Kodaikanal which in Tamil means “The gift of the forest” is a famous hill station located in the Dindigul district in Tamil Nadu at an altitude of 7200 feet above sea level. It is also commonly referred to as the “Princess of the hill stations” and has been a favorite honeymoon destination for many couples over the years. It is famous for its soothing atmosphere, scenic beauty, tropical climate etc and has become a popular tourist destination. It also possesses lush green and dense forest, a wide range of flora and fauna, beautiful silver waterfalls, mammoth rocks etc. So if you are a genuine nature lover then “Kodaikanal” is the perfect destination for you.
Read More: WHY IS OOTY ONE OF THE MOST VISITED HILL STATION IN INDIA?
How to reach Kodaikanal?
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Kodaikanal Map
By train:
The closest railway station is Kodai Road which is located at a distance of about 100 km from the town. The Dindigul railway station is the most preferred option because it is a much bigger town than Kodai Road.
By road:
There are many bus services that ply from major cities in Tamil Nadu such as Chennai, Pondicherry, Madurai, Coimbatore etc. Chennai and Pondicherry are starting points that are located in close proximity to Kodaikanal.
a. How to reach Kodaikanal from Chennai : The shortest route to reach Kodaikanal from Chennai is via Chennai – Theni Hwy as depicted in the map above. Alternatively, click on the Google Maps link here to view on Google Maps.
b. How to reach Kodaikanal from Pondicherry : The fastest route from Pondicherry to Kodaikanal is via NH83 and Chennai – Theni Hwy/Trichy-Tindivanam Hwy and the route map is depicted above. Alternatively, click on the Google Maps link here to view on Google Maps.
By flight:
The nearest airports are Trichy (150km), Madurai (120 km), and Coimbatore (175 km).
Climate and the best time to visit Kodaikanal
The climate of Kodaikanal can be best described as “Subtropical” with the weather ranging from moderate hot to foggy cold. The best time to visit this beautiful hill station is during summer which begins in March and ends in mid June and September and October. Surprisingly though a majority of the visitors especially honeymoon couples prefer the cold and foggy weather of December i.e. winter.
Places To Visit Around Kodaikanal
Coakers Walk:
As indicated by its name, a simple walking arena, yet very unique as Coakers walk provide the panoramic views of the spectacular plains, valleys and hills. Take a relaxing stroll in the coakers walk and capture the scenic beauty in your eyes and of course in your cameras. Best time to stroll is before 2 PM, otherwise the ocean of clouds can eat you and you may miss your way to exit!
Bryant Park:
A very popular attraction in Kodaikanal famed for the effervescent flower show during summer. Located near Kodaikanallake, Bryant park is a visual retreat. The large park is the home to a variety of flowers, very rare flowers, special hybrids, you have seen anywhere. The botanical, rather the floral garden is named after Bryant, who landscaped this beautiful park. Don’t miss the flower and vegetable show in the summer.
Devil’s Kitchen:
A very adventurous and risky yet thrilling and most sought after attraction in Kodaikanal is Devil’s Kitchen. Also called as Guna Caves, Devil’s kitchen rose to fame after being publicized in a tamil movie, ‘Guna’. With steep slopes, deep and hidden ravines, and mystic gutters, anyone easily feed themselves for the Devil’s trap. It is very adventurous yet too risky! It is located amidst the green valley view, a suicide point and pillar rocks.
Dolphin’s Nose:
Scenic spot offering breathtaking views on the hills and plains need walking around 8 kilometers from the main bus stand. You will get a spectacular view from this spot which is very similar to the bird’s view! It is called Dolphin’s nose, because the shape of the rock appears so!
Kodai Lake:
The largest star shaped lake in the Kodaikanal, spread across 60 acres of land is the most favorite attractions in Kodaikanal for all tourists. Water is surrounded by spectacular greenery. Enjoy the boating or sit back, relax and relish the nature!
Green Valley View:
Earlier called as Suicide Point, Green Valley View, as indicated by the name provides the amazing views on the green ravines. Many times the misty clouds will play hide and seek. Visitors need an extra care while stepping.
Other major attractions of Kodaikanal include Pillar rocks, silver cascade waterfall, Kurinjiandavar temple, silent valley view, Palani hills, etc.
Accommodation – Hotels, Resorts and Home Stays in and around Kodaikanal :
Click on the link here to check out the places to stay near Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu on Google Maps.
Also Read: TRAIN TO OOTY: THE HERITAGE NILGIRI MOUNTAIN RAILWAY