nearest places to visit from kodaikanal

Top Things to Do in Kodaikanal, India

Places to visit in kodaikanal, explore popular experiences, tours in and around kodaikanal.

Ooty & Kodaikanal Tour - 5n6d

Private 3-Day Tour to Kodaikanal with Accommodation

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Madurai: Daytrip to Kodaikanal (Guided Sightseeing Tour by Car)

Half day trekking (munnar valley Trekking & Tours )

Munnar Tea Trail with Factory Experience ( By Munnar Info)

Wild Elephant Village( Anakulam) life tour ( By Munnar Info)

Wild Elephant Anakulam & Waterfalls Tour(munnar valley Trekking)

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Top Attractions in Kodaikanal

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Private & custom tours, walking & biking tours, what travellers are saying.

• Coakers Walk
• Mannavanur Lake
• Kodaikanal Lake
• Berijam Lake
• Pine Forest
• Dolphin's Nose
• Poombarai Village View
• Kurinji Andavar Temple

Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

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Near Kodaikanal Lake

Must Visit Places in Kodaikanal

Green Valley View (Suicide Point)

Bear Shola Falls

Pillar Rocks

• Filter (35)
• Waterfall (6)
• Viewpoint (5)
• Hills & Valleys (3)
• Church & Cathedral (3)

1. Green Valley View (Suicide Point)

3 km from city center 1 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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. Kodaikanal Lake

1 km from city center 2 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

1 km from city center 3 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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, Kodaikanal

3 km from city center 4 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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.

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Short Trip to Kodai with Berijam Forest Trip

Banglore mysore ooty kodaikanal tour package, 4 nights 5 days magical kodaikanal with munnar tour package, spicy south special package, idyllic ooty and kodaikanal honeymoon package, 2 nights kodaikanal honeymoon package, 5. pillar rocks.

3 km from city center 5 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

12 km from city center 6 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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.

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7. Vattakanal

3 km from city center 7 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

16 km from city center 8 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

4 km from city center 9 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

1 km from city center 10 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

12 km from city center 11 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

16 km from city center 12 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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.

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13. Trekking in Kodaikanal

32 km from city center 13 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

1 km from city center 14 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

2 km from city center 15 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

5 km from city center 16 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

2 km from city center 17 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

3 km from city center 18 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

1 km from city center 19 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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)

54 km from city center 20 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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, Kodaikanal

2 km from city center 21 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

1 km from city center 22 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

15 km from city center 23 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

5 km from city center 24 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

1 km from city center 25 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

3 km from city center 26 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

2 km from city center 27 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

0 km from city center 28 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

2 km from city center 29 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

0 km from city center 30 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

0 km from city center 31 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

11 km from city center 32 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

2 km from city center 33 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

2 km from city center 34 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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

4 km from city center 35 out of 35 Places To Visit in Kodaikanal

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.

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Top 12 Places to Visit Near Kodaikanal – Explore Places Beyond Kodaikanal

• February 13, 2024

Kodaikanal is a serene hill station that draws travellers from Bangalore as it is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore . However, the beauty of Kodaikanal extends beyond its borders, offering a plethora of nearby destinations that are equally captivating. In this guide, I will take you on a journey to discover the top 12 places to visit near Kodaikanal , allowing you to explore the region’s diverse beauty and culture.

Top 12 Places to Visit Near Kodaikanal

1. vattakanal: the little israel of india.

Just a short drive from Kodaikanal, Vattakanal exudes a distinct aura with its laid-back vibe and vibrant international community. Explore its winding trails, unique cafes, and stunning viewpoints that offer sweeping vistas of the surrounding hills.

If you wish to explore one of the best places to visit near Kodaikanal , do not forget to include Vattakanal in your itinerary.

2. Palani: Pilgrimage and Panorama

Known for the revered Palani Murugan Temple , this pilgrimage town is surrounded by picturesque hills and offers panoramic views from the top of Palani Hill. The temple’s spiritual ambience and the hill’s breathtaking vistas make Palani a must-visit destination.

3. Mannavanur: Nature’s Unspoiled Haven

Escape to Mannavanur, a tranquil village surrounded by lush green meadows and serene lakes. The Mannavanur Lake is perfect for picnics, and the untouched beauty of the landscape promises a peaceful retreat.

If you are looking for one of the serene places to visit near Kodaikanal , you can choose to visit Mannavanur. If you have booked accommodation in one of the best hotels in Kodaikanal , you can ask the help desk to know whether they arrange for a trip to this place. When you travel to Mannavanur by car from Kodaikanal, it will be the best experience for sure.

4. Pillur Dam: Serenity by the Waters

Experience serenity by the Pillur Dam, where the tranquil waters of the Pillur Reservoir meet the picturesque landscapes. The dam’s peaceful ambience and lush surroundings create a soothing escape.

If you are looking to visit one of the best places to visit near Kodaikanal with an excellent ambience, you can plan a visit to the Pillur Dam during your 5-day Kodaikanal itinerary .

5. Berijam Lake: A Hidden Gem

Located within the confines of the Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary, Berijam Lake is a hidden gem that offers crystal-clear waters surrounded by dense forests. The lake’s unspoiled beauty and pristine environment make it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.

6. Kumbakarai Falls: Nature’s Cascading Symphony

Situated near Periyakulam, the Kumbakarai Falls offer a refreshing escape into nature. The cascading waters and the lush greenery surrounding the falls create a picturesque setting perfect for unwinding.

If you are thinking about serene places to visit near Kodaikanal , a visit to this falls spot should not be missed out on.

7. Mudumalai National Park: A Wildlife Adventure

Venture a bit farther to explore the Mudumalai National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. This park is home to diverse species, including tigers, elephants and exotic birds. Embark on a thrilling safari to observe these creatures in their natural habitat.

If you can travel a bit and look to explore one of the best places to visit near Kodaikanal , you can get to this wildlife sanctuary.

8. Thekkady: Spice Aroma and Wildlife

Cross into Kerala to discover Thekkady, famous for its spice plantations and the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Immerse yourself in the aromatic world of spices and take a boat safari on the Periyar Lake to spot wildlife.

9. Munnar: Verdant Tea Plantations

While a bit of a journey from Kodaikanal, Munnar is worth the trip for its breathtaking tea gardens, misty hills, and colonial charm. Walk through the verdant plantations and experience the tea-making process up close.

Again, Munnar is in Kerala. But, a drive from Kodaikanal to this place is worth it as it is one of the best places to visit near Kodaikanal .

10. Valparai: Serene Tea Town

Visit Valparai, a tranquil tea town situated in the Anaimalai Hills. The town’s lush tea estates, dense forests, and scenic viewpoints make it a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.

If you know how to reach Kodaikanal by car and have travelled by your own car, you can take a ride to Valparai. Indeed, Valparai has not too many attractions to explore. But, the very cool ambience of this hill station along with winding hill roads make your ride enjoyable making it one of the best places to visit near Kodaikanal .

11. Madurai: Cultural and Historical Delight

A cultural gem near Kodaikanal, Madurai is famous for the majestic Meenakshi Temple and its rich history. Explore the bustling markets, marvel at intricate architecture, and witness the city’s vibrant traditions.

12. Kotagiri: Off the Beaten Path

For those seeking a quieter retreat, Kotagiri offers a serene escape amidst the Nilgiri Hills. With its tea gardens, waterfalls, and serene landscapes, Kotagiri is perfect for nature lovers and solitude seekers.

If you have reached Kodaikanal by self-driving, you should take your car to Kotagiri. The driving experience will be different as you will have to pass through hilly terrains. It is one of the best places to visit near Kodaikanal .

Conclusion:

The vicinity of Kodaikanal is adorned with a diverse range of destinations that cater to every traveller’s desire. From serene lakes and lush forests to cultural heritage and wildlife adventures, these nearby places offer a cornucopia of experiences waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a culture connoisseur, or an adventure seeker, the top 12 places to visit near Kodaikanal promise to extend your journey beyond the boundaries of this hill station. Embrace the beauty, diversity, and charm of these destinations, and embark on a remarkable exploration that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper connection to the wonders of Southern India.

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Best Places To Visit Near Kodaikanal For An Extended Holiday

by middha on August 7, 2018

The hill station that offers the best of nature on a platter, Kodaikanal is a hot tourist destination in South India. A trip to this quaint hill station in Tamil Nadu must be taken for two reasons – amazing sightseeing in the hill town and wonderful destinations in its vicinity that will rejuvenate your weary senses.

June to September is usually considered a good time to visit Kodaikanal. Monsoon are good time for road trips. Check out our comprehensive list of the best places to see near Kodaikanal.

Places To Visit Near Kodaikanal Under 200 Kilometres Away

1. poombarai & campers valley.

View of the Hills from the Poombarai Village

Poombarai is a picturesque hamlet near Kodaikanal that is famous for its views and ancient temples. You can walk around the little village that is step-structured upon grasslands, check out its splendid view points, pray at various little Hindu temples there and proceed to Campers Valley for an overnight stay.

Stargazing while camping under the open sky is an unforgettable experience.

• Best Things To Do: Poombarai Village View, Poombarai Murugan Temple, Aisha Mosque
• Distance from Kodaikanal: 60 kilometres

2. Dindigul

Kali statue at the foot of Dindigul Rock Fort

An ancient town dating back to the Early Pandyan Kingdom, Dindigul has a magnificent heritage of numerous temples and the famous Dindigul Fort.

Kalahastheeswara-Gnanambika temple is a famous 14th century temple here – a must visit. Also visit Arulmigu Kottai Mariamman Temple for its positive energy.

• Best Things To Do: Visit the epic Dindigul Rock Fort which is a 17th century hill fort for exquisite architecture, temple carvings, ancient ramparts and grand cannons.
• Distance from Kodaikanal: 100 kilometres

Theni Hills

Theni is well-placed town south of Kodaikanal in terms of exploring multiple destinations. One can visit Munnar from here as well as explore amazing sightseeing places. The road from Kodaikanal to Theni is scenic.

Check out the famous wavy Meghamalai Mountain Range near Theni for breathtaking sights of hills and tea estates.

• Best Things To Do: Vaigai Dam, Suruli Falls, Kumbakarai Falls, Meghamalai National Park
• Distance From Kodaikanal: 100 kilometres

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Madurai is an ancient city that used to trade with Rome is famous for its 14 colourful heritage gopurams (temple towers). Its Meenakshi Amman Temple is famous worldwide for its concentric maze like enclosures and splendid carvings on pyramid shaped gopurams.

Madurai is also famous for traditional accessories, delicious food and Sungudi Sarees.

• Best Things To Do: Visit Meenakshi Amman, Gandhi Museum, take a heritage walk, shop for sarees and jewellery
• Distance from Kodaikanal: 120 kilometres

5. Mathikettan Shola National Park

Elephant at the Mathikettan Shola National Park

‘Mathikettan’ means man with a confused head as once someone enters the park they can’t find their way out. Regardless of the name, the Park is a delight to visit.

The park is an important elephant corridor and other wildlife species. The terrain is a major draw for trekkers.

• Animals To Spot: Elephant, Tiger, Giant Squirrel, Spotted Deer
• Distance from Kodaikanal: 140 kilometres

6. Kolukkumalai

Tea Garden in Kolukkumalai

Kolukkumalai is a small hamlet famous for the world’s highest tea plantations ( 2100 metres above sea level). The tea produced here has the most delightful and fresh flavor as its grown in clean air of high altitude.

The stunning panoramic views are an added advantage. You can also visit the nearby Devikulam tea estates.

• Best Things To Do: Take a tour of Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, buy organic fresh tea products, visit the nearby Chinnakanal Waterfalls
• Distance from Kodaikanal: 150 kilometres

7. Cardamom Hills

The Gorgeous Cardamom Hills

A popular mountain range in the Western Ghats, Cardamom Hills is much admired by nature lovers. The Cardamom Hill Reserve produces maximum cardamom products in India.

There are several peaks that you can trek to in Cardamom Hills which are over 2000 metres high. The place is renowned for its pristine forest land.

• Best Things To Do: Visit the hydroelectric arch dam called Idukki Dam, trek to Anamala and Meesapulimala Peaks
• Distance from Kodaikanal: 160 kilometres

The Stunning Munnar Hills

Munnar is one of the most visited hill stations in India. Erstwhile hot spot for the British elite, Munnar is a paradise with rolling hills, fresh waterfalls and lush tea estates.

Visit the highest peak in South India near Munnar called Anamudi, and go biking on Munnar’s winding roads, bathe in Atukkad Waterfall and visit the vibrant Blossom Park.

• Best Things To Do: Views from Top Station, stroll in tea plantations, visit Eravikulam National Park and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Nyayamakad Waterfall.
• Distance from Kodaikanal: 163 kilometres

9. Coimbatore

The Statue of Adiyogi Shiva is a must-visit

Coimbatore is a blend of industrial activities and old world charm. The city is home to many interesting temples such as Arulmigu Patteeswarar, Marudhamalai Hill Temple, and Adiyogi Shiva which is a huge Shiva monument.

There are a number of nature landmarks such as Monkey Falls and Aliyar Dam Reservoir.

• Best Things To Do: Visit Dhyanalinga Meditation Centre and Black Thunder Water Theme Park, Statue of Adiyogi Shiva
• Distance from Kodaikanal: 180 kilometres

10. Anamalai Tiger Reserve

A Tiger at the Anamalai Tiger Reserve

A protected reserve in the middle of Anamalai Hills, this tiger reserve is a favorite of wildlife enthusiasts. You can indulge in trekking, safaris, photography or just idly lounge in the forest wilderness.

The tiger reserve is an ideal place to unwind over the weekend as well as bird-watching and nature walks.

• Wildlife To Spot: Tiger, Lion Tailed Macaques, langur, elephants and a variety of reptiles.
• Distance from Kodaikanal: 184 kilometres

Places To Visit Near Kodaikanal Over 200 Kilometres Away

11. tirunelveli.

Nellaiappar Temple Tower

Visit this 2000 year old city to experience true ancient cultural gems. The city is home to the most captivating ancient temples with exquisite carvings.

Its top tourist attraction is the Nellaiappar Temple which has interesting features such as musical pillars, golden lily tank and hall of a thousand pillars.

• Best Things To Do: Nellaiappar Temple, Agasthiyar Falls, EVR Periyar Statue
• Distance from Kodaikanal: 260 kilometres

12. Kumarakom

A Houseboat on the Kumarakom Backwaters

This village in Kerala is famous for its backwater tourism and laid back vibes. Tourists love staying in cottages and houseboats and go fishing in the village.

The most popular tourist attraction here is the Pathiramanal Lake and Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary which has birds like waterfowl, egret, cormorant, heron, darter, and a variety of migratory birds.

• Best Things To Do: Backwater cruises, bird-watching, Bay Island Driftwood Museum
• Distance from Kodaikanal : 280 kilometres

Make your dream trip to Kodaikanal even more exciting by visiting the enchanting destinations listed in the guide. If you have questions, write to us in the comment box below.

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• 35 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal Tourist Places

Here is the list of the best places to visit in kodaikanal:, quick navigation.

Camping Amidst Pear Orchard

Canopy Hill, Vattakanal

Dolphins Nose

No prizes for guessing that Dolphin’s Nose in Kodaikanal is a viewpoint on a rock that is shaped like a dolphin’s nose. Several people trek up this route to descend to this point. You wouldn’t have trouble understanding when your trek comes to an end, because the fast-flowing Catherine Falls will shout out to you to celebrate half of your hike. It is a dangerous route though because one has to climb back up which is steep and challenging for many. If you are a daredevil, then you can ask for local help and hike further to the end of Dolphin’s Nose which will lead you to an Echo Point, which is scary with a sheer valley on all three sides, but the glimpse is spectacular! and best for Kodaikanal sightseeing. Location:   8 Km. from Kodaikanal on Upper Shola Rd, Kodaikanal, India Timing: 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM Entry Fee: Free Also Checkout: Kodaikanal Tour Packages For Family

Best of Coorg

Green Valley View

Green Valley View is amongst the very few places to visit in Kodaikanal that offers a bird’s eye view of the Vaigai Dam. Apart from that, it is a one-stop-shop to get a wholesome view of the enthralling greenery, the cloud-bound valley and the lush mountains behind. It is also amongst the dangerous viewpoints since the route up is tricky, and is on a great height which makes standing there also unsafe. The mist takes over the crowd post late afternoon, and that might disrupt the spectacle from there unless you are there for the haze. Location: 5.5km from Kodaikanal Lake. Timing: 07.00AM to 06.00PM Entry Fee: Free Highly Recommended: Kodaikanal Couple Packages

Kodaikanal Lake

You take an above-ground view of the Kodaikanal Lake, and you will be amazed to find a star-shaped water body that is the soul of this city. What makes this exceptional amongst the other places to visit in Kodaikanal is the fact that it is man-made and dates many years back. The Palani Hills ranges make an extraordinary surrounding the main lake. One can sit by, meander around, or go boating which is chargeable. If you get the permissions, then you can even go fishing at this lake.  Kodaikanal Lake is renowned for preserving the Kurinji Flower, which blooms only once in twelve years. Flower shows, and Boat Pageants are consistent fascinations in the summer season. Location: 3km from Kodai bus stand Timings: 06.00AM to 05.00PM Entry Fees: Free Popular Reads: Best Kodaikanal Resorts

Bear Shola Falls

If you are looking for privacy, serenity, a glimpse at nature’s beauty and want to say hello to some exotic species and fauna, then a visit to Bear Shola Falls is a must! It gets this attention-grabbing name from the fact that Bears visited this water body to quench their thirst. No doubt this is one of the best Kodaikanal tourist places.  This spout breathes to life in the monsoons as it streams down the green mountains and the stylishly shaped rocks. This white water area is a perfect place for Kodaikanal sightseeing which takes one through the thick forests.  One must make sure to wear comfortable shoes in this area, as it is slippery and is dominated by monkeys! Location: 2kms from Kodaikanal Lake Timings: 10.00AM to 06.00PM Entry Fees: Free Also Checkout:   Kodaikanal Tour Packages From Bangalore

Best of Munnar

Pillar Rocks

The majestic pillar rocks are what edge the Guna Caves and its mystery puts it on the list of places to visit in Kodaikanal . These rocks narrate a yarn of a love story that still touches many hearts. Protruding from within the tall mountains, these pillars reach up to a height of 400 feet thus offering the paramount contour of the hills. There was once a white wooden cross that rested on these rocks which were a symbol of love, but it is lost with time. Hold your hearts, for you might fall in love with the place. It is the best spot for picnics and also has a mini garden to amuse tourists further. Location:   Pillar Rocks Rd, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu 624101 Timings: 09.00AM to 04.00PM Entry Fee: Rs.5/person and Rs.20 for camera Popular Reads: Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal in 2 Days

Thalaiyar Falls

You might have never before seen a restricted waterfall whose broadness has been cut off to fall like a narrow stretch of a tail at high speed; that and everything more amusing is Thailayar Falls for you! Falling from a height of about 297m, this cascade has been recorded as the highest one in Tamil Nadu which make this place best for Kodaikanal sightseeing If you catch a glimpse of it from a distance, then you will notice that it is a large strip flowing out of nowhere, in the middle of nowhere amidst the gigantic Palani ranges. Hiking at the base of the falls is a popular activity which covers an unbelievable distance of 15km! Location:   Devadanapatti of Theni District, Tamil Nadu Timing: 10.00am to 06.00PM (Closed on Sundays) Entry Fee: Free Do Ckeckout:   Kodaikanal Tour Packages From Chennai

Coakers Walk

If you want to see with your own eyes the epitome of beauty on Earth, then you should know that Coaker’s Walk is the highlight of the tourist places in Kodaikanal. Driving through the mountains is one experience, but walking an entire kilometre on that path while you look at the lush green mountains on the other end is something else. City people use this path for morning and evening walks. The telescope House escalates the view of the valley, even though chargeable, it is grandeur! The weather is pleasant throughout the year, but it is frigid and foggy during the winter due to its height. Location: 0.5 km from Kodaikanal Lake Timings: 07.00AM to 07.00PM Entry Fees: Rs.10/person; Rs.30 for camera and Rs.20 to visit Telescope House Checkout & Book:   Kodaikanal Tour Packages From Kerala

Best of Wayanad

Berijam Lake

Every nature lover must drop down at this leftover reservoir that gains its source from the dam which forms outstanding scenery of the landscape that Mother Nature has bestowed Kodaikanal with. Hidden within the forests, this immaculate lake is a wonder for bird-watching, photography and chilling. The friendly fishes may come around by the banks to entertain you into staying longer. A trip to the Berijam Lake calls for a lot of planning, as it is not open after 03.00PM since the fog enters the area after 01.00PM; also they do not allow many people to enter at once, so it is best to make your way there in the morning. Location:  Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu Timing: 09.00AM to 03.00PM Entry Fee: Rs.100/person Also Checkout:   Kodaikanal Tour Packages From Coimbatore

Bryant Park

Education, picnicking and gardening are all the things you will witness at Byrant Park, another jewel of Kodaikanal. The park is hoarded with variant types of species of plants and shrubs that leaves one astounded for long. Horticulture and gardening fanatics visit this place in plenty. It is a wonderful place for gathering information on the many plants and trees, and hence is an amalgamation of an educational and fun trip! It is amongst the very few sites that preserve Green Roses, one of its latest additions. The Annual Horticulture Show conducted in May keeps people waiting from around the world! You must visit Byrant Park and its 325 species & religious Bodhi Tree. Location:   Lower Shola Rd, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu 624101 Timings: 09.00AM to 06.00PM Entry Fees: Rs 30/adult; Rs.15/child; Rs.50 for camera and Rs.100 for video camera Must Checkout:   Kodaikanal Tour Packages From Cochin  

Silver Cascade Falls

The Silver Cascade Waterfall resembles its name in every essence. It is a pit stop on the way to Madurai, and it claims one’s scenic attention like nothing else! Falling from a humongous height of 180ft, this pour is unimaginably ethereal. It draws its water from the overflowing Kodai Lake and gushes down with loud thuds. Many take a dip into them when the weather is apt. The smell of homemade chocolates and herbal oils from local vendors will urge you into buying them for people back home. Sitting by the lake, and chomping off on local fruits and delicacies at the waterside restaurants is a binding memory! Location: 8km ahead on Kodai-Madurai road. Timings:  N/A Entry Fee: Free Suggested Reads: Best Cottages in Kodaikanal

Best of Chikmagalur

Silent Valley View Point

Silent Valley View Point is nature’s beauty at its best with heart-throbbing views of the white cloud-painted mountains. The pea green valley that lies below makes this point amongst the supreme tourist places in Kodaikanal. You can catch the sunrise and sunset in the eyes of the city, and confirm that you are indeed in the ‘princesses of hills’. The winter season blankets the valley with a white mist that associate to form a panoramic visual that is incomparable to anything else you have ever seen. You will be forced to settle down for beyond your estimated hours, only to believe what you are seeing! Location:   Berijam Rd, Tamil Nadu 624101 Timings: Daytime Entry Fee: Free Do Checkout:   Kodaikanal Tour Packages From Mangalore

Kurinji Andavar Temple

If you are in Kodaikanal and want to feel the South culture, then Kurunji Andavar Murugan Temple is one of the famous religious  Kodaikanal sightseeing places. Dedicated to Lord Murugan, the God of Hill, this temple acts as the spiritual link between the hills and the Lord of the residents. It gets the name ‘Kurunji’ from the Kurunji flower that blooms once in twelve years. You can relax in the premise after prayers at the shrub garden or the park area. Location:   Kurinji Andavar Temple Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu 624101 Timing: 07.00AM to 07.00PM Entry Fee: Free You can also Checkout:   Kodaikanal Tour Packages From Mysore

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

Sited in the Palani Hills, Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is built in a manner that aids in the study of the solar actions. Professionals use this place to find the most accurate cosmic observations because the placement of the observatory helps to study the sun in an undisturbed manner; this is why it open only during the day. A lot of national and international conferences are conducted here; it is bejewelled with a lot of data that is stored in its larger than life library. If you can pull some strings, then you may get special permission for star gazing at night, but that is subject to the officials. Location:   Near Govt Rose Garden, Observatory Rd, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu 624103 Timings: 10.00AM to 12.00PM, 02.00PM to 04.00PM (From April to June); 10.00AM to 12.00PM during other months (Only on Fridays) Entry Fee: Free Must Read: Best Homestays in Kodaikanal

Best of Ooty

Pambar Falls

Subramanya temple (Kartikeya Temple)

Best of Dandeli

Fairy Falls

Mother Sallette Church

Best of Sakleshpur

Upper Lake View Point

Lake View Point

It wouldn’t be wrong to call Lake View Point as a photographer’s nirvana because it is statuesque! You can stand atop Lake View Point, and get an aerial view of the Kodaikanal Lake. Since it comes in the middle of many other local attractions, this is a preferred stopover to take a break and sip some local tea. You can interact with the native vendors who sell authentic souvenirs that belong to Kodaikanal. The point is gathered with several professional photographers who will allow you to make the most of the background. Location:   Theni-Allinagaram, Theni, Kodaikanal, India Timing:  24 Hours Entry Fee: Free Checkout & Book: Kodaikanal Tour Packages From Aurangabad

Vattakanal Falls

This widespread white beauty is an amazing place to spend some time when in Kodaikanal. You can sit by Vattakanal Falls and relish some hot lip-smacking delicacies sold by localites while the falls amaze you with all its glamour. Hiking up the route of the falls is also an option, and is indeed loved by many. There are several viewpoints on the way up here that testify the splendour that the city owns. If you feel like taking a plunge, then you can move to the bottom of the falls where the water collects to form a pool. The cold water is revitalising and energetic, especially in the monsoons. Bison and some other wild animals are night mongers around the falls after sunset; therefore you should stay on a lookout for them if you are on a hike! Location: 3km outside Kodaikanal Timing: 24-hours Entry Fee: Free

Best of Pondicherry

Perumal Peak

Perumal Peak has an untold history; residents of the town believe that this Peak was once an active volcano and it has remained dormant since the past 1,000 years. Another reason why you should visit this peak is that it is the highest one in this mountain range soaring in the Western Ghats. Not just does it give a view of the Ghats, but also of the Nilgiri Hills that shine bright with a green carpet clinging to them. Adventure lovers flock this area because they can either hike to this point or go mountain biking which is a rare thing to do in Kodaikanal. This 7km long route is praiseworthy of every hard-working step because the view from the mountain top is mesmerising. There is also availability to camp there overnight. Location:   Western Ghat, Nilgiri Hills | 11.3 Km from Kodaikanal, Kodaikanal, India Timing: 24-hours Entry Fee: Free Suggested Read:  Places To Visit In Langkawi

Kukkal Caves

Kukkal Caves in Kodaikanal is a treat for the city owing to its deep history of giving refuge to the Palaiyar tribes. The walls inside that are full of paintings confirm the presence of this tribal group, until they finally disappeared. Now, the area is so rich in its biodiversity, that people from different parts of the country visit the caves to study the unexplored flora and fauna it preserves. The place is soothing for it is on one of the highest elevations of the mountain ranges which is why it experiences lower temperatures throughout the day and year. The Forest Department conserves these caves to protect it from human interruption. Location:   Kukkal, Kodaikanal, India Timing: 10.00AM to 05.00PM Entry Fee: Free Must Read:   Best Trekking Tours in Kodaikanal for experiencing adventure

The Guna Caves in Kodaikanal have an engrossing history; it is believed that the Pandavas used to cook their meals in these caves, and hence it was initially called The Devil’s Kitchen. The name was later changed in the ’90s when the film Guna was shot here. The caves are hugged by three gigantic rock pillars and are sheltered by the Shola trees. It is a place that some find risky, and some find rousing due to its altitude, steep drops, and cliffs. You cannot visit the caves anymore since they are now jailed for people’s safety, but it is still worthy of your time to even set your eye on it from a distance as you walk through the pine forest. Location:   Pillar Rocks Rd, Tamil Nadu 624101 Timings: 08.00AM to 06.00OM Entry Fee: Free Recommended Reads: Best Waterfalls in Kodaikanal Distance from Kodai Bus stand:  Approximately 11 KM

Best of Yercaud

Mannavanur Lake

Kurangani Hills

Kumbakkarai Falls

Best of Coonoor

Chettiar Park

Shembaganur Museum of Natural History

A team of students under Spanish Father E Ugarte have given their all to preserve their teacher’s collections of butterflies, moths, and birds which is kept at Shembaganur Museum of Natural History. It covers wide-ranging history from handicrafts, flora, fauna and anthropology. There are more than 300 species of plants, trees, mammals, butterflies, etc. which you can see and gain insights about them. A vast garden awaits you in the premise which will introduce you to a variety of flowers. If you connect with history, and you love learning about plants, then this museum is for you! Location: 5.6km from Kodaikanal Lake Timings: 10.00AM to 11.30PM and 03.00PM to 05.00PM (Closed on Thursdays) Entry Fee: Rs.2/person Must Checkout: Kodaikanal Tour Packages From Gurgaon

Anna Salai Market

Kodaikanal Pine Forest

The Kodaikanal Pine Forest seems much like a painting that has come to life with its splendid colours and picturesque feel. This is amongst the favourite places to visit in Kodaikanal on every tourist’s itinerary. It might seem like you are not a part of this planet for the hours that you spend there because the long stretch of just trees will not allow you to gaze at anything else but them. The semblance of the place is fantastic for nature walks, or just to rejuvenate. The Magic mushrooms border these forests in large densities. It might not surprise you to know that it has been a picture perfect background in several Indian movies.   Location: Kodaikanal Ghat Road Timing: 10.00AM to 06.00PM Entry Fee: Free

People Also Ask About Kodaikanal

Which are the best one-day places to visit in kodaikanal for couples, which are the best places to visit in kodaikanal with kids, which are the best places to visit in kodaikanal with family.

