1. Coaker’s Walk: A Walk to Remember

One of the best things to do in Kodaikanal is walking in the midst of nature. This scenery surrounded by cloudy trails allows glimpses of beautiful valleys and heavenly mountains. The ideal time to take a stroll here would be at 3 pm. This place is a must-visit for couples and solo travellers alike!

2. Kodaikanal Lake: Boat Riding Inside a Star!

One of Kodaikanal’s attractions includes the artificial lake, Kodai Lake. It is famous for its star shape, crystal clear waters and serendipitous charm. The sparkling waters surrounded by greenery is soothing to the eyes and the mind. One can enjoy boating in a misty atmosphere. The scenic beauty of the lake makes it a heavenly experience for nature lovers and passionate photographers. Horse riding, walking, cycling, and even motorbiking can be done along the stretch of the lake, especially during twilight.

3. Night Safari: Adventurous Experiences Post-Sunset

Among other spectacular things to do in Kodaikanal, the night safari is an experience one cannot afford to miss out on! The adventure is a one-of-a-kind experience, mostly preferred by couples. It provides travellers with an opportunity to sense heightened levels of thrill and adrenaline. The adventure allows you to observe the local fauna up-close. One can spot wild boars, bison, porcupines, and other nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat. A Word of caution- it is a wise decision to ensure that you follow the instructions of a local guide, as this experience might be dangerous if carried out without professional assistance.

This safari will also enable you to take in the stunning scenic beauty of the Mango City and Palani Temple.

4. Dolphin’s Nose: Far-Reaching Valleys and Embracing Skies

Hikers and scenery lovers, a visit to the Dolphin’s nose could most righteously be one of the best things for you to do in Kodaikanal. A 3-km hike up to this site is not as challenging as you may assume. It is heaven on earth to watch the misty skies filled with trails of foggy clouds. Photography and calm introspection are an ideal way to spend time here. Fresh juice stalls and snacks are available all along the hike trail. A scenic gushing waterfall is nearby, a very worthy pit stop.

5. Caps Fly Valley Viewpoint: For the Boomerang Enthusiasts

One of the most entertaining things to do in Kodaikanal would be a game of boomerang played between you and the valley, using your cap or hat! As amusing as it sounds, it is nothing short of absolute fun. This valley is much talked about because if any light object such as a cap or hat is thrown, it comes flying right back at you! This happens because of the strong air currents and atmospheric pressure of the valley. The valley is famous among Kodaikanal’s tourist places and is also a significant attraction due to its breathtaking scenery. Overall, it is a one-of-a-kind experience!

6. Pillars Of Nature: An Amalgamation of Beauty and Strength

Rock pillars and cascading steep valleys, engulfed in flora and fauna- that is the scenic sight to expect at the Pillars of Nature. It is one of the most famous and significant tourist attractions in Kodaikanal. It is a popular hiking and camping site, as it offers a picturesque view of sunsets and sunrises.

7. Guna Caves: Of Spooky Caverns and Haunted Vibes

Guna Cave is a congregation of caves situated right in the middle of three humongous boulders. Eerie in its approach, the cave, known as the Devil’s Kitchen, shows the dark and earthy undertones of the massive rock.. There are rocks that seem to provide support to the cave structure, called Pillar rocks. The exposed roots of trees all around the cave make for a horror film set! The cave chambers are a habitat for bats. It is advised to tread with caution while exploring the caves, as they tend to be pretty steep. Overall, the site is a must-visit among Kodaikanal’s tourist places while one’s on vacation at the hill station.

8. Bear Shola Falls: A Romantic Getaway for Couples

A plush romantic destination for honeymoon couples, located pretty close to the Kodaikanal lake, is the Bear Shola falls. It makes for one of the many tourist attractions in Kodaikanal! As the milky waterfall splashes against the huge rocks, the first thing you would want to do is get a landscape picture of yourself against that beautiful backdrop!

9. Bryant Park

A picnic paradise! A botanical garden immersed in colourful, blooming flowers. Bryant Park makes for a great picnic spot with family and friends. The garden showcases a gorgeous play area for kids, a spectacular rose garden, an attractive glasshouse and a horticultural site. Catch the lovely blooming flowers during summer and spring. The garden also allows for cyclists and joggers to trail through the parking area, calling for a relaxing time.

10. Pine Forest: Into the Wild!

A famous tourist destination within Kodaikanal, this forest is blessed with the green shade of pine trees. If you’re a nature lover who fancies dense forests with fresh flowers and the wonderful chirping of birds, this is your abode. If for nothing else, this site is a definite place to visit in Kodaikanal for the many Bollywood and South Indian movies shot here!

