Kodaikanal Trip: Unveiling the Tranquil Beauty of the “Princess of Hill Stations”

Kodaikanal, often referred to as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” is a stunning destination situated in the state of Tamil Nadu. The city, set in the western ghats, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, serene lakes, greenery, and pristine valleys that offer a refreshing break from bustling city life.

We (a group of 3 girls) took a Kodaikanal trip in mid-August. It was more of a getaway from work stress than a leisure trip and we returned all energized and cheerful. It was a 4-day trip, though many say 2 days are enough to check out places in Kodaikanal, we thoroughly enjoyed our 4-day trip as we were looking for some quiet, peace, and natural beauty.

If you’re planning a trip to Kodaikanal, here’s a detailed guide, from my experience. Hope it helps you make the most of your trip.

Day 1

The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai but we took a flight to Coimbatore, as we also wanted to check out Isha Foundation, and rented a self-drive car through Zoomcar from Coimbatore for the duration of our trip.

We arrived around 10 am at the Coimbatore Airport from where we booked a rented car through Zoomcar. We opted for a Grand i10 Nios car (petrol, manual transmission), 2019 model as my sister (our driver for the trip :P) also owns a Grand i10 Nios car (2022 model) and we felt she would be most comfortable driving a similar model.

Only after reaching there, we found out that the reverse gear was located at the top left corner and it was a pull-up type gear (did not know such things existed!). We struggled for almost an hour trying to figure out how to take the car out of the parking space as we were not able to take the car in reverse gear. After watching many youtube videos and reading on the web about how to operate a reverse gear located on the top, which was not helpful by the way, my sister somehow figured out that there’s a button that has to be pushed up for reverse gear.

It was still very counter-intuitive for us to operate the gears. So we called the owner of the car to help us with a different car, as we were not at all familiar with the gear system and were freaking out thinking we have to take the ghat road in that car.

The owner initially said it was the only car available with him at that time as all his other cars were already booked. We were not able to reach the customer care of Zoomcar owing to the weekend. We were also not able to book any other car immediately through any app as everything was booked (guess it was a busy tourist season!).

After multiple requests and us trying to make the owner understand that we will simply not be able to drive the car, they gave us their personal car, a Maruti Ignis. Though the car was not very tidy (since it was a personal car and they gave it to us at the last moment), we were very thankful and happy to finally have found a car that we would be able to drive.!

After wasting about two hours due to this fiasco, we prayed to god to not give us any more surprises and set out to the Isha Foundation, mainly to visit the Adi Yogi statue. The Adi Yogi statue is situated ~42 km from Coimbatore Airport. We enjoyed the pleasant weather and surroundings on the way to the statue. The road near the statue (the last 500m – 1km) was full of potholes.

1. Adiyogi Statue

As we reached the statue, the view of the huge Adiyogi Shiva statue with a backdrop of hills and forests was just amazing. The Adiyogi Shiva statue in Coimbatore is a magnificent sculpture of Lord Shiva, located in the foothills of the Velliangiri Mountains. The statue is a remarkable engineering marvel, standing at a height of 112 feet and weighing 500 tons, making it the largest bust sculpture in the world (recognized by the Guinness World Records).

The statue was designed by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, the founder of the Isha Foundation, as a tribute to Lord Shiva, who is considered the first yogi and the source of yoga. The statue, unveiled on February 24, 2017, by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, has since become a popular tourist attraction. The Adiyogi statue is made of steel and has a unique design, with a face that is both serene and fierce, symbolizing the duality of Lord Shiva’s nature.

The statue’s height of 112 feet represents the 112 chakras in the human system and the 112 possibilities to attain moksha (liberation) as mentioned in yogic culture. A Yogeshwar Linga has been consecrated and placed in front of the statue. We went around the statue and marveled at its magnificence and beauty. You can feel the positive vibes, a sense of serenity, and this seemingly impossible presence of a higher being here. Maybe it’s the huge statue with its all-knowing and serene face, standing taller than the hills around it, that makes you feel humbled. Salute to the architects and builders of this masterpiece!

