There is no denying the fact that Kodaikanal is one of the most breathtaking hill stations the state of Tamil Nadu has to offer. Nestled amidst towering granite cliffs, verdant valleys, tranquil lakes and cascading waterfalls, it is a true feast for the senses. Perched at an altitude of a little over 2,000 metres, this splendid place has been a popular summer getaway in the region, owing to its salubrious weather and eye-pleasing environs.
Another aspect which has helped Kodaikanal remain one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in South India for decades is that it has a plethora of attractions to explore. It is sure to keep you engaged whether you are headed here for a few days or a week. If you are spending time in the region in any of its nearby cities like Madurai, Coimbatore or Kochi, then plan a getaway. Here are some of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal that you can explore during a 1-day, 2-day or a week-long sojourn.
List of 18 Best Places to Visit in Kodaikanal in 2024
Now, let’s delve into the list of places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2024 with your friends and family to enjoy the trip, along with detailed information about each place, from location to how to reach and timings, Places to stay, Nearby attractions, google reviews and rating
1. Kodaikanal Lake, Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal Lake | Best Tourist Places in Kodaikanal
The centrepiece of Kodaikanal, Kodai Lake is often the first point of interest that vacationers visit on their trip to the hill station. The stunning manmade water body engulfed by undisturbed greenery is one of the most picturesque sights you will find in all of Tamil Nadu. But its natural beauty isn’t the only thing that draws the hordes of tourists.
This place is also one of the major hubs of activity because of all the indulgent experiences you can have here. One of the most preferred things to do here is boating. Yes, you can rent a boat and sail on the placid waters of the lake. The magnificent scenery around will fill you with a new life. Or, you can simply enjoy a stroll around the gorgeous lake taking in some awe-inspiring vistas.
- Boating cost: Approx. ₹ 40 per person
- Boating timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Time required: 3-4 hours
- Best for: It is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal with family.
- Tip: Plan a picnic with friends and family.
- How to reach: The nearest railway is Kodaikanal Central Junction at 3.8 km.
- Nearby Attractions: Bryant Park, Bear Shola Falls, Berijam Lake, Pillar Rocks, Coakers Walk, Silver Cascade Falls
- Nearby Restaurants: Lake View, Weewake’s Kitchen, Whistler Cafe, Pastry Corner, Cloud Street, George’s Gourmet Kitchen
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Kodaikanal Lake
- Google rating and reviews: 4.8 rating and 5,000 reviews
2. Bryant Park, Kodaikanal
Bryant Park | Best Tourist Places in Kodaikanal
Just east of the serene Kodaikanal Lake is an equally captivating site called Bryant Park – a botanical garden which gives you a chance to behold the majesty of nature in all its glory. This 20.5-acre site was built more than 100 years ago by a British officer by the name, H. D. Bryant, after whom it is named. Besides manicured flower beds, the park is also marked with old structures that make it worth a visit.
The best time to visit Bryant Park is the month of May when a flower show is organised here and the entire area gets encapsulated in various colours. You can check the event dates for the year online and book your hotel in Kodaikanal, accordingly. Located in the heart of the city, it, along with Kodaikanal Lake, is one of the first places to visit in Kodaikanal on a 1-day trip.
- Entry Fee: ₹ 30 for Adults and ₹ 15 for Children
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Time required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: It is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal for a picnic.
- Tip: You can go for an evening stroll.
- How to reach: Kodai Road at a distance of 80 km is the nearest railway station.
- Nearby Attractions: Silver Cascade Falls, Pillar Rocks, Bear Shola Falls, Coaker’s Walk
- Nearby Restaurants: Pastry Corner, Sapphire One way Restaurant, Tava Vegetarian Restaurant, Wyckoff’s Dining Room, Cream Centre
- Google rating and reviews: 4.2 rating and 25,000 reviews
Explore recommended places to stay in Kodaikanal at best price
3. Silver Cascade Falls, Kodaikanal
Silver Cascade Falls | Best Tourist Places in Kodaikanal
Although a number of waterfalls are located within a short drive of Kodaikanal, Silver Cascade Falls is often the first one from the list that tourists choose to visit during their holiday. It is the majesty of this picture-perfect landform which coaxes them to do so. The white water plummeting over the many steps of this over 50-metre tall waterfall appears more like milk than water. It’s also a somewhat silvery hue and perhaps that’s why it has been named Silver Cascade.
