Kodaikanal Hill Station-Where Dreams Meet Nature
Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal is a picturesque hill station located in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Situated in the Palani Hills of the Western Ghats, Kodaikanal is renowned for its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and lush greenery. Referred to as the “Princess of Hills”, Kodaikanal is one of the most famous hill station stations in Tamil Nadu and the whole of India. Located at about 2135 meters above sea level, Kodaikanal was established as a destination by British bureaucrats and Christian missionaries in the year 1845. It served as a summer retreat and a vacation spot for the colonial power. Kodaikanal has been a popular choice among hill station lovers for a quick escape up the mountains.
The verdant hills, the cascading waterfalls, the picturesque lakes, pristine countryside, are the reasons why Kodaikanal has been popular among tourists. Plenty of activities like Boating, cycling, horse riding, and trekking are some of the most common among them. One of the other spectacles of this region is the Kurinji flower which blooms only once in 12 years, making itself a unique spectacle to watch.
Kodaikanal is also known for its trekking trails, opportunities for camping, and pleasant weather throughout the year, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking respite from the heat of the plains.
Kodaikanal weather
Kodaikanal enjoys a pleasant and moderate climate throughout the year due to its elevation in the Western Ghats. Here’s a general overview of the weather in Kodaikanal.
Summer (March to May)
Summer in Kodaikanal is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. It’s an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities as the weather remains cool and comfortable.
Monsoon (June to September)
Kodaikanal receives moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. The rain rejuvenates the lush greenery of the hills, making it a beautiful time to visit for nature lovers. However, heavy rainfall can sometimes lead to landslides and roadblocks.
Autumn (October to November)
After the monsoon, Kodaikanal experiences a brief period of clear skies and pleasant weather. Temperatures start to drop slightly, ranging from 15°C to 25°C.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Kodaikanal is chilly but not harsh. Temperatures can drop to around 8°C to 20°C. The weather remains dry, and occasional mist and fog add to the charm of the hill station. It’s a popular time for tourists, especially those looking to experience the cold weather and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.
Kodaikanal Tourist Places
Kodaikanal, nestled in the Palani hills of Tamil Nadu, India, offers a plethora of tourist attractions that captivate visitors with its natural beauty, serene lakes, and lush landscapes.
Kodaikanal Lake
Kodaikanal Lake is one of the most iconic and picturesque landmarks in the hill station. The Lake is a man-made lake that was built in 1863 during the British colonial era. It was created to serve as a source of water for the residents and to cater to the needs of the local population. One of the unique features of Kodaikanal Lake is its star-shaped design, which adds to its aesthetic appeal. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and hills, providing a serene ambiance.
Coaker’s Walk
Coaker’s Walk is a popular tourist attraction located in Kodaikanal. It is a paved pedestrian pathway that offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, hills, and mist-covered landscapes. The pathway is named after Lt. Coaker, who constructed it in the early 20th century. It was originally built for residents and visitors to enjoy the stunning vistas of the Place.
Coaker’s Walk is situated on the southern side of Kodaikanal town, near the Kodai Lake. It is easily accessible by foot or by vehicle. The pathway stretches for about 1 kilometer and meanders along the edge of cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Pillar Rocks
Pillar Rocks is a captivating natural attraction located in Kodaikanal. Pillar Rocks are a set of three massive granite rock pillars or columns that stand vertically shoulder to shoulder, rising to a height of about 122 meters. These impressive rock formations were created by natural geological processes over millions of years, and they have become one of the iconic landmarks of Kodaikanal.
The site is easily accessible by road, and there is a designated viewpoint area from where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. At Pillar Rocks, there are well-maintained viewpoints that offer breathtaking vistas of the Pillar Rocks and the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can gaze in awe at the sheer magnitude of the towering rock formations and marvel at the natural beauty that surrounds them.
Also read- Berijam Lake- Nature’s Oasis in Kodaikanal
Green Valley View (Suicide Point)
Green Valley View, commonly known as Suicide Point, is a scenic viewpoint located in Kodaikanal. Green Valley View is situated around 5.5 kilometers from the Kodaikanal town center, amidst the lush greenery and rolling hills of the Western Ghats. The viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the verdant valleys, dense forests, and mist-covered landscapes that characterize the region.
Green Valley View is renowned for its breathtaking views of the surrounding natural landscapes, which captivate visitors with their serene beauty and tranquility. The lush greenery and mist-covered hills create a mesmerizing backdrop that is ideal for sightseeing, photography, and nature appreciation. The nickname “Suicide Point” is derived from the sheer drop-off at the edge of the viewpoint, which plunges hundreds of meters into the valley below.
Pine Forest, Kodaikanal
The Pine Forest in the hill station is a captivating natural attraction renowned for its scenic beauty and serene ambiance. The Pine Forest is located in the southwestern part of Kodaikanal, near the Golf Club and close to the Pillar Rocks. The Pine Forest is characterized by dense clusters of towering pine trees that create a picturesque canopy overhead. The pine trees, with their tall and straight trunks, add to the tranquil ambiance of the forest and provide ample shade to visitors.