There is a 3D light and sound show on Shiva as a yogi, called Adiyogi Divya Darshanam, which is a unique and immersive experience designed to introduce visitors to the legend of Adiyogi, the first yogi, and provide a glimpse into the profound knowledge of yoga. The show is scheduled for 7 pm daily. We had to leave for Kodaikanal on the same day so we couldn’t watch the show.

The statue is surrounded by a beautiful landscape, with a large pond and lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for meditation and reflection. It was a windy day and we thoroughly enjoyed the weather and the serene surroundings.

2. Kodaikanal

After spending an hour or so, though we wanted to stay a little longer, we had to leave as its a 6-hour drive (196 km) to Kodaikanal. We set out to Kodaikanal around 2 pm from Adiyogi Statue and stopped on the way to buy some snacks and packed lunch. The road to Kodaikanal (via Pollachi) is well laid-out and wide for about 145 km. There are huge windmill farms covering acres of land on either side of the road and the drive was pretty enjoyable with green fields around.

The last 51 km is a ghat road leading to the hill station with sharp curves and hairpin turns. We started up the Ghat road at around 6.30 pm. As it started getting dark, we had to drive very carefully along the curves (well, my sister had to be careful while driving, while my friend and I were silently praying to god!!). There are obviously no lights along the road and there were a lot of trucks/buses coming downhill from blind corners (though they were kind enough to slow down while passing an uphill vehicle).

We drove slowly and carefully, letting all the impatient, honking car drivers behind us overtake and leave us in peace. It took us 2 (very long) hours on the Ghat road and we finally reached our stay at Kodaikanal (booked on Airbnb).

Tips: Only take this road at night if you are an experienced driver. Download offline maps as the mobile reception keeps going on and off on the hills.

We booked a spacious duplex 1 BHK with a stunning view and a cozy sit-out area for 4 nights. We loved the place and loved to spend time in the sit-out area which has a wide glass window offering a beautiful landscape view of the hills.

The caretaker was very helpful and kind and prepared amazing homely food. After a tiring day of sightseeing, the dinner prepared by the caretaker was super comforting. The owner was very kind and was always ready to help. He also helped in arranging a driver when we needed one. The only problem we had was with the road leading to the place which was very steep and rugged for about 200 m, but coming back to the place and enjoying the view from the apartment stumped the bumpy ride.!

View from stay

Link to stay:

https://www.airbnb.co.in/rooms/658439761844273530?source_impression_id=p3_1683703553_yi2QlOJ1YW7zbjGP

Day 2

As we had a long journey the day before, we slept till late in the morning and enjoyed the breakfast made by the caretaker, and set out to check out a few places in the afternoon. There are many places to visit in Kodaikanal and most of these tourist spots in are located along a single route so if you start early in the morning, you can check about 5-6 places in a single day on the same route.

What quickly caught my eye in Kodaikanal was that there were a lot of Hydrangea flowers in various locations, including private gardens, public parks, and horticultural centers. These beautiful flowering plants, known for their vibrant and captivating blooms prefer cool and moist environments, making the hill station an ideal location for their growth. These Hydrangeas growing about anywhere are a treat to the eyes. Our first destination in Kodaikanal was Moir Point.

3. Moir Point

The road to Moir Point is a scenic drive from the heart of Kodaikanal, winding through narrow roads that pass through dense forests and captivating meadows. As you ascend higher, the air becomes cooler, and the serenity of nature envelops you. I had my face peeping out of the window for most of the time.

During weekends and peak tourist seasons, this route can get quite crowded with long lines of vehicles. One has to be very careful while driving here, as the roads are very curvy, and if it’s a busy day, getting a parking spot can be quite difficult. Thankfully it has been made a one-way road (except on a few days) so at least there aren’t any oncoming vehicles that can make the road more prone to accidents. Many prefer to park their vehicles at one destination and take a trek to visit other tourist places.