Here is a list of some of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal with family. 1. Bear Shola Falls: One of the best Kodaikanal tourist places, it is the definition of serenity, natural opulence and privacy for the perfect family outing. You and your loved ones can spend the time here relishing on a picnic, swimming and exploring the native flora and fauna. 2. Pillar Rocks: These lofty pillars edge from the Guna Caves, another exceptional Kodaikanal sightseeing. These pillars stand at 400 meters and offer the beautiful panorama of the hills. You and your family can enjoy breathtaking views from here. 3. Coaker's Walk: This walkway looks straight out of paradise as you have verdant hills on one end and views of the valley on the other. The locals and tourists use this path for morning walks and evening strolls. 4. Upper Lake Viewpoint: Thida spot is located just a few kilometers from the Coakers Walk and offers unmatched views of the Kodaikanal lake and its prominent star-shape. The lush surrounding and other aspects also look marvellous.

What is Kodaikanal famous for?

What is the best time to visit kodaikanal, is one day enough for kodaikanal, what are the best waterfall treks in kodaikanal.

Here is a list of some of the best waterfall treks in Kodaikanal. 1. Thalaiyar Falls: This is the highest recorded waterfall in Tamil Nadu, at an elevation of about 279 meters. The Palani range has a depression into which the cascade drops, looking mesmerizing. This is also one of the popular Kodaikanal places for treks with a distance of 15 km to reach the base of the falls. 2. Pambar Falls: This is one of the most visited Kodaikanal places and is called the 'Grand Cascade'. The waterfalls drop on zig-zag patterned rocks, looking exquisite. You can spend tranquil time, bird-watching and even a picnic. 3. Vattakanal Falls: This grand waterfall is among the best places to visit in Kodaikanal. A heavy downpour of milky-white water is a sight to behold. You can enjoy a swim at the bottom of the natural pool, hike to reach the top while stopping along the way to get a glimpse of the beautiful surroundings. 4. Kumbakarai Waterfalls: Situated in the Theni district near Kodaikanal. There are two ebbs that the fall drops from. You can take a hike to reach the cascade and then bath under the shower as it is believed that the water has medicinal properties to cure skin ailments.

What are the best places to visit in Kodaikanal in winters?

Which are the famous places to visit near kodaikanal within 100 km, which are the amazing places to visit in kodaikanal at night, what are the most popular things to do in kodaikanal with kids.

Check out some of the most popular things to do in Kodaikanal with your kids: - Experience the unparalleled fun with your kids at Kodaikanal Lake - Explore the Coaker's walk - Have fun at the Bryant Park - Sight amazing attractions at the Chettiar Park

What are the best resorts in Kodaikanal?

Is kodaikanal safe for couples, how many days do you need to see kodaikanal, how is kodaikanal in december, which is best kodaikanal or coorg, what is the climate of kodaikanal, which is better ooty or kodaikanal, is kodaikanal good for honeymoon, which are the places i can visit in kodaikanal in 2 days, what are the best waterfalls in kodaikanal, is kodaikanal worth visiting, which are the best kodaikanal tour packages that i can book from thrillophilia.

Here is the list of best Kodaikanal tour packages that I can book from Thrillophilia are:

• Bangalore to Kodaikanal Package
• Bangalore Mysore Ooty Kodaikanal Tour Package
• Ooty Kodaikanal Munnar Tour Package
• Bangalore Mysore Ooty Kodaikanal Munnar Tour Package
• Ooty Kodaikanal Tour Package
• Kodaikanal Tour Package from Madurai
• Ooty Kodaikanal Tour Package from Bangalore

Kodaikanal Top Attractions

Silver Cascade Falls is heaven for those who love to view the beauty of nature at different locations. The waterfall is located at an altitude of 2318 meter, on the road to Madurai and Kodai. The water flows down from a height of 180 feet, which makes it a beautiful sight for the onlookers. The waterfall is believed to be a remain of the Kodai Lake, where tourists can even take a dip in the water flowing down from the falls.Tourists can be seen taking a break from their ride towards Kodaikanal at the various tea stalls which can be found lined up near the falls. The remaining distance to Kodaikanal from the falls is merely 8 km. It is believed that the water from the falls is laden with various minerals, which gives these waters their healing and refreshing properties. It is a sight to watch monkeys playing on the cliff and slippery rocks of the fall. The name ‘Silver cascade’ is given to this fall, owing to the colour of the water which appears silver when flowing down the 55 meter high cliff.On either side of the cliff, you can find rugged rocks and wild foliage springing up in all directions. There is a dedicated viewing platform in front of the waterfall, which serves as an excellent point to view the flowing water fall down in a pool. One can easily reach the silver Cascade falls via local transport such as auto or rickshaw, in Kodaikanal.

Situated at a distance of 8km from the Queen of Hills, Dolphin’s Nose Kodaikanal is something you should never miss on. With an altitude of 6600 feet, the Dolphin’s Nose offers enthralling views of the entire city. Rugged terrains, clear skies, plunged valleys, and the splendour of lush green surroundings is what sums up the beauty of Dolphin’s Nose. The cliff is tucked atop a flat and protruding rock piece. It gives it a resemblance to the shape of the nose of a dolphin. This how the cliff got its identity worldwide. Even at such a height, Mother Nature has made this place available and easily accessible for tourism. So, if you are looking to spice up your Kodaikanal visit with an additional flavor, get on your adventurous sporting shoes and start ascending the route of Dolphin’s nose. For some, the path to the Dolphin’s Nose may seem to be easily accessible; for others it’s a moderately difficult one. Your trekking route to the Dolphin’s Nose is a 3 km long making its way through the rocks and pines of the Palani Hill Range. There is a village nearby and a waterfall to adore on your way to the Dolphin’s Nose. You can get along with the locals, sip a cup of tea of their style, and then move forward. Occasionally, you might come across a scenario where a mystical fog will be seen wrapping up the huge mountain ranges and the valley that goes along. Tourists usually plan a quiet retreat in the lap of the mountains here and engage themselves into a soulful introspection — the beautiful transitions at the onset of both sunrise and sunset adds-on glory to the moment. Besides, the peace and tranquillity which you experience here remain unparalleled!Sometimes, you may find the local vendors dotting the region to sell their food and fresh fruit juices. However, it might cost more than usual on your wallet.

Also known as Rat Tail Falls, the Thalaiyar Falls is the highest waterfall in the state of Tamil Nadu. Gushing down from the slopes of the verdant Palani Hills in Dindigul District, Thalaiyar Falls is situated around 40 kilometres from Kodaikanal. Furthermore, this mesmerising waterfall can be spotted across the entire valley. From faraway places, you can see Thalaiyar Falls as a thin silver strip of water freefalling with the lush green mountains and dark rocks making for a scenic backdrop. Moreover, when looking at it, the falls seems like the tail of a rat, long and thin. In addition to being the highest waterfall, it is also among the widest of all waterfalls in the area, ranging from 13 kilometres on the Batlagundu-Kodaikanal Ghat Road to Kodaikanal. From trekking and hiking, to photography, there is a lot one can do on their visit to Thalaiyar Falls.Visitors can also enjoy the beauty of the falls from the roadside benches, simply soaking in the great atmosphere. Moreover, there are two walls here on the falls, where a huge flat rock rests below one of them. Tourists can get down to the rock’s edge and get a great look of the river at the bottom which flows silently into the woods.The falls also serves as a watering hole, attracting many animals for drinking water. Even though it is said that the water of Thalaiyar Falls, which comes from the Perumal Malai village through a 9-kilometre downstream is clear, tourists visiting the falls are recommended not to drink it.

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Tourist Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

Southern India’s popular hill station, Kodaikanal, fondly referred to as the ‘Princess of hills’ is a mesmerising tourist destination that offers scenic views full of lush green hills, waterfalls, lakes and dense pine forests. Surrounded by the Parappar and Gundar valleys on both sides, the Tamil Nadu hill station is situated at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea-level atop the Palani Hills. It is a favourite among all kinds of travellers - budget travellers, backpackers, nature lovers and honeymooners with a variety of tourist places near Kodaikanal. From caves and treks through pine forests to boating in lakes and religious spots, it has got it all!

The list of Kodaikanal tourist places is nearly endless. One can visit the numerous lakes and waterfalls and soak in the calm from its soothing waters or enjoy a boat ride amidst the natural wilderness. If you love adventure, you will find plenty of places to visit in Kodaikanal that will give you a shot of adrenaline such as Dolphin’s Nose, Kumabkarai or the Pillar Rocks. You can choose from the following list of places to visit in Kodaikanal as you enjoy white clouds playing hide and seek with the beautiful green mountains covered in purplish blue Kurinji flowers when you visit this gorgeous domestic destination.

Places to Visit in Kodaikanal: Lakes and Falls

Kodaikanal Lake
 One of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal, Kodaikanal lake is an artificial star-shaped lake located at 2,285 meters above sea level. It was built in 1863 and since then has ranked high amongst Kodaikanal tourist places with thousands of tourists flocking to the destination during summer months for its cold breeze and cloud covered surroundings. Originating from the Palani hills water, the lake that covers a stretch of 60 acres finally flows into a mesmerising waterfall at a height of 180 ft, called the Silver Cascade. When in Kodaikanal, you can’t miss boating at Kodai Lake and visiting the Silver Cascade waterfalls.

Bear Shola Falls
 One of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal is the Bear Shola Falls, located just 2 km off the Kodaikanal Lake. Legend has it that this was a bear’s favourite place to drink water and gave it its interesting name. The water gushes out of the Parappar River Stream falling off the mountains against the green backdrop, making it a sight to behold. This Kodaikanal tourist place is loved by nature enthusiasts, adventurers and couples alike. If you want to enjoy these falls in full glory, the best time to visit Kodaikanal would be the monsoons.

Berijam Lake

Spread across vast forested lands, Berijam Lake in Kodaikanal is a perfect option if you’re looking to explore tourist places near Kodaikanal. Make sure you take the mandatory permit from the forest department before visiting the Berijam Lake. Lose yourself to the refreshing green backdrop of lust forests as you picnic on the lakeside. This quaint lake should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Kodaikanal if you’re looking to spend some quality time with your loved ones or want to try your hand at fishing. But make sure you’ve all the necessary permits!

Mannavanur Lake

Another popular spot in the list of places to visit in Kodaikanal is the Mannavanur Lake. Crossing pine and eucalyptus trees on either side of the road, a scenic drive paves the way for this Kodaikanal tourist place. Just like most places in Kodaikanal, surroundings of the Mannavanur Lake also offer rich fauna. You will find exotic birds flying around and may even spot some wild animals. You can even enjoy coracle ride or horse riding or simply soak in the views of the nearby sheep farm where flocks of sheep graze and make for a beautiful backdrop. 

Vattakanal Falls


Vattakanal Falls is one of the top choices if you are looking for places to visit near Kodaikanal. The best time to visit Kodaikanal is during the monsoon when you can visit the grand Vattakanal falls for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Surrounded by vast landscapes of forest and hills, this tourist place near Kodaikanal promises great views and is quite safe to be around but you should be wearing non-slippery footwear. You can even click pictures for the ‘gram from a bridge near the falls.

Pambar Falls

If you’re looking to unwind by taking a dip in cool, clear waters of a natural waterfall, Pambar Falls is a great option to consider when deciding on places to visit in Kodaikanal. Located at a meagre 3km distance from the Kodai bus station, this waterfall flows into a natural pool where you can take a dip! The wild and green setting of the Pambar falls makes visiting it a picturesque affair. Thalaiyar Falls

Thalaiyar Falls or the Rat Tail Falls as the locals refer to it, is a unique shaped waterfall which is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kodaikanal. Located along the Palani Hill ranges along its green trails in the Dindigul District, the waterfall falls off a height of over 290 meters. Thalaiyar Falls is the highest waterfall in Tamil Nadu and the sixth highest waterfall in India and ranks as the 267th highest in the world. You can click some amazing pictures of the falls from a view tower at the Dum Dum Rock.

Fairy Falls

The name of the falls is interesting enough to attract a number of tourists. A popular swimming spot, the Fairy Falls located in Pambarpuram, offer a great space to spend some quality time with your loved ones or even just by yourself. Watch the water gushing out from the top of the hill and rejuvenate your city-wrecked soul.

Places to Visit in Kodaikanal: Viewpoints and Landmarks

The list of places would remain incomplete without a mention of the Guna caves. Discovered in 1821 CE by BS Ward, an English officer, the cave remained hidden from the tourists for many years till 1991 when a Tamil movie ‘Guna’, that starred the famous actor Kamal Hassan changed its fate. Located 12 km away from Kodainal, Guna caves is one of the best places to visit near Kodaikanal. If you want to make your trip adventurous, exploring the beauty of Kodai pines at Guna caves should definitely be on your list of things to do in Kodaikanal.

La Saleth Church

Built in 1846, La Saleth Church is the oldest catholic church in Kodaikanal. A perfect blend of Tamil and French culture and architecture, the church offers a panoramic view of the hills at 7,000 ft above sea level. If you want to get an insight into the local culture of the hill station or simply put your mind at peace, don’t miss a visit to this 150 year old shrine.

Kodai Chocolate Factory

Bring your Willy Wonka dreams alive as you take in the aroma of the delicious cocoa at the Kodai Chocolate Factory and witness the making of a variety of chocolates. One of the most recommended places to visit in Kodaikanal, Kodai Chocolate Factory was started in 1999 and specializes in chocolates, coffees, aroma oils etc. Their products are completely vegetarian. If you love chocolates, don’t forget to visit the Cloud Street, PotLuck, SG Cottage Industries and of course, the Kodai Chocolate factory to treat yourself with delicious chocolate varieties.

Perumal Peak

If you love trekking and rewarding yourself with a great view at the end, Perumal Peak is one the best places to visit near Kodaikanal. Located at a height of 8,005 ft above the sea level, this peak of the mighty Western Ghats offers panoramic views of the valley. Adventurers will love the trek as it may get slightly tedious. You can also visit the quaint Perumal Malai Village on the way and get a taste of the local culture. Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple

This Lord Muruga or God of hills temple is one of the most spiritual places to visit in Kodaikanal. You shouldn’t miss it even if you’re not religious as the temple offers gorgeous views of the Palani hills and Vaigai Dam. The temple is also popular for the Kurinji flowers that turn the hills into a beautiful purplish blue and grow once every 12 years.

Pillar Rocks

If you want to enjoy the mesmerizing views of the valley and sit out to enjoy the hill station’s ethereal surroundings, Pillar rocks is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal. The 400 meter long rocks naturally shaped as pillars stand together seemingly piercing the sky. This adorned with a mini garden creates the perfect picnic spot and is a top tourist place for families in Kodaikanal. Don’t miss the enchanting view of the surrounding villages and hills while gorging on a plate of potato and onion bhaji available outside the garden. Monsoon is probably the best time to visit Kodaikanal as misty white clouds and mist dance all around these Kodaikanal tourist places and make the whole experience quite magical!

Suicide Point

You can enjoy stunning views of the Kodaikanal valleys, plains and hills from the Suicide Point or the Green Valley View. The Kodaikanal tourist place also offers views of the Vaigai Dam that will leave you awestruck. The Green Valley View is called Suicide point because of its dangerous 5,000 ft drop. It is situated just 5.5 km off the Kodaikanal Lake and is one of the best places to visit near Kodaikanal. You can pick up some souvenirs from the local shops around that sell ornaments, a wide variety of flowers and even handmade chocolates.

Dolphin’s Nose

This protruding flat rock at the height of 6,600 feet like the shape of a Dolphin’s nose isn’t for the faint-hearted. Popular for the scenic views and the adrenaline rushing experience of standing at the edge of the rock, Dolphin’s nose is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal for adventure lovers. One can also trek up to this Kodaikanal tourist spot and enjoy some quality time amidst the lush greenery.

An important historical monument, Moir point is a tourist place in Kodaikanal that is tucked right at the entrance to a serene jungle leading all the way up to the Berijam Lake. One of the best viewpoints in Kodaikanal, the monument was constructed in 1929 to commemorate Sir Thomas Moir’s contribution in building the Goschen Road. Moir point is one the many places to visit in Kodaikanal from where you can soak in the views of lush green hills of Tamil Nadu.

A unique place that should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Kodaikanal is the Wax Museum which is also India’s first Wax Museum. Located near Green Valley, the cozy museum displays the Last Supper, the Crib along with a few other known personalities. Interestingly it also hosts wax statues of Indian personalities such as Sai Baba, Gandhiji, Adi Shankara, Lord Krishna among others.

Places to Eat in Kodaikanal

Altaf’s Cafe

One of the top eating places to visit near Kodaikanal is Altaf’s cafe, offering a wide range of Mediterranean dishes to cater to tourists from abroad. Located on the way to the Dolphin’s nose, Altaf’s cafe offers a natural sit-out area to serve you some mesmerizing views on the sides. Try their hummus and tahini or the falafel and shakshuka plates. Order a comforting cup of ginger lemon honey as you wash it all down along with soaking misty clouds that cover up the valley.

Woody’s

You must try food at this 100-years old building when you’re visiting Kodai Lake. Laid out on its own private valley, Woody’s ambiance and food makes it one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal for some yummy vegetarian dishes. With a wide variety of cuisines on its menu ranging from North Indian, South Indian, Chinese and Continental, you can eat to your heart’s content as you gorge on appetizers, mains, and desserts sitting in the pretty garden area or by the rustic fireplace.

The Royal Tibet

The Royal Tibet, as you can figure out from its name, offers lip smacking Tibetian dishes and non-vegetarian food options in Kodaikanal. Sip on its flavourful soup or steaming hot momos or binge on the most delicious variety of authentic momos including chicken, cheese, potato and mutton options.Winter is the best time to visit Kodaikanal when you can gulp down on the hot soups and noodles.

Cloud Street

If you’re a pizza lover, there is no better place than Cloud Street to try out thin-crust pizzas loaded with fresh ingredients and generous doses of cheese. Located on the PT road, this restaurant is a popular tourist place near Kodaikanal that is a favourite because of its great food quality. Don’t miss out on their signature dishes including pastas, BBQ chicken, and sizzlers. If you have a sweet tooth, lemon cake at Cloud Street is a must-try.

When you’re looking to grab a quick bite and craving some good old rolls, just head to Muncheez. With a variety of options for rolls, shakes and smoothies, Muncheez is a hot favourite tourist place near Kodaikanal. Choose from Indian and Continental options and wash it down with some hot tea when you’re enjoying it with the cold weather, one of the best times to visit Kodaikanal.

Silver Oak is a great option when you’re looking for fine dining in Kodaikanal. Located at the Carlton Hotel, the stylish restaurant will satiate your cravings for Continental, Mughlai and North Indian delicacies. If you’re tired of cafe food and want to treat your taste buds to some spicy curries and North Indian dishes, this is one of the best tourist places near Kodaikanal that has a buffet available.

Aromas of Kodai

Offering great food without burning a hole in your pocket. Aromas of Kodai is a multi-cuisine delicacies which is one of the most loved tourist places near Kodaikanal. You can indulge in their sandwiches or pancakes or go for the authentic North Indian, South Indian, Chinese or Continental dishes. The casual dining restaurant attracts many foreigners and tourists because of its great service and yummy food options.

A must-try for non-vegetarians, Mann Manam in Kodaikanal is a rustic outdoor restaurant offering the most delectable meat, seafood, chicken dishes cooked in an authentic South Indian style and served on a banana leaf. Giving you a taste of the local cuisine, Mann Manam is one of the finest eateries in Kodai that treats your taste buds as well as eyes with scenic views of the hill station.

A great option to get a taste of the Kodai cafe culture, PotLuck is a cozy outdoor café that serves the best coffee along with Spanish omelettes, Quesadillas, pasta, sandwiches, and more at affordable prices. A European styled setting with some great beverage options like tea, cold coffee and cappuccino will offer you a refreshing break from your daily exploring.

Tourist Places to visit in Kodaikanal offer an interesting mix of sightseeing attractions, historical places and some of the country’s best shopping, food and drink nightlife places. Some of the most talked about tourist attractions in Kodaikanal include the Vattakanal Falls, Kodaikanal Lake, Bear Shola Falls which is among the best and most visited in the country. walking on Laws Ghat Road and trekking to Dolphin Nose are among the most popular activities to experience the best the city has to offer. Sightseeing in Kodaikanal would include hills to celebrated temples and lake destinations, Kodaikanal offers a range of options for all types of travelers, be it families, couples or solo travelers. Eclectic and vibrant, the city is both cosmopolitan and yet full of traditional flavors and nuance. There’s never a shortage of places to visit in Kodaikanal. Kodaikanal is well connected to all major cities in India by air and all modes of public transportation. The best way to get around the city is on public transportation and taxis. The best time to visit most places in Kodaikanal the months between April to February, when the weather is cool and perfect to experience all the top tourist attractions in Kodaikanal .

Framing Adventures | One Click At A Time

12 Epic Places To Visit In Kodaikanal: A Comprehensive Guide

Although North India is famous for its hill stations all across India, did you know that the tag of ‘Princess of Hill Stations’ belongs to a hill station in South India?

Established in 1845 as a summer retreat by British bureaucrats and Christain missionaries, this title belongs to Kodaikanal.

Famous for homemade chocolates and eucalyptus oil, Kodaikanal is a popular hill station in South India known for its cool weather and natural sceneries.

Kodaikanal, meaning “The Gift of the Forest”, attracts tourists from all across India for its lakes, valleys, mountains and forests.

I have visited Kodaikanal twice, and in this article, I would like to give you my itinerary of the 12 best places to visit in Kodaikanal so that you experience the best of this hill station.

5. Bryant Park/Kodaikanal Lake

9. Berijam Lake

12. Coakers Walk

International Kodaikanal Coffee Country

Cafe cariappa.

• Which are the places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days?

Where is Kodaikanal?

Kodaikanal sits on the Palani Hills, a mountain range in the Western Ghats that spreads across Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Due to its location, you’ll find plenty of meadows, grasslands and other natural attractions.

It is located in the Dindigul district (Tamil Nadu), neighbouring Munnar in Kerala. Madurai is the closest major city to Kodaikanal, at a distance of 112 km.

12 places to visit in Kodaikanal

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when planning a trip to Kodaikanal as there are many tourist attractions. Moreover, you need an itinerary that helps you visit all the places (in chronological order) to make the most of your time.

I have listed down below the top 12 places to visit in Kodaikanal based on my own experiences so that you can plan an effortless and amazing trip here:

On Day 1, you cover the major tourist destinations within the town.

1. Vattakanal Water Falls

Vattakanal Water Falls is on the way to the famous Dolphin Nose. It is a step-cut waterfall inside a thick forest with eucalyptus and pine trees, 100 metres from the road.

You have to walk inside the forest to reach the falls. When the water flow is less, you can take a dip in the cold water and refresh yourself. But be careful when walking on the rocks as they’re slippery.

After visiting the Vattkanal Falls, you can trek further along the stream to reach the Lion’s Cave. It takes you deep inside the forest.

Note: Although there are no lions in the Western Ghats, it has been named Lion’s Cave by the locals.

It may take up to twenty minutes to reach here.

If you have a guide, they may also show you other hidden spots/waterfalls inside the forest.

After visiting the waterfall, you can take a quick bite from one of the food and tea stalls outside.

The best time to visit this waterfall is between October and February when the weather is misty and rainy. However, summers are better if you want a dip in the falls as the water flow is less.

There is no entry fee for this waterfall. You can also park your vehicle on the main road next to the waterfall.

2. Dolphin Nose

The only trek you’ll have in Kodaikanal is the trek to Dolphin Nose. Hence, it is among the most highly recommended places to visit in Kodaikanal.

It’s an easy trek that covers 2 km in total (to and fro).

You’ll be going downhill, and the terrain will be irregular and slippery from the starting point. Hence, you’ll need proper trekking shoes for a good grip.

Depending on your speed, it can take up to half an hour to reach Dolphin Nose. On the way, you’ll be witnessing a waterfall, crossing a pine forest and a few shops which serve maggie, fruits and other energy drinks.

You can take a break at one of these spots to refresh.

Note : Carry a bottle of water as you’ll get thirsty often.

You may get tired, but the trek will be worth it once you reach Dolphin Nose. It is a protruding rock shaped like a dolphin’s nose with mountain and valley views. You can pose there for photos (which is a popular activity here) or enjoy the views around.

Be careful while walking on the rock or posing for photos because one slip could be fatal.

After Dolphin Nose, you can visit the Echo Rock, which hardly takes another five minutes. As the name suggests, it is a place where you can hear echoes of sounds.

More than echoes, you’ll love the views here, especially when the weather is clear. Much like Dolphin Nose, this is also another protruding rock where you can get amazing valley views and pose for photos.

After spending some time at Dolphin Nose and Echo Rock, it’s time to get back to the starting point. The return will be more tiring as it’ll be an uphill trek, but you can take breaks in between or have refreshments.

Once you reach the starting point, don’t forget to have a meal at Altaf’s Cafe. It is one of my favourite cafes in Kodaikanal.

Altaf’s Cafe is an Israeli cafe which serves delicious Lebanese food with a valley view. They’re known for their falafel, hummus and pita, and lemon honey tea.

It’s ideal to start the trek to Dolphin Nose early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a pleasant climate.

You can also park your car near the starting point.

3. Pillar Rocks Viewpoint

Our next destination is the Pillar Rocks Viewpoint. As the name suggests, it is a viewpoint where you can see two naturally-formed pillar-shaped rocks together at the height of 400 metres from the ground.

Depending on the weather, the Pillar Rocks may or may not be covered with mist. If it’s covered with mist, you can wait for some time to see if it goes away because apart from the rocks, you’ll also be able to see the nearby mountain ranges.

The only con with this place is that it becomes crowded especially during the weekends because it is one of the most commercial places to visit in Kodaikanal.

Apart from the viewpoint, there is also a small garden and a waterfall where you can spend some time.

You can also shop for souvenirs and have snacks nearby.

The entry to the viewpoint is only INR 5 and you can park your car on the roadside.

4. Guna Caves

Less than 1 km away from the Pillar Rocks Viewpoint is Guna Caves.

