Best months
Per-day budget
₹830–1,400/day
Getting there
Kodaikanal is a hill station in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu, set at 2,133 m. It is known as the Princess of Hill Stations and is quieter and greener than Ooty. The town is built around Kodaikanal Lake, a man-made star-shaped lake in the centre of town. The main attractions are the lake walks, Coaker's Walk (a panoramic walking path), the Pillar Rocks (a 120 m high cliff formation), and the Silver Cascade Falls. Kodai is also known for the Kodaikanal chocolate (a local handmade chocolate) and the nearby pine forests. It is a great destination for student backpackers looking for an affordable trip. The destination offers a mix of experiences that cater to all kinds of travellers, from solo backpackers to small groups.
Plan your trip to Kodaikanal Travel Guide
Search and compare prices — we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Flights
Hotels & Hostels
Trains
Search train routes, schedules and fares across India.
Buses
Compare bus operators, schedules and prices.
Why go
Kodaikanal Lake is the centre of the town — you can walk the 5 km perimeter road, cycle or take a paddle boat. Coaker's Walk is a 1 km paved walking path with views of the valley and the plains below on clear days. The Bryant Park is a small botanical garden near the lake with flower beds.
The Pillar Rocks viewpoint is 8 km from the lake — three granite pillars rising 120 m with a valley view. The Guna Caves (Devil's Kitchen) near the Pillar Rocks is a deep cave system. The Silver Cascade Falls on the way to Kodai is a 60 m waterfall visible from the road. The Berijam Lake trek is a 10 km walk through pine forest.
How to reach
The nearest railway station is Kodai Road (80 km) with trains from Chennai and Madurai. From Kodai Road, buses to Kodaikanal take 2.5-3 hours (₹150-200). The nearest airport is Madurai (120 km, 4 hours by road). Buses from Madurai to Kodaikanal take 3-4 hours.
What a day costs
| Budget hotel | ₹600–1,000 |
| Food (South Indian) | ₹150–250 |
| Cycle rental (per hour) | ₹30–50 |
| Lake boat ride | ₹50–100 |
When to go
April to June is the summer season (15-25°C). October to March is pleasant and quieter. July-September is monsoon — misty and rainy but the greenest period. For clear valley views, visit in April-May or October-November.
Suggested itinerary
Day 1: Arrive and Lake
Arrive in Kodaikanal. Walk or cycle around the lake. Visit Coaker's Walk in the evening for the sunset view.
Day 2: Pillar Rocks
Visit Pillar Rocks, Guna Caves and the Suicide Point area. Afternoon at the Silver Cascade Falls. Evening at the lake.
Day 3: Depart
Visit the Bryant Park. Try Kodaikanal chocolate from a local shop. Catch a bus to Madurai.
Student hacks
- ▸Cycle around the lake costs ₹30-50 per hour — the best way to see Kodai on a budget.
- ▸Coaker's Walk is free and the best sunset spot in Kodai.
- ▸Stay near the lake (₹600-800) — everything is within walking distance.
- ▸Kodaikanal chocolate (₹100-200 per pack) is a local specialty — buy from the small shops near the lake.
- ▸Visit in the off-season (October or March) for lower prices and fewer crowds.
Safety & permits
No permit needed. Kodaikanal is safe. The Guna Caves area is fenced off after an accident in 2013 — do not enter the restricted area. ATMs are available on the main road near the lake.
FAQs
How do I reach Kodaikanal from Delhi?
Flight to Madurai (3 hours, ₹4,000-7,000) then bus to Kodaikanal (3-4 hours, ₹200-300).
What is Kodaikanal known for?
Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker's Walk, Pillar Rocks, Kodaikanal chocolate.
How many days do I need?
2-3 days — one for the lake, one for Pillar Rocks and falls.