Kodaikanal, Palani Hills, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal: lakes, forests and long views from the Palani Hills
Kodaikanal is a hill town in Tamil Nadu's Dindigul district, often called the Princess of Hill Stations. It is built around a lake and surrounded by pine and shola forest, viewpoints and farming villages.
Where it is
A hill town built around a lake
Kodaikanal sits high in the Palani Hills, an offshoot of the Western Ghats. The town grew around a lake created in the nineteenth century, and its walks, viewpoints and old churches still give it a slower, unhurried feel away from the main season.
Beyond the town, the roads lead to pine forests, waterfalls, quiet lakes and the terraced farms of the upper Palani villages. Two days covers the highlights; longer stays leave time for the villages.
Places to visit
Places to visit in Kodaikanal
The well-known sights in and around town. Several are on forest land with their own rules and timings, so check locally before you go.
In town
Kodaikanal Lake
The star-shaped lake at the centre of town, created in 1863. Walk or cycle the path around it, or take a boat out early before the crowds.
In town
Coaker's Walk
A paved walk along the edge of the hills with views down to the plains on a clear day. Mornings are usually clearest.
In town
Bryant Park
A botanical garden beside the lake, at its most colourful in the summer flower season.
Forest road
Pine Forest
Tall rows of pine along the road out of town, quiet and often misty. A common stop on the way to the viewpoints beyond.
Forest road
Pillar Rocks
Three tall granite pillars rising from the valley. Cloud comes and goes, so give it a few minutes if the view is hidden.
Forest road
Guna Caves
A deep cave system, also called Devil's Kitchen, made famous by films. The caves themselves are fenced off for safety; visitors see them from a viewing area.
Waterfalls
Bear Shola and Silver Cascade
Bear Shola Falls is a short walk into the forest near town; Silver Cascade is a roadside waterfall on the ghat road. Both are fullest after rain.
Trail
Vattakanal and Dolphin's Nose
A small settlement below town and the start of a walk to Dolphin's Nose, a rock ledge over a deep valley. Wear good shoes; the path is steep in places.
Villages
Poombarai and Mannavanur
Upper Palani villages with terraced farms, a hilltop temple at Poombarai and grassland around Mannavanur lake. A good half-day away from the town crowds.
Best time to visit Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal is cool year-round. April to June is the main season, busiest during school holidays, when the town fills up and the flower show is on. September and the early part of the year are quieter, with clear, crisp days in the winter months and cold nights.
Kodaikanal gets rain from both monsoons, with heavy showers often in October and November. Expect mist and slower roads in the wet months, and keep a day spare in your plans.
How to reach Kodaikanal
The nearest railway station is Kodai Road, on the plains below, and the nearest airport is Madurai. From either, buses and taxis climb the ghat road to Kodaikanal. The town can also be reached by road via Batlagundu or Palani.
Tamil Nadu has at times required an e-pass for vehicles entering Kodaikanal during busy periods. Check whether one is needed for your dates before you set off.
- Arrive in daylight if you can: the ghat roads are slow and winding.
- Weekends and holidays bring traffic in town; early starts help.
Kodaikanal: quick answers
How many days do I need in Kodaikanal?
Two days is enough for the lake, Coaker's Walk and the forest-road viewpoints. Add a day for Poombarai, Mannavanur or a slower pace.
Do I need an e-pass to visit Kodaikanal?
An e-pass has been required for vehicles at times, especially in peak season. Rules change, so check the current Tamil Nadu government guidance before you travel.
What is the best time to visit Kodaikanal?
April to June is the main season and the busiest. September and the winter months are quieter, with clear days and cold nights. October and November can be wet.
Can I visit Kodaikanal on a budget?
Yes. Many of the best sights, like the lake path, Coaker's Walk and the forest viewpoints, cost little or nothing, and a dorm bed keeps accommodation costs down. Ask the team for the rate for your dates.
Find your stay in Kodaikanal
Hostyard Kodai offers private rooms and dorm beds. Tell the team your dates and they will come back with options and the rate.