Guna Caves, also known as Devil’s Kitchen, is a fascinating natural attraction situated on the outskirts of Kodaikanal, approximately 8 kilometers from the town center. The caves are nestled amidst the lush greenery and rugged terrain of the Western Ghats. Guna Caves are natural caves formed by the weathering and erosion of granite rocks over millions of years. The caves are characterized by narrow passages, rocky crevices, and unique rock formations that add to their mystique. The caves are popularly known as Guna Caves, named after a Tamil movie called “Guna” that was filmed here in the 1990s. The caves were previously known as Devil’s Kitchen due to local folklore associating them with demons and spirits.
Things to do in Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal, with its serene landscapes and pleasant climate, offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in the hill station.
Boating on Kodaikanal Lake
Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the picturesque Kodaikanal Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic hills. Pedal boats, rowboats, and shikaras are available for rent.
Visit Coaker’s Walk
Take a stroll along Coaker’s Walk, a scenic pathway offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, hills, and mist-covered landscapes. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Explore Bryant Park
Explore Bryant Park, a beautifully landscaped botanical garden featuring a diverse collection of flowers, hybrids, and varieties of plants. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk or a peaceful picnic amidst nature.
Trekking
Explore the various trekking trails around Kodaikanal, such as the Dolphin’s Nose Trek, Pillar Rocks Trek, and Perumal Peak Trek. These trails offer stunning views of the valleys, waterfalls, and lush greenery.
Horse Riding
Enjoy horse riding through the scenic trails and pine forests of Kodaikanal. It’s a fun activity for families and adventure enthusiasts.
Kodaikanal Resorts
Kodaikanal, nestled amidst the scenic Western Ghats, offers a variety of resorts catering to different preferences and budgets.
Luxury Resorts
The Carlton
Positioned near Kodai Lake, The Carlton is a luxurious resort offering elegant accommodations, fine dining options, spa treatments, and recreational facilities like indoor games and outdoor activities.
The Tamara Kodai
The Tamara Kodai is known for its luxurious cottages and suites nestled amidst lush greenery. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views, gourmet dining experiences, wellness treatments, and personalized services.
Sterling Kodai Lake
Sterling Kodai Lake provides comfortable accommodations near the Kodai Lake. The resort offers modern amenities, recreational activities, and dining options, making it ideal for families and leisure travelers.
Hill Country Resort
Hill Country Resort is located amidst serene surroundings and offers cozy cottages and rooms with beautiful views. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities, including a restaurant, indoor games, and outdoor activities.
Budget-Friendly Resorts
Kodai Resort Hotel
Kodai Resort Hotel offers budget-friendly accommodations with comfortable rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and recreational facilities like indoor games and a children’s play area.
Elephant Valley Eco Farm Resort
Elephant Valley Eco Farm Resort provides eco-friendly accommodations amidst lush greenery. Guests can stay in rustic cottages and enjoy activities like nature walks, bird watching, and organic farming experiences.
Nature Resorts
Villa Retreat
Villa Retreat offers cozy accommodations in a tranquil setting. The resort provides a peaceful ambiance, personalized service, and opportunities to connect with nature.
Altius Nest
Altius Nest offers homely accommodations with scenic views of the surrounding hills. Guests can enjoy home-cooked meals, nature walks, and relaxation in a serene environment.
Kodaikanal Hotels
Kodaikanal, being a popular tourist destination in South India, offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. Here are some hotels in the hill station across different categories, The Tamara Kodai, Sterling Kodai Lake, JC Residency, Hotel Kodai International, and Hotel Cliffton.
How to Reach Kodaikanal
The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai Airport, located approximately 120 kilometers away. The nearest railway station to the hill station is Kodai Road Railway Station which is about 80 kilometers away.
Bangalore to Kodaikanal
The distance from Bangalore to Kodaikanal is approximately 465 kilometers via road. The most common route is to take NH44 from Bangalore towards Hosur, then NH844 to Salem, and finally NH183 to reach the hill station via Dindigul. Several private and government buses operate between Bangalore and Kodaikanal.
Madurai to Kodaikanal
The distance from Madurai to Kodaikanal is approximately 120 kilometers via road. The most common route is to take NH183 from Madurai towards Theni, and then proceed towards the hill station via Batalagundu. Several private and government buses operate between Madurai and Kodaikanal. Taxis and cabs are available for hire in Madurai.
Ooty to Kodaikanal
The distance from Ooty to Kodaikanal is approximately 290 kilometers via road. The most common route is to take the NH181 from Ooty towards Gudalur, and then proceed towards Kodaikanal via Kambam and Theni.
There might not be direct buses from Ooty to Kodaikanal. However, you can take a bus from Ooty to Coimbatore or Madurai and then transfer to another bus heading to Hill Station. Taxis and cabs are available for hire in Ooty.
Chennai to Kodaikanal
The distance from Chennai to Kodaikanal is approximately 520 kilometers via road. The most common route is to take the NH38 from Chennai towards Dindigul, then proceed towards Kodaikanal via Batlagundu. Several private and government buses operate between Chennai and the hill station.