Also known as Devil’s Kitchen, it later became famous as ‘Guna Caves’ as the famous movie ‘Gunaa’ by Kamal Haasan was shot here.

But don’t let the name fool you because the cave present here is now closed as many people lost their lives previously.

However, you’ll still enjoy walking through the dense forest that leads to Guna Caves. It is full of tall trees and trees with roots that spread like the legs of an octopus on the ground giving it an eerie vibe.

It was one of my favourite sights on the trip.

Apart from that, there is also a viewpoint which offers you a stunning viewpoint of the Kodaikanal mountains.

You’ll also be seeing the cave beneath the ground covered by a steel cage and bushes.

After visiting Guna Caves, you can munch on some snacks at one of the food stalls outside.

You can park your vehicle at the roadside. 

The entry fee to Guna Caves is INR 10.

After visiting all the aforementioned places, I suggest you end your day 1 at Bryant Park.

It is one of the most well-maintained parks I’ve come across in South India.

It is a big park with various varieties of flowers, walking paths and a nursery that sells plants at reasonable rates.

You can easily spend up to an hour exploring this park or relaxing on the lawns.

Outside the park, you’ll find many shopping stalls where you can buy jackets, and tees or have your favourite snack.

Here, you can also hire a bicycle or a horse and ride around Kodaikanal Lake.

The park is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Next to the park, you’ll find the main attraction of Kodaikanal i.e. the Kodaikanal Lake.

At 2,000 metres above sea level, it is a huge star-shaped man-made lake which is at the centre of Kodaikanal.

You can go boating here and enjoy the various viewpoints around the lake.

The best time to visit both Bryant Park and Kodaikanal Lake is during the evening.

On Day 2, you cover the remaining tourist destinations within Kodaikanal before driving down to Berijam Lake.

6. Upper Lake View

You can start your day 2 with a drive to the Upper Lake View. 

It gives you a bird’s eye view of the Kodaikanal Lake, its surrounding trees and grasslands, the mountain ranges in the background and the blue skies at the top.

The contrast of colours between all the natural attractions you see here is what makes it special. Hence, don’t forget to capture this place with your camera.

Another reason why I want you to start your day from this place is because of the amazing masala chai you get here. There’s nothing more refreshing than sipping your masala chai while enjoying this view.

You can wrap this place in 15 minutes.

7. Kodaikanal Pine Forest

Kodaikanal Pine Forest is another major attraction in Kodaikanal not just for tourists but also for film shootings. 

It is an ideal place to visit if you enjoy long walks through tall pine trees or you want to spend some peaceful time in nature. If you’re adventurous, you can also go horse riding here.

It is also a great place to take pictures in the backdrop of the huge pine trees especially when the weather is misty.

You can easily spend up to half an hour here.

No entry ticket is required at this place.

8. Moir Point

Less than 1.5 km away from the Kodaikanal Pine Forest is Moir Point. This is also another place in Kodaikanal that receives a lot of footfall.

It is a watchtower inside a park from where you can get panoramic views of the mountain ranges and the blue skies from height.

When I went, the entire sky was covered with clouds neighboured by the mountain ranges. It was one of the most breathtaking sights I’d seen in Kodaikanal.

You may get a different view depending on the climate at the time. 

In any case, you’ll enjoy the cold breeze at Moir Point. Hence, you can relax in the park on one of the benches or take a stroll around the walking tracks.

I suggest you try the local carrots and sweet corn here because they’re very fresh and tasty. 

Note : Be careful of the monkeys while munching on food.

In total, you can spend up to 20 minutes here.

The entry ticket to Moir Point costs INR 10 and the closing time is around 5 pm.

Berijam Lake is one of the best offbeat places to visit in Kodaikanal.

It is a natural freshwater lake inside a reserved forest area between Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu and Munnar, Kerala.

The best thing about seeing Berijam Lake is that you’re visiting not one but five places in total (in chronological order) inside a reserve forest – Silent Valley View, Berijam Lake View, Caps Fly Valley View, Mathikettan Forest View and finally, Berijam Lake.

Hence, even if you decide to skip the other tourist places in Kodaikanal, I urge you to visit Bejiram Lake without fail.

Berijam Lake is a 13 km drive from Moir Point.

Since you’re passing through a reserved forest, only 150-200 passes are issued per day. To make it easier for you, let me tell you how you can obtain the pass for Berijam Lake (and the other places on the way) if you’re driving down with your car.

On the day of your journey, you need to obtain a pass from the District Forest Office in Kodaikanal. The counter at the office opens from 8:30 to 9:30 am.

Note : You cannot take two-wheelers to Berijam Lake. Only local cabs, private cars and forest vans are allowed.

Try to reach the office and stand in the queue by 8 am. If you plan to visit Berijam Lake on a weekend/public holiday, you may have to reach the office by 7 am at least due to the increased demand.

Note : Local cab operators are given priority over tourists/visitors and they obtain multiple passes. Hence, if you hire a local cab, the cab driver will take care of obtaining the pass for you.

Keep your driving license/Aadhar Card handy and carry a pen. Get the form from the office staff when your turn comes, fill it and hand it to them.

Thereafter, they’ll call your vehicle number which is when you make a payment of INR 200 and obtain the permit.

After obtaining the pass, you need to drive to Moir Point and show your pass at the check post there. They allow entry only up to 12 pm so plan your trip accordingly.

After visiting Berijam Lake and the remaining points, you have to return to this check post at Moir Point by 3:30 pm.

Note : Instead of driving your vehicle or hiring a cab, a third option is to hire a forest van from Moir Point. It is a 25-seater van that starts every two hours from Moir Point and it’ll take you around all the five points. It costs INR 250-300 per person.

When it comes to the experience of driving through the reserved forest, you’ll enjoy the journey. The roads may not be good and there are some rough patches as compared to the other roads you see in Kodaikanal.

But the fresh air you feel as soon as you enter the reserved forest and the scenic views on the way to Berijam Lake make the journey worth it.

Ensure you stop at all five places and take pictures. But apart from that, don’t stop unnecessarily because the reserved forest is home to wild animals.

The highlight of the trip is Berijam Lake, the last stop. The lake surrounds itself with mountains and forest ranges in the background.

While boating is restricted and you cannot enter the lake, you can spend some time here enjoying the beautiful scenery.

It takes around 45 minutes to reach Berijam Lake, the last point in the reserved forest from Moir Point.

On Day 3, you cover the tourist destinations that are on the outskirts of Kodaikanal before returning.

10. Poombarai Village View Point

On Day 3, we start our journey with a drive to the quaint Poombarai Village, 18 km away from Kodaikanal. 

It is a tiny and colourful village known for its terraced green fields which makes it an attractive landscape. 

There is a viewpoint on the main road where you can stop your vehicle and get a panoramic view of the village with the mountain ranges and the blue sky in the background.

It looks like a miniature village from this viewpoint and as a landscape photographer, I loved capturing Poombarai Village from here.

You can also visit the village if you have time. It has a famous temple and is known for its unique variety of garlic that is available for purchase.

In any case, don’t forget to have a bite from Passiflora Ristorante Italiano – an Italian restaurant which serves some amazing food with a view of the Poombarai Village. It is right next to the Poombarai Village View Point at the edge of the cliff.

11. Mannavanur Lake

The next stop after visiting Poombarai Village is Mannavanur Lake, 17 km away. It was among my favourite places to visit in Kodaikanal.

The drive to Mannavanur is also exciting as you’ll be travelling through forests and pine trees with many uphill and downhill curves on the way.

Note : There won’t be many shops/restaurants on the way to Mannavanur, hence, I recommend you carry some snacks.

Located in Mannavanur Village, Mannavanur Lake is a heart-shaped lake inside a forest and another offbeat place in Kodaikanal like Berijam Lake.

It surrounds itself with lush greenery in the form of trees, vast green pastures of land and a cool climate. It is a great place to have a picnic or indulge in some sports activities like frisbee as I did with my friends.

In terms of other activities, you can go for the coracle boat ride, kayaking or even ziplining on top of the lake. You can enquire about the same from the forest officials present here.

I also recommend you to go to the other side of Mannavanur Lake where you can visit the sheep farm, and rabbit farm and get another view of Mannavanur Lake from a different angle.

As a photographer, I loved exploring both sides of Mannavanur Lake.

In case you’re hungry, you can have some snacks at the entrance of Mannavanur Lake. Parking is also available outside.

You can easily spend up 2-3 hours exploring Mannavanur Lake before returning to Kodaikanal.

To reach Mannavanur Lake, you need to walk less than 1 km from the entrance. They charge INR 30 per person for entry.

As you return to Kodaikanal, you can wrap up your journey by visiting Coakers Walk in the evening.

Next to Kodaikanal Lake, is a 1 km stretch of a walking path with a panoramic view of the valley and hills right next to you. You can go for a relaxing walk here, sit on one of the benches and enjoy the views or shop for souvenirs or eateries that are present here.

It gives the vibe of a Mall Road that you see in the hill stations in North India.

Depending on the weather, you may or may not see the valley views. When I went, the entire valley was covered in fog hence we couldn’t see anything.

There is also an observatory here with a telescope that gives you a clear view of the valleys and mountain ranges. It costs INR 20 per person.

Coakers Walk is open between 7 am and 7 pm and it costs INR 25 per head.

How to reach Kodaikanal?

Kodaikanal is well-connected to nearby and major cities by various modes of transport.

The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is the Madurai Airport, at a distance of 134 km followed by the Coimbatore Airport which is at a distance of 178 km from Kodaikanal. 

The nearest railway station to Kodaikanal is the Palani railway station, at a distance of 66 km followed by the Kodai Road (or Kodaikanal Road) railway station which is 80 km away.

You can check the availability of a train from your location to either of the aforementioned railway stations if you’re planning to visit Kodaikanal via train.

In case you’re not getting any direct train, you can also book a train to Madurai railway station and Coimbatore railway station, at a distance of 114 km and 169 km, respectively from Kodaikanal.

Kodaikanal is well-connected via local buses to the other nearby cities within Tamil Nadu like Palani, Madurai and Coimbatore.

You can also book private buses from cities like Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad to Kodaikanal on apps like Redbus .

How to travel within Kodaikanal?

Self-driving car/bike.

For the best experience, I recommend driving your vehicle (if you’re coming from a nearby city) or hiring a Zoomcar from Madurai or Coimbatore, near Kodaikanal.

We hired our car from Zoomcar in Coimbatore and apart from visiting all the places in Kodaikanal, we also enjoyed the drive from the plains of Coimbatore to the high mountain ranges of Kodaikanal.

You can also hire a cab from Kodaikanal town. There are plenty of cab drivers. Moreover, you can enquire about them from your accommodation as most of these stays have a tie-up with the local cab drivers.

Best time to visit Kodaikanal

I’ve visited Kodaikanal twice – once in June and once in December. And both times, the weather in Kodaikanal didn’t disappoint.

Based on my experience, I suggest you visit Kodaikanal in December if you love having a colder climate and want to enjoy the company of fog and mists.

If you want to experience sunny but cool weather with clearer views, June is your best bet.

In any case, you can avoid the monsoon season in Kodaikanal i.e. from July to September. The terrains may be slippery in Kodaikanal at this time and you may not be able to visit all the places.

Best hotels in Kodaikanal

You’ll find different types of hotels in Kodaikanal but I suggest you have a look at the ones I’ve suggested below if you want something different.

Cloudscape15

I stayed in Cloudscape15 with my friends and I can happily recommend this homestay in Kodaikanal if you’re travelling here with a big group of friends/family and want an entire property to yourself.

The only drawback with Cloudscape15 is that it is 7 km away from Kodaikanal but that is also a positive because it is in a remote location with no noise or crowd. 

Additionally, you’ll enjoy the views from the balcony, and the starry night skies. There are caretakers as well on the property who’re very friendly and helpful.

Econut Farmhouse

If you want a calm and peaceful stay in a natural setting, Econut Farmhouse is my recommendation. 

Located 16 km from Kodaikanal on the top of a hill, it is a homestay inside an organic farm with amazing views of the mountain ranges, home-cooked food and friendly hosts.

It also has excellent wifi and UPS for power backup and therefore is a great place for a staycation. 

The best thing about them is that they grow their vegetables and leafy greens on an organic farm and use them for their meals.

You can explore the various trekking routes around their property and you can also spot elephants and bison.

Zostel Kodaikanal

If you’re a solo traveller, Zostel Kodaikanal has you covered. Located 2 km away from Kodaikanal, Zostel Kodaikanal has private rooms and dorms apart from great views and an in-house cafe.

As a solo traveller, you can save money with Zostel while also meeting like-minded people in Kodaikanal.

International Kodaikanal Coffee Country is an offbeat place to stay in Kodaikanal located 10 km from the town.

As the name suggests, this homestay is an old property inside a coffee plantation on the slope of a hill.

The accommodation is basic but clean and the hosts are very friendly.

They also serve delicious home-cooked food, have nice walking trails around the property and friendly dogs that give you company.

You can also spot some wildlife while you’re here.

Best restaurants in Kodaikanal

One of the best things to do in Kodaikanal apart from visiting all the tourist places is to try the variety of cuisine you get here. 

Apart from having nice weather and beautiful natural attractions, Kodaikanal is also famous for its cafes and restaurants. Ensure that you try food from the following cafes/restaurants for a wholesome experience.

Cloud Street

Could Street was our go-to place for having wood-fired pizzas. Their portions have good quality and quantity. 

Apart from serving a variety of wood-fired pizzas, they also have pasta and coffee. The beef steak is one of their signature dishes.

You’ll also enjoy their homely vibe where you can chill and relax, read a book or play board games. There is a lot of space to host big groups.

The staff is also friendly.

Muncheez is a small Italian cafe known for serving wraps, rolls, burgers, sandwiches, pasta, and pizzas apart from brownies and cakes.

Their coffee, cheesecakes, chocolate brownies and chocolate cakes are a must-try.

As their dining space is limited, I suggest you come here early in the evening to occupy a seat. Apart from food, they have board games and a variety of books in the cafe.

If you’re looking for a quick finger food experience, Muncheez is ideal.

Altaf’s Cafe

I’ve visited Altaf’s Cafe twice and both times, I enjoyed the quality and quantity of food. 

Located at the start of the Dolphin Nose trek, Altaf’s Cafe is known for its Middle-Eastern Cuisine and Italian Food.

Based on experience, I can recommend their Falafel Platter and Hummus Pita apart from Hot Chocolate.

You can also try their ginger lemon honey tea which comes highly recommended.

They also have a nice vibe as they have friendly waiters and nice music playing in the cafe always.

Apart from that, you get sweeping valley views as they’re located on the edge of a mountain.

One of the lesser-known but must-visit cafes in Kodaikanal is Cafe Cariappa.

It is a small cafe run by a lady known for their coffee, cakes and chocolate.

The best thing about the cafe is that they locally source and brew their coffee which gives it an authentic taste.

I recommend their Tosca Cake and Hot Chocolate based on my experience. Apart from that, you can also have their Carrot Cake and Caramel Cashew Cake.

Their menu has limited options but you will be delighted by the quality that this cafe maintains on all its items.

Cafe Cariappa opens after 11 am.

Best travel tips for Kodaikanal

For the best experience in Kodaikanal, ensure that you keep the following tips in mind:

• You don’t need to hire a guide for Kodaikanal as most of the tourist destinations can be covered without any guidance.
• As Kodaikanal is highly commercial, I recommend you visit this place on weekdays because, during weekends/public holidays, you may find a lot of crowds which may spoil your experience.
• Carry a jacket/sweater if you’re visiting Kodaikanal in December or January.
• Carry swimwear/towel if you plan to take a dip in Vattakanal Water Falls.
• Having a good quality camera is essential if you want to capture the different sceneries of Kodaikanal.
• You can buy the famous eucalyptus oil and homemade chocolates from Kodaikanal but not every seller sells authentic stuff. Enquire at your homestay/hotel asking for recommendations for the same.
• Apart from eating from the restaurants/cafes in Kodaikanal, don’t forget to munch on the fresh carrots and corn you get in the roadside stalls.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit kodaikanal.

The best time to visit Kodaikanal is during the summer and winter months i.e. April-June and October-March, respectively. You can avoid the monsoon season i.e. July-September due to the slippery terrains at that time.

Is 2 days enough for Kodaikanal?

Two days are enough for you if wish to explore the tourist destinations within Kodaikanal. If you wish to visit the other places on the outskirts of Kodaikanal, you’ll need a third day.

How can I spend 2 days in Kodaikanal?

Following are the places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days:

Is 3 days enough for Kodaikanal?

Three days are more than enough if you want to explore all the places in and around Kodaikanal. Another benefit of keeping aside three days is that you can have a relaxed trip.

Which are the places to visit in Kodaikanal in  3 days ?

Following are the places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days:

Although Kodaikanal is a commercial hill station in South India, I urge you to visit it to experience the beautiful sceneries and natural attractions that it holds. After all, there is a reason why it’s called the ‘Princess of Hill Stations’.

Based on my experiences, the best way to explore Kodaikanal is to do it on weekdays (excluding public holidays) so that you can spend time with nature and avoid crowds. Kodaikanal will be as good as Valparai (an offbeat hill station in Tamil Nadu) if you can do so.

You can visit Kodaikanal in summer if you prefer clear skies with a pleasant climate or you can choose the winter season if you want to experience the cold climate along with fog and mists.

If you’re coming from a nearby city, you can drive down to Kodaikanal or you can hire a Zoomcar from Madurai or Coimbatore. You can also hire cabs in Kodaikanal.

Keep aside three days for Kodaikanal and follow the itinerary I’ve shared in this article so that you’re able to experience the best of Kodaikanal in a relaxed manner.

Also, don’t forget to visit the amazing cafes/restaurants in Kodaikanal, especially the ones I’ve shared in this article because they’ll leave you mesmerized.

If you follow everything as I’ve told you here, I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time at Kodaikanal, unlike most tourists who don’t plan properly while coming here.

With that said, I hope you enjoyed reading this article on the ’12 places to visit in Kodaikanal. If you’ve any doubts, do drop them in the comments and I’ll be happy to help.

Jerry quit his 9-5 job to become a digital nomad and travel the world. Through Framedventures, he helps people have experiential and immersive travel adventures across India. He has travelled to 15+ states/UTs in India so far. Besides travelling, he's also passionate about landscape photography. Connect with him on his social media channels to get his latest travel updates!

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Jerry, Thanks for the write-up. But please be careful with your research. Lions aren’t found in Western Ghats. Even though lions could inhabit a variety of regions, they haven’t found in tropical rainforests in India. So, the Lion’s Cave could probably a title to draw more tourists and probably little to do with actual lions.

Thanks for the heads up, Abhy! While you’re right, this place is called as Lion’s Cave on Google Maps. So I can’t give it any other name, unfortunately.

Moreover, I recommend this place based on my personal experience as it takes you deep inside the forest. I’m sure adventure lovers would enjoy it, irrespective of lions.

Anyways, I’ll add a disclaimer in the article.

Thanks again!✌️

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The Best Kodaikanal Itinerary for 3 Days in 2024

Last Updated on March 13, 2024

In this article I will share with you a perfect Kodaikanal itinerary while being honest about my experiences in the place.

Is it still offbeat or a victim of over-tourism? Is Kodaikanal worth visiting? How to plan your trip to Kodaikanal? Where to stay in Kodaikanal? I will answer all these questions in this honest travel guide.

If you are in a hurry, jump to the Kodaikanal Itinerary .

However, if you are planning a Bangalore to Kodaikanal itinerary for the first time, or after a long time, I suggest you read along.

I’ve shared a lot of tips from my trips that I took in a gap of just four years and so much had changed by then already. I have made an effort to keep the information updated as of 2023, so the length of the post is justified.

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Disclosure: The post contains some affiliate links. If you make any purchase anything through these links, I may earn some commission without any additional cost to you. This income helps in running the website. Thanks for your support!

A Quick Outline

Kodaikanal At A Glance – An Honest Review

Kodaikanal is a picturesque town in the Tamil Nadu near Ooty which is famous for its blossoms and weather. Somehow the name doesn’t ring a bell for people living outside South India, unlike the more popular names like Ooty and Munnar.

Perhaps that is the reason some bloggers call it an “offbeat” location. I disagree with those bloggers, but we will come to that shortly.

Imagine a land of eternal spring, lush green valleys, beautiful cascades, and pristine lakes – sounds like a paradise on earth, right?

Unfortunately, this is also the reason for over tourism that can spoil your experience in the town. The travel brochures keep highlighting the over-crowded tourist zones of Kodaikanal without being honest about the experience.

So, I decided to write an honest travel guide which will help you plan your Kodaikanal itinerary in a way that will enhance your experience and save you from disappointment.

The Ideal Kodaikanal Itinerary – A Snapshot

If you visit in the summer (peak season), I will suggest you explore outside the Kodaikanal town. You may like to book a resort and completely skip the touristy spots (which I have marked in star in my itinerary).

So here is a carefully curated Kodaikanal itinerary including the popular as well as offbeat locations in this not-so-offbeat hill station near Bangalore .

Kodaikanal Itinerary Day 1:

• Reach Kodaikanal by 9 am and get your forest permits
• Head straight to Berijam lake which is 22 km away from Kodaikanal bus stop.
• Silent Valley viewpoint
• Pine tree forest & Guna Caves
• Moir Point, Pillar Rocks Viewpoint, Green Valley Viewpoint
• Walk along the Golf course
• Stop shortly at the upper lake viewpoint for amazing views

🛏️Time to get cozy in your sojourn after a long fulfilling adventure. Check your options .

Kodaikanal Itinerary Day 2:

Trek to Dolphin’s nose

• Visit Liril falls and Vattakanal Falls 
• Upper Lake viewpoint
• Coaker’s walk

Bryant Park

Chettiar park, kodaikanal lake.

Kodaikanal Itinerary Day 3 – the day of departure

If you’re on a Bangalore to Kodaikanal road trip, you would like to reach Bangalore by 6pm to avoid the traffic. So you may not have the time to visit most of the places listed below.

However, if you have a bus to catch in the evening, you can still soak in the best of Kodaikanal before bidding goodbye.

• Check out early for an excursion to Mannavanur Lake and back (3-4 hours)
• Visit Christ The King Church in Kodaikanal town
• Drive to Kurinji Advanur Temple
• Visit the Solar Observatory
• Back to the bus stop for shopping and departure

If time permits you can visit one of the other places on the list above.

While the list may look long, these are mostly viewpoints and usually don’t take long. However, the queues to these viewpoints can be very long during the summer vacation. If like me, overcrowded viewpoints spoil your mood, you can skip some of these.

Which of these if worth skipping to make time for the other? I have that covered for you in the detailed itinerary .

Where To Stay In Kodaikanal?

There are innumerable resorts, hotels, and homestays in Kodaikanal. Even in the peak season, you will get somewhere to stay if you reach without reservation. But they may not be great. Try to stay somewhere around the Kodaikanal lake as that is centrally located.

On our second trip we stayed at Le Poshe , a 4-star resort which offers an authentic hill-stay experience an amazing breakfast and dinner buffet.

Located close to the Bryant Park, it’s a lovely property perched atop a hill, with beautiful gardens and views.

My other top recommendations for Kodaikanal are:

GReat Trails Kodaikanal

Sterling Kodai Valley

Kodaikanal Itinerary in Detail – Day 1

Convinced for a trip to Kodaikanal on your next long weekend holiday ? Consider me your personal Bangalore to Kodaikanal Trip Planner. Let me take you on a virtual trop to each of the places on my itinerary.

Berijam lake & Silent valley viewpoint

This is one place which I loved on my first trip to Kodaikanal in 2015. But I missed it on my second trip because I didn’t research properly. And also, because it was the peak summer holiday season.

To reach Berijam lake you have to drive through a forest where travel is restricted between 9:30 am to 3 pm. Only a limited number of tourists are permitted into the forests, so make sure you get the permits as early as possible.

The forest check-post is right ahead of the Moir point where you have to show your permits. While we were disappointed to miss this because of the restriction, I am happy that such measures are being taken to protect the natural wealth.

On your way to the Berijam lake, you will come across the silent valley viewpoint which offers a breathtaking view of the valley and the forests. Hopefully, the restriction to entry keeps the silent valley silent even in the peak season.

Pine tree forest and Guna caves

Pine forests abound Kodaikanal. However, this is the largest accessible pine forest that you can see in the map above. It’s a perfect spot to visit with kids and family. You can relax, hike and explore the region. As with all tourist spots, there are many food vendors right at the entry to the pine forest.

Guna caves are located in the pine forest and are known for being the shooting location of a Tamil movie Guna.

The roots of the tree emerge from the ground lending a unique charm to this place. Unfortunately, the cave itself is fenced out and no entry is permitted.

The Many Viewpoints of Kodaikanal

There are three popular viewpoints in Kodaikanal town – Pillar rocks viewpoint, Moir point, and Green valley viewpoint in decreasing order of my liking.

They are very easily accessible and are considered to be must-visit places in Kodaikanal. I would beg to differ.

Pillar Rocks Viewpoint

According to me, if you have time to visit only one of these viewpoints it should be the Pillar Rocks Viewpoint .

Long ago a man named David Gelli visited Kodaikanal on his honeymoon and lost his wife to a fatal accident in the rocks. He climbed the rock-pillars and placed a white cross on it as a symbol of love. It survived many monsoons but was finally broken.

The viewpoint has developed into a beautiful park now from where you can see those pillars. You will get a view of the three vertical rocks that rise to a height of 400 feet.

Moir point is the most famous of all the viewpoints and offers a bird’s eye view of Kodaikanal’s valleys and villages. This also has a paid entry and a beautiful children’s park inside. There is a watchtower which is said to offer amazing views.

When I visited it this year I looked up at the watchtower and decided that I am okay with the views I can see from the bottom of the tower itself. Take a look at the pictures to know why. I am sure that at any time except summer this would be a great experience.

Green Valley Viewpoint

Green Valley viewpoint is probably the most overrated place in Kodaikanal. There is a walkway that is jampacked with hawkers, almost like Kolkata’s Gariahaat during Durga Puja . For those who did not get this analogy replace it with the most crowded street shopping destination you know and imagine that at its peak season.

It is also known as monkey point because there are many monkeys around, however, they were more afraid than us because they were so vastly outnumbered by selfie-taking humans. Again, the scene might be totally different in the off-peak season, but if you are short of time, you can avoid this place.

Kodaikanal Golf Club

Kodaikanal golf course was a refreshingly quiet place even in the summer. You cannot enter it without membership as it is a private golf club, but you won’t be stopped from walking along the course.

You can simply stroll along the golf course and click beautiful pictures. Just don’t get over-excited and sprain your legs for no reason at all as I did.

Kodaikanal Waterfalls

There are many beautiful waterfalls in Kodaikanal but most of them are seasonal. Most of them would also involve trekking up to the point where you can actually see the falls.

If time permits on day 1 you can visit the Bear Shola Falls. On your way to Kodaikanal lake, you will also come across the silver cascade waterfalls. This is the one cascade which is right in front of your eyes, and you do not need to trek for it.

Alternative Itinerary

Here is an alternative itinerary if you are driving and reach Kodaikanal in the afternoon. You must be tired so visit the Silver cascade falls, Sacred heart church, the parks and Coaker’s walk on day 1. Next morning head to Berijam lake and follow our original day 1 itinerary. 

Bangalore to Kodaikanal Trip Plan – Day 2

If you are breakfast lovers like us you must have booked a breakfast buffet in your hotel already. If don’t worry. There are plenty of shops near Kodaikanal lake which open in the morning to serve breakfast.

Get up and enjoy a sumptuous breakfast before heading out, as today you will drive less and trek more. Don’t forget to wear your running or trekking shoes today. Read how to choose the best travel shoes in India. Carry a backpack with at least a 1-ltr water bottle.

A trek to the Dolphin’s nose is the highlight of my Kodaikanal trip.

