Kodaikanal Travel Essentials

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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.

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The Princess of Hill Stations

The Gift of Lakes and hills from God Kodaikanal is known as the "Gift of god" and "princess of hill stations". And, why not? True to its name, the Kodai town is famous for its bewitching beauty of the hills and lakes and for the pleasant chills of its weather. The moment you enter the boundaries of Kodaikanal, you will feel a fall in the temperature and rise in the scenic beauty. Situated at an elevation of 2100 from the sea level, there are numerous spots which can offer you the enchanting beauty of Kodaikanal. Coaker's walk- do not miss the sunset and sunrise from this spot. Green valley view, Dolphin's nose are the other viewpoints in Kodaikanal famous among the tourists for the landscapes.

Heaven for Trekkers and Hippies

If you love to explore nature and trek through the adventurous trails while you enjoy the surreal view around you, then Kodaikanal is the place to be. Not only a scenic beauty, Kodaikanal is also a hub of a number of beautiful treks. Trek to Dolphin's nose, where you will be greeted by one of the most beautiful sceneries that you had ever seen in your life. Trek of Periyakulam Adukkam is one of the most challenging treks in Kodaikanal. Unknown to many, Kodaikanal is also a hotspot for the hippies. As you take a step out of the conventional sightseeing of Kodaikanal, you will come across the little hamlets which offer the same beauty with a tinge of hippie and psychedelic culture. You can also trek to Vattakanal and enjoy the virgin beauty of biodiversity and experience the infamous hippie culture.

History of Kodaikanal

References of this hill station were found in the early Tamil Sangam Literature. The native tribe of the place was called the Palaiyar tribe. After them, Kannuvar Vellalans from Coimbatore plateau, who did farming businesses with this tribe emigrated to Kodaikanal. They ruled the place for some time followed by the Maratha and then the Muslims. The Kodaikanal that exists today was built by British bureaucrats and American Christian monasteries. As this city remained cold even during the summers, they sought refuge here from the heat of the plains. The Anglican Church of St. Peter was the first church built here in the year 1853. Kodaikanal got its fame as the 'honeymoon destination' in the early 20th century and has been a famous one ever since.

What Makes Kodaikanal An Amazing Tourist Destination

One of the most famous landmarks of Kodaikanal is the Kodai Lake, which is a huge lake spread across an area of 60 acres. You would be surprised to know that this huge star-shaped lake with rolling hills surrounding its borders is actually a manmade lake. The place has ample opportunities for tourists to avail of services like boating, cycling, and even horse-riding.

A big part of the experience of visiting Kodaikanal lies in visiting the various viewpoints that the town has on offers, such as Green Valley Viewpoint, Pillar Rocks Viewpoint, and the famously-known Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint. You need to partake in a moderate uphill trek to reach a few of these viewpoints, but the view from the top – clear skies and rugged mountain terrain at its finest – is worth it.

A big part of Kodaikanal still remains untouched by the tourist influx, and anyone looking to acquaint themselves with the old-world charm of the town only has to take a stroll along these areas to experience the best of Kodaikanal’s tradition and culture. For travellers who prefer engaging in a little hustle and bustle to get a feel of the place, the town has plenty of markets where you can spend hours exploring and relaxing.

The one place you really need to visit when you go to Kodaikanal is Coakers Walk, which is a beautifully decorated one-kilometre walkway that promises stunning views of the city and the mountains. Located at a very high point, taking a walk along the path of Coakers Walk actually feels like walking among the clouds. It is a very popular location preferred by tourists and locals alike for morning and evening walks, and for capturing stunning views of the hills and valleys of Kodaikanal. Kodaikanal is famous for its homemade assorted chocolates, so make sure that you don’t leave the city without shopping for these chocolates on your way back.

