Memorable Things To Do in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Kodaikanal probably is the best hill station in south India to spend a vibrant winter holiday. The scenic location perched atop a quaint hill in Tamil Nadu offers refreshing experiences. Dotted with waterfalls, lakes, parks, and hills, things to do in Kodaikanal fulfill your holiday aspirations. When you are looking for a tranquil, icy, and happy holiday destination in south India, Kodaikanal can top the list. Things to do in Kodaikanal are as exciting as the scenic spots at the hill station.

An Overview of Kodaikanal

Even before the independence, Kodaikanal Hills were popular among the royals and the affluent. The scenic and cool location, situated 2,000 metres above sea level used to be a perfect summer retreat and a vacation spot. Things to do in Kodaikanal have always been mesmerizing. Referred to as the “Princess of Hills”, Kodaikanal gradually grew as a top tourist attraction. Verdant hills, abundant vegetation, picturesque waterfalls, and lakes add more charm to the place. As tourism developed, activities like boating, cycling, horse riding, and trekking flourished in the region. The word Kodaikanal means “gift of the forest”. Nestled among densely wooded jungles Kodaikanal is a nature’s gift to the endless tourists flocking to the hill station. The winter season adorns the hill town with a thick blanket of snow as the temperature drops even below five degrees. For those craving cold clime, you have it all here.

Astounding Lakes

Can you imagine the sight of dazzling lakes atop a hill station? Not just one, there are three of them which include both natural and human-made ones. Among them, Berijam Lake probably is the most prominent one. Located at the end of Pillar Rock Road, the calm and beautiful natural lake gives a welcoming sight. Amidst the lush forest, the lake provides the perfect ambiance to watch birds. Besides the domestic birds, migratory birds of diverse species flock to the lake. Serpent eagles, pariah kites, pale-rumped swallows, rosefinch, blue chat, and leaf warblers are a few of them. Although boating is not allowed, strolling and relaxing by the lake is a soothing experience. Prior permission is required to enter the lake premises. The Kodaikanal Lake is one of the prime attractions in Kodaikanal. The star-shaped artificial lake was constructed in 1863. Since then, it has been alluring for tourists to enjoy a boat ride or for sightseeing. Multiple types of boats and fishing activities engage the visitors. Located further away is the Mannavanur Lake. Secluded in the lap of nature, the lake is visited for its serene ambiance and tranquil surroundings. Streams and mini waterfalls en route make it a more interesting spot.

Enterprising activities

When touring a hill station not everyone would be contented to sit back and relax. A few entertaining activities add color to the memories. With the list of things to do in Kodaikanal, it is never going to be a dull holiday at this popular hill station. The aforementioned lakes offer you boating, fishing, and bird-watching opportunities. Well, you might say that is for the honeymooners and the normal people. The adventure lover in you looks for more. How about trekking? Visiting Pillar Rocks standing majestically at a height of 400 feet, kissed by snow and clouds, gives you enough adrenaline to run. Dolphin Rocks and The Pine Forest are other spots not to miss. Do opt for a horse ride experience through the pine forest. Go on a hiking trail to the famous Guna Caves.

Bewitching waterfalls

Each of the three major waterfalls in the region are highly recommended spot to visit. The Bear Shola Falls is a treasure trove inside the forest reserve area. Surrounded by hills and vegetation the Vattakanal Falls is another delightful spot. The Fairy Falls not only offers a beautiful sight, the valley is a popular spot for swimming. Visiting these waterfalls can be enjoyable things to do in Kodaikanal.

Interesting spots to visit

Coaker’s Walk is a human-made walking square built around a mountain slope by Lt Coaker in 1872. The tourists stroll here to gaze at the beautiful valleys. The Poombarai Village View, at 1920 meters above sea-level, is popular among tourists. The village in itself is worth visiting for its cultivation of garlic, carrots, and beans. Named after a European engineer Sir Thomas Moir, Moir Point happens to be one of the major viewpoints in Kodaikanal. Are you thinking of admiring the mountains and valleys better? Visit the Silent Valley View Point. The Bryant Park is a botanical garden named after Glen Bryant. Besides the hundreds of species of trees and shrubs, the flower plants thrill you in the blooming season. Chettiar Park is another stunning spot in the region where you can see a wide range of rare specious of flower plants.  The Kurunji flowers that bloom once in 12 years are its top attraction. If you happen to be an astrophysics enthusiast, the Astrophysical Observatory built in 1899 is a noteworthy place to visit in Kodaikanal. Founded in 1895 the Shembaganur Museum of Natural History fulfills your quest for a museum in the region.

Religious attractions

The Kurinji Andavar temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan, is associated with the Kurinji flowers hence the name. The location provides amazing views from the top. Further away from Kodaikanal is the Subrahmanya Temple dedicated to Lord Kartikeya. Climbing more than 600 steps to reach the temple located at a height of 135 metres is an amazing experience. Built over 150 years ago, the La Saleth Church is frequented by tourists. Another antique church worth visiting is Christ the King Church. Built-in 1895, the church exudes the beauty of traditional Gothic architecture.

How to Reach Kodaikanal?

Being a hilly region, there are no airports or railways connected to Kodaikanal. However, Kodaikanal can be easily accessed by road from multiple Indian cities.

When to reach?

A pleasant climate is experienced throughout the year. However, the winter months, i.e. November to February, are considered the best season to visit Kodaikanal.