty of Kodaikanal.

The Kurinji plant The Kurinji plant View of Kodaikanal View of Kodaikanal Kodai (Kodaikanal) Lake Kodai (Kodaikanal) Lake Dolphin's Nose Dolphin's Nose Pillar Rock site Pillar Rock site Silver Cascade Waterfall Silver Cascade Waterfall