Tourist Places to Visit in Kodaikanal: An offbeat paradise in Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Nestled in the Palani hills of Tamil Nadu, it is fondly known as “Kodai” or the “Princess of hill stations”. The word “Kodaikanal” translated in Tamil means “gift of the forest” and rightly named so as the place serves as a safe heaven from the tropical heat of the plains. The weather in Kodai is cool all year round due to its elevation and viewpoints and waterfalls are aplenty. The scenic beauty of Kodai is exemplary and it has become a preferred honeymoon destination.

There are lots to see and experience in this beautiful place and here are a few must visit locations and activities for every person traveling to Kodai. I hope you like my recommendations of places to visit in Kodaikanal.

1. Kodaikanal Lake (also known as Kodai Lake) 

Kodaikanal Lake

Things To Do at Kodaikanal Lake

Kodaikanal Lake, also known as Kodai Lake, is a man-made star-shaped lake situated in Kodaikanal in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, India. It’s one of the most popular tourist spots in the region and offers a range of activities. Here’s a list of things you can do at Kodaikanal Lake:

1. Boating: The lake has boating facilities, and you can rent rowboats, paddle boats, and shikaras to explore the lake.
2. Horse Riding: Around the perimeter of the lake, you’ll often find vendors offering horse riding experiences.
3. Cycling: Rent a bicycle and ride around the 5 km path around the lake. It’s a serene way to take in the beauty of the surroundings.
4. Walking: Simply take a leisurely walk around the lake, enjoying the calm atmosphere and the views of the surrounding hills.
5. Bryant Park: Located on the eastern side of the lake, this botanical garden boasts a wide variety of flora and is a great place to relax.
6. Shopping: There are several small shops and stalls around the lake selling handicrafts, woolens, homemade chocolates, and other souvenirs.
7. Street Food: Taste some local snacks at the street vendors around the lake. Some popular snacks include roasted corn, fresh fruits, and various Indian chaats.
8. Kodaikanal Solar Observatory: Located just a short distance away, you can visit this observatory for some astronomical observations.
9. Fishing: With proper permission, you can enjoy fishing in the lake.
10. Photography: The picturesque surroundings of the lake, combined with the often misty and ethereal weather of Kodaikanal, make it a great spot for photography.
11. Bird Watching: The area around Kodaikanal Lake is a good spot for bird watchers, especially during the early morning hours.
12. Visit Nearby Attractions: There are several attractions close to the lake such as Coaker’s Walk, Pillar Rocks, and Kurinji Andavar Temple. You can plan to visit these places when you’re around the lake.

Remember, Kodaikanal is a popular hill station and can get crowded during peak tourist season. It might be a good idea to plan your visit during off-peak times if you want a more peaceful experience.

How To Reach Kodaikanal Lake

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai Airport, which is about 120 km away. From the airport, you can hire a cab or take a bus to reach Kodaikanal.
2. By Train: Kodai Road (80 km away) is the nearest railway station. From here, one can take a cab or a bus to Kodaikanal.
3. By Bus: There are regular buses from cities like Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and Trichy to Kodaikanal. Once you reach the Kodaikanal bus stand, the lake is just a short drive or walk away.
4. By Car: If you’re driving, you can use GPS or navigation apps like Google Maps to guide you to Kodaikanal Lake. The roads leading to Kodaikanal are hilly with numerous hairpin bends but are generally in good condition. Ensure your vehicle is in good shape before the journey.
5. Within Kodaikanal: Once in Kodaikanal town, reaching the lake is quite straightforward. It’s centrally located, and any local can guide you there. There are also local rickshaws, taxis, and buses available for internal transportation.

Remember to check for any travel advisories or restrictions before planning your trip, especially in light of changing scenarios due to factors like the weather or global events.

2. Bryant Park:

Places to visit in Kodaikanal

Not to be missed is Bryant Park located on the east of the Kodaikanal Lake. Built and planned by H.D. Bryant, a forest officer from Madurai, this park is home to a staggering variety of trees,  shrubs, and cacti. The flowers in bloom during the peak season turn the park into a rainbow-colored paradise. Rose lovers are sure to be extra delighted as this park boasts of over 700 types of roses. Other attractions include a 157-year-old Eucalyptus tree and a large Bodhi tree that imparts a pious touch to the park. Tourists can also purchase ornamental plants from the park. In summer, flower shows and horticultural exhibitions are the star attractions. You can definitely include this in your places to visit in Kodaikanal.

Things To Do in Bryant Park, Kodaikanal

Here’s a list of things you can do in and around Bryant Park:

1. Botanical Beauty:

   Walk around the park and admire the lush green lawns, beautifully maintained flower beds, and over 325 species of trees, shrubs, and cacti. The park is especially renowned for its roses, with over 700 varieties on display.