This is a 2 km long trek mostly downhill and slightly uphill towards the end. It is kind of a moderate level trek for newbies and an easy trek for the pros. You will see roots protruding out of the rocks as you hike downwards. There are many shops which sell water bottles and snacks here on the way.

No entry tickets, no security and not enough dustbins mean that there is no restriction on littering. As you start the upward climb you will see the beautiful pine forests and uncountable plastic bottles scattered inside.

If that was not enough someone inscribed on the rocks at a viewpoint – “I love plastics”! Sarcasm? 🥴

Anyway, since the number of tourists is less, you will enjoy the serenity. The pleasant sound of birds, cricket and leaves ruffling in the wind will keep you motivated to complete the trek. There are three major viewpoints on your trek and the Dolphin’s nose comes in between the other two.

It’s a giant precarious rock protruding out into the vastness of the jungles below. The view is worth the effort. Standing at the dolphin’s nose gives you the impression of standing at the edge of the world. Be careful though as one slip can prove to be fatal here.

Upper lake view-point

The tough thing about dolphin’s nose trek is that the return is uphill. So after returning take some rest before you start driving again. The roads of Kodaikanal are narrow and steep, the steepest among all other popular hill stations in South India.

So don’t stress yourself too much after this trek. Have lunch and drive towards the Kodaikanal lake. On your way, you will come across several beautiful viewpoints. One of them is the upper-lake viewpoint from where you can see the star-shaped Kodaikanal lake.

Well, my observation was mostly amoeba-shaped lake, but that doesn’t look great on a travel brochure, right?

Coaker’s Walk

Next, you stop at the Coaker’s walk. It is a beautiful man-made 1-km long pavement built along the edge of the mountains lined with colorful blossoms all year round. It is also famous for the Neelakurinji flowers, a rare species of flowers that cover the Nilgiris once every 12 years.

Besides Kodaikanal, the flowers bloom in the valleys of Kolukkumalai in Tamil Nadu, Annamalai range of Munnar in Kerala and in Bababudangiri hills of Chikmagalur in Karnataka.

The flowers were last seen between August to October in 2018 and will return to the face of the earth in 2030. However, the floral diversity of Coaker’s walk will delight you anyway. On a clear day, you can see click amazing pictures of the valley.

But Kodaikanal is usually cloudy and misty. That’s also the reason why the temperature is in the sweet 20’s even when the whole country is burning hot. So likely that most of the days you will not get a clear view of the valley. I loved the views as it is, even with the fog and the mist.

Apart from the various viewpoints at Coaker’s walk, you will find lots of hawkers selling beautiful handicrafts. Wooden artifacts, artificial flowers, jute bags, and many such attractive items adorn the other side of Coaker’s walk.

What I liked most was a large number of dustbins throughout the walk. While they do stick out as photobombs in our pictures, the places remain clean.

Right opposite to the Coaker’s walk is a beautiful garden-cum-park with amazing floral exhibition all year round. You will see nurseries of a variety of flowers with labels attached to them.

This makes it a great excursion spot for schools, as children can not only enjoy the gardens and play in the park but also learn about the different species of flowers.

Personally, I thought that too many labels marred the view though. It is a huge park where families can spend quality time playing with the kids and enjoying nature’s feast.

If you are looking for a slightly lesser-known (hence less crowded) park, then I will suggest Chettiar Park. It’s on the opposite side of the Kodaikanal lake and is much smaller than Bryant Park. I loved the landscaping of the park more than its famous cousin.

Kodaikanal Lake is a huge artificial lake at the heart of the Kodaikanal town. It’s beautiful no doubt but is heavily commercialized. There are several recreational activities like horse-riding (don’t recommend it at all), boating and kayaking. There are several vendors from whom you can buy roasted corn, peanuts, and pakoras.

Day 3 of Kodaikanal Itinerary

Mannavanur Lake

Located 33 km from Kodaikanal town, Mannavanur Lake is a serene spot that takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. A little trivia for you—this lake is often used for film shoots, so don’t be surprised if you spot a camera crew.

This trip will take 3-4 hours including the journey.

Christ The King Church

The Christ The King Church is a lovely place to stop by on your way back from Kodaikanal. Built in 1895, the church is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, complete with intricate stained-glass windows. It’s not just a place of worship but also a testament to the rich history of the area.

Silver Cascade Falls

Next up, drive to Silver Cascade Falls, which is conveniently located right beside the road—no hiking needed. The falls are a great place for a quick photo op or to simply enjoy the sound of cascading water. It’s a refreshing pit stop, especially if you’re traveling during the hotter months.

Kurinji Andavar Temple

To reach Kurinji Andavar Temple, you’ll need to take a short detour from the main road. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is famous for its Kurinji flowers that bloom once every 12 years. The history of this temple dates back several decades and it’s a significant pilgrimage site for many.

Natural History Museum

For the last stop of the day, you have two options. I personally visited the Natural History Museum, which required a drive into the woods leading to a school. While the museum itself was basic and skippable, the journey to it was quite enjoyable.

Solar Observatory Museum

Alternatively, you can visit the Solar Observatory, established in 1899 by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics . It’s one of the oldest solar observatories in the world and offers a unique look into the study of our sun.

Vehicle is not allowed inside the premises, and you’ll need to walk for 10 minutes to reach the observatory. The location is so sublime that you’ll really enjoy the walk.

It’s a research facility and the visiting hours are limited to 10 am to 12 noon and then 2pm-4pm.

Alternate Kodaikanal Experience – The Bodhi Zendo

If you are seeking a spiritual experience, there is a special place in Kodaikanal that’s not a part of an usual Bangalore to Kodaikanal trip.

Bodhi Zendo is a Zen training center in South India and a melting point for spiritual enthusiasts from all over the world.

Here you can enjoy a farm stay and participate in day-to-day activities of the center. The cost of a single room including food is Rs.350-Rs.400 for Indian nationals and Rs. 550- Rs.600 for foreign nationals. You can check more details about Bodhi Zendo on their website .

When to visit Kodaikanal?

The short answer to the question is – any time but April-May (that is the summer vacation time in this region). Early monsoon in June and winters from November to March is perfect for a long weekend trip to Kodaikanal.

Read the list of best monsoon destinations in India .

Let me declare right away that Kodaikanal is not offbeat , definitely not in the summer. With Bangalore no longer being the city of forever spring, all working professionals in Bangalore and Chennai look out for “offbeat” destinations nearby to escape the summer heat.

If you are among them (among us), then “summer heat” is the only thing you are going to escape.

You cannot escape commercialization, traffic congestion or the city crowd in Kodaikanal in summer.

When I first visited the place in the summer of 2015, I was surprised to see the traffic jam. I realized that it’s super-crowded but still peaceful. It’s a small town where all the places of interest are within a radius of 15 km, which makes it easy to navigate.

Exactly four years later when I visited the place again, it looked like the population has quadrupled by that time. To avoid traffic clogging in the dangerously steep and narrow roads the traffic operators made the roads one-way.

Nobody likes traffic congestion but think of being stuck uphill at an inclination of 60 degrees for hours. So yes, summer is not the right time to visit Kodaikanal. This is why I have skipped it in my list of best summer destinations in India .

How to Reach Kodaikanal?

The nearest city with an international airport is Coimbatore, which is only 180 km away from Kodaikanal. This is where you should take a flight to if you are planning a Kodaikanal trip from outside Bangalore.

✈️ Cleartrip for Flight Bookings 👩🏼‍✈️

Kodaikanal is 449 km from Bangalore and 604 km from Chennai. There are a number of overnight buses that depart from Bangalore every day.

The advantage of taking a bus is with timing. If you board a bus at 8:30 pm you will easily reach Kodaikanal by 9 am. Then you can get the forest permit for visiting the Berijam lake.

Jeeps and cars can be hired at cheap rates from the Kodaikanal bus-stop itself. The advantage of hiring a local driver is that they know all the routes pretty well, and they understand the local language. 

The joy of a road trip, however, lies in the journey. With numerous hair-pin turns, lush green valleys, and breathtaking views, Bangalore to Kodaikanal road-trip is worth the trouble.

In that case, however, you will need to drive overnight to reach Kodaikanal early. Otherwise, you may start at 5 am after a good sleep. Then you would reach Kodaikanal easily by 1 pm.

🚙 🚗 Rent a  Zoomcar  for self-driving all the way in Kerala 🚔

So, Is Kodaikanal Worth Visiting?

The short answer to the question is yes. You just need to plan your trip well and follow some of my recommendations.

For a compact recap, let me point out the important travel tips for Kodaikanal which I wish I knew before I visited.

• Schools in Tamil Nadu close for 1-month summer vacation usually between the last week of April and end of May. Don’t visit during this time. Seriously, let the locals enjoy the beauty and maybe we can go to some other places during the summer vacation .
• If you still want to travel during this time of the year, atleast avoid Kodaikanal on a summer weekend.
• Check weather forecasts before planning your Kodaikanal trip. The monsoons are mostly pleasant but can take an ugly turn (rarely though).
• Get your forest permits to be able to visit the forests and the Berijam lake
• Carry an umbrella or a waterproof jacket
• Watch out for incredible views on your way. So if you are on the bus, wake up as soon as you approach the hills.
• Check my favorite sites for planning trips in India below.

That’s my comprehensive itinerary for Kodaikanal. I will leave you with my top trip planning resources below.

Top Travel Sites in India for 2024

🏨 Booking.com  for the best hotel prices (Price match and free cancellations)

🚗Get discounts on package tours and special experiences with Viator

💸Secure your vacation with travel insurance from Visitors Coverage

🚗Book local transport on 12Go

🚶🏼‍♂️ Free walking tours on Freetour

🛏️ For hostels around the world, check out Hostelworld

🛍️ Myntra for travel fashion and Amazon for travel gear

If you did, please share and subscribe to get notifications of our latest posts.

If you liked this, here are some other articles you can check out:

• Bangalore to Bekal Road Trip
• Wayanad Travel Guide
• Chikmagalur Road Trip

Sinjana Ghosh is a full-time business professional with a penchant for writing and travel planning. Backpack & Explore is a journal of her travel stories and tips she collected from her experience. She is the author of the travel book “Postcards from India” which is available on Amazon, Flipkart and Notionpress.com

23 Comments

I haven’t heard of Kodaikanal yet. I have been to India but not on this area. Thanks for taking us digitally to this place. Great snaps! I want to visit this place soon.

Thanks Emman. Hope you visit India soon

Great post! Kodaikanal is a good summer destination with lots of crowd in peak season. Your post brought back memories from my own trip of 2017.

Thanks Anwesha.It’s beautiful but they have to do something to control tourism.

This looks like such a pretty part of your country! I agree that the Pillar Rocks viewpoint is incredible, and offers amazing views too. I also appreciate the tip about the lake being over-commercialised, that tends to happen when places get more popular. If I ever visit, I’ll avoid April to May!

Thanks Lisa. April-May is definitely a no-no. It’s bad for the tourists and it’s bad for the fragile environment of this small town.

I have not heard of Kodaikanal even after visiting Munnar a few years ago. It is interesting to learn of other places that are not so well known and over touristy. Over tourism is starting to become quite a problem and I am pleased to know that after reading your article that numbers are limited here. The lake and surrounding areas look beautiful, no wonder it is so popular. I enjoyed your photos.

Thanks Jane. Unfortunately Kodaikanal is way more crowded and over-commercialised the Munnar. This makes me feel that there must be something with the way the local tourism bodies handle rising popularity. Hope the over-tourism comes under control.

How crazy is it that I’ve never heard of this place? It’s crazy beautiful! I just added it to my list for India! Thanks for all the details and beautiful photos! ❤️

Noted Sinjana, not traveling there during April or May. Kodaikanal has long been in my bucket list, but sadly before I could explore, I had to leave India. Well, when I will go to the south, I will surely visit this place. Thanks for the beautiful tips and photos.

Thanks Shreya. Hope you visit the south soon.

Kodaikanal looks like a fantastic place with so many beautiful and natural assets. I’m not surprised it’s a popular spot for Bangalore’s city dwellers to get away. The region’s stunning lakes, mountains and waterfalls would be quite a lure for those who spend most of their time in the city.

Thanks for your comment. Kodaikanal is really attractive.

Stunning views! I can see why people are drawn to Kodaikanal. Even the viewing deck has a long line. That traffic jam is pretty scary. Reminds my of some of the winding roads to Cornwall that can get pretty jam-packed during the busy seasons.

I am kinda ashamed to admit that despite being to Bangalore so many times, I never got around to visiting Kodaikanal. But just like you, I wish I get to do a road trip from Bangalore to Kodaikanal one day soon 😀 Coaker’s walk looks so peaceful, I know Kodai is super commercialized, like you have mentioned, but there are pockets that are definitely worth a visit. 🙂

I have been to Kodai Kanal 3 times and each time I find it more beautiful and unexplored. It really is the queen of hill stations in the south of India. Your photo of Silent Valley point is amazingly beautiful. Thanks for sharing 3 days itinerary of Kodai Kanal with all attractions list.

I visited Kodaikanal during my last trip to India a couple of months ago and absolutely loved the place! From what I’ve seen, it’s one of the prettiest hill stations in South India. Even though super commercialized nowadays I still think it’s worth visiting. Thank you for sharing this great guide

Oh wow, Kodaikanal looks like a nature-lover’s paradise! The Coaker’s walk looks like a great way to take in some beautiful vistas and hopefully catch a glimpse of some rare flowers, it sounds like. I can definitely see why it’s a city-dweller’s weekend getaway spot. Who wouldn’t want to visit??

Yes. Kodaikanal is a tourist hotspot not just for the beauty but also for the weather. It’s also suffering for the same reason.

This looks like such a scenic and picturesque part of your country. Lots of wonderful walk/hikes that offer incredible views. Should I ever visit, I’d be sure to visit during the high season of April/May.

Every traveler should definitely read this post. Make sure, This is a great opportunity to improve their knowledge while making a trip to Kodaikanal. In a single post, you have mentioned all the important itinerary places in kodaikanal. Thank you so much for this post.

thanks really liked the description

Visit Kodaikanal in very offseason times like before Christmas or after new year and the Hillstation will be practically empty. In fact I had to argue with the boat jetty to start their boating services after waiting till 11.30 Am. I could park my car besides the lake and walk around. Not a soul. We were in on Monday and exited on Friday afternoon just as the weekend crowd was getting in.

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20 Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal and Things to do in Kodaikanal

Table of Contents

Places to Visit in Kodaikanal and Things to do in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is rightly dubbed as the “ Gift of the Forests “. One understands this analogy even before one sets foot in the place as you travel across a road winding through lush, verdant forests. Kodaikanal, a hill station in Tamil Nadu , India is an ideal weekend getaway for city dwellers who wish to lose themselves in the lap of nature and experience Nirvana of sorts, away from the stress and strain of the rat race that modern life has turned into. There are many places to visit in Kodaikanal, some well known and some off the beaten track. Kodaikanal is about 80 kilometres from Kodai Road and around 120 kilometres from Madurai . Kodaikanal is an ideal weekend getaway . We have listed out the best places to visit in Kodaikanal and also some offbeat things to do in Kodaikanal .

Kodaikanal has much to offer, both in terms of a standard tourist drill as well as off the beaten track activities for the more discerning or adventurous. Thanks to the hospitality of Great Trails by GRT Hotels , we were able to experience a host of experiences that your normal traveller or should we say tourists would not experience.

This post is about these experiences, however, we are by no means implying that the attractions and experiences that form the standard itinerary for a visit to Kodaikanal are less appealing. In fact, we have ourselves experienced these attractions in earlier trips and actually have listed out the standard places to visit in Kodaikanal in addition to our offbeat experiences.

Kodaikanal Map

Kodaikanal Location Map

The top attractions of Kodaikanal are listed below. They are listed in a random order here.

• Coaker’s Walk
• Kodaikanal Lake
• Mannavanur Lake
• Berijam Lake
• Pine Forest
• Poombarai Village
• Pillar Rocks
• Dolphin’s Nose
• Bryant Park

What you must see and experience in Kodaikanal – Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

1. kodaikanal lake.

The Kodaikanal lake which is man-made and created in 1863 by the then collector of Madurai is indeed the epicentre of Kodaikanal. It is the most popular tourist destination in Kodaikanal and is a hive of activity. Boating, cycling, and horse riding are the activities in and around the lake. One can buy local spices, eucalyptus oil and homemade chocolates in the shops that line the periphery of the lake. The lake is one of the most popular places to visit in Kodaikanal. It is one of the top Kodaikanal tourist places.

Tip: The area in and around the lake tends to get too crowded for comfort, especially on weekends and public holidays.

2. Bryant Park

Bryant Park is a botanical garden with a wide variety of flowers and plants and is situated very near Kodaikanal Lake. A great lung space where families can enjoy together, the park also offers some amazing views of the valley. The park that stretches over 20 acres was built by H.D.Bryant, the Collector of Madurai in 1908.

3. Coakers Walk – One of the iconic places to visit in Kodaikanal

Coakers Walk is an enchanting and narrow mountain road that cuts across steep slopes and offers stunning views of the valley. An early morning walk here is a magical experience and sure to set the tone for the day. In winters, the walk affords an opportunity to experience the mist.

4. Pillar Rocks

The Pillar Rocks have virtually become a visual symbol of Kodaikanal. Two huge pillar-shaped rocks stand in majestic splendor towering over the valley and make for a grand, natural spectacle. During winters the Pillar Rocks seem to be shrouded in an aura of mystery as they get engulfed by mist. A trip to Kodaikanal is incomplete without seeing the beautiful Pillar rocks!

5. Pine Forests – One of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal

A visit to the Pine Forests is a must. A stretch of forest graced by the beautiful presence of lines and lines of Pine trees. The Pine forest is the fruit of the labour of H.D.Bryant who was also instrumental in establishing the Bryant Park which is named after him.

6. Bear Shola Falls – One of the popular places to visit in Kodaikanal

The Bear Shola Falls are seasonal waterfalls in Kodaikanal. They are in full flow after the monsoon and make for a great experience, especially if waterfalls fascinate you. Many years ago, bears were known to come here in search of drinking water and hence the name. Of course, those days are gone and you will not see any bears around this waterfall now.

Things to do in Kodaikanal – Off Beat Experiences that you must experience in Kodaikanal

7. wander amongst the undulating potato farms.

The fact that we were staying in Great Trails Kodaikanal by GRT Hotels which nestles snugly amidst potato farms in a valley surrounded by hills was a great blessing. In the evening, when the wind assumed a chill that one usually experiences in the mountains, we set off on a walk that took us amidst potato farms that had green short shrubs of Potato neatly stacked row upon row, they were similar to sloped tea gardens and were a visual treat for eyes more habituated to the traffic and chaos of the urban jungle.

8. Listen to the Whispers of the Drifting Clouds

As we walked beyond the potato farms, we reached a stretch of land that afforded a stunning view of the valley. The hills in the distance seemed to be smeared with dashes of white which moved slowly, they were actually clouds drifting merrily away without the bother of having to think where or how to get to wherever they were going.

As we stood watching the dance of the clouds, apart from the sound of the wind there was blissful silence. We revelled in the moment of absolute peace as currents of bliss enveloped us. At that moment the clouds seemed to whisper softly in our ears, “this is heaven, this is heaven.”

9. Trek up the Hills to Elephant Valley View – One of the most beautiful places to visit in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a haven for nature lovers. If waking up early to the symphony of chirping birds and heading out into the great outdoors just as the first rays of the sun kiss the ground, is right up your alley, then Kodaikanal is the place for you.

One of the relatively easy and beautiful treks is to a rock high up in the hills which offer stunning views of the Elephant Valley and the Palani temple in the distance.

As you ascend the hills you are flanked by breathtaking views of the valley on your right and one can feel the spring in your step as you inhale the fragrant and unalloyed air of the mountains.

And then you reach this small rock that stands precariously overlooking the Elephant Valley below. As you stand looking down at the land stretches below you feel that the world is lying at your feet!

As you peer over the edge this is the scene that you behold.

10. Cavort with Horses

This place abounds in horses, who are a beautiful sight against the green backdrop, sadly some of them had their legs tied to prevent them from wandering far away by their owners. This beautiful horse who gave a stylish pose neighed heartrendingly to let him free. 🙁

11. Feast on Peaches plucked straight off the trees

On our hike to the Elephant Valley viewpoint, we passed through many peach farms and had the raw pleasure of feasting on some ripe peaches which tasted heavenly.

12. Interact with Locals

It was early on a Saturday morning and these ladies were off to work on the farms with their lunches packed and sitting neatly on their heads. They looked really happy and posed shyly for a picture.

13. Visit a Strawberry Farm

We visited a strawberry farm for the first time and really enjoyed looking at the small green shrubs with gleaming red strawberries.

The strawberry farms are owned by Great Trails Kodaikanal by GRT Hotels and hence visiting them was an exclusive privilege.

14. Visit a 3000-year-old temple in a picturesque village

A scenic drive deep into the heart of the Palani hills , 18 kilometres here takes you to a picturesque village called Poombarai . The village is captivating and the centre of attraction is a lovely temple that has a history that can be traced back 3000 years. The idol of Lord Muruga is said to have been consecrated by a Tamil Siddhar  called Bogar.

15. Visit the Picturesque Manavannur Lake

A 34-kilometre drive from here on a road flanked by Eucalyptus and Pine trees takes you to the village of Manavannur. Inside the Manavannur Eco-Tourism Site (a Tamilnadu Biodiversity Conservation and Greening Project) is situated a beautiful lake – Manavannur Lake set amidst lush green meadows and flanked by hills in the background. a serene place to get close to nature.

16. Have A Picnic Lunch by the side of the Manavannur Lake

Small Picnic huts grace the banks of the lake. These huts can be used for having your lunch.

We had a full-fledged and grand buffet lunch set up for us on the banks of the lake, courtesy Great Trails Kodaikanal by GRT Hotels.

17. Counting Sheep at the Manavannur Eco-Tourism Site- One of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal

Watch the famed Merino sheep which have their origins in Spain but are widely reared in Australia and New Zealand at the sheep farm.

The Merino sheep have the finest wool and they do not have horns.

18. Be enthralled by the Beautiful Berijam Lake- One of the most ethereal places to visit in Kodaikanal

A beautiful lake called Berijam Lake which is so tranquil that it seems to be located somewhere beyond the realms of imagination. However, it is about 21 kilometres from here and is a restricted place. Entry with permission from the Forest Department in Kodaikanal is allowed between 9.30 Am to 3.00 PM.

However, a limited number of people only are given entry on any given day. When we were there we were the only people around and as we gazed at the placid waters of the Berijam lake, the sun partially slid behind the clouds creating a mesmerizing effect of light and shade on the waters of the lake.

19. Drive Deep into the Forests of Kodaikanal to spot Wildlife

The sound of our car was the only sound that could be heard as we drove deep into the dense forests of Kodaikanal, we had special permission to enter the forest, thanks to Great trails by GRT Hotels.

As we drove in silence, we craned our necks out of the windows, in excited anticipation with the hope of spotting wildlife .

We were not disappointed as we were able to spot a Giant Grizzled Squirrel, some wild Buffaloes, and Black Monkeys also known as Nilgiri Langurs. This is one of the off-beat places to visit in Kodaikanal .

20. Be Amazed by multiple Eco-Systems at one place

When you drive deep into the forests of Kodaikanal, you will reach a spot where multiple ecosystems seem to seamlessly merge. Grasslands seem to brush shoulders with rain forests and Montane tropical forests also known as Sholas locally. A few moments spent in the hypnotizing silence of these forests is sure to remain etched in once being for a lifetime.

Some Useful Information 

How to get to kodaikanal.

Kodaikanal is located in the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu. It is about 527 kilometres from Chennai and 464 kilometres from Bangalore . The nearest airport is Madurai which is about 120 kilometres away. One can fly to Madurai and then travel by road. Madurai is well connected by air to the major cities of India. Alternatively one can take a bus from Bangalore or Chennai. One can reach Kodaikanal by train, one needs to alight at a small station called Kodaikanal Road and then travel by road for 80 kilometres uphill to reach Kodaikanal.

You can book flights right here to reach Bangalore or Madurai or Chennai in India through TripAdvisor or Agoda or CheapAir or Cleartrip or Makemytrip or Priceline and then travel by road – by self-drive car or cab or bus.

Where to Stay at Kodaikanal

This place has a host of accommodation options to suit every need and budget. There are many hotels in Kodaikanal across budget ranges. There are many Kodaikanal resorts that offer a lovely stay in the mountains. Some of the Kodaikanal hotels offer beautiful valley views. The choice of Kodaikanal hotels includes a range of hostels and homestays. For a luxurious, unique and rejuvenating stay, we would recommend staying at The Great Trails by GRT Hotels .

You can book hotels suiting your preference and budget through TripAdvisor or Cleartrip  or Agoda  or  Makemytrip or Priceline and save a lot by getting the best deals on booking your stay.

When to visit Kodaikanal – The best time to visit Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal has a moderate climate throughout the year and one can plan a trip there any time of the year to get different experiences. The monsoon is the off-season, however, if you want to immerse yourself in the romance of the rains, we recommend to get there and get wet in the rains. Also, it is preferable to avoid long weekends when the main town tends to get a little too crowded.

Where to eat in Kodaikanal

Check out the best places to eat in Kodaikanal .

Planning a trip to Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu, India – Best things to see and do in Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu, India

You can book Kodaikanal package tours  that can take you on a sightseeing tour of Kodaikanal, Madurai, Palani, Chennai, Ooty, Podicherry, Munnar, Thekkady etc. You could plan to spend a couple of days in Kodaikanal and do a local sightseeing tour in Kodaikanal and then plan to do trips to places around Kodaikanal. Plan your trip and book online places to visit in Kodaikanal.

Places near Kodaikanal

• Madurai , a major pilgrimage place in South India is 114 kilometres away
• Kanya Kumari, the southernmost tip of India
• Rameshwaram, an important pilgrimage centre of the Hindus
• Dhanushkodi , a ghost town swept away in a tsunami
• Valparai, a secluded and lesser-known hill station of Tamil Nadu
• Thanjavur which is also known as Tanjore is famous for art, architecture, and paintings
• Tiruchirapalli which is also known as Trichy which is another temple town
• Palani, a hill on which is located a famous temple dedicated to Lord Muruga and is visited by 7 million pilgrims every year

A Kodaikanal trip can be planned with a two-day itinerary so that you can cover it over the weekend. 2 days in Kodaikanal will enable you to visit most if not all of the places to visit in Kodaikanal, however, to really enjoy and slowly relish your Kodaikanal trip experience, we recommend that you plan a longer stay in Kodaikanal. The natural beauty and adventure activities will make a 2 day trip to Kodaikanal from Bangalore an ideal weekend getaway from Bangalore and other urban centres.

If you are planning a getaway to Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu, India then you can book cheap flights through   TripAdvisor  or  Agoda  or  CheapAir  or  Cleartrip  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline right here. You can fly to Madurai and then from there you can travel to Kodaikanal by road. Some of the options to reach Kodaikanal could be by self-drive car  or  bus . One can travel till Madurai or Kodaikanal Road by train also.

Here is an FAQ section that answers many of the common questions regarding Kodaikanal.

What is the best time to visit Kodaikanal?

Kodaikanal is a place that can be visited all year round and each season offers a different face of the place. It is a pleasant relief in the summers from the heat of the plains, in winters a mystical mist covers Kodaikanal and lends it a surreal aura, in the rainy season the hill station seems to dance to the tunes of nature.

What can I buy in Kodaikanal?

If you are in Kodaikanal, you must buy the fresh homemade chocolates. Other things to buy are Eucalyptus oil, honey, and spices.

How can I go to Kodaikanal by train?

The nearest railway station to Kodaikanal is Kodai road located at a distance of about 80 km. Trains from Madurai and Trichy pass through Kodai Road station. From Kodai Road one needs to travel by road to the hill station of Kodaikanal.

Which is the nearest airport to Kodaikanal?

The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai at a distance of about 120 km.

How many days are sufficient to visit Kodai?

