Kodaikanal Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Kodaikanal showing water sports and a lake or waterhole as well as a small group of people
Kodaikanal showing a sunset and landscape views
Kodaikanal showing tranquil scenes, landscape views and a sunset
Kodaikanal
Kurinji Temple which includes markets
Head into the hills of the Dindigul district to walk through forests, explore botanical gardens and enjoy dramatic views.

Kodaikanal was founded in the first half of the 19th century to provide missionaries with a sanctuary from the heat and tropical diseases that plagued the plains below. Since that time it has evolved into a major tourist destination.

There are many ways to experience Kodaikanal’s scenic charms. Rent a rowboat or peddle boat for a trip across the star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake. Alternatively, take the ferry across the 60-acre (24-hectare) man-made body of water. When you are back on dry land, cycle or walk along the path that encircles the lake.

Stroll through several acres of flowers at Bryant Park. This extensive botanical garden is home to hundreds of varieties of trees, flowers and shrubs. Don't miss the eucalyptus tree that dates back to 1857. During the summer, attend one of the park’s flower shows or horticultural exhibitions.

Hike through dense forests and valleys and pass by waterfalls and spectacular rock formations. Take in the views from Dolphin's Nose, a large flat rock that juts out over a chasm that is 6,600 feet (2,011 meters) deep. Enjoy a picnic in the shadow of Pillar Rocks, three massive vertical rock columns.

Learn more about the Kodaikanal’s environment at the Shembaganur Museum of Natural History. There are hundreds of stuffed birds, mammals and reptiles on display as well as a dried collection of insects and living orchid species.

Along with its scenic and natural attractions, the town has a scientific institute known for its research of the sun. At the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory in the Palni Hills, tour the astronomy museum that concentrates on the work of the observatory's astronomers.

The closest international airport is in Madurai, 71 miles (114 kilometres) away and the nearest train station is Kodai Road, at a distance of 50 miles (80 kilometres). Rent a car for the freedom to explore Kodaikanal's mountainous scenery. The roads leading into the town offer beautiful views of the Ghats mountain ranges.

Where to stay in Kodaikanal

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Vattakanal

When in Vattakanal, you can plan a visit to Kodaikanal Golf Club and Bryant Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Vattakanal
The Tamara Kodai
The Tamara Kodai
5 out of 5
#22, La Providence, St. Mary’s Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
The price is NZ$459 per night from 2 Jan to 3 Jan
NZ$459
includes taxes & fees
2 Jan - 3 Jan 2025
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Kodaikanal. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Kodaikanal Lake and Bryant Park are ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (16 reviews)
Good break
"Amazing stay"

Reviewed on 16 Jan. 2024

The Tamara Kodai
Sterling Kodai Lake
Sterling Kodai Lake
4 out of 5
44, Gymkhana Road, Lake View, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
The price is NZ$140 per night from 20 Jan to 21 Jan
NZ$140
includes taxes & fees
20 Jan - 21 Jan 2025
Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Kodaikanal. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Kodaikanal Lake and Lutheran Church are ...
7.4/10 Good! (33 reviews)
"Good location and ambience. Very polite, friendly abd helpful staff. Excellent service by everyone. Spacious rooms. Unfortunately no views from most of the rooms. Also the bathroom is old but clean. Shower not so good; had to take shower in one inch of water on the floor due to poor drainage."

Reviewed on 9 Dec. 2024

Sterling Kodai Lake
Villa Retreat - Boutique Hotel and Cottages
Villa Retreat - Boutique Hotel and Cottages
3 out of 5
Coaker's Walk, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Kodaikanal. Enjoy free parking, 24-hour room service, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Christ the ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (19 reviews)
"Good architecture, clean property, good food. Excellent view for sunrise. Location was too good, all major attractions are closeby."

Reviewed on 9 Dec. 2024

Villa Retreat - Boutique Hotel and Cottages
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Le Hayat 4Bhk Pvt-Villa Kodaikanal TN
Le Hayat 4Bhk Pvt-Villa Kodaikanal TN
3 out of 5
MM street, Kodaikanal, TN
Stay at this 3-star villa in Kodaikanal. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Kurinji Temple and Silver Cascade Falls are located ...
Le Hayat 4Bhk Pvt-Villa Kodaikanal TN
Amã Stays & Trails Sneh Villa, Kodaikanal
Amã Stays & Trails Sneh Villa, Kodaikanal
5 out of 5
47-17/85-1 Swedish Settlement Rd, (VGP Road), (Observatory) Pambarpuram, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Stay at this 5-star luxury villa in Kodaikanal. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Perumal Peak and Kodaikanal Lake are located ...
Amã Stays & Trails Sneh Villa, Kodaikanal
kabili holidays in kodaikanal
kabili holidays in kodaikanal
Kodaikanal
Stay at this cottage in Kodaikanal. Popular attractions Kurinji Temple and Lutheran Church are located nearby.
kabili holidays in kodaikanal
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

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Cities near Kodaikanal