2. Glass House:

   Visit the park’s glasshouse, which houses a fine array of ferns and other ornamental plants.

3. Annual Flower Show:

   If you’re visiting Kodaikanal during May, you can attend the Annual Flower Show at Bryant Park, which showcases a vast variety of flowers.

4. Children’s Play Area:

   If you’re traveling with kids, the park offers a designated area for them to play.

5. Boating:

   The Kodaikanal Lake is located near Bryant Park. Although not part of the park itself, you can indulge in some paddle boating or row boating on the lake after your park visit.

6. Shopping:

   There are several stalls near the park entrance where you can buy locally made handicrafts, shawls, and homemade chocolates.

7. Photography:

   With its exotic plants, scenic beauty, and the mesmerizing Kodaikanal Lake in the background, the park provides numerous photo ops.

8. Bird Watching:

   Bring your binoculars along. The park attracts various local bird species, especially in the mornings.

9. Visit the Lake:

   Take a leisurely walk to the nearby Kodaikanal Lake and enjoy the serene environment.

10. Taste Local Snacks:

    There are several vendors around the park selling local snacks and hot beverages. Don’t forget to try some.

11. Meditate:

    The park, especially during early mornings, is a peaceful place perfect for meditation or simply relaxing and soaking in nature’s beauty.

12. Learn:

    Read the informative signboards placed around the park, giving information about the various plant species.

13. Visit the Eucalyptus Tree:

    Not far from Bryant Park, there’s a 100-year-old eucalyptus tree which is a local attraction.

14. Attend Cultural Programs:

    Sometimes, during the peak tourist season, cultural events or programs are organized in or around the park.

Before visiting, it’s a good idea to check the park’s timings and any scheduled events. Also, try visiting during the weekdays if possible, as the park can get quite crowded during weekends and holidays.

Bryant Park Timings:

9 am to 6 pm

3. Guna Caves or Devil’s Kitchen:

As intimidating as its name, these are the bat-crowded hollows surrounded by the three gigantic rocks called Pillar rocks. It has deep hidden ravines that seem to have no point of origin. The slippery terrain makes this place fairly dangerous. The ravines are now closed owing to deaths and tourists can marvel at them only from a safe distance. Although unnerving, this majestic place is sure to invite awe. If you love pure nature, include Guna caves in your places to visit in Kodaikanal.

4. Coaker’s Walk:

Places to visit in Kodaikanal

This is a mountain trail surrounded by unforgettable scenery and stretches on the steep slopes on the southern side of Kodai. You can get unhinged views of the Dolphin’s Nose, Pambar River Valley as well as a complete view of Periyakulam and Madurai from here on a clear day. Halfway along the park, is situated an observatory equipped with a telescope. Open all year round, this park is an escape towards tranquility. Include Coaker’s walk in your places to visit in Kodaikanal for awesome views.

Things To Do in Coaker’s Walk

Coaker’s Walk is a beautiful pedestrian path located in Kodaikanal, a hill station in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Named after Lt. Coaker, who prepared the map of Kodaikanal, the walk offers some of the most mesmerizing views of the plains and the scenic beauty of the hill station. Here are some things to do and enjoy in and around Coaker’s Walk:

1. Stroll the Path: Simply walk along the Coaker’s Walk to enjoy panoramic views of the plains below, enveloped in clouds and mist on many days.
2. Telescope House: At one end of the walk, there’s a telescope house from where you can get a closer view of the valley and the nearby towns.
3. Photography: The scenic beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset, offers great photo opportunities for both amateur and professional photographers.
4. Street Vendors: While walking, you may find local vendors selling homemade chocolates, crafts, and fresh fruits. It’s a good chance to buy some local souvenirs.
5. Horse Riding: Close to the entrance, there are often horse-riding options for kids and adults alike.
6. Visit Nearby Attractions: Coaker’s Walk is in proximity to several other attractions in Kodaikanal, such as:
   • Bryant Park: A well-maintained botanical garden that hosts a variety of flowers, shrubs, and trees.
   • Kodaikanal Lake: You can enjoy boating or cycling around this man-made lake.
7. Try Local Eateries: Along the way or nearby, you might come across small cafes and eateries that serve delicious local and Indian snacks.
8. Enjoy the Flora: The path is lined with various kinds of plants, and depending on the season, you might see some beautiful blooming flowers.
9. Bird Watching: Bring a pair of binoculars, and you might spot some of the local bird species.
10. Interact with Locals: The path is frequented by both tourists and locals, making it a good spot to strike up a conversation and learn more about the culture and history of the area.
11. Relax and Meditate: The serene environment is perfect for some quiet introspection or meditation.
12. Stay Nearby: Some accommodations offer views of the valley right from the comfort of your room. Consider staying in one of these places for a night to enjoy the night and early morning views.