Moir Point
Moir Point

Moir Point offers a breathtaking vista of Kodaikanal’s stunning valleys, lush greenery, and mist-covered mountains. Once you reach Moir Point, prepare to be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring view that unfolds before your eyes. As you stand on the observation deck, the sheer vastness of the valley and the surrounding hills will leave you spellbound. The unobstructed view of the expansive green valleys, shrouded in mist, and the distant mountain peaks stretching into the horizon create a truly captivating experience.

4. Pine Forest

Our next stop was Pine Forest. At a distance of 1.4 Km from Moir Point, this enchanting forest, with its towering pine trees, fragrant air, and tranquil ambience, offers a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. A stroll through the Pine Forest is like stepping into a fairytale realm, where nature’s beauty unfolds at every turn.

The tall and majestic pine trees, with their slender trunks and lush green foliage, create a canopy that filters the sunlight, casting a soft glow on the forest floor. Walking through the forest, you’ll find winding pathways that beckon you to explore further. As you wander deeper into the woods, you’ll come across patches of sunlight streaming through the branches, creating enchanting patterns on the ground.

Pine Forest
Pine Forest

For photography enthusiasts, Pine Forest presents an array of captivating scenes to capture. The interplay of light and shadow, the textures of the tree trunks, and the ethereal beauty of the forest make it a photographer’s paradise. The Pine Forest is not just a visual treat; it also serves as a natural playground for visitors. The peaceful ambience and ample space make it an ideal spot for leisurely walks, picnics, or simply finding a quiet nook to sit and soak in tranquility. The forest’s serene atmosphere invites introspection and provides a much-needed respite from the fast-paced world.

Beware of the monkeys in the place as they will want to grab those colorful snack packets you might be carrying with you. Please keep your snacks inside your bags and don’t litter as these poor monkeys might end up ingesting the harmful plastic. One can also go on horse rides around the forest. We spent some time walking around the forest, clicking some pictures, and enjoying the evening sun rays shining through the spaces between the trees.

We decided to head back to our stay and spend some time unwinding and having some quiet time with some hot coffee, as Kodaikanal was bustling with tourists and the traffic was driving us crazy. Try to visit Kodaikanal during the off-season to enjoy its beauty and have a peaceful time.

On our way back to our stay, we bought some homemade chocolates. You can find many chocolate stores and fruit stalls all over Kodaikanal.

While Kodaikanal heavily relies on tourism for its economic growth, agriculture also plays a significant role in the local economy. Agriculture in Kodaikanal encompasses the cultivation of various fruits and vegetables, along with its flourishing coffee plantations. The region is well-known for its fruit orchards, where a wide range of fruits such as pears, Kodai oranges, peaches, grapes, plums, passion fruits, and others thrive abundantly. Kodai is also famous for coffee production, organic vegetables, and medicinal flowers such as Madonna, Datura, Dahlia, and Lilly.

Day 3

After a good night’s sleep, we decided to hire a driver due to the weekend crowd and our host and caretaker helped us find a local driver. We started out around 11 am to check out some places. Our driver suggested we visit Mannavanur Lake as we would find a lesser crowd there and we agreed without any hesitation. Mannavanur Lake is at a distance of about 35 km from Kodaikanal via Poombarai village.

5. Poombarai Village

Nestled amidst the misty hills of the Western Ghats near Kodaikanal, lies a quaint and picturesque village called Poombarai. Surrounded by lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking views, Poombarai offers visitors a serene escape from bustling city life.

The journey to Poombarai takes you meandering through winding roads that unveil stunning views at every turn. The journey itself is a treat, with the cool breeze brushing against your face and the green landscape unfolding before your eyes. As you ascend higher, the mist envelopes the surroundings, creating an ethereal atmosphere.

Poombarai Village view
Poombarai Village view

Nestled within the magnificent Palani hills, this tranquil hamlet sits at an elevation of 1,920 meters, providing panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, mountains, and dense forests. The lush green tea plantations that adorn the hillsides add to the charm and make for a delightful sight. Poombarai presents a picturesque sight with its vibrant rooftops surrounded by terraced fields and expansive green landscapes.

