Kodaikanal - Discovering India

Travelling to Kodaikanal

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kodaikanal, a pretty good destination in India (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kodaikanal and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kodaikanal, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through India, here's everything to know about Kodaikanal for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a popular hill station located in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated at an altitude of 2,133 meters above sea level and is known for its cool and pleasant climate. Some popular tourist attractions in Kodaikanal are the Kodai Lake, Coaker's Walk, Bryant Park, Pillar Rocks, and the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory. It is also known for its beautiful waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and trekking trails. Kodaikanal is a great destination for those who want to escape the heat and experience the beauty of nature.

What to visit in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill station located in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Here are some of its popular tourist attractions: 1. Kodaikanal Lake - This is a man-made lake located in the heart of Kodaikanal. It offers boating facilities and is surrounded by beautiful greenery.
2. Coaker's Walk - This is a scenic walking path that offers a panoramic view of the valley below. The walk is about one kilometer long and is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
3. Bryant Park - This is a botanical garden located near Kodaikanal Lake. It has a large collection of flowers, plants, and trees, and also has a greenhouse.
4. Pine Forest - This is a dense forest of pine trees located on the outskirts of Kodaikanal. It is a popular spot for trekking, picnicking, and nature walks.
5. Pillar Rocks - These are a set of three giant rock pillars located about 8 km from Kodaikanal. They offer a stunning view of the valley below.
6. Guna Caves - These are natural caves that are located near Pillar Rocks. They are famous for their unique rock formations and are named after the Tamil film Guna.
7. Bear Shola Falls - This is a beautiful waterfall located in the vicinity of Kodaikanal. It is surrounded by greenery and is a popular picnic spot.
8. Kurinji Andavar Temple - This is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. It is located on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills.
9. Dolphin's Nose - This is a stunning viewpoint located about 8 km from Kodaikanal. It offers a panoramic view of the valley and is a popular spot for trekking.
10. Berijam Lake - This is a beautiful lake located on the outskirts of Kodaikanal. It is surrounded by forests and is a popular spot for fishing. However, it requires a special permit to visit. These are some of the most popular attractions in Kodaikanal that offer a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and culture that make for an ideal trip.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in India, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Kodaikanal

The best time to visit Kodaikanal is from October to June when the weather is pleasant and dry, and the temperatures stay within a comfortable range of 20°C to 30°C. This is also the peak season for tourism in Kodaikanal. However, if you prefer a quieter and less crowded vacation, you can visit in the monsoon season from July to September when the hill station is covered in lush greenery and misty clouds. However, be prepared for occasional showers and slippery roads during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a popular tourist destination located in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Here are some ways to reach Kodaikanal: 1. By Air: The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai airport, which is around 120 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach your destination.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station to Kodaikanal is Kodai Road railway station, which is around 80 km away. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Kodaikanal.
3. By Road: Kodaikanal is well-connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu by road. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Madurai, Coimbatore, or Chennai to reach Kodaikanal.
4. By Bus: There are regular bus services from major cities in Tamil Nadu to Kodaikanal. State-owned buses and private buses are available for travelers.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kodaikanal, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kodaikanal

Sure, here are some typical foods from Kodaikanal, India that you might want to try: 1. Vada: A traditional south Indian breakfast dish made from a mixture of urad lentils and deep-fried in oil until crispy. 2. Pongal: A savory dish consisting of rice and moong dal cooked together with spices such as cumin, pepper, and ginger. 3. Idli: Another popular South Indian dish made of steamed fermented rice and lentil batter. 4. Dosai: A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, typically served with different types of chutney and sambar. 5. Chicken Chettinad: A spicy, flavorful chicken dish from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu. It is made using a variety of spices such as fennel, cinnamon, and cardamom along with freshly grated coconut. 6. Vegetable Kurma: A dish made with mixed vegetables cooked in a coconut milk-based curry with an array of spices. 7. Appam: A soft, fluffy, and lacy bowl-shaped pancake prepared by fermenting the batter with yeast or toddy. It is usually served with stew, curries, or coconut milk. 8. Payasam: A popular dessert made from milk, rice or vermicelli, sugar, and nuts like cashews and raisins. It is usually served during religious ceremonies and special occasions like weddings. I hope this helps you plan your trip and enjoy the delicious cuisine of Kodaikanal, India!
You can find general info about typical foods in India here.

