Location: Kodaikanal
Top Things to do in Kodaikanal
Top Restaurants in Kodaikanal
Top 10 Things to do in Kodaikanal, India
Kodaikanal has an endangered animal called the grizzled giant squirrel. To us, that alone is reason to book a trip ("grizzled giant squirrel" might be the best animal name ever). Perched on the woodsy southern crest of the Palani Hills, nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, this popular lakeside resort town is a magnet for nature lovers. Wander the peaceful slopes, keeping an eye out for birds, exotic flowers and, of course, grizzled giant squirrels.
Restaurants in Kodaikanal
1. Mannavanur Lake
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 207 reviews
Reviewed By renuanand - Chennai (Madras), India
The journey to Mannavanur Lake itself is very nice...beautiful route. Less toursit, serene surrounding, loads of greenery is what Mannavanur Lake is all about. One has to come to Kodai for good restaurants since there is nothing on the way except for one small joint - might be difficult for vegetarians.
2. Poombarai Village View
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 193 reviews
Reviewed By akhilchandu
Enjoy a scenic hike and admire Poombarai Village View, a tiny colorful village nestled amidst terraced fields famous for its production of garlic. Standing secluded at 1,920 m in Palani Hills, this village offers a picturesque view of the area with locally colored houses and greenery. Tranquil and mesmerizing, it makes a part of a nature’s trip from Kodaikanal. Visit a local temple dedicated to Lord Murugan and enjoy fresh local produce, beans and carrots. Do not forget to get some garlic. To visit Poombarai Village View and get the most from your holiday in Kodaikanal.
3. Berijam Lake
Overall Ratings
4 based on 690 reviews
Reviewed By akhilchandu
Berijam Lake is a quaint Reservoir near Kodaikanal town in Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu. It is at the old site of Fort Hamilton and is situated in the upper Palani hills, overlooking the surrounding landscape. Berijam Lake was formed as the result of the construction of a dam with sluice outlets and is part of a micro-watershed development project. The sparkling blue waters of this attraction makes for a tranquil spot for nature lovers to enjoy in the lap of Mother Earth, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Berijam Lake is a flourishing ecological hotspot that hosts many species of animals, birds, plants and fish. Rich in its flora and fauna, the Berijam Lake is a popular picnic spot amongst locals and is open between the months of October to May for all to enjoy, and you need to obtain formal permission from the Forest Department for the same.
The serene Berijam lake of Kodaikanal is of nature's unhindered beauty in the midst of a forest conservation area. It is surrounded by acacia and pine trees which are so pristine that it has a haunting quality. The serene surroundings of the lake make it the perfect place for birdwatching, gentle photography and quiet reflection. Sprawled over a vast area of 59 acres, the calm waters of the Berijam Lake is so pure that it serves as the main source of potable water for Periyakulam - a small town in the valley that lies below Kodaikanal. The lake also facilitates the habitat of many animals such as Bison, Indian Elephant, Nilgiri Langur and Deer, and if you're lucky you will also be able to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures.
4. Coakers Walk
Overall Ratings
4 based on 859 reviews
Reviewed By akhilchandu
Coakers Walk is a beautiful man-made one-kilometre-long walking plaza built on the Mountains in the mesmerizing city of Kodaikanal, which is situated in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The lovely path of Coakers Walk that curves by the edge of the gorgeous mountain have been constructed mainly for visitors to get a glimpse of Paradise on Earth. It is a preferred location for morning and evening walks, and admirers of nature visit the location often to capture the wonderful lush green Valleys and the hills of Kodaikanal. One can also choose to ride a bicycle to explore the scenic location. The sight is breathtakingly beautiful, and it almost makes one feel like they are walking in the clouds.
The Coakers Walk was constructed in 1872, by Lieutenant Coaker. It is about half a kilometre away from the Kodaikanal Lake and is constructed on the steep slope of the Mountains. The walk begins near Van Allen Hospital and joins the main road above St. Peter's Church. The pathway is fenced by the edge of the mountain for the safety of the visitors.
At the south-east of the Coakers Walk lies the valley of River Pambar and to the South lie the Dolphin's nose and the City of Madurai. The region has pleasant to cold weather most of the times and is frequented by people of all age groups. It's a favourite location for activities like sightseeing, photography and cycling. A walk here is a unique experience in itself and should be on your list of attractions to visit in Kodaikanal.