The tranquil ambiance and the pristine air make Poombarai an ideal place to unwind and reconnect with nature. You can enjoy popular dishes like chicken biryani made of a local short-grain rice variety called ‘seeraga samba’ and fish fry. Poombarai is also famous for its production of garlic.

6. Kuzhanthai Velappar temple

Photo by Cutepraba/CC BY

The Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple holds a legacy that dates back several centuries. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, also known as Kuzhanthai Velappar, who is considered the deity of children and their well-being. The temple’s age-old traditions and rituals have been faithfully followed, preserving the sanctity and spiritual essence that it embodies.

There is a poem ( Poombarai Velan) by sage Arunagiri Nathar, in which he says that Murugan saved him from a demon by taking the form of a child. Hence the main deity of this temple is called Kuzhanthai Velappar. Kuzhanthai means infant in Tamil. Kuzhanthai Velappar means infant god carrying the weapon vel. It is believed that worshipping Lord Murugan in this temple can bless couples with healthy children and protect them from ailments.

The temple is believed to be more than 3000 years old and built by a Chera king. Although the temple’s complex looks new and renovated, the idol is believed to be established by Bogar (a Tamil shaivaite siddhar). A shrine to Siddhar Bogar is present in the southwestern corridor of this temple.

There was hardly any crowd when we visited so we had a peaceful darshanam and sat in the temple for a while enjoying the calm and serene atmosphere. The temple celebrates ‘Ther Thiruvizha’ (car festival) every year where the deity is taken out in a procession. There is a huge garlic market right outside the temple, famous for its ‘Malai Poondu’ (hill garlic) variety which is sought for its flavor and medicinal value. After having lunch, we set out for our next stop ‘Mannavanur Lake.’

7. Mannavanur Lake

Tucked away in the pristine hills of Kodaikanal, Mannavanur Lake embodies tranquility and natural beauty. Surrounded by lush green meadows, mist-covered mountains, and a serene atmosphere, this picturesque lake offers a peaceful escape from the chaos of daily life. From a distance, one can see that this lake has a unique heart shape! And yes, this place will steal your heart away.

Situated about 35 kilometers away from Kodaikanal, Mannavanur Lake is a natural freshwater lake that captivates visitors with its serene ambience and pristine surroundings. The lake, encompassed by rolling hills and grasslands, presents a mesmerizing sight, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight creates a magical play of colors on the water’s surface.

Mannavanur Lake

After walking for a short distance, the lake comes into view amidst the green meadows and it’s a sight to behold. Whether you seek solitude, wish to indulge in photography, or simply want to immerse yourself in nature’s splendor, Mannavanur Lake is a destination that promises a truly enchanting experience.

Mannavanur Lake is a haven for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers. The tranquil waters attract a wide variety of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatching. The expansive grasslands, adorned with wildflowers and scattered with grazing cattle, create a postcard-worthy setting. The reflections of the surrounding hills and the clear blue sky on the still waters of the lake form a picture-perfect scene.

The Lake offers a serene atmosphere to unwind, relax, and rejuvenate your senses. The tranquil surroundings provide an ideal setting for picnics or simply finding a peaceful spot to sit and contemplate. As you bask in the serene ambience, the gentle breeze and the soothing sounds of nature create a symphony of tranquility, allowing you to escape the pressures of everyday life. There are options for boating, canoeing, and horse riding.

There is a sheep farm, a short distance from the lake. The Southern Regional Research Centre (SRRC) is a regional center of the Central Sheep & Wool Research Institute (CSWRI). The center breeds sheep and rabbits for wool and meat. It is an open grassland. Although it is not much of a tourist spot, there’s a small entry fee and one can enjoy the view of the open and endless grasslands. It is not much different from Mannavanur lake, so you can skip it.