Whenever visiting Coaker’s Walk, make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, carry water, and be prepared for changing weather conditions, as hill stations like Kodaikanal can be unpredictable. Always respect the local environment and ensure that you don’t leave behind any litter.

5. Kodaikanal Solar Observatory:

Places to visit in Kodaikanal

This is the highest point from Kodai and it is an innate part of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIAP).Many a phenomenon were discovered at this prestigious place along with the “Evershed Effect”. It boasts of a 20cm refractor which is sometimes open for visitors to observe the night sky. The astronomy museum located at the premise is an impressive structure where solar pictures and models are on display. Public tours, access to the rich astronomical library as well as scheduled night visits are organized. Science lover or not, the astrophysical treasures of this Observatory are indeed fascinating. If you like astronomy, include this solar observatory in your places to visit in Kodaikanal.

6. Green Valley View (Formerly Suicide Point)

Green Valley View is also called as the Suicide Point which is a glorious tourist destination in Kodaikanal. This spot was previously known as the Suicide point, because of a large number of suicides committed here. Later this spot was renamed as the Green Valley View as one will find evergreen flowers are present on the way to the point. One should prefer walking through foggy forests and panoramic walks to reach the heaven alike destination. Green Valley View offers a great view of the Vaigai Dam and also of the nearby valleys which are unique. It is recommended for the visitors to not cross the limit of the fence as it can be tremendously unsafe. The place has gangs of monkeys all over, the tourists are warned to take care of their belongings as those monkeys are enormously attentive and fast at grabbing their stuff. A wide range of shops is located there which sell junk ornaments, and handmade chocolates. Include in your places to visit in Kodaikanal for the lush green surroundings.

7. Berijam Lake:

Places to visit in Kodaikanal

Berijam Lake is a lake located near Kodaikanal town in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu. It is situated at the old site of ‘Fort Hamilton’, in the upper hills of Palani. The lake is open for tourists from the month of October to May. Berijam Lake is very rich in flora and fauna and is blessed with the unmatched beauty of nature. Outside eatables are restricted here so the place remains clean for bird watching, quiet reflection, and for photography lovers. Berijam Lake supplies drinking water to Periyakulam town. Near the lake, there is a medicinal plants demonstration garden. The Berijam Lake offers a beautiful natural scenery which makes it even more worth a visit, in spite of reaching the place, maybe tiresome. This goes right in your places to visit in Kodaikanal if you love water bodies.

8. Pillar Rocks:

Places to visit in Kodaikanal

The Pillar Rocks is one of the famous tourist destinations of Kodaikanal which is situated nearly 8 km from the lake and is a superb tourist destination. It is also has a mini garden which is quite beautiful. The spot is named as it has three vertically positioned rocks reaching up to a height of 400 feet. Devil’s Kitchen is an exciting attraction for the tourist which is the space between the two rocks. Outside the garden mouth-watering and delicious Potato and Onion Bhajis are served which is highly recommended. Include this in your places to visit in Kodaikanal if you love awesome views and natural rock formations.

9. Bear Shola Falls:

Places to visit in Kodaikanal

The Bear Shola Falls is situated around 2 km far from Kodaikanal Lake. These Falls are another prevalent tourist destination. It is said that previously bears used to come at this fall for drinking water and hence they got the name as Bear Shola Falls. The best season to visit Bear Shola Falls is the monsoon season as they are filled to the fullest. These falls are 3 km far from Kodaikanal Bus Stand and can be reached effortlessly. It is pleasant, silent, and simply a heaven for those people who wish to escape from concrete forests. At this place, one would get to see many familiar and rare species of flora and fauna. This goes right on your list of places to visit in Kodaikanal if you like exploring waterfalls.

10. Kurinji Temple:

The Kurunji Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugu and is nearly located at a distance of 3 km from the Lake. The Kurinji Temple offers pleasant views of small towns, Northern plains, Palani Hills, and carrots plantation on the adjoining hills. The Kurinji Temple is also connected with the Kurinji Flower which blossoms once in 12 years capturing the entire area with purple flowers. The area of the temple also consists of a park and a small shrub garden. If you like visiting temples and admiring its architecture, this attraction goes right on your list of places to visit in Kodaikanal.

 11. Silent Valley View:

Places to visit in Kodaikanal

The Silent Valley View is situated near the Pillar Rock Garden in the town of Kodaikanal. This spot is well known because it offers a few amazing and gorgeous views of the Silent Valley. All the visitors are recommended to travel through the path cautiously. The perfect time to visit Valley View Point is early mornings or late afternoons because the charming beauty of the place is high during this time. Include this in your places to visit in Kodaikanal if you love enchanting views.