5. Kurinji Andavar Temple
Overall Ratings
4 based on 380 reviews
Reviewed By akhilchandu
Kurinji Temple, located at a distance of around 5 km from the bus station, is also known as Kurinji Andavar Temple. Dedicated to Lord Muruga, the God of Hills as per the Tamil literature, tourists visiting this temple can enjoy beautiful view of Vaigai dam and Palani hills.
In Tamil Language, Kurinji means hilly region, while the word Andavar refers to God. In addition, this temple is also a venue for summer festival, which is celebrated in the month of May every year. During this festival, tourists flock the temple so as to seek the blessings of Lord Muruga.
6. Kodaikanal Lake
Overall Ratings
4 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By Moethasim M
A very relaxing atmosphere.First the vast lake for boating is breathtaking.Cycling and horse riding or walking on the pavements is another appetiser for relaxation.
7. Pine Forest
Overall Ratings
4 based on 929 reviews
Reviewed By akhilchandu
The Pine Forest was cultivated by one Mr Bryant in Kodaikanal in 1906 with the idea of having a timber forest for valuable wood. The place turned out to be a popular holiday destination and now lures multitudes of visitors to it from all over.
Kodaikanal brings respite to visitors from the heat of the adjoining cities with its pleasant climate throughout the year. This hill station, in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, is 2000 metres above sea level, set in the Ghat section of granite cliffs which are completely covered with Pine Forests, Waterfalls and lakes and grassy slopes. The star-shaped lake is a man-made one and the town is situated around it.
A honeymooners’ paradise with a laidback pace, the town has several holiday activities to offer, having a stroll through the Pine Forest being one of them. Sunlight shimmering through the pine trees is a visual delight.
Camping and trekking in the midst of these sylvan surroundings, while enjoying succulent jackfruit lobes, which are available in plenty in these parts, is sheer bliss. Many Indian movies have been filmed here and it is a popular location for movie makers. Driving to Kodaikanal is the easiest way to get there either from the cities of Tamil Nadu or even from Mysore in Karnataka.
8. Pillar Rocks
Overall Ratings
4 based on 865 reviews
Reviewed By akhilchandu
Situated in the 'Princess of Hill stations', Kodaikanal, the Pillar Rocks have become a lovely picnic spot. Constituting a beautiful mini garden; the place is named so as it has three vertically positioned boulders reaching up to a height of 400 feet. The aura here is full of affection and is evidence of a great love story. The 'white cross' which once existed on these rocks represented David Gell's excellent tribute to love. The view of rocks is not something to be missed. They stand as an untouched miracle for the tourists visiting Kodaikanal.
The pillars are famous for providing bird's view of nearby surroundings. The chambers between these two massive rocks are called the Devil's Kitchen. Fewer times you might find rocks covered with mist and clouds, but when the ways become clear nothing beautiful than this could be ever seen. Jutting straight away from the hills that surround them, the pillar rocks are majestic. You can come here, sit and relax as you soothe your eyes over the high hill ranges and clear skies. Moreover, do not forget taste the potato and onion bhaji which is served outside the mini garden.
9. Silent Valley View Point
Overall Ratings
4 based on 90 reviews
Reviewed By akhilchandu
Another breath taking sightseeing place in Kodaikanal is the Silent Valley View Point. On the Berijam Lake road, it is located near to the Pillar Rocks. A popular place among nature lovers, it offers mesmerizing view of the valley. Its calming atmosphere and lush greenery add on to its charm while the view, from here is sure to leave to awestruck.
The best time to visit Silent Valley View point is early mornings and evenings or late afternoons. During this time of the days, the valley can be sometimes seen covered in white mist that passes between the trees, crossing its refreshingly green meadows. The view of clouds passing through you, the sight of greenery till your eyes you could see is an experience worth remembering.
While visiting the valley, be careful, especially when travelling with kids as the valley is extremely deep.
Silent Valley View Point is located on the Berijam road that is well connected by road. As there are no auto rickshaws in Kodaikanal, tourists can walk to the view point or travel by taxi. Cycling or bikes are also available for rent. So if interested one can just cycle to the point while admiring the surrounding scenic beauty.
10. Shembaganur Museum of Natural History
Overall Ratings
4 based on 117 reviews
Reviewed By MushnKit - Brisbane, Australia
Also known as the 'Sacred Heart Science Museum' this is a must see, an eclectic collection of taxidermy animals, curiosities, skeletons, birds, and artifacts in one small building. A bit confronting at times, but well worth it. In particular the display of human embryos at various stages of development is both fascinating and possibly disturbing.
In addition, this place had the best kept, cleanest and most sanitary men's public toilets we encountered in India.
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