We headed back to Kodaikanal around 6 pm and reached in an hour. Our caretaker arranged for some packed food for dinner as he had to attend a local church festival. The best thing we liked about our stay was that we had our breakfast and dinner prepared by our caretaker every day (unless we had to leave very early in the morning) which made us feel at home.

Day 4

We covered about seven destinations on day 4 as it was our last day in Kodaikanal. Keeping in mind that it was an extended weekend and there was a heavy crowd, we left early in the morning. Our first stop was Guna Caves and we visited the various destinations along the single route.

8. Guna caves

We reached Guna caves around 7.45 am and the place is open from 8 am – 4.30 am. Since we arrived early, we had some coffee, boiled chana, and peanuts available in the stalls in front of the caves. Visitors are not allowed to carry any snacks inside as there are monkeys roaming around. There’s a menial entry ticket. Guna Caves, also known as the Devil’s Kitchen, formed from a unique combination of metamorphic and igneous rocks, boast intricate patterns and formations.

The caves hold a rich tapestry of myths and legends that add to their mystique. One popular legend suggests that the Pandavas from the Hindu epic Mahabharata sought refuge in these caves during their exile and prepared their food here. Hence the name ‘Devil’s Kitchen’. The name Devil is given because of the large number of bats that live here and the eerie silence that engulfs the cave complex. The caves got the moniker ‘Guna’ after the hit Tamil film featuring Kamal Hassan was filmed here in the year 1992. Remember the song ‘Kanmani Anbodu Kadhalan’ (‘Kammani ee premalekha’ in Telugu)?! Beautiful song.!

We were super excited to experience these eerie caves until we found out after walking till the cave entrance that the caves have been closed due to some unfortunate incidents of missing people. So, no you won’t get to see the caves. But if you enjoy walking in the wilderness then it is a good place. The tall trees’ roots, which could not go deeper into the soil due to the walls of the caves, have grown longer along these cave walls, intertwining and weaving their way through crevices and gaps, which gives the place a unique and mysterious aura.

Guna caves

There’s an open area, where barricades have been put up restricting entry to the caves, which seems like a place where all the animals would gather to have meetings like in those storybooks we read as kids.! After taking a stroll through the forest and clicking some pictures we went to our second stop, Pillar Rocks view point.

9. Pillar rocks viewpoint

The Pillar Rocks, consisting of three colossal granite monoliths, soar to an impressive height of approximately 400 feet, creating a majestic sight. The viewpoint is open from 9 am – 4 pm, so we had to wait for some time as we reached there earlier than the opening hours.

View near Pillar rocks

Nevertheless, the road was itself a beauty with a small canal nearby and since it was still early in the morning, there was no crowd and we enjoyed the quiet and peace and clicked some beautiful pictures here.

There are a lot of food stalls near the viewpoint. We had some Maggi and tea (simply blissful) for breakfast while waiting for the place to open. It really felt nice to just sit in the open and serene surroundings sipping some hot tea and enjoying the weather. We got our much-needed peace.

You can also shop for some souvenirs here. We found some dried and painted flowers which the vendor lady said would not die for 2 years.! Of course, we did not believe her but bought some buds anyway out of sheer curiosity about how long they will last and we did find it intriguing. The buds bloomed into flowers in a day or two and they lasted for about 6 months.

It was very misty when we got to the viewpoint, so we couldn’t see the rocks as they were covered by clouds. We waited for a while for the clouds to clear up so we can have a look at the Pillar rocks.

Pillar Rocks, Kodaikanal

The Pillar Rocks View Point not only offers a view of the natural wonder of the pillars but also the surrounding valleys, adding to the mesmerizing experience.

The valley below is covered with dense forests of pine, eucalyptus, and shola trees, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The lush greenery is punctuated with small waterfalls that cascade down the rocky terrain, adding to the natural beauty of the area.

But we were not very lucky that day, as the clouds were hesitating to clear up. We could only get a faint peek at the pillar rock but we did enjoy looking at the valley on the breezy and misty morning.

Tourists can also undertake a trek in the forests near the Pillar rocks for some adventure.