12. Dolphin’s Nose:

The Dolphin’s Nose in Kodaikanal is a natural wonder that has a flat rock extended over a chasmal height of 6600 feet. This place is situated nearly 8 km from the main city point. Dolphin’s Nose offers a spectacular view of the scenery. This place is much popular with forest pioneers and trekkers also. It is nearly a 3 km distance which has to be covered by trekking and gives superb views of the clouds and forests. At this place, there are few shops that sell tea, coffee, and eatables. Again, visit here for awesome views. One of the highly recommended places to visit in Kodaikanal.

13. Silver Cascade Falls:

On your journey from Kodaikanal to Madurai, Silver Cascade Falls is the perfect place to stop as they grab your attention. The overflowed water from the famous Kodai Lake led to the formation of the Silver Cascade Falls. This spot is a great place to have a break from your long road trip from Kodaikanal to Madurai as you are attracted to the marvelous view of the water thrashing down from 180 feet. Tourists can also swim in the waters of the falls only if the weather is right to do so. Near the falls there are few fruit sellers which sell mouth-watering fruits which one can buy and enjoy having them under the Falls which gives a supreme experience. For waterfall lovers, this attraction goes up top on your list of places to visit in Kodaikanal.

Places to visit in Kodaikanal

14. Thalaiyar Falls:

If you are an admirer of strong, gushing waters forcing vertically toward the ground, you have to visit the Thalaiyar Falls in Kodaikanal without giving a second thought. Thalaiyar Falls is also known as the highest waterfall in Tamil Nadu. Thalaiyar Falls can be viewed from the Dum Dum Rock viewpoint. The waterfall falls down from the middle of the green hills adjacent. One can walk along the concrete wall near the falls, so you get close to the immense 975 ft. fall. Again, a highly recommended waterfall to include in your places to visit in Kodaikanal if you like exploring.

15. Periyakulam Adukkam to Kodaikanal hike

Kodaikanal is considered as the trekker’s amusement as it has few wonderful spots which both the professional and amateur trekkers can experience. According to one’s fitness, time factor, and trekking capability, one can select the suitable trekking route. One of the most difficult routes is that of Periyakulam Adukkam to Kodaikanal which has an  18 km trekking distance and can be covered within 7 hours. The beginner trekkers who desire to go for an easy walk, the Kodaikanal to Berijam trek is the perfect one as the trekker will also experience the green valleys and the hill ranges around the Kodaikanal. If you like getting lost in the woods and enjoy trekking, this hike goes in your places to visit in Kodaikanal.

16. Subrahmanya Temple:

The Subrahmanya temple is located at a distance of 65 km from Kodaikanal and is also called as Kartikeya Temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Subramanya, and it is situated at a height of 135 meters. There are 659 steps which need to be climbed for reaching the Temple. It is advised to visit this temple during the Pangani Uttaram and Tai Pusam festivals.

17. Kodaikanal Golf Club:

If you are willing to shoot a few good holes and have a passion for golfing then one needs to visit the Kodaikanal Golf Club at this incredible hill station. The view at the Golf Club is mesmerizing because of the superb weather and the lush, vast grounds are a heaven to be at.

Places to visit in Kodaikanal

18. Shenbaganur Museum:

One can get to experience the history, flora, and fauna at a single place itself which is the Shenbaganur Museum. This museum is situated around 5 km from the Kodaikanal Lake. It is attractive and has more than 300 species of interesting flora in the orchidarium. It is the right place for the one who is interested to know about the unique culture of South India.

 19. Pine Forest:

The Pine Forest is maintained well by the forest officials. This forest is filled with the tall, slim trunks of the Pine trees which are going all the way towards the sky. This place is the favorite location for the directors of South Indian movies. Photography lovers visit the place for clicking astonishing pictures and discover the different flora in this forest. An awesome recommendation to make a part of your places to visit in Kodaikanal if you love exploring the woods. You can spend a lovely time hiking around in the Pine forest.

20. Kukkal Caves:

Well, it is said truly that if the rocks could tell stories, they would do so only through the captivating caves which are around them. The Kukkal caves are the antique rock housings that depict the traces of the antique ‘Palaiyar’ communities who are supposed to be disappeared now. So visiting the Kukkal Caves gives you an opportunity to experience a combination of nature and history which would give you the greatest memories. Again a recommended inclusion if you are looking at visiting caves as a part of your places to visit in Kodaikanal.

22. Vaigai Dam:

The Vaigai Dam is situated 2 hours from Kodaikanal and is considered to the best tourist destination that should be there on your list. This dam is 111 feet in height and also has developed a small park for recreation. This dam is a perfect example of modern beautiful architecture. For awesome views and lush green surroundings, Vaigai Dam goes right to your list of places to visit in Kodaikanal

Places to visit in Kodaikanal

All in all, Kodaikanal is a serene and tranquil escape from the hassles of modern life. If you want to rest in the lap of nature and bask in the awe-inspiring sceneries, Kodaikanal is the place to see.