How many days we can spend in Kodaikanal? is the question many people ask us and there is no exact answer. Kodaikanal is a place to relax and experience in and one should spend at least 4 to 5 days there to really have an immersive experience of the place.

How far is Ooty from Kodaikaal?

The distance between Ooty and Kodaikanal is approximately 252 kilometres.

We hope you liked reading this Kodaikanal blog post which is about Kodaikanal places and experiences. Have you been to Kodaikanal? What was the experience that you liked most about the gift of the forest? If you have not been to Kodaikanal India, we hope this Kodaikanal travel post which for all-purpose is a guide to Kodaikanal helps you when you plan your visit to this beautiful hills station in South India.

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103 thoughts on “20 best places to visit in kodaikanal and things to do in kodaikanal”.

Super informative and very insightful! Would recommend this guide to anyone visiting Kodaikanal 🙂

What an amazing place to visit. I had never even heard of it until today, but now I am super excited to visit someday.

I’m amazed that the man-made lake was created so many years ago. There are so many fun things to do in Kodaikanal. I would love to visit the waterfall and I’m thankful that I won’t see any bears.

Kodaikanal looks like a wonderfully serene place to connect with nature. Thx for introducing me to it.

This is my kind of place to visit. I would surely enjoy the scenic lakes, the magnificent falls, the natural sites and the heritage attractions.

What a gorgeous place to visit. I’ve never been out to India that reading this post makes me really want to go visit some of these areas. That lake is beautiful scenic would be a wonderful place to explore for days on end.

Kodaikanal has been on my wishlist for so long… your post has made me more curious about this beautiful place.

Once again I don’t know where this place was or hadn’t even heard of it. Won’t be visiting any time soon but enjoy looking at your photos.

Wonderful. Especially the whisper of the drifting clouds. 🙂

It looks like there is so much to do and see in Kodaikanal. I would love to check out all of these places someday.

India truly has so much to offer and not just have is shown to us on TV, I would love to check out Kodaikanal one day

What gorgeous views…I especially loved the pillars…so many beautiful places all over the world.

Oh my goodness I want to do it all, how absolutely stunning do all those places look to be. The waterfall and rocks just WOW.

Wow, the scenery is beautiful. I would love to visit th Eco Tourism site and also a strawberry farm.

Fantastic insight about such a interesting area. The Pillar Rocks and Bear Shola Falls look like must see spots!

I’ve never been to India, but it sure does look beautiful!! I’m a little naive, I admit, but when I think of India I think of the Taj Mahal, I don’t think of countryside like this! It’s beautiful!!

All of the amazing scenery! Where to start first!? I would love to visit Kodaikanal Lake just to see the man made lake and how gorgeous it looks in person!

Wow! That looks amazing! I would love to see all of these if I could. The pillars are just breathtaking and there are definitely plenty of things to do here that makes it worth going to.

Wow, this is such a thorough list. I would love to visit Kodaikanal.

I never realized there was so much greenery in India until I read this. I’d enjoy traveling this area I think.

Wow there are so much to see in Kodaikanal! I would definitely love to see the pillars and go visit the falls. I never knew India has so much nature! The pictures are gorgeous, so I can’t even imagine what everything looks like in person!

Judging by your photos the place looks serene! You’re so right – perfect weekend getaway to relax and enjoy this lush nature. Lovely landscapes really! 🙂

What a beautiful and picturesque region! As several others have shared, the Pillar Rocks are so striking. You’ve definitely inspired me to add Kodaikanal to my travel wish list!

What a place! It promises adventure for sure!

Kodaikanal sounds as though it offers a vast range of things to do and experience! Pillar Rocks looks especially impressive

Kodaikanal is stunning! Lately, I am more drawn to liking places like this. It would give me that much needed peace to just sit there and marvel at nature’s beauty. The waterfall is beautiful!

Brings back some good childhood memories, although Kodai was not so crowded back then and we could easily head out to the woods nearby. Great post and great writing style. Do visit our blog too, we are also a traveling couple.

So much greenery! I totally get the forest label. Thanks for introducing me to yet another new place.

I always tell people how beautiful India is, be it the beautiful Himalayas in the North or the lovely green cities of the South. I’ve heard a lot about Kodaikanal but never had the opportunity to visit. Your pictures depict what a beautiful place it is. I particularly love the Kodaikanal Lake and the Pillar Rocks. I can’t believe I haven’t been to these lovely places in my own country. I’ll bookmark this post for when I plan my trip to the gorgeous South of India.

It appears there is quite a lot to do in and around Kodaikanal and yet until reading this article I have never heard of it. Time to do some more research on the area. Thanks for highlighting a new place to me.

So much green space, wildlife, and fresh food. Kodaikanal looks like a great retreat.

Bryant park looks lovely and so quiet! And being in love with hiking, I’m sure we’d have fun in the Pine Forests or getting to climb to the Pillar Rocks! How awesome!

Wow, Kodaikanal is so pretty, all your photos are gorgeous! I would love to visit 🙂

Ah! So nice to see a story on Kodaikanal 🙂 This was the first place I visited solo and so is extremely special to me…hoping to return to it again someday…

There’s so much to do in Kodaikanal and most of it outdoors in fresh mountain air. It looks sensational. Pinned for later use.

I have been to kodaikanal 2 years ago. I would suggest elephant valley and the waterfall there, that’s a lovely place to be.

I had never heard of Kodaikanal before reading this post but it looks beautiful, what a great guide! I would love to see the waterfall and the Pillar rocks. We plan to visit India early next year so perhaps we will make it there 🙂 Thanks for the tips!

Beautiful article and photography. Thank you for showing me a side of India that I hadn’t seen much about.

It’s easy to see why Kodaikanal is a weekend retreat for both locals and visitors. The peacefulness of the area comes through your photos. The views, lakes, and wild beauty like that of the pine forest would all be on my list. I’ve bookmarked this post as I hope India is in my near future.

I wish I had been able to see more of the countryside when I was in India. Pillar Rocks are stunning! And I can never say ‘no’ to a waterfall:)

I love your blog for giving me so many more ideas for our next trip to India. Kodaikanal looks absolutely stunning. I would happily go hiking in those mountains, pick me some strawberries and then hang out at the awesome looking Pillar Rocks. Thanks again for sharing!

Wow this looks incredible. I love the waterfalls. I never heard of this place. Thanks for introducing it to me.

Yet another place to add to my India bucket list. Looks fabulous

I would love to visit Kodaikanal and check out the scenery, do some hikes and just take it all in. I would prefer to visit this place in India than a huge city. I sure do love the quiet life 🙂

So much beautiful nature and greenery in Kodaikanal – such a beautiful destination! I love the options for hiking, spending time in the forests, and mix of wildlife and ability to chat with locals. Kodaikanal Lake looks like fun – I heard that house boats were a big thing in India, are there any which operate on this lake?

I could definitely go for a strawberry farm visit right now! My favorite fruit 🙂

Thank you for making this list. I have never heard of this place but now want to visit. The pillar rocks looks incredible and terrifying!

Seems like it’s impossible to get bored in Kodaikanal, the view from Elephant Valley and the Pillar Rocks are amazing, I need to add this place on my list!

I had never heard of this place before until now but it looks amazing, especially the pillar rocks

What a beautiful place Kodaikanal is! I love hiking so for me this would be a perfect destination. I would love to hike up to the Pillar Rocks and enjoy the views from up there, but also to stroll thought the forest. From your photos I realise this place is also great if you are searching for relaxation and bonding with the nature.

As I can see, there is lots of things to see and do in Kodaikanal! I would try the hiking activities, I would be curious to see those rock pillars by myself. If the lake proposes also kayaking I would end the day with that

Wow, Kodaikanal looks amazing! The landscape is so different to most of India, and I love the abundance of hiking and outdoor activities available. I always find that India just has a way of mesmerising it’s visitors.

Wow! This looks like an awesome place. So much to see and do. Thanks for all the great information.

Kodaikanal is a place I’ve never heard of but looks like a great place to travel. The landscape looks very lush and beautiful and the wildlife very interesting. I’d love to visit that strawberry farm and do a bit of hiking and meeting with locals.

What a hefty list this is! I didn’t know you could do so much in Kodaikanal. I especially love the idea of sightseeing at those Pillar Rocks. They are breathtakingly beautiful! And Bryant Park looks like the perfect place to unwind too!

I studied in Coimbatore, and my first trip while in south India was Kodaikanal, a lovely hill station. I totally loved it but I did not see the places you showed us, guess I have missed. I should visit again…..

It looks so incredibly open and idyllic! Such a contrast from chaotic and bustling cities of India. Thanks for you sharing.

The man made lake is really a wonder. Also the Pillar Rocks are a must visit. Can’t miss out on that one.

I have been to Kodaikanal twice:once with my family and once with my friends.You have listed that this little green paradise has so many fun things to do other than site seeing.I could go here more often if I lived in Chennai.I miss living there now

Kodaikanal looks like an amazing place to visit – I wouldn’t have envisioned such a massive lake, waterfall AND strawberry farm. Definitely a hidden gem to add to my bucket list!

The Pillar Rocks that remind of Meteora in Greece, merino sheep, strawberry farms…I didn’t know all this! Glad I came across your post.

I must agree that Kodaikanal is indeed a haven for nature lovers. The place looks nice and peaceful. Great for a relaxing vacation!

Wonderful list..you have covered almost everything. Your post brought back nostalgia from my own trip to Kodaikanal. It is my favorite hill station amongst all in South India and holds a special place.

Love learning about new places – had not heard of Kodaikanal but it looks absolutely beautiful!

This is amazing! I’ve never heard of this place before! Thanks for sharing it. I would love to go hiking in those woods, breathe the fresh air and listen to the waterfalls…

The Pilar Rocks reminds me of the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, where there’s the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain that inspired the Hallelujah Mountain in Avatar (movie). So beautiful! Also driving in the Forests of Kodaikanal seems a bit spooky, yet very daring.

About those peaches, is it healthy to just eat them like that?

Such an incredible place with beautiful and varied landscapes! Love the lakes, towering rock formations and farms dotting the area. Great list and so many exciting things to do. Seeing wildlife is also an incredible bonus! Thanks for sharing

Kodaikanal looks like an amazing place to visit! The views, the lake, and the Pillar Rocks just look amazing! And I love animals, so would definitely like to go to the Manavannur Eco Tourism Site

Wow the lake and the Pillar Rocks are screaming my name! Kodaikanal looks absolutely breathtaking and there are quite a few incredible things to do there. I love learning about new destinations I had never heard of before, now we will have to give it a visit when we make it in the area!

What a beautiful place!

To be surrounded my mist on the Coakers walk, and those pillars are like something out of Avatar!

Did see Eucalyptus trees as well?

I’m surprised to see how many parts of the world these hardy trees have been exported to!

Wow, there is just so much to do and see in Kodaikanal. I truly love all the stunning landscapes and everything that I’ve read and see. From the beautiful scenery with their own distinct innate beauty to the rich and colorful culture of this place. I wish I can experience all these 20 things in Kodaikanal soon. Thank you so much for sharing about these beautiful scenery with us.

I can help add a couple of places- Try out Vattakanal which features in the Malayalam movie ‘Premam’ for the Malare song. Vattakanal and Suicide points are great places by itself to chew on a weekend there.

So much informative detail about Kodaikanal. India has been at the top of my daughter’s bucket list for several years now and I will definitely be showing her this blog post.

Such a beautiful place to visit! Really informative article about Kodaikanal and the things you can do there. I’ve not been to India yet but I’d like to and it’s on my list. I’ll definitely keep this article in mind for when I visit India. Manavannur Lake looks amazing too, plenty of photo opportunities I’m sure!

Simply amazing! Wow so many things to do in this place! The pillars looks so amazing! The falls, the field, the lake everything here is so wonderful. I can’t wait to see India 🙂

Wow Kodaikanal is truly a nature lover’s paradise. We missed visiting it years back when I was a kid. We had been to Ooty and were supposed to travel there, but got cancelled due to one of us falling ill. I would love to visit one day especially those lakes, waterfalls, peach and strawberry farms. Nice to know it has an Ecotourism Site and those Pillar Rocks look interesting too!

Wow such an amazing and diverse place! This is such a great guide for lesser known parts of India!

Amazing!! The 3000 year old temple, Pillar Rocks, and the views of Elephant Valley stood out to me the most. I’m not a big hiker, but I would definitely put my boots on to take those pictures! One day I’ll make it to India.

I have done some of these. You can add one more – meet the fortune tellers there. 🙂 One of them kept asking as to check out our fortune with him… We didn’t take him seriously. But he told my husband – Lucky face sir, you will buy a house soon. We laughed it off… but within a couple of months circumstances turned out such that we ended up buying a house. I have this wish to meet that man again. 🙂

I can see why the Pillar Rocks are an iconic image of Kodaikanal. They are incredibly beautiful (and so cool-looking!) Cascade Falls are also gorgeous. You have included so many things and beautiful sights to see and do!

You’ve got well-framed and composed photos. It seems you have the best of nature but also a bit of history and culture in Kodaikanal.

This looks like a wonderful place with beautiful lakes, waterfalls and wildlife. What an amazing experience it must have been to visit this area of India. To locals seem to be very friendly too!

This is totally my thing… I love India and I love trekking. I know people say this a lot but I will visit here, it looks perfect!

So much to see in Kodaikanal! No wonder this place is a strong rival to Ooty! By the way, did you set the horse free?

Wow, I had never heard of Kodaikanal before, but I already want to learn more. Looks like a great place to travel slowly, enjoy the nature and mingle with locals.

I not heard of Kodaikanal before but nature there so very pretty. You have some great things to do there and I would just love to go to Pillar Rocks wow that is stunning. I have been wanting to go back to India for years and now this one is being added to the list.

Kodaikanal looks like my kind of place, nice outdoor areas and hey, you can’t go wrong with a buffet lunch! I’ve seen plenty of Merino wool sheep in Australia so it interesting to see them in Kodaikanal.

Kodaikanal is in my mind from a long time but I never expected the place to have so many viewpoints and things-to-do ! I was thinking of making a 3-day trip to Kodai but now 3 days sounds insufficient. Sometimes I wish these waterfalls of south India were perennial! I hate it when they dry up. I had been to strawberry farm once in Mahabaleswar, but that was a whirlwind trip.

Some of these pictures of Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu, India, look almost like places in the Austrian mountains. So green and lush, beautiful.

400+ kms and 500+kms from Bangalore and Chennai, this sounds like a roadtrip O_O this looked so far from the city. How long will it usually take if driving from Bangalore?

I can’t believe this is in India! I’m pleasantly surprised. The Pillar Rocks looks so stunning. It kinda reminds me of this place in China. Thanks for sharing.

Kodaikanal looks quite lush and serene. Your post is well detailed and quite informative. The mentioned offbeat experiences too sound amazing. The Kodaikanal Lake and the pillar rocks are fascinating and that horse picture is heart winning.

Once again telling us about some new place in India! The rock pillars and that huge waterfall look awesome.

Kodaikanal seems lovely, it has so much nature and we love these destinations more than anything! Pillar Rocks looks so amazing and the Pina forest is quite great as well. So many photo ops!

Never heard of Kodaikanal! Love adding new places to my travel list, thanks for sharing 🙂

Had visited Kodaikanal when I was 10 years old! Your post is bringing back so many memories! The sheep are so cute! Love your photography.

Coakers walk seems very nice. I love views like that. Bear Shola falls would be incredible to see in person. I always like going to farms. Walking amongst the fruits and veggies is very serene and tranquil to me.

When I look at the hills of Kodaikanal, I never fail to notice their unique formations. Any idea about the reason behind their origin? Secondly, these forests are called Shola forests, no? What is the meaning of the word, ‘Shola’?

What a great weekend visit to Kodaikanal. How lovely to see the “Gifts of the Forest”. You have given us some good information which includes places to see and stay. I have pinned this for later. Thanks for sharing! #feetdotravel

Wow! Look at those mountains! Stunning. I’m interested that it has sheep too. It’s not something I associate with India. #feetdotravel

There are so many places to go in Kodaikanal. Personally, I’d love to visit Bear Shola Falls. The others are worth visiting, too.

Probably the best post i read till now. You just shared a great info of what to see and where to stay in Kodaikanal.

Wow this place looks awesome and like there is a lot of nature and culture to explore. I particularly like the look of The Kodaikanal lake 🙂

I have been to Kodaikanal only once and I absolutely fell in love with the place. I do wish to go back there for a longer time to spend more time in that amazingly beautiful hill station. Thanks for this list, I have seen only a very few of them in that.

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Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal in 2 Days – A Complete Guide

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This blog post contains a list of all the best places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days.

Kodaikanal or Kodai, fondly known as the princess of hill stations, is a picturesque little hill station in the western ghats of India. The Kodaikanal lake lies at the heart of the town and is the most popular tourist attraction in Kodaikanal. Terrace farms, eucalyptus trees, flower-laden valleys, and green meadows define the landscape of Kodaikanal. Due to the vast influx of tourists, Kodaikanal has turned into yet another busy tourist hot-spot. Hotels have come up all around the town and there are more tourists on the road than locals. I visited Kodaikanal during the Republic Day weekend of 2019. Based on my observations and experiences, I’ve compiled this complete guide on Kodaikanal - covering all the Kodaikanal attractions, how to reach Kodaikanal from different cities, where to stay in Kodaikanal, some cost-saving tips as well as a list of all the places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days.

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How to Reach Kodaikanal

The closest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai, which is located approximately 135 km away.  The nearest railway station to Kodaikanal is Kodaikanal Road, which is at the distance of roughly 80 km from the city center. There are regular buses to Kodaikanal from Madurai and Coimbatore, both of which have an airport.

Bangalore to Kodaikanal - By Bus or Car

The most convenient and cost-friendly way to reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore is to take an overnight bus. The journey takes about 9-11 hours which can be spent sleeping comfortably in a volvo bus. I heard one horror story where a girl reached the bus stop only to realise that the bus got cancelled due to less number of bookings. Thus keep in mind to call up the bus operator a few hours before your journey to ensure that the bus is still in operation. Another convenient way to get from Bangalore to Kodaikanal is to take a road trip by car. Who doesn’t love a road trip with friends?!

Madurai to Kodaikanal - By Bus

The most cost-effective and picturesque way to travel from Madurai to Kodaikanal is to take a bus. A taxi from Madurai to Kodaikanal costs Rs 3300 whereas a government bus from Arapalayam Bus Stand in Madurai to Kodaikanal is as cheap as Rs 98. The bus takes approximately 3.5-4 hours to reach its destination, with one rest stop along the way. The views leading up to the hills are breathtaking. Be sure to grab yourself a window seat on the left side of the bus for the best views!

Kodaikanal Map

Where to Stay in Kodaikanal

There is absolutely no shortage of hotels within Kodaikanal. If you want to stay within walking distance of most attractions in Kodaikanal, get a hotel closer to the bus stand, which is located at the heart of the city. If you’re looking for peace and quiet though, then look for a hotel towards the outer section of Kodaikanal. During my visit to Kodai, I stayed at Zostel Kodaikanal , which is a backpacker hostel facing a breathtaking view of the hills. While I’ve stayed at multiple Zostel properties, Zostel Kodaikanal was by-far the most charming one. In fact, I loved this hostel and it's peaceful vibes so much that I canceled all my plans for an entire evening and the next day just to chill out, sip coffee and read a book.

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How to Get Around Kodaikanal

Walking is the best way to explore this town. Being a hill station, there are no auto-rickshaws ( tuk-tuks ) or 2-wheelers for rent. The only option to travel within the city is to take taxis, which can get expensive. Going from any one spot to another costs a minimum of Rs 200 by taxi. Half-day tours start at Rs 1500 where they rush you through various tourist stops in a hurry. In such a scenario, it's best to take things at your own pace, walk around and explore the town. Kodai is a tiny town and most sights are within a few meters from one another. Walking also lets you stop and admire the breathtaking views all around! Another fun way to get around Kodaikanal is to hire a bicycle for the day!

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Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal in 2 Days

Being a tiny town, Kodaikanal does not have a whole lot of things to do. There are a few attractions in Kodaikanal, the most popular one being Kodaikanal lake. Apart from that, there are some churches, viewpoints to witness the sunrise as well as trekking routes. Vattakanal, also known as an Israeli town, is a village south of Kodaikanal. The village has great views of the valley and is located close to the popular viewpoints. Take a look at some of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days.

1. Kodaikanal Lake

The Kodaikanal Lake is located right in the heart of the town. It's the center of all sorts of activities ranging from boating, cycling, horse-riding to shopping and eating. There are plenty of boating renting centers around the lake. The boat options range from pedal boats to shikaras . A shikara ride for half an hour costs Rs 490 whereas pedal boats cost considerably less. Bicycles can be rented to take a ride around the stunning 5 km circumference of the lake. Apart from that, there are lots of shops set up all around the lake selling items ranging from clothes and bags to homemade chocolate and yummy street food.

2. Coakers Walk

Coaker's Walk is a 1 km stretch of path overlooking the hills and valleys. Before I went there, I heard negative reviews about the place saying it gets overcrowded and dirty. However, I reached Coaker's walk at 8 am in the morning when there was hardly anyone around. The mist had just begun to clear up, giving way to the sunlight. In my opinion, early morning is the best time to visit Coaker's walk. The entry fee is a minimal Rs 30. They charge an additional Rs 50 for a camera. I definitely recommend coming here early morning as it is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days.

3. Bryant Park

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Slightly underwhelming but charming in parts, Bryant Park is a stone's throw away from both Coaker's Walk and Kodaikanal Lake. While most of the park is just, well, a regular park, one section is really breathtaking. Once you enter the park from the main entrance near the lake, head left until you come to a clearing filled with trees and blue benches. You can spend hours sitting under the cooling shade of these trees with a book in hand. The Bryant Park opening timings are from 9 am to 6 pm.

4. The Kodaikanal Churches

With a 38% Christian population, it's a no-brainer that Kodaikanal has a bunch of scenic churches. The church in the picture above is the Mount Zion Lutheran Church which is located right in the heart of the city. Surprisingly enough, despite being located in the city, the church has a quaint appeal to it. The minute you walk through the gate, your pace will automatically slow down to take in the charm of the church and the adjoining building. The Saleth matha Church is another notable church in Kodaikanal.

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The Best Restaurants and Cafes in Kodaikanal

Most of the well-known eateries in Kodaikanal are located either on the Bazaar road or the P T Road. Both these roads are located in the city center. While there are plenty of great restaurants and cafes in Kodaikanal, I've only listed the ones that left a lasting impact on my taste buds and just can't be missed!

1. Pastry Corner Kodaikanal

Pastry Corner (daily bread) is located in close proximity to the Kodaikanal bus stand. It’s a tiny bakery which opens at 10.30 in the morning. Some of the tastiest items sold there include coriander sandwiches, egg sandwiches, pizzas, quiches, ice creams and of course, pastries. The items on the menu sound like everyday items, but the pastry corner does their own take on them, adding another depth of flavor. I went gaga over the sandwiches and the pizza there. They didn’t look any different from the ones I’ve had before, but tasted unbelievably amazing! Be sure to get here early, because it’s a popular bakery and they get sold out quite soon.

2. Aby's Cafe

PT Road is the place to go if you’re looking to stave off hunger pangs when in Kodai. Aby’s Cafe is located on this road, above a store. The interior is done up super cozy with wooden benches, tiny potted plants and a wall full of post-it reviews. The menu includes a wide variety of cuisines such as North Indian, Mexican, Indian street food, Italian, etc. The dishes are made to order and are full of flavor. Definitely a must-visit when in Kodaikanal.

3. Cafe Cariappa

Another cafe located on PT Road, Cafe Cariappa is the cafe to visit if you’re craving a good cup of coffee. It’s a snug little cafe that can only accommodate a handful of people at once. The decor exudes warmth and comfort, making you want to spend hours sipping coffee. Carrot cafe is one of their most-loved and talked about items. It was without a doubt, one of the lightest, yummiest cake I’ve had. Paired with a strong cup of coffee, they make a match made in heaven. Cafe Cariappa is highly recommended if you’re a coffee-lover like I am. This was my favorite place among all the places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days.

What to Pack for Kodaikanal

The weather in Kodaikanal is pleasant all-year round. During the winter months of November to February, temperatures drop as low as 12°C. Carry sweaters and warm jackets if you're visiting in those months. Summer months in Kodaikanal are from April to June. This is the most pleasant time to visit the town. However, the crowds also increase during these months. Kodai experiences monsoon showers from July to August. During this time, pack raincoats and waterproof shoes if you're going to be exploring the town.

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This is indeed a complete guide to Koidakanal! Map, food – you thought of everything. I would love to visit India, hopefully in the next year or so, and I am collecting guides for beautiful places. Koidakanal is now on my list. Thank you!

I’m delighted that you’ll be visiting India soon! Kodaikanal would be a great place for you to chill out and relax during your trip 🙂

I have been to kodaikanal once and this article brings back all the memories of Kodaikanal…looks like I missed some places.probably WL cover next time

It reminds me of my Kodaikanal trip…which was really nice..although I missed out on few things..will do it in my next visit

I have never heard about this place before but it sounds exciting! Thank you for putting it in my radar including the activities! Sounds like a great place for vacation

This looks so beautiful! I love your photos. Cafe Carriapa sounds amazing. I love my coffee so would definitely visit there

Oh yes, you’ll love Cafe Cariappa!!

Kodaikanal Lake looks one of the most beautiful places I have seen. I can just imagine spending some relaxing time there and messing around on the water! Fabulous!

It’s indeed a beautiful lake with lots of activities around it!

I’ve never heard of Kodaikanal before, so thank you for introducing me to this beautiful place! I would love to rent a pedal boat on the lake and then try the street food from the stands around the lake. I could easily see myself spending an afternoon just hanging out around the lake. Hoping I get to visit one day!

India is like a world of its own! I am always just so surprised by how varied the landscapes and cities are! There is so much unique, but I your pictures also hint at some little bits and pieces of European culture left behind. The colonial history there is tragic, but it does currently make for alot of variation. I have yet to visit India, but I really hope to someday. It looks amazing!

India does have a vastly diverse landscape. Each city, town and village is unique in its own way. I hope you visit India and experience the wonderful cultures soon 🙂

What a beautiful part of India to explore. I think i’d find myself well and truly based in pastry corner eating all the sweet treats 😉

I never knew there was so much to do in Kodai Kanal! I’m visiting Chennai this summer, maybe I can try to make a trip there 🙂

What a gorgeous looking place. I’ve not heard of Kodaikanal before. I’ve been to India twice and am currently putting together another adventure. Love finding out about places through blogs like yours, thank you.

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Took me back to my college days. Really nice article!

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Wohh precisely what I was searching for, regards for posting.

I need to to thank you for this fantastic read!! I definitely enjoyed every bit of it.I have got you book-marked to look at neww things yyou post…

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• 35 Places To Visit In Kodaikanal That’ll Make You Fall For The Western Ghats

They say “the best things in the world are free”, and you begin to realize/believe it as soon as you set your foot in Kodaikanal. The satisfying, woody, and sharp scent of pine blowing in the air, dewdrops on rose petals, trees stretching their limbs in the morning sun, and the Kurinji flowers turning the upper hills of Kodai purplish-blue, all of these things often leave people at a loss for words, and that’s when the real magic begins. The entire town is made of tiny tourist spots that make it a paradise, and I’m not sure whether this list of 25 places to visit in Kodaikanal can do justice to its old-world charm, but let’s give it a shot!

35 Best Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

Looking for the finest Kodaikanal tourist places for your next escapade? Here is a list of some of the most amazing places to visit in Kodaikanal for a fun and memorable vacation with your friends and family.

1. Kodaikanal Lake – A Serene Lake

On a fine day when clouds hover above Kodaikanal and cool breeze flows through the forests, visit Kodaikanal Lake. Covering an expanse of 60 acres, this man-made, star-shaped lake has been welcoming countless tourists since 1863. Created by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the then Collector of Madurai, the lake is fed by the waters that come from Palani Hills. The lake’s outflow creates a breathtaking waterfall, which is called “Silver Cascade”. At a height of 180 ft, the cascade is also one of the popular places to visit in Kodaikanal.