We decided to move ahead after waiting for about 40 mins for the clouds to clear but in vain. Our next destination was the famous Liril Falls.

10. Liril Falls

Liril Falls gets its name from the popular soap brand Liril, which shot its iconic advertisement at this waterfall. The advertisement featured a girl frolicking in the clear waters of the falls, capturing the imagination of the public. The waterfall has since become a popular spot for tourists, who come to experience the beauty of the falls and the surrounding areas.

Liril Falls, Kodaikanal

The Liril Falls is a three-tiered waterfall that cascades down a height of 500 feet. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests of eucalyptus and pine, adding to the natural beauty of the area.

The multi-tiered falls, with its gentle streams of water, are quite accessible. You can stand at the base, feel the mist on your face, or admire the falls from a distance. Truth be told, we were a little disappointed as the hype created around this place doesn’t match the reality.

Maybe it was a more beautiful place when the ad was shot here in 1985, but now all there is left is some water flow where you wouldn’t even feel like taking a dip. The state probably needs to do more to keep the area clean and tourists definitely need to stop littering.

There’s a marketplace right beside the falls and you can buy some homemade chocolates, flavored tea, coffee, and some essential oils from the stores. We bought Jasmine, Lavender, and Tea Tree essential oils and a bar of sandalwood from one of the shops.

11. Fairy Falls

Our next stop was Fairy Falls as it was closer to the Liril Falls. It is surrounded by lush greenery, adding to its picturesque charm. The waterfall gets its name from the misty and magical atmosphere it creates, resembling that of a fairyland. The water cascades down from a height of around 60 feet into a shallow pool below. The surrounding rocks and boulders add to the natural beauty of the place, making it a perfect spot for a picnic with friends and family.

The road leading up to the waterfalls can leave you wondering if you are really going up to a waterfall as it passes through streets with houses. It is more like a park with a waterfall. It is probably a fun place for the children living near the place to play around here.

You cannot take a dip in the waterfall but can enjoy it from up close. The surrounding area is well maintained with few sit-out areas. You can take a leisurely walk around the area or just stand near the waterfall for a while and take in its beauty. You can also skip it as there are probably better waterfalls where you can take a dip in the water pool.

12. Coaker’s Walk

The walkway extends for about one kilometer and provides visitors with captivating vistas of the lake, the rolling hills, and the lush valleys that stretch out before them.

Coaker’s Walk is also known for its unique climate phenomenon called the “Brachytherm.” Due to a combination of factors, including the location’s high altitude and surrounding forests, the path often experiences a mystical phenomenon where the clouds descend and envelop the walkway. Walking through the misty embrace of the Brachytherm is an ethereal experience that adds an extra touch of enchantment to the journey.

Coaker’s Walk. Photo by Jaseem Hamza/CC BY

Throughout the pathway, benches are strategically placed, allowing visitors to pause, rest, and immerse themselves in the tranquility of their surroundings. The serene ambiance and the breathtaking views make Coaker’s Walk an ideal spot for couples, families, and solo travelers seeking a moment of solitude or a romantic rendezvous amidst nature’s splendor.

One side of the walk is full of stalls selling food, artificial jewelry, toys, and clothes. We took some diced pineapple and watermelon and took a leisurely walk enjoying the misty atmosphere.

The best time to go here would be early mornings, when there might be less crowd and one can enjoy the breathtaking view of the valley and the misty mornings with much quiet and peace.

13. Byrant Park

Located right opposite the Coaker’s walk is Byrant Park. Bryant Park stands as a horticultural haven, showcasing the splendor of nature’s bountiful offerings.

Flowers at Byrant Park

With its well-manicured gardens, vibrant flowerbeds, and tranquil ambiance, Bryant Park offers visitors a serene escape into a world of breathtaking beauty. Join us as we explore the enchanting allure of Bryant Park and discover the wonders that await within its gates.

I fell in love with the different flowers with vibrant colors and I was running around the place with my phone to click some pictures.