Located a few kilometres before Kodaikanal on the way to the hill station from Madurai, it is one of the most popular places to visit in Kodaikanal. The months of July and August are when the monsoon rains feed Silver Cascade and you get to capture the best of this already enchanting waterfall. Whatever you do, do not forget to click a few cool, Insta-worthy snaps against its backdrop.
- Entry Fee: N.A.
- Timings: Any time of the day
- Time required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: It is among the best Kodaikanal places to visit in one day.
- Tip: Beware of the monkeys lurking around the falls and the eating carts close to the waterfalls.
- How to reach: Kodaikanal Railway Station is 7 km from the waterfalls.
- Nearby Attractions: Bear Shola Falls, Berijam Lake, Bryant Park, Coakers Walk, Dolphins nose Kodai
- Nearby Restaurants: Astoria Veg Restaurant, Muncheez, Nias Treats, Aby’s Cafe
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Silver Cascade Falls
- Google rating and reviews: 4.4 rating and 2,700 reviews
4. Pillar Rocks, Kodaikanal
Pillar Rocks | Best Tourist Places in Kodaikanal
If there’s one word that perfectly describes Pillar Rocks, it is “mystical.” The spot derives its name from the three 120-metre-tall boulders. This place is not only famed for the three giant pillars but is also one of the best viewpoints you will find in Kodaikanal and its surrounding areas. On a good day, you can even witness clouds forming just below the tip of the boulders. Needless to say, it is one of the most bewitching sights you ever get to see.
- Entry Fee: N.A.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Time required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: Due to the dense forest surroundings, it is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal with map.
- Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- How to reach: The nearest railway station is Kodaikanal Railway Station at 8.3 km.
- Nearby Attractions: Berijam Lake, Bear Shola Falls, Coaker’s Walk, Guna Caves
- Nearby Restaurants: Whistler Cafe, Pastry Corner, Cloud Street, Tava Vegetarian Restaurant, Orchard Restaurant
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Pillar Rocks
- Google rating and reviews: 4 rating and 1,000 reviews
5. Bear Shola Falls, Kodaikanal
Bear Shola Falls | Best Tourist Places in Kodaikanal
A short walk from the centre of the hill station is Bear Shola Falls which is another exquisite waterfall in the area. The landform is named so because it used to be a favourite haunt for bears of the surrounding Shola forests, frequenting it to quench their thirst. But you do not have to worry about wild creatures. The only matter of concern for you is how you are going to include so many wondrous and amazing points of interest in Kodaikanal on your 2-day or 3-day trip to the hill station. Again, it is one of the best photography spots you will find in Kodaikanal.
- Entry Fee: N.A.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Time required: 3-4 hours
- Best for: It is among the popular places to visit in Kodaikanal in 2 days.
- Tip: Carry some snacks and water.
- How to reach: Kodaikanal railway station is located at 2 km.
- Nearby Attractions: Silver Cascade Falls, Pillar Rocks, Coaker’s Walk, Guna Caves, Moir Point
- Nearby Restaurants: Mann Manam, Welcome Hotel, Pastry Corner, Cloud Street
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Bear Shola Falls
- Google rating and reviews: 3.8 rating and 1,100 reviews
6. Coaker’s Walk, Kodaikanal
Coaker’s Walk | Best Tourist Places in Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal has been nicknamed “the Princess of Hill Stations” and a visit to Coaker’s Walk will tell you why. This approximately 1 km long walkway built on the slopes of a mountain is thronged for the astonishing vistas of the surrounding landscape. A stroll along while breathing in the crisp montane air and feasting your eyes on excellent sights will make you forget all the hustles and bustles of life. Another great way to explore the place is to rent a bike and go for a ride.
- Entry Fee: ₹ 10
- Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Time required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: It is among the top places to visit in Kodaikanal.
- Tip: Check the weather before going as the views can be obstructed by fog.
- How to reach: The nearest railway station is Kodaikanal at a distance of 3.1 km.
- Nearby Attractions: Kodaikanal Pine Forest, Bear Shola Falls, Fairy Falls, Pillar Rocks Viewpoint, Guna Caves
- Nearby Restaurants: Abys Cafe, AL Baiq Restaurant, Orchard, Astoria
- Google rating and reviews: 4 rating and 1,200 reviews
7. Pine Forest, Kodaikanal
Pine Forests are a result of the efforts of Mr. H.D. Bryant, who had started the pine plantations to grow the timber. The plantation was done in the year of 1906. The sight of pine trees standing majestically, welcoming you to their world is nothing less than nature’s wonder. The entire Pine forest appears grey with dried cones and leaves. This forest is surrounded by vegetation of mushrooms, often called magic mushrooms, which are said to be hallucinogenic.
