Kodaikanal, a picturesque hill station nestled amidst the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, beckons travellers with its misty landscapes, serene lakes, and lush greenery. While the journey to this tranquil haven might seem daunting, a well-planned route can turn your travel into an exciting adventure. If you are wondering how to reach Kodaikanal, you are in the right place to find the answer.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unravel the various ways to reach Kodaikanal by train, flight, bus, or car, ensuring you have a smooth and unforgettable journey. This hill station is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore as you know. Here is how to reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore and other cities:
How to Reach Kodaikanal Through Different Modes?
If you wish to travel by train and wish to know how to reach Kodaikanal by train, here is the answer:
Reaching Kodaikanal by Train:
While Kodaikanal doesn’t have a direct train station, the nearest railway station is Kodai Road, situated approximately 80 kilometres away. From here, you can continue your journey to Kodaikanal via road. Reaching Kodai by train is convenient and so you can plan your exploration during your 5-day Kodaikanal itinerary. Here’s how to reach Kodai from Kodai Road Railway Station:
Reach Kodai Road:
Major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Coimbatore are well-connected to Kodai Road. You can opt for overnight trains or convenient express trains to reach this station. For instance, if you are travelling from Chennai, you can catch trains like the Pandian Express or MS Guruvayur Express from Chennai Egmore Railway Station to reach Kodai Road. Similarly, if you are travelling from Bangalore, you can book train tickets to reach Kodai Road on the Tuticorin Express.
What After Reaching Kodai Road?
Once at Kodai Road, you have the option to hire a taxi, take a bus, or rent a car to cover the remaining distance to Kodaikanal. The drive takes around 2 to 3 hours, offering scenic views of the Western Ghats.
Now, you know how to reach Kodaikanal by train. What if you wish to travel by flight? Here is the answer:
How to Reach Kodaikanal by Flight?
The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai International Airport, located approximately 120 kilometres away. From the airport, you can choose from several modes of transportation to reach your hillside destination:
Air Travel to Madurai:
Major Indian cities like Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore have direct flights to Madurai. Once you land at the airport, you have various options for the onward journey. So, if you are travelling from Bangalore or any other city, you can check whether you can find direct flights to Madurai Airport if you wish to know how to reach Kodaikanal by flight. What to do after reaching the Madurai Airport? Here is what you should do:
Road Trip to Kodaikanal:
Hire a taxi, book a private car, or take a bus from Madurai to Kodaikanal. The road journey offers scenic beauty and takes around 3 to 4 hours, making for an exciting drive.
Now, you know how to reach Kodaikanal by train and flight. What if you wish to travel by bus? Here is the answer:
Reaching Kodaikanal by Bus:
Kodaikanal is well-connected by road, with various state-operated and private buses plying to and from neighbouring cities and towns. Here’s how you can plan your journey:
Book a Bus Ticket:
Cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Coimbatore, and Madurai have regular bus services to Kodaikanal. You can choose from luxury coaches, semi-sleeper buses, or government-operated services. As you wish to know how to reach Kodaikanal by bus, you should know that government buses cost you less as compared to private buses. However, you cannot expect similar comfort when travelling on a government bus.
Enjoy the Road Journey:
Bus journeys offer an opportunity to witness the changing landscapes and enjoy the natural beauty along the way. The travel time varies depending on the distance, with some journeys taking around 6 to 8 hours.
If you are travelling from Bangalore, you might find Karnataka State Road Transportation Services buses that directly operate from Bangalore to Kodaikanal. Bus journeys can be a bit tedious. So, it might take some time for you to engage in the best things to do in Kodaikanal even after reaching your accommodation.
Now, you know how to reach Kodaikanal by train, flight and bus. What if you wish to travel by car? Here is the answer:
How to Reach Kodaikanal by Car?
Travelling to Kodaikanal by car is an excellent option if you’re looking for flexibility and comfort. You can enjoy the scenic drive through winding roads and lush greenery.
Also, when you travel by car, you can flexibly explore the places to visit near Kodaikanal as well if time permits.
Here’s how to plan your road trip:
Choose Your Route:
Depending on your starting point, you can choose different routes to reach Kodaikanal. Major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Coimbatore offer well-maintained highways that lead to the hill station.
Prepare Your Vehicle:
Ensure your car is in good condition before embarking on the journey. Carry essentials like a spare tire, toolkit, water, and snacks for the road.
Enjoy the Drive:
The road to Kodaikanal offers breathtaking views, hairpin bends, and picturesque villages. Take your time, make stops along the way, and capture the beauty of the journey.
Conclusion:
Now, you know how to reach Kodaikanal by different modes. Reaching Kodaikanal is an adventure in itself, offering various options for every type of traveller. Whether you prefer the comfort of a flight, the flexibility of a road trip, the scenic charm of a train journey, or the affordability of a bus ride, there’s a path that suits your preferences.
Thanks to the best hotels in Kodaikanal that will help you relax for some time after reaching the hill station. Plan your journey wisely, considering factors like travel time, convenience, and budget. Whichever mode of transportation you choose, the destination promises an enchanting experience amidst nature’s splendour. So, pack your bags, embark on your chosen route, and get ready to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Kodaikanal.