Is Kodaikanal an expensive destination for tourists?

Kodaikanal is not considered to be an expensive destination for tourists when compared to other popular tourist destinations in India. Accommodation and food options in Kodaikanal vary widely to cater to different budgets. However, visitors should keep in mind that some tourist attractions, particularly those managed by private operators, may have higher entry fees. Overall, Kodaikanal is a beautiful and affordable destination for tourists.

Where to find accomodation in Kodaikanal

For visitors planning to visit Kodaikanal in India, it is recommended to stay in areas that are close to the main attractions such as Kodaikanal Lake, Bryant Park, Coaker's Walk, and Bear Shola Falls. Some popular areas for accommodation include the town center, Naidupuram, and Vilpatti. Additionally, accommodations around the lake area offer beautiful views and proximity to various activities.
You can check hotel prices at Kodaikanal here:
Booking.com

Is Kodaikanal a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kodaikanal in India is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, it's always advisable to take basic precautionary measures like avoiding isolated places during night-time, not carrying too much cash or valuables, and being alert. Additionally, it's a good idea to check with the local authorities or a trusted tourism agency about any safety concerns or precautions to be taken before planning your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in India here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kodaikanal.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kodaikanal the most?

Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill station in southern India and a great place to visit for travelers seeking a peaceful and relaxing vacation. It can appeal to all types of travelers including couples, young people, and families.
Couples will find Kodaikanal a perfect romantic getaway due to its serene atmosphere, scenic beauty, and pleasant weather. Some of the popular activities for couples include boating in the beautiful Kodaikanal lake, strolling around the Coaker's Walk and enjoying the views of the valley, and watching the sunset from the Pillar Rocks.
Young people will enjoy Kodaikanal as it offers plenty of fun activities like trekking, camping, cycling, and taking long walks along the numerous scenic trails in the forests and hills.
Families will love Kodaikanal as it offers plenty of entertainment and fun activities for all age groups. They can visit the Bryant Park which has a beautiful flower garden and a play area for kids. The Dolmen Circle, Guna caves, and Berijam Lake are also great places to visit with the whole family.
Overall, Kodaikanal is a suitable holiday destination for everyone, regardless of your age. It is one of the most beautiful and peaceful hill stations in India worth visiting.

How to get around Kodaikanal

There are various modes of transportation to move around Kodaikanal: - Taxis and cabs are easily available for hire.
- Local buses offer a more budget-friendly option for getting around the town.
- Auto-rickshaws are also available to travel in and around the town.
- Bicycle rental is also a popular option for tourists to explore the scenic beauty of Kodaikanal at their own pace.
- For longer journeys, you can also choose to hire a car or take a private tour.

What to see around Kodaikanal

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Kodaikanal in India: 1. Palani Murugan Temple - a famous temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, situated in Palani, which is about 60 km from Kodaikanal.
2. Berijam Lake - a beautiful lake located in the heart of the Palani Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, which is around 23 km from Kodaikanal.
3. Mannavanur Lake - A serene freshwater lake surrounded by scenic hills and valleys, 35 km from Kodaikanal.
4. Pillar Rocks - A set of three giant rock pillars standing tall amidst the lush green valleys, which is about 8 km from Kodaikanal.
5. Silver Cascade Falls - a beautiful waterfall located on the way to Madurai from Kodaikanal and is just 8 km from Kodaikanal.
6. Guna Cave - A natural cave located near Pillar Rocks, that was named after a popular Tamil movie. 7. Kukkal Caves - Cave temples dating back to the 8th and 9th century are located about 40 km from Kodaikanal.
I hope these suggestions help you plan your day trip from Kodaikanal.
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