- Entry Fee: N.A.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Time required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: It is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal with friends.
- Tip: There are not many shops nearby, so it’s advisable to carry your water and snacks.
- How to reach: Kodaikanal Railway Station is 14.8 km away from the location.
- Nearby Attractions: Bear Shola Falls, Fairy Falls, Pillar Rocks Viewpoint, Guna Caves
- Nearby Restaurants: Orchard, Question Mark, Whistler Cafe, Flavours, Le Poshe by Sparsa
- Google rating and reviews: 4.4 rating and 17,200 reviews
8. Vattakanal Waterfalls, Kodaikanal
Vattakanal waterfalls in Kodaikanal are a nature lover’s paradise, tucked away in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats. It’s a perfect spot for a tranquil retreat, where you can unwind and connect with nature. Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters and embark on trekking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints. Vattakanal waterfalls, one of the most amazing places to visit in Kodaikanal are best enjoyed during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its peak.
- Entry Fee: N/A
- Timings: N/A
- Time required: 5-6 hours
- Best for: Photography and trekking.
- Tip: Don’t litter in the forests.
- How to reach: The nearest railway station is Kodaikanal Railway Station at 5.8 km.
- Nearby Attractions: Pillar Rocks, Guna Cave, Silver Cascade Falls, Moir Point, Liril Falls, Kodaikanal Lake
- Nearby Restaurants: Imran Briyani, Tava Restaurant, Anifa Restaurant, Mann Manam Restaurant
- Google rating and reviews: 4.4 rating and 570 reviews
9. La Saleth Matha Church, Kodaikanal
The La Saleth Matha Church in Kodaikanal is a sacred place that offers solace and peace to visitors. The stunning stained glass windows and the intricate woodwork add the charm. Immerse yourself in the soothing spiritual hymns and the gentle glow of the candles.
- Entry Fee: N/A
- Timings: 5:30 am- 6:00 pm
- Time required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: It is among the most famous religious places to visit in Kodaikanal.
- Tip: Photography is not allowed inside the shrine.
- How to reach: The nearest railway station is Kodaikanal Railway Station at 4.4 km.
- Nearby Attractions: Guna Cave, Pillar Rocks, Moir Point, Kodaikanal Lake, Silver Cascade Falls
- Nearby Restaurants: Abys Cafe, Ten Degrees, Cloud Street
- Places to Stay: Hotels near La Saleth Matha Church
- Google rating and reviews: 4.5 rating and 430 reviews
10. Mannavanur Lake, Kodaikanal
Mannavanur Lake in Kodaikanal is a serene and picturesque spot that feels like a slice of paradise. The shimmering waters are surrounded by lush greenery, creating an amazing atmosphere that’s perfect for a peaceful escape. You can relax by the lake and take a stroll along the banks for a rejuvenating experience. You can also indulge in a bit of birdwatching, as the area is home to a variety of bird species.
- Entry Fee: INR 10 per person
- Timings: 9:30 am- 5:00 pm
- Time required: 3-4 hours
- Best for: It is one of the places to visit in Kodaikanal for picnics.
- Tip: Carry hats and sunscreen.
- How to reach: The nearest railway station is Kodaikanal Railway Station at 34.6 km.
- Nearby Attractions: Kodaikanal Lake, Coakers Walk, Bear Shola Falls, Pillar Rocks
- Nearby Restaurants: Sivaruchi, George’s Gourmet Kitchen, New Hotel Punjab, Lissy’s Corner
- Google rating and reviews: 4.6 rating and 2,900 reviews
11. Chettiar Park, Kodaikanal
Chettiar Park is famous for its lush greenery, blooming flowers, and scenic views. The park is surrounded by towering trees and colourful blossoms, creating a picturesque setting. Children can enjoy the playground area, while adults can relax on the benches and soak in the beauty of nature. The park also features a small lake where you can go boating and enjoy the cool breeze.
- Entry Fee: INR 10 per person & INR 25 for camera
- Timings: 9:00 am- 5:00 pm
- Time required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: It is one of the places to visit in Kodaikanal with kids.
- How to reach: Kodaikanal Railway Station is the nearest railway station at 1.9 km.