11. Berijam Lake: For the Love of Birds and Flora!

Among other places to visit in Kodaikanal is Berijam Lake. Located (24 km) from the main city area, lies this famous tourist attraction of Kodaikanal,. The route to this lake is a scenic drive filled with fresh breaths of air. The area around the lake is dotted with beautiful lilies and a wide range of exotic medicinal plants. Special permission is needed from the concerned authorities to visit this lake. Hence, it is advised to start early in the morning, as only a limited number of vehicles are allowed at a given time.

12. Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, situated at the Palani Hills, is one of the exciting things to see in Kodaikanal. The site is dedicated to the study of several solar phenomena. Professionals and researchers have access to using this observatory to make cosmic observations. The site is open only during day time as one can watch and study the sun from the dedicated setting. The observatory boasts of an extensive library that one can lose themselves in, too! If one’s lucky enough, they might also get to stargaze within this facility on some nights.

13. Fairy Falls

One of the major tourist attractions in Kodaikanal would definitely be the Fairy Falls. It is a site that is well connected to the main city area and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kodaikanal. The path to this site is hassle-free and breathtaking. One can visit the cascading waterfall on any day of the week. Flowing like a holy shower, this waterfall is truly mesmerising. The best time to visit is right after the monsoon showers, as one can swim in the water.

14. Karuna Farm: Yoga, Art and Rejuvenation

If you’re looking for some quiet and calming places to visit in Kodaikanal, the Karuna farm is the place to be! It is a peaceful plot at the beautiful hill station. The farm offers yoga classes and art therapy. An ideal place for finding tranquillity and rejuvenation!

15. Trekking in Kodaikanal: Jumpstart with Adventure and Adrenaline

If you are new to the idea of trekking and want to give it a shot; Kodaikanal is the right place to start. One can find it easy to tough terrains to trek under professional guidance.

16. Green Valley View: A Lush Green Valley Experience

Experience the positive impact of lush green views for your mental and physical well- being! The green valley view is a must-visit for all nature lovers. Deep, dark and misty mountains make for the most scenic views. Vaigai Dam is a must-visit; it is a mystical place which is also called the ‘suicide point’ because of the geographical terrain.

17. Kurinji Andavar Temple

The temple is graced by Lord Muruga, the God of will. It is an ancient temple, with premises gracefully decorated. The temple is situated amidst scenic valleys and is famous for the Kurinji flower, which blooms once every twelve years. The temple is one of the famous places in Kodaikanal for pilgrims and history lovers. One can shop for tribal handicrafts and other souvenirs near the temple.

18. Kukkal Caves: All About the Paliyan Tribe

If you’re a geology enthusiast and are wondering what to do in Kodaikanal, Kukkal caves are a must-visit amongst other famous places in Kodaikanal. The caves are famous for metamorphic rocks such as charconite and granulite. Before the ‘80s, over thirty families lived at the hilltop, and a temple was built in the vicinity. Paintings made by hand represent the prevalence of a tribe called Paliyan.

Famous Places and Attractions of Kodaikanal

This list of 18 things in Kodaikanal is not exhaustive. As you go about your trip, you may come across more things you’d like to do, and even find places that you would want to go back to more than once! To make sure that you cover most of Kodaikanal’s attractions and to ensure you experience the best the city has to offer, we recommend a visit to the chocolate factory too. This factory is located in Law’s ghat road, and is a must-visit for all the chocoholics! This place also sells fresh coffee and herbal products.

If you’re still looking for more things to do in Kodaikanal, why not consult the locals over an organic cup of coffee?

Frequently Asked Questions -

Q. What is the most famous activity in Kodaikanal?

A. Besides being a major tourist attraction for nature lovers, Kodaikanal is famous for the Kodai chocolate factory, shopping centres, avocados and cheese, and spices produced here.

Q. Is one day enough for sightseeing in Kodaikanal?

A. One day is enough to cover most places, except that making it to the Bejiram lake would be a feat. It is suggested to spend at least two days for a satisfying trip.

Q. How to reach Kodaikanal?

A. The city is linked to other major cities like Bangalore, Chennai and Madurai. It is possible to get here via road or the railways. The closest airport is in Madurai, after which one can travel by road to this city.

Q. Is Kodaikanal crowded or congested?

A. Kodaikanal is the exact opposite! It is a very peaceful and spacious hill station which is popularly called the “queen of hill stations”.

Q. Is Kodaikanal better than Ooty?

A. According to popular opinion, Kodaikanal provides for a more budget-friendly experience as compared to Ooty. The geographical nature of both hill stations is identical.

Places to Visit in Kodaikanal | Best Places to See in 2024

by Avathi Outdoors | Things To Do

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