Timings: 24 hours Suggested visiting duration: 1-2 hours Entry fee: No entry charges Places To Stay: The Carlton, Kodai Resort Hotel, Adhithya Holidays, Sterling Kodai Lake, Wood green cottage

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2. Berijam Lake – With A Refreshing Setting

A reservoir located amid non-native trees and vast grassland, Berijam Lake is just a few km from Kodaikanal, which makes it one of the best places to see in Kodaikanal. The lush greenery and refreshing setting of the lake make it a wonderful picnic spot. Since the lake is connected by motorable roads, it is not a difficult task to reach here. However, tourists need a forest pass to enter the area. Those interested in fishing will have to take permission from the Fisheries Department. Apart from this, tourists can also go for a scenic boat ride.

Timings: Monday to Sunday. 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: No entry charges Places To Stay: Pine Castle Kodaikanal, Eco Escape, Eco Hostel, Rose Flower Nest, Shreyas, Radiance Art Residency 

3. Mannavanur Lake – A Natural Paradise

One of the most serene places to visit in Kodaikanal, Mannavanur Lake is nothing less than a paradise. The drive to the lake is absolutely scenic as the road on both the side is lined with eucalyptus and pine trees. Mannavanur area is blessed with a rich fauna. One can see exotic birds flying and spot wild animals. The lake is located inside a sheep farm where one can see flocks of sheep grazing. The Forest Department of the area offers coracle ride at a nominal fee, one can also go for horse riding. Try these things to do in Kodaikanal for a great vacation.

Timings: Monday to Sunday. 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: INR 10 per person Places To Stay: Red Rabbit Guesthouse, Campers Valley Camping, Eco Hostel, Radiance Art Residency 

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4. Guna Caves –  Inspired From A Movie

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Located at a distance of 12 km from Kodaikanal, Guna Cave remained unknown for many years, but then came a Kamal Hassan starer movie “Guna” in 1991 and changed the fate of this cave. The cave was discovered by an English officer named BS Ward in 1821 CE. If you’re interested in exploring the hidden wonders in the pine trees of Kodaikanal, you must explore this cave. The list of Kodaikanal tourist places is not complete without Guna Cave. Some of the best   adventure sports in Kodaikanal are hiking, camping, and more which are a must-try for all adventure enthusiasts.

Timings: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. All days. Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: INR 5 per person and INR 10 for still camera Places To Stay: Premium Cottage stay, Holiday Home, Sunrise Rooms, Pine Castle Kodaikanal, Shreyas

5. La Saleth Church – Become Spiritual

A highly attractive church with a wonderful architecture, La Saleth was built in 1846 and was expanded over the course of the next century. A right blend of culture and Tamil French architecture, this shrine is located 7,000 feet above sea level. Offering a panoramic view of the lush mountain range, this catholic church in Kodaikanal is one of the most popular churches in Kodaikanal .

Timings: 8.00 am to 6.00 pm Suggested visiting duration:  1 hour Entry Fee: No Entry Fee Places To Stay: The Tamara Kodai, The Green House, Amherst Cottage By The Lake, Ruban house, Single studio Cottage 

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6. Vattakanal Falls – A Grand And Gorgeous Falls

Right in the middle of a peaceful forest, Vattakanal Falls is among the most amazing places to see in Kodaikanal. During monsoon season, the waterfall is in full swing making it look grand and gorgeous. Vattakanal Falls is one of those waterfalls in Kodaikanal that are absolutely safe to be around, but you’re still suggested to wear footwear that isn’t slippery.

Timings: 24 hours Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: NA Places to stay: NA

7. Pambar Falls – With Pristine Waters

3 km from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Pambar Falls is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the entire hill station. The town’s reservoir overflows creating a waterfall called “Fairy Falls”, which then continues to join the Vaigai River creating the Pambar Falls. Down below, there’s a pond-like formation where you can bath in the cool and pristine water of the waterfall. The green and wild vicinity makes this place absolutely picture-perfect.

Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. All days Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: No entry charges Places to stay: NA

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8. Astrophysical Observatory – A Perfect Spot

One of the oldest observatories in the world, Astrophysical Observatory is perfect for Kodaikanal sightseeing. Located in the rolling hills of Palani, it was established in 1899. The observatory has a 20 cm refractor, which is sometimes used for cometary and occultation observations, and sometimes made available to visitors for night sky viewing. It also has an astronomy museum displaying models and pictures. This observatory deserves to be on the list of places to visit in Kodaikanal.

• April 1st to June 15th. 10:00 am to 12:00 noon and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
• For the rest of the year, it remains open to the public only on Friday between 10:00 am to 12:00 noon.

Suggested Visiting Duration: 2-3 hours Entry Fee: NA Places to stay: NA 

9. Kodai Chocolate Factory – Breathe Through Aroma

Started in 1999, Kodai Chocolate Factory is a leading manufacturer and supplier of chocolates, aromatic oils, coffees, etc. They specialize in making delicious homemade chocolates and their products are 100% vegetarian. If you are a die-hard chocolate fan, it is among the must-visit places to see in Kodaikanal for you. Do pay a visit to Pot Luck, Cloud Street, Chocolate Factory, and SG Cottage Industries to buy and try different varieties of chocolates.

Timings: 9.00 am to 9.00 pm Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: NA Places To Stay: Hotel Jc Grand, Hotel Raindrops, JC Woodville Manor, Hotel Anjay, Sky villa, Pleasant Stay Kodai

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10. Lutheran Church – Attain Some Peace

Built in 1932, the Lutheran Church of Kodaikanal is an impressive Gothic-style structure. The church is adorned with stained glass window, modern paintings, and murals depicting the life of Jesus Christ. Anyone interested in a beautiful piece of architecture must pay a visit to this shrine.

Timings: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm. All days Suggested visiting duration : 1 hour Entry Fee: NA Places to stay: NA

11. Perumal Peak – Witness Sweeping Views

A gorgeous part of the might Western Ghats, Perumal Peak is for everyone who wants to witness sweeping views of the valley. A trekker’s delight, the peak is located at a distance of 8,005 ft above sea level. The trek may be a bit tedious but you get paid with the breathtaking views. Those trekking the peak can also traverse the gorgeous and quaint Perumal Malai Village on their way or while coming back.

Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. All days. Suggested visiting duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: No entry charges Places To Stay: Deluxe Suit, Kodai elegance, Country Club Valley Vista, SaffronStays Nandanvan Estate, ZACS VALLEY RESORT

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12. Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple – Lord’s Home

Whether you’re a religious one or not, Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal for everyone. Dedicated to Lord Muruga (the God of hills), the temple is known for the blossoming of Kurinji flowers that grow once every 12 years. One can also witness the mesmerizing views of Vaigai Damn and Palani hills from here, which is why it’s one of the best temples in Kodaikanal .

Timings: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. All days Suggested visiting duration : 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: No entry charges Places to stay: NA

13. Bear Shola Falls – A Mesmerizing Place

Image Source Situated just 2 km away from Kodaikanal Lake, Bear Shola Falls is among the most popular Kodaikanal places to visit. Cascading down from a considerable height, this seasonal waterfall comes to life to the fullest during the rainy season when the water gushes down the mountain, making its way through verdant greenery and making a frothy base at the bottom. It is believed that this used to be the favorite place of a bear for drinking water, and that gave it its unusual name. However, now this quiet and peaceful waterfall is among the most favorite places to visit in Kodaikanal for nature lovers, couples, and adventure seekers.

Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1 to 2 hours Entry fee: No entry charges Places To Stay: Wood green cottage, Hotel Cliffton, Hotel Sivapriya, Bruton resorts, Maruti Villa, Hill Heaven Home Stay

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14. Pillar Rocks – A Rich Aura Of Charm

Image Source The Pillar Rocks in Kodaikanal are 400 meter long boulders naturally positioned in a particular order that has become a lovely picnic spot for families with kids and couples. Also constituting a beautiful mini garden, this place has is said to have a rich aura of affection which makes them visiting them one of the most wonderful and romantic things to do in Kodaikanal . The breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and villages from these rocks is not something you’d like to miss when you’re here. Don’t forget to get yourself a plate of potato and onion bhaji from outside the mini garden.

Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: INR 5 | INR 20 for camera Places To Stay: The Tamara Kodai, The Carlton, Kodai Resort Hotel, Sss Home Stay, Adhithya Holidays

15. Suicide Point – For Stunning Views

Image Source The Green Valley View, also called the Suicide Point, offers a stunning view of the Kodainakal plains, deep valleys, and hills. The enchanting views of the Vaigai Dam can also be seen from here and leave travelers in awe. The place got its name as a suicide point since the valley is quite dangerous, dense, and deep, with more than 5000 feet drop. Situated at a distance of 5.5 km from the Kodaikanal Lake, this point is one of the most famous Kodaikanal places to visit not only because it offers gorgeous views, but also because it is surrounded by plenty of shops selling homemade chocolates, ornaments, and a wide range of flowers.

Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1 hour Entry Fee: Free Places To Stay: The Tamara Kodai, The Carlton, Kodai Resort Hotel, Sss Home Stay, Adhithya Holidays, SkyHighVilla

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16. Devil’s Kitchen – A Unique Heritage Site

Image Source This is a natural and unique heritage site and cave system in Kodaikanal that is called the Devil’s Kitchen. It’s a group of caverns tucked amidst the enormous Pillar Rocks. It’s a great sight for photography as this unique gorge usually bears thick clouds and mist in the monsoons and winters, giving it a dreamy look. Situated on the outskirts of the city near Moir Point, this place shot to fame after the popular movie was shot here in the 1900s, making it a frequently visited Kodaikanal tourist place. In order to reach this hillock, one needs to trek 400 meters to the top starting from the main entrance, which to is one of the best things to do in Kodaikanal .

Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1 hour Entry Fee: INR 5 | Camera – INR 10 Places to stay: NA

17. Thalaiyar Falls – A Beautiful Waterfall

Image Source Thalaiyar Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kodaikanal and it is located in the lush green slopes of Palani Hill ranges in the Dindigul District. The locals call it the Rat Tail Falls because of its unique appearance. Cascading from a height of over 290 meters, this one is the highest waterfall in Tamil Nadu, as well as the sixth highest waterfall in India and 267th highest in the world. There is a view tower located right in this park at the Dum Dum Rock to help photographers click awesome pictures of this awesome Kodaikanal tourist place as well as the Manjalar Dam.

Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (Closed on Sundays) Suggested visiting duration : 2 to 3 hours Entry Fee: No charges Places To Stay: Regular Rooms, Estate Bungalow, Tree House, The Hills Views House, Rockstone villa, Kodai elegance

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18. Coakers Walk – Take A Lovely Stroll

Image Source Coakers Walk is among the most beautiful Kodaikanal tourist places and is essentially a man-made 1 km long walking plaza that is set on the mountains of Tamil Nadu. The lovely path of Coakers Walk curves beautifully at the edge of the gorgeous mountain and has been built mainly for visitors to catch a glimpse of Paradise on Earth. It is the perfect place to get a morning and evening walk amidst the goodness of nature and with such mesmerizing views to greet you of the lush valleys and hills of Kodaikanal. In fact, taking a leisurely walk on this platform is among the most relaxing things to do in Kodaikanal.

Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM Suggested visiting duration : 2 hours Entry Fee: INR 10 | Camera – INR 30 | Telescope House – INR 20 Places To Stay: The Carlton, Kodai Resort Hotel, Adhithya Holidays, Amherst Cottage, Sky villa, Surya Holidays

19. Dolphin’s Nose – Gorgeous Views Of Valley

The Dolphin’s Nose is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kodaikanal. With views of scenic valleys, lush green surroundings, rugged terrain, clear skies, and a soothing breeze, this viewpoint is where you can experience Kodaikanal at its best. The place got its name from the flat, protruding piece of rock here that is shaped like a dolphin’s nose, but it’s famous more for the awesome views it offers than the shape it has. Set at a height of 6,600 feet, this locale is perfect for a lovely picnic where you can sit and chat with loved ones amid serene vistas.

Timings: Sunrise to Sunset Suggested visiting duration : 1 hour Entry Fee: No entry fee Places To Stay: Tea Nest, Kurumba Village Resort – Nature Resorts, Hanging Huts Resorts, Teanest Nightingale, Pear Tree Inn

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20. Bryant Park – Cool Down

Image Source Bryant Park is what adds to the charm and elegance of the city of Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu. Located on the eastern side of Kodai Lake, this beautiful park is bejeweled with a diverse range of plant and shrub species that lures in a huge influx of nature lovers and botany enthusiasts into the park every month. You’ll find everything from flowering plants, hybrids, to grafts in this park. And as it is located right after Coakers Walk, you can enjoy two scintillating activities while visiting this park – a leisurely stroll as well as a rendezvous with nature’s beautiful creations!

Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM Suggested visiting duration : 2 to 4 hours Entry Fee: INR 30 Places to stay: Mistycove, Maha Village and Cottage, Kodai Resort Hotel, Hilltop Towers

21. Pine Forest – Hike All The Way

Image Source The Pine Forest of Kodaikanal is probably its most scenic and tranquil attractions that would make you feel you’ve just entered your favorite fairytale! Located in southwest Kodaikanal, Pine Forest is among the most popular Kodaikanal places to visit courtesy its matchless beauty. It is home to the most serene and rare forms of nature that have been preserved to date with strict supervision on the part of the Tamil Nadu government. It also happens to be an essential heritage site in the town that came into existence owing to the tireless efforts of Mr. Bryant who had put the pine plantations in the first place in the year 1906. Offering activities like horse riding, nature walks, hiking, trekking, and camping, it’s the most favorite spot of nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers.

Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM Suggested visiting duration : 2 hours Entry Fee: No entry fee Places to stay: The Carlton, The Tamara Kodai, Kodai Resort, Hotel Kodai International

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22. Moir Point – Prominent Viewpoints

Image Source Tucked at the entrance of a serene jungle that leads all the way up to the exquisite Berijam Lake, Moir Point is among the most prominent viewpoints in Kodaikanal that you just can’t miss. Named after Sir Thomas Moir who had constructed the Goschen Road in 1929 CE, this monument stands to commemorate his contributions and his efforts in building the Goschen Road, which actually starts from this point on the road joining the Kodaikanal-Berijam Lake. other than being an important historical landmark, this place also offers stunning views of the lush green valleys and hills of Tamil Nadu, bringing a huge crowd of tourists here every month.

Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: INR 10 Places To Stay: Premium Cottage stay, Pine Castle Kodaikanal, Shreyas, SUNRISE ROOMS, Kodai-Home Stay

23. Wax Museum – A Different Experience

India’s first Wax Museum is among the tourist places in Kodaikanal situated near Green Valley. It is a small museum which displays the Crib, the Last Supper, and some internationally known personalities. In Addition to these, there are some highlights which include Indian saints and personalities such as Adi Shankara, Sai Baba, Gandhiji, Lord Krishna with Gopikas, Indian musicians, and Veerappan, the sandalwood smuggler.

Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: INR 30 Places To Stay: Holiday Home, Sss Home Stay, SUNRISE ROOMS, campers abode, The Green House, Ruban house

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24. Upper Lake View Point – Truly Mesmerizing

From the Upper Lake View Point, the star-shaped lake looks amidst the greenery which was created in 1863 by Sir Vere Henry Levinge. Tourists say that the contrast they find between the lake and lush greens is just appealing to the eyes. It makes this place very much close to perfect for a good photography session. Other activities you can expect in the lake are boating, cycling, and horse riding on the top of the hill.

Timings: Open all the time Suggested visiting duration : 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: Free entry Places To Stay: Sterling Kodai Lake, Kodai-Home Stay, Wood green cottage, campers abode, Shreyas, Pine Castle Kodaikanal

25. Anna Salai Market – Top Place For Shopping

Anna Salai Market is one of the definite places to visit in Kodaikanal. It is an impression of the metropolitan culture of Kodaikanal where there is a rainbow of people. It is a loaded market where you can hop from shop to shop and buy one thing for everyone in your family.  You can pick up fresh fruits and vegetables, a variety of homemade chocolates, craftworks, shawls, jewelry, bone and walnut items, and other products made of leather and brass. It is one of the top places for shopping in Kodaikanal .

Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM Suggested visiting duration : 3 to 4 hours Entry Fee: Free entry Places To Stay: Hablis, Le Royal Meridien, Grand Tiara Hotel, FabHotel NK Courtyard, Klase Hotels, SRI GANESHA PALACE AND BHAVAN

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26. Silver Cascade Falls – Take A Fresh Bath

Welcome another of the great places to see in Kodaikanal which is a picturesque natural area located in a lush landscape. The resultant of the Kodai Lake, the waterfalls fall from a height of 180 feet. Get a refreshing break, enjoy the views of the frothy water, or take a fresh bath which has some medicinal value. If you like Instagram, then you are going to love capturing pictures at this place. And if you want to visit the waterfalls near Kodaikanal during the rainy season, then expect a heavy flow of water.

Timings :  9:30 AM – 3:00 PM Suggested visiting duration : 2-3 hours Entry fee : Free entry Places To Stay: Hotel Kodai International, Jehovahs Tent, Pine Tree View Stay, Isolated Family Home, Jem Valley

27. Silent Valley View Point – Calming Views

Almost anything that you do in Kodaikanal will give you an experience of a lifetime. So, one of the best Kodaikanal travel tips that we can give you is visiting the Silent Valley. Apart from the tranquil environment that you find, you will be really amazed by the lush green trees around, so much so, that you will want to camp here. But an astounding place here is a hillside observation area otherwise popular as a viewpoint. Visit here for a calming natural session, see the cloud touching mountains, and embrace one of the best places to see in Kodaikanal for natural therapy.

Timings : 6 AM to 5 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1-2 hours Entry fee : Free entry Places To Stay: Hotel Kodai International, JEHOVAS TENT, Isolated Family Home, Jem Valley, The Tamara Kodai

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28. Shembaganur Museum Of Natural History – An Old Significance

If you miss out on a museum tour to Kodaikanal, then you have surely missed a peaceful time. One of the most unique places to visit in Kodaikanal is the Shembaganur Museum Of Natural History. It is obviously a lesser-known place that has won the hearts of historians and travelers, alike with its 123-year-old collections. With an unbelievable collection of 500 animals (taxidermy), an orchidarium of 300 species, and specimens of wildlife creatures like snakes, butterflies, and moths. Another great collection are the remnants of the Paliyar tribes, the former nomadic people living in lower Kodaikanal

Timings : 10 AM – 11:30 AM; 3 PM – 5 PM, closed on Tuesdays Suggested visiting duration : 1 hour Entry fee : INR 20 for adults; INR 10 for children below 10 years of age Places to stay: Queen Annes Bungalow, Marian Villa, Hilltop Towers

29. Subramanya Temple – For Alluring Architecture

This Kodaikanal temple deserves a mention in the list of top Kodaikanal tourist places due to its rising popularity and its alluring architecture. Located at a high altitude, you have to climb approximately 650 steps to reach the temple. Not to worry, you don’t have to climb at once. In fact, you can sit, relax, and feel the spiritual aura of the temple with the scenic beauty that the area has to offer. Try visiting in January as the Thaipusam festival is celebrated in the month. You can feel a whole lot of vibrancy and enthusiasm around the time. 

Timings : 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM; 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM Suggested visiting duration : 2 hours Entry fee : Free entry Places To Stay: Shesha Kuteera, Hotel Akshayadhara, Hotel Adhithya Nest, SLR Residency, Hotel Sheshnaag Aashraya

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30. Kukkal Caves – Great For Hikers

If you are trekking, hiking, or camping in Kodaikanal, it does not matter as the archaeological site called Kukkal Caves will be your preferred destination any which way. Considered as one of the top places to visit in Kodaikanal for adventure, the caves are made up of rocks and located at an altitude of 1500 meters and post-exploration reveals traces of the Paliyan tribes that used to live in the region. You can have an exciting view of the Manjampatti Valley and the nearby forests. And if you are not exploring adventure, you can plan to stay at the best Kodaikanal guest houses here.

Timings :10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1-2 hours Entry fee : Free entry Places to stay: NA

31. Dolmen Circle – With Anthropological Beauty

Dolmen Circle is a popular Kodaikanal sightseeing destination that promises pre-historic and anthropological beauty. As you gaze through the site, you realize them to be the burial grounds of people belonging to the Stone and Iron age. Due to their ancient nature, you will find many to be destroyed with time and some few to be standing. Kodaikanal is not just a place for admiring natural beauty. The historic and archaeological significance can be very well visible in attractions like the Dolmen Circle.

Timings : 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM Suggested visiting duration : 1-2 hours Entry fee : Free entry Places To Stay: Tropical Rain Farmstay, Sachinhomestay, StaySimple Spicefarm, Double Occupancy room, Standard Room

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32. Chettiar Park – An Exotic Flora

Visiting Kodaikanal in Summer is a gratifying experience rather than challenging when you are to visit attractions like the Chettiar Park. A very small park that has a soothing vibe and pleasant surroundings will let you enjoy a sustainable picnic when you spend some time with your family or loved ones. You will be impressed with the amazing flora, in particular the Kurinji Flowers, which bloom every 12 years. An awesome Kodaikanal sightseeing attraction, it has been featured as a major shoot location in many feature films.

Timings : 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Suggested visiting duration : 3-4 hours Entry fee : INR 10 per person; INR 20 for cameras Places To Stay: SaffronStays Kurinji Estate, Lilly’s Valley Resort, Green Woods Homestay, Pears Tree Suite, Le Poshe

33. Poombarai Viewing Point – A Serene View

Poombarai is a scenic village located about 18 km from Kodaikanal. The inspiring hike and breathtaking views of the valley makes it one of the top Kodaikanal tourist places. Nestled between the terraced hills, the village is very popular for garlic farming. The combination of tranquil mountains and that breadth of fresh air with a view of the tiny colorful houses would be like a dream come true for you. Eat the local food in an open-air restaurant to give you a memory of a lifetime.

Timings : Visit any time of the year Suggested visiting duration : 1 day Entry fee : None Places To Stay:  Radiance Art Residency, Red Rabbit Guesthouse, Campers Valley Camping, K Camp, Leaf inn blossom Kodaikanal

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34. 80 Mile Round – A Spectacular Trek

80 Mile Round is an amazing trekking route that starts from Berijam Lake and finishes at the Poombarai Village of Kodaikanal. This is the perfect trek for adventure lovers and those who love a good adrenaline rush. The trek can be confusing for the first time, so you can take a local guide along the way. The trek takes around 2-3 hours, but requires 3-4 days to visit the places along the way. It offers great views along the way. Scenic views of cliffs, peaks, mountains, valleys, villages, and more can be enjoyed while on this trek. During the trek you can stay at the jungle resorts, however, you need permissions beforehand.

Timings: NA  Suggested Visiting Duration: 3-4 days Entry Fee: NA Places To Stay: jungle resorts

35. Canopy Hill, Vattakanal – Experience The Beauty

Image Credit: Author Name for Wikimedia Commons Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

One of the most popular tourist places in Kodaikanal is Canopy Hills which is a great destination for adventure enthusiasts as they can go trekking and spot wildlife creatures like wild goats, porcupines, bison, and many more. If you are looking out for Kodaikanal places to visit, then you must surely add Canopy Hills in your itinerary.

Timings: 24 hours Suggested Visiting Duration: 1 to 2 hours Entry Fee: INR 4,200 per person Places To Stay: Western Valley Homestay, The Hamuse Hotel, Hotel RT Hill View

How To Reach Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal by bus: Regular buses from Dindigul, Chennai, Pondicherry, Trichy, Madurai, Palani and Coimbatore run to Kodaikanal. Kodaikanal by train: Kodai Road at a distance of 100 km is the nearest railway station from Kodaikanal. From the station, one has to take a taxi for about INR 1,300, so the train is not a comfortable way of traveling to Kodaikanal. Kodaikanal by air: At a distance of 120 km, Madurai airport is the nearest one. From there you can either hire a taxi or take a regular TNSTC bus.

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Already in love with the gorgeous Kodai? Pack your bags and let the charm of this rustic and old town amaze you with its incredible vistas. Plan your trip to Kodainakal and don’t forget to visit these best places to visit in Kodaikanal. 

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Frequently Asked Questions Related To Places To Visit In Kodaikanal

What are the top attractions to visit in Kodaikanal?

The following are the top attractions in Kodaikanal - Kodaikanal Lake, Berijam Lake, Mannavanur Lake, Guna Caves, La Saleth Church, Vattakanal Falls, Pambar Falls, Astrophysical Observatory, Kodai Chocolate Factory, Lutheran Church, Perumal Peak, Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple, etc.

What are the top sightseeing places in Kodaikanal?

Kodaikanal Lake, Berijam Lake, Mannavanur Lake, Guna Caves, La Saleth Church, Vattakanal Falls, Pambar Falls, Astrophysical Observatory, Kodai Chocolate Factory, Lutheran Church, Perumal Peak, and Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple are the famous sightseeing sites in Kodaikanal.

Is it safe to visit Kodaikanal during Covid times?

You need to follow all the mandatory safety guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Remain masked while stepping out of the hotel and maintain social distance. Avoid visiting crowded places and keep sanitizing your hands after touching surfaces.

What is Kodaikanal famous for?

The beautiful hill station of Kodaikanal is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty which includes gorgeous waterfalls, rivers, viewpoints like the Moir viewpoint.

What are the places I can visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days?

Some of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal on 2 days trip are: 1. Kodai Lake 2. Silver Cascade 3. Bear Shola Falls 4. Dolphin’s Nose 5. Bryant Park

Is Kodaikanal good for a honeymoon?

Kodaikanal is a great honeymoon destination in India. The place has pleasant weather throughout the year. You can enjoy the romantic breeze with your loved one and also go trekking if you are an adventurous couple.

When is the best time to visit Kodaikanal?

Although Kodaikanal experiences pleasant weather throughout the year, an ideal time to visit the place is from March to early June.

How many days are sufficient to visit Kodaikanal?

2-3 days are sufficient to visit Kodaikanal. You can cover all the amazing things this hill station has to offer in this duration. The place is home to natural escapes, historic sites, verdant surroundings, and more.

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20 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

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#1 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 1 km from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Kodai Lake is an artificial, star-shaped lake situated in Kodaikanal town. It is the most famous landmark of Kodaikanal & one of the top tourist places to visit in Kodaikanal town. The lake is often represented in promoting Kodaikanal Tourism. Spread across an area of 60 acres, the Kodai Lake was built in 1863. Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the then Collector of Madurai, was instrumental in creating the lake. The lake is surrounded by beautiful valleys, a boat club, and buildings from the colonial period. There is a walkway around the lake that offers wonderful views of the place as part of Kodai tour packages . The 5 kilometers path that skirts the periphery of this lovely lake is a favorite walk for the locals and tourists alike. Rowboats and pedal boats can be hired at the Boat Club. Horses and .....

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Coaker's Walk

#2 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 0.5 km from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Coaker's Walk is a paved path situated in Kodaikanal. It is one of the most scenic places to visit in Kodai . Constructed by Lt. Coaker in 1872, Coaker's Walk is a 1-kilometer paved pedestrian path along the edge of steep slopes on the southern side of Kodai town. It is one of the must-visit places as part of Kodai packages . The path, winding around Mount Nebo, starts in front of the Van Allen hospital, running parallel to the Van Allen Hospital Road, and joins the main road beside St.Peter's Church, providing a stunning panoramic view of the valleys and plains. On a clear day, one can view as far as Dolphin's Nose, the valley of the Pambar River, Periyakulam town, and even the city of Madurai. The evening is the best time to experience the beauty of this place when the mystic clouds slowly .....