Restaurants and Local Food in 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.
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Suggested Itinerary for Kodaikanal

Day 1: Arrive at Kodaikanal. Check-in at the hotel. Breakfast at the hotel. Leave for local sightseeing after some rest. Visit Coaker's Walk. Afterward, Visit Kurinji Andavar temple. Later, visit Green Valley point, another viewpoint famous for its natural vistas.
Day 2: Trek to Dolphin's Nose: One of the must-visit places of Kodaikanal. Then visit Shola falls and Pillar rocks. Afterward, you can visit Guna caves also known as Devil’s kitchen to complete your day.
Day 3: Leave for Kodai Lake after breakfast. You can also visit Silver Cascades, the waterfall formed by the Kodai lake. Later, pay a visit to the Bryant park, a botanical garden with the vibrant variety of flora. Visit Berijam lake, a freshwater lake located amidst the dense Shola forests of Kodaikanal. You need a special permit from Forest Department to visit this lake.
Day 4: Collect souvenirs from the local market. You can buy various handicrafts, clothes and hand-made chocolates from the market. Back to your respective cities.

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Kodaikanal Photos

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal Lake (Kodai Lake), Manmade Lake located in Kodaikanal
Green Valley View (Suicide Point)
Coakers Walk, Built by Lt. Coaker in 1872

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FAQs on Kodaikanal

What is the best way 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.
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What is famous about Kodaikanal?

Abundant in natural beauty. Kodaikanal is an ideal spot for the family trips, honeymooners, adventure freaks and also for those who love to explore the untouched places.

What is not so good about Kodaikanal?

Nearest railway station and airport are situated far away from the main city. Since there are very few means of transportation from the airport, cab charges are generally higher and non-negotiable.

Who should visit Kodaikanal?

Kodaikanal is a place to be for every kind of traveler. Ideal for family vacations, romantic getaways, adventure lovers and also for the hippies.

What is the best time to visit Kodaikanal?

The best time to visit Kodaikanal is early summers from October - 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. 
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What is the local food in 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.
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How much does a package cost for Kodaikanal?

The packages for Kodaikanal start at INR 10710 which can be further customized based on number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type and customizations. You can have a look at all packages here

What are the top hotels in Kodaikanal?

There are 169 in Kodaikanal which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Kodaikanal are Syamantac Villa, Bunglow By The Lake, Kodai Drizzle - A Luxury Villa, Colonial Cottage, Eco Hostel, Romans pod house. You can see all the hotels in Kodaikanal here

What are the things to do in Kodaikanal?

The top things to do in Kodaikanal are Green Valley View (Suicide Point), Kodai Lake, Bear Shola Falls, Pillar Rocks, Thalaiyar Falls, Devil's Kitchen. You can see all the places to visit in Kodaikanal here

What are the places near Kodaikanal?

The top places near to Kodaikanal are Munnar which is 49 km from Kodaikanal, Kolukkumalai which is located 33 km from Kodaikanal, Alleppey which is located 144 km from Kodaikanal, Madurai which is located 77 km from Kodaikanal, Idukki which is located 65 km from Kodaikanal

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Popular Questions And Answers on Kodaikanal

Q. Language spoken???

Ravindra Rathod

5 years ago
English
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Q. How's road from Bangalore to Kodaikanal ? I am looking for self drive trip.

Pallavi Siddhanta

5 years ago
Bangalore - Salem - Dindigul - Kodai Road - Kodaikanal route is pretty good, except for a few rough patches here and there. You can go for it. It will take you about 7.5-8 hours
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Kodaikanal Reviews

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travel india with kavita

4 years ago
Beautiful Place really amazing...... i like very much that place.. "Text Hidden". Nearest city is Madurai. Located in the state of Tamil Nadu. "Link Hidden"

Aravind Venkatesh

4 years ago
Good place to enjoy the climate and nice place to make a family trip...most of the hotels are costly

Sameer patel

5 years ago
This is an amazing and very beautiful place, Thanks for sharing this. Keep share more! "Link Hidden"
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