- Nearby Attractions: Coaker’s Walk, Kurinjiandavar Temple, Kodaikanal Lake, Green Valley View
- Nearby Restaurants: Aromas of Kodai, Lissy’s Corner, Delight Bakery, Pakwan restaurant
- Google rating and reviews: 4.1 rating and 3,400 reviews
12. Guna Cave or Devil’s Kitchen, Kodaikanal
Guna Cave or Devil’s Kitchen | Best Tourist Places in Kodaikanal
Located between the humungous Pillar Rocks is another renowned tourist attraction in Kodaikanal known as Guna Caves or Devil’s Kitchen. The place only lured a handful of hikers until it was popularized by the movie named “Guna” which was shot here in the early 1990s, giving the place its name. Today, the caves remain as one of the most sought-after places to visit in Kodaikanal, drawing people in large numbers. However, you can only view the caves from a distance as they remain closed due to security reasons.
- Entry Fee: N.A.
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Time required: 2 hours
- Best for: It is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days.
- Tip: The weather can change quickly so carry light woolens.
- How to reach: Kodaikanal Railway Station is 9.1 km away from the location.
- Nearby Attractions: Berijam Lake, Bryant Park, Coakers Walk, Dolphins Nose, Fairy Falls, Golf Ccourse
- Nearby Restaurants: George’s Gourmet Kitchen, Bistro 1845, Whistler Cafe, Cloud Street, Weewake’s kitchen
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Guna Caves
- Google rating and reviews: 4.2 rating and 13,500 reviews
13. Moir Point, Kodaikanal
Moir Point | Best Tourist Places in Kodaikanal
If the idea behind your journey to Kodaikanal is to behold magnificent sceneries, then Moir Point is another spot not to miss. It is named after Sir Thomas Moir who laid the foundation of Goschen Road in the late 1920s. Be warned already that the place can be a little crowded during the peak travel season as every tourist in town wants to marvel at the beautiful scenery visible from here. Apart from photography, which is a go-to here, you can also indulge in other activities such as a game of golf.
- Entry Fee: ₹ 10
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Time required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: It is among the top places to visit in Kodaikanal for couples.
- Tip: Carry a good-quality camera for pictures.
- How to reach: Kodaikanal Central Junction is at a distance of 11 km.
- Nearby Attractions: Pillar Rocks, Coakers Walk, Silver Cascade Falls, Kurinji Temple
- Nearby Restaurants: Astoria Veg Restaurant, Muncheez, Nias Treats
- Google rating and reviews: 4.2 rating and 11,500 reviews
14. Dolphin’s Nose, Kodaikanal
Dolphin’s Nose | Best Tourist Places in Kodaikanal
The place gets its name from its appearance which is quite similar to the nose of a dolphin; jutting out from a mountain and offering bird’s-eye views of the marvellous landscape below. It lies about 6 km from the centre of Kodaikanal. The journey to the attraction is a treat in itself as one gets to hike through the pristine scenery. It is one of those places that you can’t get enough of. Mist acting as a veil adds to the splendour of the sight.
- Entry Fee: N.A.
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Time required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: It is among the best places to visit in Kodaikanal with friends.
- Tip: Plan your visit early in the morning for the best experience.
- How to reach: The nearest station is Kodaikanal Central Junction at 11 km.
- Nearby Attractions: Canopy Hill, Green Valley View, Bear Shola Falls, Thalaiyar Falls
- Nearby Restaurants: The Kodai Heaven, Altaf’s café, Tava vegetarian restaurant, Hilltop Inn, Aby’s Cafe
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Dolphin’s Nose
- Google rating and reviews: 4.5 rating and 6,000 reviews
15. Thalaiyar Falls, Kodaikanal
Thalaiyar Falls | Best Tourist Places in Kodaikanal
Now, this one is a bucket list-worthy point of interest as the almost 300-metre or 1,000-foot-tall Thalaiyar Falls is counted as one of the highest waterfalls in India. It is also referred to as Rat Tail Falls as that is what the narrow silver stream of water plummeting appears to be. However, it’s not easy to reach the landform. One has to navigate the rugged terrain of the surroundings of Kodaikanal for kilometres before one can lay their eyes on its beauty. Dum Dum Rock is a scenic viewpoint near the waterfall that you wouldn’t want to miss if you plan to visit Thalaiyar Falls.
- Entry Fee: N.A.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Time required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: It is among the best Kodaikanal places to visit in 2 days for a refreshing experience.