Bryant Park

#3 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 700 meters from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Bryant Park is a wonderfully maintained garden situated towards the South-East corner of Kodai Lake. Along with Kodai Lake, this is one of the must visit places in Kodaikanal tour . Occupying an area of 20.5 acres, the park was planned and built-in 1908 by a forest officer from Madurai, H.D.Bryant, and named after him. With 325 species of trees, shrubs, and cactuses, the park is a rainbow of stunning flowers during the monsoon and winter season. A large section is dedicated to nearly 740 varieties of roses. Ornamental plants are cultivated in a nursery for sale. The park organizes horticultural exhibits and flower shows every summer, to coincide with the peak season. This is one of the most scenic Kodaikanal tourist places . There is a beautiful glasshouse inside the park with nicely organized .....

Pillar Rocks

#4 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 7 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Pillar Rocks is a set of three giant rock pillars which stand 400 feet high from the ground. The rocks stand majestically and offer wonderful views amidst thick vegetation and cloudy mountains. This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Kodaikanal and among the most scenic places in Kodai. Managed by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, the viewpoint of Pillar Rock is situated on the Moir Point road. A small and beautifully garden, glowing in the colors of the seasonal blooms adds to the charm and the picture perfect beauty of the place. In the shadows of the pillars are shady woods that invite picnickers. The dramatic view and the scenic surroundings make Pillars Rocks a popular picnic spot among locals and tourists. During winter and monsoons, the rocks are surrounded by thick clouds and tourists keep waiting for long time for the clouds .....

Silver Cascade

#5 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 8 km from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Silver Cascade is a mesmerizing waterfall situated in the town of Kodaikanal. This is one of the most popular waterfalls near Bangalore and among the prime place to visit on a Kodaikanal trip . Cascading down from a height of about 55 meters (180 ft, the Silver Cascade waterfall is formed from the outflow of Kodaikanal Lake. It is one of the most visited tourist places in Kodai . The name 'Silver cascade' is given to this fall, owing to the colour of the water which appears silver when flowing down the 55-meter high cliff. There is a dedicated viewing platform in front of the waterfall, which serves as an excellent point to view the flowing waterfall down in a pool. One can easily reach the silver Cascade falls via local transport .....

#6 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 8.5 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station and 1.5 km from Pillar Rocks, Guna Cave is wonderful tourist spot in Kodaikanal on Moir Point road. The cave is formed between two large Pillar Rocks. It is one of the best tourist places to visit in Kodaikanal . This large, dark and ancient cae is also called as Devil's Kitchen. Situated amidst thick forest on hilltop behind Pillar Rocks, Guna Caves is one of the top visited places in Kodaikanal. The path to Guna Cave passes through a beautiful pine forest with roots of the trees emerged on to the ground providing unique setting to this place. Apart from the historical importance, the beauty of the nature makes it a popular tourist spot in Kodaikanal. Visitors can view the cave from a distance as the surroundings of the cave are closed for security reasons. From the hill top, visitors can get a glimpse of beautiful valleys and Pillar Rocks on .....

#7 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 10 km from Kodaikanal Bus Station and 3 km from Pillar Rocks, Moir Point is a historic place and beautiful view point in Kodaikanal on Berijam Lake road. Moir Point offer breathtaking views of the highest peaks around Kodaikanal. It is one of the important view points in Kodaikanal and a beautiful tourist spot. There is a small park developed at this spot with a monument. The site is named after Sir Thomas Moir, an engineer who constructed the Goschen Road in 1929. This point joins the Berijam Lake raod with Kodaikanal here. There is a monument remembering Thomas Moir at the viewpoint. The park near the Moir Point was recently upgraded making it more attractive. This is a major tourist spot and attracts lot of crowd. There are several shops selling the basic needs. It is adjacent to the main road towards Berijam Lake and easily accessible.

Dolphin's Nose

#8 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 8 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Dolphin's Nose is flat rock projecting over a breathtaking 6,600 feet deep. It is an undisturbed area 1 km down a very steep rocky trail beginning soon after Pambar Bridge. It is one of the most scenic places in Kodai . Orange juice vendors along the trail offer a welcome rest stop. Beautiful views of steep rocky escarpments rising from the plains can be seen. The old village of Vellagavi can be reached through a rugged bridle path here. A short paved walkway leads from the road here to Pambar falls. This place demands 20-30 mins of moderate level trekking.

Bear Shola Falls

#9 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 3 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station & 512 Kms from Chennai, Bear Shola Falls is a tall waterfall in a Reserve forest. It is said that bears used to drink water at top of the falls, and the falls are called so. This is one of the top places for sightseeing in Kodaikanal and one of the best waterfalls in kodaikanal . The approach road to the falls is bumpy and hilly. The falls offer best views just after monsoon during the months of September & October. You don't find any water in summer season. The pathway from the main road follows through dense forest amidst serene location. Apart from the majestic waterfall, the walk through the forest itself is a wonderful experience. Height of the falls is about 40 feet and the water drops into a small pool. Swimming here is safe if the water flow is not fierce. This place demands a 10 minute walk from the road point. The waterfall attracts large number of visitors during .....

Berijam Lake

#10 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 21 km from Kodaikanal, Berijam Lake is an artificial lake situated in Kodaikanal. It is one of the popular places to visit near Kodaikanal . Berijam Lake is at the old site of Fort Hamilton and is situated in the upper Palani hills, overlooking the surrounding landscape. It was formed as the result of the construction of a dam with sluice outlets and is part of a micro-watershed development project. Berijam Lake supplies drinking water to Periyakulam town. It is one of the must include places in Kodai Tour . Surrounded by the lush green pine plantations, the Berijam Lake with its serene beauty has caught the imagination of artists, nature lovers, and tourists. The lake is also an important conservation center for local flora and fauna. Birds such as serpent eagles, rosefinch, leaf-warblers, and pale rumped swallows can be spotted .....

#11 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 41 kms from Kodaikanal, 108 Kms from Coimbatore & 487 Kms from Chennai, Palani is one of the padi veedu for Lord Muruga and is an important pilgrim centre for Hindus. Palani is one of the popular pilgrimage sites in Tamilnadu and another popular attraction not to miss in a Kodaikanal tour package . Puranas have a story that Lord Muruga disappointed for Gnanapazham came here to stay alone. Lord Shiva & Goddess Uma Devi convinced him by saying that he itself is the fruit of knowledge (Gnanapazham) and called him as Pazham Nee. Thus the town got its name 'Pazhani'. The temple of Pazhaniandavar is situated in the Palani Hills at the height of about 1400 feet from the sea level. From the temple prakaram one can see the Idumban Hill, the Kodaikanal Hills, the rivers flowing around Palani, the greenfields and even the Kurinjiandavar temple in Kodaikanal hills on a clear day.

Chettiyar Park

#12 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 3 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station (on the way to Kurinji Andavar Temple), Chettiar park is a nice park managed by the township. This park is very quite and a large variety of exotic flowers can be seen here. Bushes cut and kept in beautiful shapes adorn the garden. The amazing purple bloom of the Kurinji Flowers can be seen here once in every twelve years. It last bloomed in 2004. A well kept grass meadow and shady trees create an atmosphere of cool calm and make the Chettiar park a pleasant resting place. It has decked floors for flowering plants, and lots of lush green lawns. Timings: 8:30 AM to 5 PM

Kurinji Andavar Temple

#13 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 4 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station (on the edge of Kurinji Andavar Road), the Kurinji Andavar Temple is dedicated to Lord Muruga, the God of Hills. As per the Tamil literature, Kurinji means 'hill region' and Andavar means 'God', hence Lord Muruga is referred as 'God of hill'. The Kurinji Andavar Murugan temple is famous for its Kurinji flower which blossoms in the area only once every 12 years. The deity here is called Sri Kurinji Easware. The temple was built by Leelavathi Ramanathan. Born as a European, she was influenced by the religion of Hinduism and adopted the religion. She patronized the construction of the temple that was erected in the year 1936. Thousands of devotees visit this temple during the summer festival to seek the blessings of Lord Muruga. It gives you beautiful views of Northern Plains and Palani Hills. Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM

Shenbaganur Museum

#14 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 5 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station, Shenbaganur Museum of Kodaikanal boasts of a vast reserve of the relics of antique pieces of art and craft of the region. It is one of the popular sightseeing attractions in Kodai . A part of the Sacred Heart College of Kodaikanal, the museum reflects the rich traditional heritage and cultural ancestry of the region. The store house of traditional artifacts of Kodaikanal, Shenbaganur museum is easily accessible from any part of the city. A unique characteristic of Shenbaganur museum is its wide collection of rare and endangered species of birds and beautiful flowers that imparts a magical spell on the visitors. Timings: 10 AM to 11.30 AM & 3 PM to 5 PM. Entry fee - Rs 5.

Perumal Peak

#15 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 18 km from Kodaikanal & 55 km from Palani, Perumal Peak is a trekker's delight situated near Perumalmalai village close to Palani road. Perumal Peak or Perumal Malai Peak is a high peak at kodaikanal in the Perumalmalai hills, which are part of the greater Western Ghat mountain range in Tamil Nadu. It is one of the popular places for trekking in Kodaikanal and also one of the top attractions you must include in Kodaikanal packages . The trek begins from the foot of the Peak near Perumal Malai Village which is 11 km from Kodaikanal. The trek distance is about 7 km one way and takes about 3-4 hours one way. Most of the trekking stretch is of moderate difficulty while few parts are little steep. Overnight camping is also possible on the peak while most of the trekkers visit the peak and return on the same day. Perumal Malai Village can be reached from Palani .....

Kukkal Cave

#16 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 40 kms from Kodaikanal, Kukkal Cave is a favourite camping site for trekkers. The Kukkal caves are some of the oldest carved caves of the region. The caves are actually overhanging slabs of rocks. This rock shelter is at an altitude of 1500 meters. The cave reveals traces of earliest settled tribals Paliyans who used to wear leaf clothing. Kukkal caves provide the tourists with a captivating view of the Manjampath valley. The valley is home to a number of bisons. The journey from Kodaikanal to Kukkal caves takes the tourists through the rich forested area near Kodaikanal. The flora of the region is rich in the variegated growth of the orchids and the shola trees. A stroll in the early morning through the wooded regions is an exciting experience for the traveler.

#17 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 120 km from Kochi, 284 km from Trivandrum, 142 km from Coimbatore, 134 km from Kottayam, 153 km from Thrissur, 100 km from Athirapally Falls, and 150 km from Madurai, Munnar is a fascinating hill resort located in Idukki district of Kerala. It is one of the best hill stations in India , and among the must include places in Kerala tour packages . Munnar town is situated at an altitude ranging from 5000 to 8000 feet on the Kannan Devan Hills in Devikulam taluk and is the largest town in the Idukki district covering an area of nearly 557 sq. km. It is also called the Swiss of South India. This is also one of the famous places to visit near Kochi , Coimbatore & Madurai cities. Mattupetty Dam, Pothamedu Viewpoint and Tea Museum are among the must include places in your Munnar tour packages . Munnar ..... Distance (From Kodaikanal): 162 Kms Trip Duration (From Kodaikanal - Including Travel): 1-2 Days .....

Pambar Falls

#18 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 4 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station.This magnificent falls is also popularly called as the 'Grand Cascade'. The town water reservoir overflows southwards forming the Fairy Falls which continues to join the Vaigai River forming the Pambar Falls through its course. It can be reached by a steep, slippery path behind Pambar house. Racing down Pambar Ravine is the zig-zagging Levinge stream that cascades over a series of rock formations. The Pambar Ravine showers down the Waterfall and a series of steep and precariously slippery rocks during its meandering course. There is a pond like formation at the foot suitable for bathing. Three or four adjacent small cascading falls can be seen as you go downstream. The wild vicinity of the falls flourishes in rare flora and fauna. Endemic birds and butterflies create a center of attention to this soothing spot.

Fairy Falls

#19 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 6 kms from Kodaikanal Bus Station and 5 kms from Kodai lake, Fairy Falls is the source of Pambar River, continuing to join the Vaigai River at the foot. Swimming at the foot of the falls will indeed leave you refreshed and revitalized. It is the spillover of the rural community water reservoir streaming southwards the hill to form the enchanting fairy falls. The sparkling waters that fill the basin at the foot of the Fairy fall is one of the most habitually visited tourist destination for the travelers for bathing during Kodaikanal tour.

Thalaiyar Falls / Rat Tail Falls

#20 of 20 Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

At a distance of 40 Kms from Kodaikanal & 485 Kms from Chennai, Thalaiyar Falls, also known as the Rat Tail Falls is the highest waterfalls in Tamil Nadu and third highest falls in India. It is also one of the popular sites for trekking near Kodaikanal. With a height of 975 feet (297 meters), the falls is visible from a great distance on the ghat road towards Dindigul. This falls is considered inaccessible to the general public, as there is no access road to it. However, one can reach these falls with 6 kms trekking after 34 Kms of road journey on ghat road from kodaikanal . The trek duration is around 2-3 hours one way. The trek is considered to be of moderate difficulty. The very edge at the top of the falls has a concrete wall. One can walk along the wall and get near the center of the falls. The water here is considered polluted and it's better to avoid bathing here. One can catch Dindigal / Madurai buses .....

Most Asked Questions on Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal can be visited through out the year, however, the best time to visit Kodaikanal is April to June during the summer. Monsoon from September to October. This is also the time when the waterfalls & lakes are pleasant and enhance the beauty of beautiful hill station of Kodaikanal. Summer is the busiest season in Kodaikanal and often hotels run full and tourist places are crowded.

Kodaikanal usually requires complete 2 days to visit the most important attractions. However, there are several wonderful places to visit around Kodaikanal like Palani, Perumal Peak which usually take additional one day. Kodaikanal can be mixed with near by wonderful destinations like Ooty, Munnar, Thekkady and Madurai by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Kodaikanal trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Kodaikanal tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 5150 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 8000 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Kodaikanal like Kodai Lake, Coaker's Walk, Bryant Park, Pillar Rocks, Silver Cascade, Guna Cave and Moir Point. If you have time, you can dedicate a day to visit near by places like Madurai.

Kodaikanal is very famous for Tea and buying local made of Tea powder is a great idea. Kodaikanal is also well know for spices like Aromatic oils and natural spices are some popular offerings from the local vendors, You can get these spices at low prices in Kodaikanal if you bargain a bit. Ensure to check the quality.

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21 Places to visit in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a gorgeous town with forests, valleys, waterfalls and vast stretches of green pastures and hills. Located at an elevation of 2000 meters above sea level it is an absolutely exotic hill station. It is a pristine location for a lazy weekend getaway or a fun filled adventure trip, as one can experience the balance of both the travelling experiences here at Kodaikanal.

How to reach Kodaikanal?

By Air – Kodaikanal has many airports which can be reached from the city centre and can thus be a source of travel for both international and luxury travelers. However air travel is not the best possible way of transport as the airports are quite far from the main township area. Here are some of the nearest airports from Kodaikanal:

1. Madurai International Airport (115 kilometer or 80 miles)

2. Coimbatore International Airport (170 kilometers or 110 miles)

3. Tiruchirapalli International Airport (197 kilometers or 122 miles)

4. Tuticorin Airport (262 kilometers or 163 miles)

By Rail – Kodaikanal being a hill station has nearest railway in the plains which is why the nearest railhead from the city centre of Kodaikanal is a little far from the railway station. One needs to avail a bus or a taxi or have a private vehicle to reach the Kodaikanal Lake or the city centre. The nearest railway stations are:

1. Palani Station (64 kilometers or 40 miles) north

2. Kodaikanal Road Station (80 kilometers or 50 miles) south east

3. Dindigul Junction (100 kilometers or 62 miles) east

4. Madurai Junction (114 kilometers or 71 miles) nearly east

By Road –Kodaikanal is well connected by road from Madurai Aarappalayam bus stand and Batlagundu via the frequent bus services that is provided by both the government as well as other private bus services. One can also reach the Kodaikanal Lake via the ghat roads from the railway station or airport on rented vehicles.

Places to visit in Kodaikanal

Historical monuments and places, 1) sacred heart college museum –.

It is a very old museum which was built during the British Raj in India. The museum has almost all the real animals preserved. At display you will get to varieties of butterfly, and other flies, birds, leopard, tiger skeleton was very huge, Elephant and crocodile head bone, and also preserved human baby of every month from 1 month to 9 month preserved. However, it is small size museum, but to imagine how all these would have been collected, methodical presentation, well researched and preserved from more than 100 years tells you about the effort and work undertaken by the staff. It is a must visit for people who have come to Kodaikanal for their weekend getaway trip.

Location – Laws Ghat Rd, Shenbaganur, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

2) Wax Museum –

A popular destination among tourists who visit the museum for learning about the brilliance of art in the area. The museum has numerous celebrity statues which also attracts many tourists.

Location – Golf Links Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Religious Places

1) kurinji andavar temple –.

Built in 1936 the Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, the God of Hills as per the Tamil literatures which is set in charming environment with Kurinji flowers surrounding the temple.

Location – Kurinji Andavar Temple Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Natural Structure and Sightseeing

1) berijam lake –.

According to the city tour guide the Lake is situated at the end of the Pillar Rock Road. The Lake is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kodaikanal for its serene and calm environment and sparkling water which is surrounded by beautiful hills on all sides and thus makes for a perfect weekend getaway picnic spot for family and friends.

Location – Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu, South India

2) Dolphins Nose –

A hill station that has the background of a fairy tale destination. The Dolphins Nose is a rocky cliff which is located at a lofty elevation which helps the tourists sees the stunning panorama of the whole area. It is recommended to visit this place during early morning or during the dusk to experience the actual plethora of colors the blue sky emerges from. So among the many things to do in Kodaikanal, a visit to the Dolphins Nose is a must.

Location – Gangavaram, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

Timing – 3AM – 5PM

3) Kodaikanal Lake –

A stunning and exotic location which is also the heart of the Kodaikanal town, the lake is a sparkling blue water body which is famous among tourists for its picturesque scenery. The Lake glitters from the reflection of the sun rays and has exotic wild trees that surround it along with hills which give on the feeling of being in the natures lap. This is also why boating activity has hiked up in recent times and one can enjoy the activity here while being embraced by the beauty of nature. Best Kodaikanal package has to have a visit to this lake in their sightseeing list.

Location – Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

4) Kodaikanal Solar Observatory –

The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, located at the southern tip of the Palani Hills. It is a tiny dome shaped building that helps in the further study of the starts, constellation and the solar system. A great place for science buffs and students, it is also popular among tourists who are keen in learning something new while they are on their weekend getaway trip to Kodaikanal.

Location – Poombari Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Timing – 10AM–12PM, 2–4PM (Sunday closed)

5) Green Valley View –

Located near the Kodaikanal Golf Club towards the Pillar Rocks, the green valley view is a hit among all age groups. Tourists enjoy the amazing view of the lofty hills, the lush greenery and the blue sky which lets them hit the restart button to their life with a breath of the fresh air.

Location – Dindigul district, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

6) Thalaiyar Falls –

From a height of 297 m eter the water gushes down the hill like a giant. It is the highest waterfall in the state of Tamil Nadu and quite rightly it stays true to its charisma. The waterfall can be viewed from the Dum Dum view point and is one of the most important or popular location for photographers. Best kodaikanal trips are incomplete without a visit to this waterfall.

7) Vattakanal Falls –

A place for the thrill seekers and the adventure junkies as according to the city tour guide the path to this waterfall is a hilly trek though the beautiful forest which is a treat to the eye as well as the soul.

Location – Dindigul, Tamil Nadu

8) Guna Caves –

It is the perfect place for adventure lovers as the path to this place is not just beautiful but also is adventurous. The mystery and natural beauty that cloak these caves are breath taking. A little trek, adventure and oneness with nature are essential to make it the best Kodaikanal trip.

Location – Pillar Rocks Road, Tamil Nadu

Timing – 8AM – 5PM

9) Pine Forest –

A paradise for photographers this place as the name goes is covered in tall and beautiful pine forest. It has a cinematic appeal to it and is thus a shooting spot for many films.

10) Lake View Point –

Going by the name it is certainly a tourist spot to witness the beauty of the Kodaikanal Lake. It enthralls the traveler and provides a panoramic view of the town which is stunning. This place is a must go to for photographers and nature lovers.

11) Perumal Peak –

Being one of the highest peaks in Kodaikanal it is a great spot to go trekking with friends and family. According to the city tour guide the trek route is pretty simple and will only add more fun to your best Kodaikanal trip and thus is definitely of the things to do here is trekking and visiting this peak. The twisted green trees slung over the curvy hills will take your breath away.

12) Kukkal Caves

The caves are of immense historical value for it is popular to bear the traces of the ‘Palaiyar’ tribe which is extinct now. Thus due to its historical significance it is now a list in all best kodaikanal packages and has gained popularity among tourists and historians for the enchanting caves have many tales to tell.

13) Bear Shola Fall –

It is a seasonal waterfall quite far from the normal touristy area of Kodaikanal but is an exclusive spot during the monsoon trips. The area around is filled with different flora and fauna which are native to Kodaikanal.

14) Kodaikanal Golf Club –

The game of the elite. Golf at Kodaikanal is quite popular due to its vast stretch of green land which is an excellent ground to test the golfer in you. If not a game then a visit to this place is surely a must go to make it the best Kodaikanal trip.

15) Vaigai Dam –

At a height of 111 feet, this dam is undoubtedly the best manmade tourist location in Kodaikanal. There is a small park adjacent to the dam is it is a stunning view when the water gates are open. It is an amalgamation of modern architecture and natural beauty which sooths the eye to the very possibility.

Location – Guest House Road, Melmangalam, Tamil Nadu

16) Coakers Walk –

A walk through the clouds amidst the serenity and the beauty of nature. It is surely one of the bet locations in Kodaikanal and among the many things to do here a walk or a cycling trip though the little forest will enrich your soul.

Location –Coakers Walk, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Timing – 7Am – 7PM

17) Shenbaganur Museum –

Located at a distance of 5km from the city centre it is home to almost 300 species of flora and fauna which is why it is popular among students and other travel enthusiasts. The museum is a quaint place which upholds the unique cultures and traditions of South India. Thus all best Kodaikanal packages have this museum in the list of places to visit.

18) Bryant Park –

It is a relaxed garden park which is one of the largest in Kodaikanal and is close to the Kodaikanal Lake which is why it has gained its popularity as the scenery from this park is stunning, especially during dusk.

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Places to visit in Kodaikanal

Exploring the Enchanting Kodaikanal: A Guide to the Top 15 Must-Visit Places in Kodaikanal with Entry Fees, Timings, and Activities

As the misty embrace of Kodaikanal unfolds, embark on a journey to the top 15 destinations that promise a symphony of experiences. This guide not only reveals the places to visit in Kodaikanal spots but also provides essential details such as entry fees, timings, and activities, ensuring your exploration is seamless and unforgettable.

1. Kodai Lake: Tranquil Bliss Amidst the Waters

Begin your adventure at Kodai Lake, where tranquility meets crystal-clear waters. Entry is granted for a nominal fee, allowing you access from 9 AM to 5:30 PM. Engage in paddle boating, take a leisurely stroll, or simply bask in the serenity that this spot offers.

Entry Fees:  Rs 30 per person for Adults . Rs 15 per person for children. Rs 50 for Still Camera.

2. Bryant Park: One of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal

Delve into nature’s canvas at Bryant Park, with an entry fee that opens the gates from 9 AM to 6 PM. Roam amidst vibrant blooms, partake in a photography session, or find solace in the surroundings while enjoying a peaceful picnic.

Entry Fees: Rs 30 for Adults, Rs 15 for Children below 10 years, Rs 50 for Still Camera, and Rs.   100 for Video Camera .

3. Coaker’s Walk: A Stroll Above the Clouds

Take a stroll on Coaker’s Walk, where panoramic views unfold. Pay a minimal entry fee and explore from 7 AM to 7 PM. Whether capturing sunrise or sunset, engage in photography or simply revel in the breathtaking vistas.

Entry fee is Rs 10 per person, Rs 20 for the telescope observatory, Rs 30 for still camera

4. Pillar Rocks: Geological Marvels in Stone

Discover the geological wonders of Pillar Rocks, accessible with a modest entry fee from 9 AM to 4:30 PM. Marvel at the towering rocks, engage in nature photography, or simply absorb the tranquility of this majestic places to visit in Kodaikanal.

Entry Fee : Rs 5 per person and Rs.20 for Still Camera. 

5. Silver Cascade Falls: Nature’s Cascading Symphony

Immerse yourself in the symphony of Silver Cascade Falls without paying an entry fee. The falls welcome visitors from 9 AM to 6 PM, providing a refreshing escape. Capture the beauty through photography or indulge in a nature-inspired meditation.

6. Bear Shola Falls: A Pristine Hideaway

Venture to Bear Shola Falls, concealed in nature’s embrace, without any entry fee which opens the doors from 10 AM to 6 PM. Engage in bird watching, capture the scenic beauty through your lens, or simply enjoy a peaceful moment by the falls.

7. Kurinji Andavar Temple: Spiritual Awakening

Connect with spirituality at Kurinji Andavar Temple, without any entry fee, from 7 AM to 7 PM. Participate in the daily rituals, absorb the serene atmosphere, or take a moment for quiet introspection amidst the hills.

8. Pine Forest: A Tranquil Retreat

Experience serenity at the Pine Forest, without any entry fee granting access from 10 AM to 6:30 PM. Take a nature walk, engage in photography, or simply unwind amidst the whispering pines.

9. Green Valley View (Suicide Point): Panoramic Vistas Unveiled

Challenge your senses at Green Valley View, without any entry fee from 7 AM to 6 PM. Engage in landscape photography, soak in the breathtaking panoramas, or simply ponder the beauty of nature’s creation.

10. Shenbaganur Museum: A Dive into Natural History

Conclude your journey at Shembaganur Museum, with an entry fee, open from 10 AM to 5 PM. Explore exhibits, participate in educational activities, or take a stroll through the museum gardens for a holistic learning experience.

Entry fees: Rs.20 for adults, Rs 10 for children below 10 years

11. Dolphin’s Nose: A Theatrical Cliffside Vista

Perched dramatically, Dolphin’s Nose invites to witness nature’s theatrical performance. Visit this spot for spectacular views and engage in landscape photography or quiet contemplation.

12. Thalaiyar Falls: Majestic Beauty Unleashed

Listen to the roar of Thalaiyar Falls, accessible without any entry fee. Marvel at the majesty of one of the highest waterfalls in India, engage in photography, or simply absorb the power and beauty of this natural wonder.

13. Guna Cave: Nature’s Subterranean Mystery

Descend into the mysterious Guna Cave, paying an entry fee for a subterranean adventure. Explore the hidden chambers, engage in spelunking, or simply revel in the underground marvels of nature.

Entry Fee : Rs 5 per person and Rs.10 for Still Camera

14. Mannavanur Lake: Tranquil Waters Reflecting Serenity

Escape to the tranquility of Mannavanur Lake, with an entry fee granting access. From nature walks to bird watching, the lake offers a serene retreat from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Entry Fee : Rs 30 per adult and Rs.20 per child

15. La Saleth Church: A Sanctuary of Spiritual Serenity

Conclude your journey at La Saleth Church, offering a sanctuary of faith without an entry fee. Attend a service, absorb the spiritual ambiance, or simply find solace amidst the hills.

Kodaikanal’s top 15 destinations not only promise breathtaking sights but also offer a range of activities. With entry fees, timings, and diverse experiences, your visit becomes a seamless exploration, ensuring that every moment is a memorable chapter in your Kodaikanal adventure.

As you plan your visit to Kodaikanal, let Travel2Kodaikanal be your trusted companion in crafting a journey that aligns with your aspirations. With customized sightseeing packages, dedicated cab services, and a range of adventure options, we invite you to explore Kodaikanal in a way that resonates with your individual spirit of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Exploring Kodaikanal’s Wonders

Are there entry fees for these attractions.

Yes, most of the popular attractions have nominal entry fees. Charges may vary, so it’s advisable to check individual entry fees for each site before planning your visit.

What are the opening and closing timings for Kodaikanal’s attractions?