Spread over an expansive area of 20 acres, Bryant Park is a meticulously landscaped botanical garden that houses an impressive collection of indigenous and exotic plant species. The park boasts an impressive array of over 325 varieties of flora, including vibrant roses, dahlias, lilies, orchids, and many more. As you meander through the park’s winding pathways, you’ll be greeted by a symphony of colors, fragrances, and textures, transporting you into a botanical paradise.

Byrant Park

Bryant Park provides ample opportunities for visitors to unwind and soak in the peaceful ambience. The park features well-maintained lawns, dotted with benches and picnic spots, inviting visitors to sit back, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding them. The tranquil atmosphere, coupled with the gentle rustling of leaves and the occasional bird songs, makes Bryant Park an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, a quiet read, or a picnic with loved ones.

We sat here for a while, occasionally lying down on the ground under a tree’s shade or basking in the sun. After going around Kodaikanal and visiting multiple places it felt relaxing to just sit down here for a while and enjoy the nature, lying under the blue sky. Our last stop for the day was the Kodaikanal Lake.

14. Kodaikanal Lake

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Kodaikanal, the Kodaikanal Lake is known for its serene atmosphere and stunning views. Spanning across an area of approximately 60 acres, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, creating a serene ambience that captivates the senses. The lake’s picturesque setting is further enhanced by the presence of majestic eucalyptus trees and a variety of colorful flowering plants.

Kodaikanal Lake

One of the most popular activities at Kodaikanal Lake is boating. Visitors have the opportunity to rent paddleboats, rowboats, or even take a leisurely ride on a Kashmiri Shikara-style boat. Gliding through the calm waters of the lake, surrounded by green landscapes, provides a serene and soothing experience. As you navigate the lake, you can take in the panoramic views of the surrounding hills and immerse yourself in the tranquility that Kodaikanal Lake offers.

We took a boat ride in the lake and enjoyed going around the lake. Kodaikanal Lake is an idyllic retreat that offers a blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and recreational activities. Whether you’re boating on its serene waters, strolling along the promenade, or simply admiring its scenic splendor, the lake provides a sense of peace and rejuvenation.

We called it a day after finishing the boat ride and bought some takeaway lunch to go. In the evening, our caretaker made some tasty pakodas and tea and we chilled out indoors for the day looking at the beautiful view from our stay. We packed our luggage at night as we had to leave early in the morning for Coimbatore to catch our evening flights to Hyderabad.

The next morning we started around 6 am to Coimbatore and on our way got to see the Silver Cascade Falls. We wanted to fill in some petrol but there was no petrol available in any of the petrol bunks in Kodaikanal that day due to the heavy rush of tourists over the extended weekend. Luckily we did have enough petrol to go till Palani where we got a refill. We thoroughly enjoyed our trip with lots of free time to just enjoy the nature and unwind. There are many other places we could visit but our hearts were already full.

Kodaikanal trip

With a happy and re-energized mind, we left Kodaikanal having made beautiful memories for life. Since we started in the morning, we could enjoy the beautiful views of the hills on our journey back to Coimbatore. We would surely love to visit Kodaikanal again (in the off-season of course!) as it’s truly the ‘Princess of Hill Stations’.

If you found this blog useful, please check out the blog on my trip to Meghalaya here.

FAQs

1. How much did the trip cost?

A. It cost us around Rs 25-30k per person. This includes flight tickets, accommodation, vehicle and fuel costs, and food.

2. Is Kodaikanal a safe destination for an all-girls trip?

A. We found Kodaikanal to be a very safe place for girls. The locals are very friendly and kind. There are enough and more accommodation facilities available at all price ranges.

3. How many days are needed for a Kodaikanal trip?

A. If you are just looking for covering all the tourist spots in Kodaikanal, 2 days are enough (any weekend). But if you want to get away from your busy life, you can easily stay for a week to enjoy some peace.

3 thoughts on “Kodaikanal Trip: Unveiling the Tranquil Beauty of the “Princess of Hill Stations””

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