- Tip: Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- How to reach: The nearest railway station is Kodaikanal at a distance of 60 km.
- Nearby Attractions: Kodaikanal Lake, Silver Cascade Falls, Bryant Park, Dolphins Nose, Green Valley View
- Nearby Restaurants: Mann Manam, Welcome Hotel, Pastry Corner, Cloud Street
- Google rating and reviews: 4.5 rating and 600 reviews
17. Kurinji Andavar Temple, Kodaikanal
Devoted to Lord Muruga who is also referred to as the ‘God of Hill’, Kurinji Andavar Temple or Kurinji Temple is the centre of spirituality in Kodaikanal. The temple gets its name from the kurinji flowers that blossom on the hillsides nearby in every 12 years. If you are planning your visit to Kodaikanal during the month of May, then be sure to attend the vibrant festival that is organised at the temple during this time. If not for the spiritual or cultural significance of the place, throng it to admire the traditional South Indian architecture in which the structure has been built.
- Entry Fee: N.A.
- Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Time required: 2-3 hours
- Best for: It is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal with family.
- Tip: Dress conservatively when visiting the temple.
- How to reach: Kodaikanal Central Railway Station is the nearest station at 2.3 km.
- Nearby Attractions: Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park, Pillar Rocks, Green Valley View
- Nearby Restaurants: Question Mark, Whistler Cafe, Flavours, Le Poshe by Sparsa, Orchard
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Kurinji Nagar
- Google rating and reviews: 4.7 rating and 5,900 reviews
18. Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is a peculiar tourist hotspot in Kodaikanal that you do not usually expect to see at a hill station. You are going to love this place in case you are intrigued and amazed by our universe and astronomy. The place keeps an eye on the behaviour of the sun. Though it is a governmental facility, it is also a tourist spot giving visitors a chance to see the secrets of the solar system that we thrive in.
- Entry Fee: N.A.
- Timings: From 1st April to 15th June: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Rest of the year: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (Open only on Fridays)
- Time required: 3-4 hours
- Best for: It is one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal with kids.
- Tip: Cameras are not allowed inside the premises.
- How to reach: The nearest railway station is Kodaikanal at 4.9 km.
- Nearby Attractions: Kodai Lake, Bear Shola Falls, Pillar Rocks, Thalaiyar Falls, Devil’s Kitchen
- Nearby Restaurants: Picnic Casa, Lakeview, George’s Gourmet
- Places to Stay: Hotels near Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
- Google rating and reviews: 4.3 rating and 3,100 reviews
So, these are the many points of interest in Kodaikanal you can explore. Now, that you know about these. What are you waiting for? Just book your train, flight or bus tickets along with your hotel in Kodaikanal and set forth on a memorable vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kodaikanal:
Q: When is the best time to visit Kodaikanal?
A: Unlike most places in India, Kodaikanal is best visited during monsoons when its beauty comes alive and nature is in full bloom.
Q: What are the different things to do in Kodaikanal?
A: Go for boat rides on Kodai Lake, Berijam Lake or Mannavanur Lake. Take a morning hike to Dolphin’s Nose. Indulge in adventure activities like night camping, trekking and horse riding. And last but not least, capture the beauty of the Nilgiris in your camera. You can find these activities in most of the places to visit in Kodaikanal.
Q: Where to eat in Kodaikanal?
A: Some of the best restaurants near the places to visit in Kodaikanal serving delicious food include Hotel Astoria Veg, Tava, Sree Krishna Bhojnalaya, Woody’s, The Royal Tibet, Cloud Street, Muncheez, Hotel Eden Paradise, Silver Oak, Hilltop Inn, Aromas of Kodai, Hilltop Fried Chicken, MannManam, Potluck, Cafe Cariappa and Aby’s Cafe.
Q: Is there an airport in Kodaikanal?
A: No, Kodaikanal doesn’t have an airport of its own. The nearest air gateways to the hill station are Madurai Airport (133 km) and Coimbatore International Airport (175 km). You can take a cab or bus from these airports to reach Kodaikanal.
Q: What are the different ways to reach Kodaikanal?
A: You can take a train to Kodaikanal Road railway station (80 km) and from thereon, travel to the hill station by road. Dindigul Junction (97 km) is another major railway station that offers easy access to Kodaikanal. Buses are available from Dindigul to Kodaikanal on a regular basis. By road, you can reach the town by bus, taxi or rental/private car.
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