Timings vary for each site. Generally, places like Kodai Lake and Coaker’s Walk open around 9 AM and close by 6 PM. However, it’s recommended to check specific timings for each attraction as they may differ.

Are there any adventure activities available in Kodaikanal?

Certainly! Kodaikanal offers various adventure activities, including trekking, boating in Kodai Lake, nature walks in Pine Forest, and trekking to places like Dolphin’s Nose. Adventure enthusiasts will find plenty to explore amidst the hills.

What is the best time to visit Kodaikanal?

The ideal time to visit Kodaikanal is during the months of April to June and September to October when the weather is pleasant. However, each season has its own charm, so plan according to your preferences.

Can I explore Kodaikanal on my own, or should I opt for guided tours?

While Kodaikanal is easily navigable, guided tours can enhance your experience, especially in understanding the cultural and historical significance of each spot. It’s a personal choice, but having a guided tour with help of Travel2kodaikanal.com can add valuable insights to your journey.

Are these attractions family-friendly?

Absolutely! Kodaikanal’s attractions cater to all age groups, making it a perfect destination for family vacations. From serene lakes to adventurous treks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Can I capture photographs at these places?

Yes, photography is usually allowed at most spots, but some places may have specific regulations. Always check for signage and guidelines at each location to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience.

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Top 12 Places To Visit In Kodaikanal for A Mesmerizing Experience- The Princess Of Hills

The calendar for 2023 is out and your search for long weekends has begun. Wondering which destination to choose next? We got your back! Pack your bags and book your tickets to this finest hill station, Kodaikanal. Situated 7200 ft above sea level, Kodaikanal is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Tamilnadu. Also known as “The Princess of Hills”, this place has a series of breathtaking views to leave you mesmerized. Misty hills that unfold the best form of nature, dense forests of Pine trees and magnificent waterfalls – that’s Kodaikanal for you.

But before I go on to tell you a list of places to visit in Kodaikanal, here’s everything that you need to plan your travel .

Kodaikanal Hill station Photo

Nearest Airport to Kodaikanal: If you want to fly down, the nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai, which is around 120 km. From Madurai, you can either book a taxi or board the TNSTC buses that run at regular intervals.

Nearest Bus Station : Kodaikanal is best connected with buses from Dindigul, Palani, Chennai, Pondicherry, Madurai, Trichy, etc.

Nearest Railway Station : Though Kodai Road is the nearest railway station that is just 100 km away, the taxi fares from Kodai Road to Kodaikanal are generally very high. It’s always advisable to take the bus as it’s pretty cheap.

Moving forward, let me take you on a virtual tour to Kodaikanal.

Top 12 places to visit in Kodaikanal

1. kodai lake – a man-made miracle.

Kodai By The Lake – Image Courtesy: Hemanth

This man-made star-shaped lake is situated right at the heart of the city. Spread across 60 acres, Kodai Lake will surely be your favorite destination for long walks. You can also rent cycles on an hourly basis or go for boating in this peaceful piece of nature. This lake was created in 1863 and ever since then, it’s attracted tourists every single day.

The outflow of Kodaikanal Lake results in a beautiful waterfall called Silver Cascade.

Do Not Miss: This star-shaped lake has a beautiful pathway around it. Do NOT miss taking a long walk around this beautiful lake under the open, starry night.

2. Green Valley View

Source: millionhomes.in

Want to visit Kodaikanal to pamper your love for the hills? If yes, you must not miss the great Green Valley view. It offers some breathtaking views of the valleys and the Vaigai dam. The most popular view point of Kodaikanal, Green Valley View is the most romantic spot if you are visiting the town with your beau. It gives you the most serene feeling with the lush greenery surrounding the hills.

3. Berijam Lake – An Untouched piece of Paradise

Kodaikanal Berijam Lake Photo – Image Courtesy: R Tanna

Take a walk into lush green nature and rejuvenate your soul with this breathtaking beauty. Around 21 km in the forests, Berijam Lake is a restricted area that’s open for public only during the day. Berijam Lake will make you lose yourself into the lap of nature and you will leave only to come back again.

Timings: 9:30 AM to 3 PM Pro Tip: Take permission from the Forest Department a day prior to your visit.

4. Coaker’s Walk – A Walk to Remember

Created by Lt Coaker in 1872, Coaker’s Walk is a pathway to walk or cycle witnessing the beautiful hills of Pamber River. If you are lucky enough, you can also spot the very famous Brachem Spectre – a rare event when the sun is behind one’s back and the clouds and mist in front, a person can actually see their shadow in the clouds around a rainbow. Interesting, isn’t it?

Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM Pro Tip: Carry enough cash with you. There’s a huge chance of fluctuating signal and if Paytm doesn’t work, you might not get a chance to munch on the local snacks when you take the Coaker’s Walk.

5. Kodai Chocolate Factory – India’s Very Own Chocolate Factory

This is a must visit place if you are a die-hard chocolate fan. This 100% vegetarian chocolate factory specializes in making home-made chocolates of all kinds. Try out an array of flavors and pick a box for loved ones. The prices are way too cheap than any branded chocolate.

Pro Tip: These chocolates are fresh and super tasty. Get a couple of boxes on your way back as it’s only available in Kodaikanal. Also, it’s way too cheap as compared to the branded chocolates. Wild Honey is famous, grab a box before you leave.

6. Mannavanur Lake – Straight Outta Paradise

It’s a paradise and there’s no doubt about it. Get ready for the drive of your dreams because the road to Mannavanur Lake is truly unmatched. With beautiful Eucalyptus and Pine forest on both sides, this road is something to remember, always! Mannavanur Lake is a pristine piece of nature that will leave you relaxed and rejuvenated. You’ll thank me a million times for this retreat.

Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM Tickets: Rs 10/- per person

7. Bear Shola Falls – Bear’s Bisleri

This tall waterfall was originally the place for bears to drink water. A drive through the dense forest will take you to Bear Sholay Falls that’s one of the best places to visit. Do not forget to carry extra clothes because if the water flow isn’t very fierce, you can swim in clean and chilly water.

Timings: 7 AM to 6 PM

8. Bryant Park – A land of Roses

This 20.5-acre Botanical garden will surprise you with its rich flora. Bryant Park boasts about a massive variety of trees and shrubs that are captivating enough to make this one of the best tourist spots. Having around 325 varieties of trees and shrubs and about 740 species of roses, this place cannot be skipped.

Timing: 9 AM to 6 PM

9. Dolphins Nose

Yet another gorgeous view point in Kodaikanal is none other than the Dolphins Nose. Shaped like the nose of a dolphin, the point gives a remarkable yet pleasing view from the top. Many people trek up to the point to feel the rejuvenating air of the mountains and enjoy the incredible view. Add this attraction to your must-visit places of Kodaikanal and don’t forget to click some insta-worthy pictures.

Timings: If you want to visit this place, it will be open for tourists from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. However, it is recommended to visit Dolphins Nose either during sunrise or sunset to get the best view.

10. Astrophysical Observatory – One of the Oldest Laboratory in the World

This place is a must visit in Kodaikanal. Situated on the rolling hills of Palani, Astrophysical Observatory was constructed in 1899 and is one of the oldest in the world. The 20 cm refractor at the observatory is often used for cometary. The place is also famous for occultation observation and the general public can also view the night sky. If you are an astronomy enthusiast, this place is a paradise for you.

Timings: It remains open to the public on Fridays between 10 AM to 12 noon. From April 1st to June 15th, people can visit every day between 10 AM to 12 Noon and 2 PM to 4 PM.

11. Kurinji Andavar Murugan – The Blue Flower Temple

Kurinji Andavar Murugan is one of the most famous tourist attraction in Kodaikanal. Famous for the Kurinji Flowers that experience full bloom once in 12 years, this temple looks like a blue carpet when the bloom happens. It’s definitely a sight to behold. The next full bloom is due in 2030, mark your calendar.

12. Guna Caves – The Devil’s Kitchen

Does the picture remind you of those scary television shows? Amigos, this places is both beautiful and scary at the same time. This dark cave that was once called “The Devil’s Kitchen” makes for a great picture background but is equally risky. The steep slides that are invisible might result in taking your life so walk carefully. Tread through the beautiful pine forests to have a picture-perfect frame but watch your steps.

Timings: 9 AM to 4:30 PM

Wondering where to stay in Kodaikanal? Check out these amazing stays in Kodaikanal that’ll make your experience most memorable.

Filled with beauty, charm and peace, Kodaikanal is one of the most wonderful hill stations in the south. If you reside somewhere in the southern part of India, Kodaikanal can be your best weekend getaway. And, if you really plan to visit this enchanting place, do add the above listed places to your itinerary. Also, let us know if you need any more help in planning the trip!

Vinodkumar Sankranthi

Eatigo- a top restaurant reservation website in mumbai and pune, best trekking locations in bangalore: nature trails and treks of a lifetime, related posts, most happening places to celebrate the new year’s..., top 6 christmas holiday destinations in india, 11 best carpool & rideshare apps, 7 best cab services in mumbai and pune, 10 best hotel booking sites in india, 13 best cab services in ahmedabad, top 15 best cab services in hyderabad and..., 15 must visit places to witness ganesh visarjan..., indian festivals: must visit places during ganesh chaturthi..., rapido bike taxi app: ride bookings, benefits, &..., leave a comment cancel reply.

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• #Luxury travel
• #Unusual Moscow
• #Jewish Heritage
• #Russian traditions

Top 10 places for a day trip from Moscow

• #Russian History
• #Special Interest
• #Suburbs of Moscow

Moscow offers tourists many great sights to see, but if you ask locals, they will tell you that Moscow is not all there is to Russia, so it’s worth getting away sometimes. Without exploring further, you miss something of the Russian unique character. If you wonder what to visit near Moscow, we recommend you 10 places where a tourist can go for a refreshing recreation, new impressions, and acquaintance with Russian history and culture.

01 Sergiyev Posad

Sergiyev Posad is one of the most beautiful towns located around Moscow. It’s not only famous for its monastery, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, but also for the fact that it’s the only town in the Moscow Region that is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities. Its cities and towns influenced the formation of the Russian Orthodox Church. But the main thing which one should visit Sergiyev Posad is the Lavra for sure. You may spend there all day, walking around and enjoying the sense of its power and strength. You absolutely have to buy some honey cakes as souvenirs for friends and feed Lavra’s pigeons when entering the monastery. Besides, you may visit Sergiyev Posad State History and Art Museum-Reserve, which has quite an impressive collection, take a look at the displays in the National Museum of Toys, and taste truly Russian food in local cafes and restaurants.

You can reach Sergiyev Posad by suburban electric train, by bus, or by car. The electric train departs from the Yaroslavsky rain terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts for an hour and a half. You may take a bus near the ‘VDNKh’ metro station, and you’ll be in Sergiyev Posad in an hour and a half at least and in two hours at most. Your car will take you there in an hour and a half at most, too. You should drive the Yaroslavskoye highway. 

If you want to look at a city that combines hi-tech and historical past, you should absolutely visit Kolomna. It is one of the most famous ancient cities in Russia, a beautiful port on the Oka River. Kolomna has its own Kremlin, which is made of red brick, like the Moscow Kremlin. Inside it, you may find many monasteries and churches, including the one in which Dmitry of the Don, Prince of Moscow, and Grand Prince of Vladimir, had his wedding to the Grand Duchess of Muscovy Eudoxia of Moscow. There is still a reserved residential area which is called Posad, right in the Kremlin territory. The buildings date back to merchants’ times. There are some interesting churches, too. In 2006, the Kolomna Speed Skating Center, known as the Kometa Ice Rink, was opened. Its futuristic look contrast the picturesque views of the ancient Kolomna Kremlin and its beautiful churches.

The best way to reach Kolomna is an electric train that departs from the Kazansky rail terminal. The trip lasts for two and a half, or one hour and forty minutes by the Ryazansky express. You can also choose a bus from the Vykhino metro station (1.4 to 4 hrs due to traffic jams) or a car.

03 Shakhmatovo

Shakhmatovo was a manor of the well-known Russian lyrical poet Alexander Blok. His grandfather Andrey Nikolaevich Beketov bought it, and young Blok used to spend it there every summer. Later, he moved there with his wife Lyubov Mendeleeva, who was the daughter of the famous chemist Dmitri Mendeleev. Blok’s grandfather decided to buy Shakhmatovo because of its picturesque views. They are really very nice, and the better time to visit this place is spring and summer. According to his own project, Blok’s mansion is a wooden house built by the poet but burnt by peasants in 1921. It was rebuilt in 2001, and since that time, it often holds big events and excursions. There is also a stable in Shakhmatovo territory, and everyone interested may ride a horse, or rent a bicycle in the summertime, or ski in wintertime.

Shakhmatovo can be reached by car because other options combine train departs from the Leningradsky rail terminal, then changes to bus till the Tarakanovo manor, then goes by foot, or bus from the Vodny stadion metro station, and then also by foot. Travel time is 1.4 hrs.

04 Zakharovo

It is a manor located in the Odintsovo District of the Moscow Region, where everybody interested may learn more about the greatest Russian poet Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin. In 1804, Zakharova was bought by his grandmother Mariya Alexeevna Gannibal, and young Pushkin was brought here every summer from 1805 through to 1810. He recalled Zakharovo in his poems as well. Now, the house which Pushkin visited as a child doesn’t exist anymore, but it was rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century on the former basis. Now it is a quiet and nice place with a museum dedicated to the famous poet's childhood, where one may spend a day enjoying the spirit of the time when young Pushkin ran across manor’s paths. From that time, linden park, approach alleys, and pond were saved. Not very far away from Zakharovo, another place connected to Pushkin’s name is located. It’s called Bolshiye Vyazyomy, and there the young Pushkin’s brother Nikolenka was buried after his death at the age of six.

The best way to go there is by train, which departs from the Belorussky rail terminal and goes to Zvenigorod. You should leave at the Zakharovo station. Travel time is an hour and a half.

05 Borodino

Borodino is truly a sacred place for all those who honor the great Russian past. The Borodino Battlefield held the most important fighting during the Patriotic War of 1812. This place was made a museum area in 1839, just after 27 years after the battle. More than two thousand memorable things are stored in the museum, including some monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to the 19th and 20th centuries, and fortification facilities. Besides, there is also an exhibition dedicated to the famous novel ‘War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, who visited Borodino in person and described this battle in his book. Every year, reconstruction events occur in Borodino, which is considered the best for visiting. But if you want to feel the spirit of the battle past, it’s better to visit it in more quiet time.

To go there, you should take a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, leave in Mozhaysk, and then change to the bus. The whole travel time is about 2 hrs.

06 Melikhovo

Melikhovo is considered one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, one of the brightest Russian writers and playwrights. Chekhov had been living in Melikhovo from March 1892 until August 1899 with his parents and close relatives. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “Uncle Vanya” and “The Seagull.” He sold this manor before going to the Crimea, and it became vague after the revolution. But in 1939, it was decided to establish a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew initiated the process, and the museum opened its doors in 1941. Now Melikhovo shows the path of Chekhov not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. Some paintings of famous artists such as Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends, are being stored. It’s a nice place to visit to learn more about Chekov’s life and work.

The best way to reach Melikhovo is by bus, which departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station, and goes to Protvino, Obolensk, or Serpukhov, or by the direct 365 bus. Also, you may choose an electric train from the Kursky rail terminal. Travel time is 1,5 hrs.

07 Abramtsevo

This is another manor connected to the lives of important Russian people — not only writers but also artists. Abramtsevo, located close to Sergiev Posad, was a property of Sergey Aksakov, a writer and a Slavophiles, and later of Savva Mamontov, a well-known patron of the arts. Abramtsevo used to be visited by writers Ivan Turgenev and Nikolay Gogol, poet Fyodor Tyutchev, and such artists as Isaac Levitan, Vasily Polenov, and Mikhail Vrubel, and by the great Russian singer Fyodor Shalyapin as well. The exhibition in the museum is dedicated to famous Abramtsevo owners and guests. It was made a museum in 1917, and its first curator was Alexandra Mamontova, Savva Mamontov’s daughter. The main sightseeing view is a wooden building made in the 18th century and saved in Savva Mamontov's form in the 19th century. There are also some bright buildings such as hut pavilion or hut bath-house. You have to remember that the main manor house may be visited only with an excursion group on the weekend.

Electric train to Abramtsevo departs from the Yaroslavsky rail terminal and goes to Sergiyev Posad or Aleksandrov. You may reach Abramtsevo by bus as well. Travel time is an hour and a half.

08 Yasnaya Polyana

Yasnaya Polyana is known as a place of residence of the famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. He was born there, wrote his novels ‘War and Peace’ and ‘Anna Karenina,’ died and is buried. He’d been living in this manor for fifty years. Yasnaya Polyana is located in the Tula Region, 200 km from Moscow to the south. This manor consists of many interesting and significant objects. For example, the interior of the main house where Tolstoy lived is being kept like it was in 1910 — it was the last year for the writer. All things in the house are considered to be personal belongings of Tolstoy and his family. Besides the main house, the Yasnaya Polyana ensemble includes the so-called Volkonsky house — the house of Tolstoy’s grandfather, the Kuzminskiye wing, which is a part of the oldest house where Tolstoy was born, now non-existent, the birch alley made by Sofya Andreevna, Leo Tolstoy’s wife, stable, ponds, and favorite Tolstoy’s bench. Leo Tolstoy’s tomb is located close to the ravine's edge — it’s where he wanted to be buried.

The whole travel time to Yasnaya Polyana is about 4 hrs as long as it’s located near Tula. It can be reached by train, or by car. First, you should go to Tula by train from the Kursky rail terminal or by bus from the Tsaritsyno, Domodedovskaya, Prazhskaya, or Ulitsa Akademika Yangelya metro stations, and then change to bus, or by trolley bus for Yasnaya Polyana.

09 Polotnyany Zavod

This place which title can be translated into Russian as ‘linen factory,’ is known for its connection to the Goncharov family, from which Natalia Goncharova, Alexander Pushkin’s wife, originated. The real linen factory was built on the bank of the Sukhodrev River in the Kaluga Region in 1718 by Peter the Great order. Goncharov, Natalia’s great grandfather, was one of the companions who participated in the factory’s development. Every companion built his own manor close to the factory’s building, and even for those times, it was quite an uncommon situation. Polotnyany Zavod was visited by the empress Catherine the Great, the Field Marshal Mikhail Kutuzov, and Nikolay Vasilievich Gogol. In 1999, when everybody celebrated the bicentennial of Alexander Pushkin, Polotnyany Zavod was made a museum, and now it welcomes many guests who come to see dramatized excursions and to learn more about Pushkin times. The poet himself visited this place two times, in 1830 and 1834. Polotnyany Zavod has the most picturesque panoramic view in the Kaluga Region.

To go to Polotnyany Zavod, you should take a bus from the bus station near the Tyoply Stan metro station, and go to Kondorovo. It takes a little more than three hours.

Tarus is just another little town in Kaluga Region, which is considered to be typical Russian. It’s located on the left bank of the Oka River and has really magnificent views. It feels like time stands still there. Tarusa managed to preserve the best from the past, and even now, it consists mostly of one-storeyed houses made of wood or stone. They say it’s because Tarusa residents declined railroad construction. This town became popular among Russian intellectuals at the beginning of the 20th century when famous artist Vasily Polenov discovered it and told about Tarusa to anyone in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Tarusa is known to be a hometown for Russian writer Marina Tsvetaeva, whose family spent summertime there. Tsvetaeva museum is a museum every guest of Tarusa should visit for sure. Besides, Konstantin Paustovsky, another famous Russian writer, lived there till his death and was buried in Tarusa. The absolutely must-do in Tarusa is to walk along the embankment of the Oka River.

The best way to reach Tarusa is by direct bus which departs from the bus station near the ‘Tyoply Stan’ metro station. Travel time is about two hours.

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• The Altai Mountains read
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• 1. Sergiyev Posad
• 3. Shakhmatovo
• 4. Zakharovo
• 5. Borodino
• 6. Melikhovo
• 7. Abramtsevo
• 8. Yasnaya Polyana
• 9. Polotnyany Zavod

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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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Middle East conflict

April 18, 2024 - Iran targeted in aerial attack

Kathleen Magramo, Sana Noor Haq, Christian Edwards, Aditi Sangal, Elise Hammond, Amir Vera, Tori B. Powell and Maureen Chowdhury, Adam Renton and Elizabeth Wolfe, CNN

Our live coverage of the attack on Iran has moved here .

Attack was a calculated message to Iran, retired US Army general says

From CNN's Michael Holmes and Elizabeth Wolfe

The attack on Iran early Friday was likely intended as both a retaliatory measure and a cautionary message, a retired US Army Major General told CNN.

For days, Israel has been weighing its response to unprecedented weekend strikes from Iran, which were launched in retaliation for a suspected Israeli strike on its embassy compound in Syria earlier this month.

A US official told CNN that Friday's attack was an Israeli strike. Israel has declined to comment on it.

“Israel must maintain its vigilance” in case Iran decides to respond with another show of force, retired Major General Mark MacCarley said.

By targeting the Iranian province of Isfahan — the site of significant nuclear facilities —Israel was likely warning that it could easily overwhelm Iran's defenses, MacCarley said.

“I think that there was a very deliberate thought process on the part of the Israeli war cabinet," he said.

"Israelis had to retaliate, but at the same time, within that retaliation was a message, and that is, 'Yes, we can get through. Don’t do it again. If you do it again, then all heck will break out.'"

Blast heard near Isfahan was caused by air defense firing at "suspicious object," Iranian official says

From CNN's Adam Pourahmadi and Irene Nasser

A loud blast heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan was caused by "air defense firing at a suspicious object," an Iranian senior military commander said, according to Iran's state-aligned Tasnim news agency.

There was no "damage or incident," said senior military commander Second Brigadier General Mihandoust in Isfahan Province, according to Tasnim.

A US official told CNN that Israel had carried out a strike inside Iran. The Israeli military has not commented.

Iranian state media are reporting that all facilities in the area are secure, including significant nuclear facilities .

Three explosions were heard early Friday near the military base where fighter jets are located in the Isfahan province, Iran's semi-official FARS news agency reported.

Iran's National Cyberspace Center spokesman, Hossein Dalirian, said air defenses shot down three drones and "there are no reports of a missile attack for now."

The Middle East is on edge after a strike on Iran. Here's what we know

From CNN staff

Israel has carried out a strike inside Iran, a US official told CNN on Friday , in a move that threatens to further escalate conflict in the Middle East.

Iran’s air defense systems were activated in several locations after explosions were heard close to the airport and an army base in the province of Isfahan, state media reported early Friday morning.

Israel has not taken responsibility for the attack.

Here's what we know:

• What Iranian reports say: Three blasts were heard near a military base where fighter jets are located in northwest Isfahan, Iran’s semi-official FARS news agency reported. Following the strike, Iranian media reported that all facilities around Isfahan are secure, including significant nuclear facilities in the area. Iran's National Cyberspace Center spokesman, Hossein Dalirian, said air defenses shot down three drones and "there are no reports of a missile attack for now."
• What was the target? That remains unclear, but the US official told CNN the strike's target was not nuclear. According to FARS, a military radar was a possible target. Ghahjaworstan, where an explosion was heard, is located near Isfahan Airport and “the eighth hunting base of the Army Air Force,” FARS reported.
• How did we get here? Tensions remain acute across the Middle East as Israel wages war in Gaza against Palestinian militant group Hamas, an Iranian ally. Meanwhile, a decades-long shadow conflict between Israel and Iran erupted into the open on the weekend when Iran launched an unprecedented attack on Israel that Tehran said was retaliation for a deadly suspected Israeli airstrike on Iran’s consulate in Syria.
• What Israel says: The Israeli military said Friday they "don't have a comment at this time" when asked by CNN about reports of explosions in Iran. Israel's war cabinet has met periodically this week without announcing any definitive action following the Iranian strikes on Israel last weekend.
• What the US says: Israel’s allies, including the United States , have called for restraint from Israel in a bid to prevent a regional war. The US "didn’t green light" an Israeli response, another senior US official told CNN. Prior to Friday's strike, the US expectation was that Israel would not target civilian or nuclear facilities, the second official said.
• What happens next? That also remains unclear. Reports of the explosions came hours after Iran’s Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian told CNN  that if Israel takes any further military action against Iran, its response would be “immediate and at a maximum level.” He added: “If the Israeli regime commits the grave error once again our response will be decisive, definitive and regretful for them.”

Iran lifts flight suspensions put in place following reports of explosions

Iran has lifted flight suspensions put in place after reports of explosions near a military base in Isfahan province, according to the spokesperson of the Civil Aviation Organization.

"We inform you that the operational restrictions imposed on the airports have been removed and the airlines are allowed to carry out scheduled flights," the spokesperson said.

Flights have resumed at Mehrabad Airport and Imam Khomeini International Airport, the two major airports in Iran's capital, Tehran, after being suspended earlier today.

Iran had earlier temporarily suspended all flights heading to the cities of “Tehran, Isfahan and Shiraz, the airports of the West, North West and South West," state-run Mehr TV reported.

Outgoing flights were also briefly canceled.

Iranian state media reports no major disruption to Isfahan's infrastructure

From CNN's Nic Robertson and Elizabeth Wolfe

Following a strike in Iran's Isfahan province, Iranian state media are reporting that all facilities in the area are secure, including significant nuclear facilities, CNN International Diplomatic Editor Nic Robertson reports.

Though a US official told CNN Israel has carried out a strike inside Iran, Israel has not taken responsibility for the attack.

"The overall impression that's being related by the Iranian government and other media outlets in Iran is that whatever events have happened — and they do leave it rather ambiguous — it has not damaged significantly any important facilities near Isfahan," Robertson said.

State media is also reporting that they have not had any enemy aircraft come into Iranian airspace, he added.

Flight en route to Tehran returns to Dubai

From CNN's Sandi Sidhu in Hong Kong 

A flight from Dubai to Tehran was diverted back to the United Arab Emirates on Friday morning after Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport closed. 

A Flydubai spokesperson told CNN that flights from Dubai to Iran had been canceled. 

"Flydubai flight FZ 1929 from Dubai to Tehran on 19 April has returned to Dubai due to the closure of Tehran Airport (IKA). In line with the issued NOTAM, our flights to Iran today have been canceled. The safety of our passengers and crew is our priority," the spokesperson said.

The flight left for Dubai at 4:10 a.m. (8:10 p.m. ET) and arrived back in Dubai at 5:51 a.m. (9:51 a.m. ET). 

US Secretary of Defense spoke with Israeli Defense Minister earlier Thursday before Israel attacked Iran

From CNN's Mary Kay Mallonee

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant earlier Thursday about “regional threats and Iran’s destabilizing actions in the Middle East,” according to a Pentagon readout.

The call happened before Israel carried out a strike inside Iran . The Pentagon readout does not mention any discussion of Israel’s plans to attack.

Austin also discussed "the importance of increasing and sustaining the flow of humanitarian aid to Gazan civilians, including via the new route from Ashdod Port in Israel," the readout said.

CNN reported Thursday night that Israel had told the US that it would be retaliating against Iran in the coming days, according to a senior US official.

Iran's air defense downs 3 drones, official says, as state media reports no large-scale strikes

From CNN's Adam Pourahmadi and Hamdi Alkhshali

Iranian air defenses shot down three drones Friday, according to a Tehran official, as state media said no large-scale strikes or explosions had been reported following blasts near the central city of Isfahan.

It comes after a US official told CNN Friday that Israel had carried out a strike inside Iran, in a move that threatens to raise regional tensions.

Iran's air defense systems were activated in several regions as a precaution against potential aerial threats, according to state news agency IRNA.

“Following the activation of air defense in some parts of the country to deal with some possible targets, reports indicate that so far, no large-scale strikes or explosions caused by any air threat has been reported,” IRNA said early Friday local time.

Extensive checks in Isfahan, a critical central province with significant nuclear facilities, indicate that all sensitive military and security installations remain secure, with no incidents reported.

Missile defense systems were not activated, IRNA added.

This post has been updated.

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