09:00 - Visit Kodaikanal Lake: Start your day with a visit to the serene Kodaikanal Lake, a man-made lake located in the heart of Kodaikanal. This star-shaped lake is a popular tourist spot, offering activities like boating, cycling, and horse riding. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride and soak in the scenic beauty of the mist-covered hills and the cool breeze.
A Scenic 2-Day Adventure in Kodaikanal, India
Embark on a 2-day journey in Kodaikanal, India, exploring natural wonders like Kodaikanal Lake, Pillar Rocks, and Bear Shola Falls. Savor local cuisine and enjoy panoramic views of the valley.
Day 1: A Scenic Adventure in Kodaikanal, India:
11:00 - Explore Coaker's Walk: Next, head to Coaker's Walk, a picturesque pathway that offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Named after Lt. Coaker, who prepared the map of Kodaikanal, this 1-km long walk is a must-visit for photography enthusiasts. The walkway is lined with telescopes, allowing visitors to get a closer look at the valley and its surroundings.
Did you know? On clear days, one can even see as far as Dolphinโs Nose in the south and the city of Madurai.
13:00 - Lunch at Cloud Street: After a morning of exploration, head to Cloud Street for a delicious lunch. This cozy restaurant is known for its tasty local cuisine, offering a variety of dishes that cater to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. With its warm ambiance and friendly staff, Cloud Street is a great place to relax and enjoy a meal.
15:00 - Visit Pillar Rocks: In the afternoon, visit the Pillar Rocks, a set of three giant rock pillars that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Standing at 400 feet high, these rocks are a sight to behold. The mini garden with lovely flowers adds to the charm of the place.
Did you know? The pillars are named after the wife and daughter of the British officer who discovered this place.
17:00 - Head to Bryant Park: Later in the day, head to Bryant Park, a well-maintained botanical garden with a wide variety of flowers and plants. Named after a British officer, this park is a haven for nature lovers. The park also hosts an annual horticultural show, attracting tourists from all over the country.
19:00 - Evening stroll at Coakers Walk: As the day winds down, enjoy a peaceful evening stroll at the Coakers Walk and witness a beautiful sunset. The walkway, lit by the setting sun, offers a different experience altogether. The cool breeze and the panoramic view of the valley make it a perfect spot to end the day.
20:00 - Dinner at Astoria Veg: End your day with a delicious dinner at Astoria Veg, a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its tasty food. From traditional South Indian dishes to continental cuisine, the restaurant offers a wide range of options. The cozy ambiance and the friendly staff make it a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.
Day 2: Exploring Kodaikanal's Natural and Cultural Wonders:
09:00 - Visit Bear Shola Falls: Start your day with a visit to the Bear Shola Falls, a scenic waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery. The falls are at their best during the monsoon season, cascading down the rocks in a beautiful display of nature's power. The trail leading to the falls is a treat in itself, with the path winding through the rich biodiversity of Kodaikanal's forests.
Did you know? The falls got their name because bears used to come here to drink water!
11:00 - Explore Kurinji Andavar Temple: Next, head to the Kurinji Andavar Temple, a famous temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and the panoramic views of the Palani hills and Vaigai Dam it offers. The temple is also famous for the Kurinji flower which blooms once every 12 years and covers the hills in a beautiful blue carpet.
13:00 - Lunch at Tava Vegetarian Restaurant: For lunch, visit Tava Vegetarian Restaurant, a popular eatery known for its delicious vegetarian cuisine. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from traditional Indian meals to international favorites. With its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, Tava is a great place to relax and enjoy a meal.
15:00 - Visit Green Valley View (Suicide Point): In the afternoon, visit the Green Valley View, also known as Suicide Point. This stunning viewpoint offers panoramic views of the valley below, the lush green forests, and the star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake. The point is surrounded by protective fencing as the deep, dense and dangerous valley below is a dizzying sight.
Did you know? The point got its name due to the dangerous valley which is dense and deep; below the point of more than 5000 feet drop.
17:00 - Explore Shembaganur Museum of Natural History: Later, explore the Shembaganur Museum of Natural History, a museum that showcases the rich biodiversity of the region. The museum houses a vast collection of specimens of animals, insects, and birds, as well as a herbarium with over 300 species of exotic orchids.
Did you know? The museum is run by the Sacred Heart College, a Theological Seminary opened in 1895.
19:00 - Leisurely walk at Chettiar Park: As the day winds down, take a leisurely walk at the Chettiar Park. This well-maintained park is known for its serene surroundings, beautifully manicured gardens, and a variety of flora. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
20:00 - Dinner at Ten Degrees: End your day with a delicious dinner at Ten Degrees, a cozy restaurant known for its tasty food. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from traditional Indian cuisine to international favorites. With its warm ambiance and excellent service, Ten Degrees is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.
Tips & Recommendations
- Kodaikanal: Natural Beauty: Kodaikanal is known for its stunning natural beauty. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views from Coaker's Walk and Pillar Rocks.
- Kodaikanal: Local Cuisine: While in Kodaikanal, make sure to try the local cuisine. Restaurants like Cloud Street and Astoria Veg offer a variety of delicious local dishes.
- Kodaikanal: Spiritual Journey: Visit the Kurinji Andavar Temple to experience the spiritual side of Kodaikanal. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan and offers a serene atmosphere.
- Kodaikanal: Botanical Beauty: Don't miss out on visiting Bryant Park and Chettiar Park. These parks are home to a wide variety of flowers and plants, making them a paradise for nature lovers.
- Kodaikanal: Historical Exploration: Visit the Shembaganur Museum of Natural History to learn about the rich biodiversity of the region.
- Kodaikanal: Scenic Waterfalls: A visit to Bear Shola Falls is a must when in Kodaikanal. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful environment.
- General Tip: Currency: While in India, it's advisable to keep some local currency (Indian Rupee), as card machines may not always be available, especially at local markets.
Climate & Weather
- Kodaikanal: Kodaikanal, a city in the hills of the Dindigul district in the state of Tamil Nadu, India, experiences a subtropical highland climate. The city enjoys mild weather throughout the year, with temperatures rarely rising above 20ยฐC. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, so if you're planning to visit Kodaikanal Lake or Coaker's Walk during this period, don't forget to carry an umbrella or raincoat. The winter months, from December to February, can be quite chilly, especially in the evenings, so a light jacket is recommended when visiting Pillar Rocks or Bryant Park. The summer months, from March to May, are the best time to visit Bear Shola Falls, Kurinji Andavar Temple, and Green Valley View (Suicide Point), as the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing. Don't forget to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun when exploring Shembaganur Museum of Natural History and Chettiar Park.
What Locals Love
Kodaikanal, India:
- Mann Manam Restaurant: A local favorite, this restaurant serves authentic Tamil cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Vattakanal Waterfalls: A lesser-known waterfall that offers a peaceful retreat away from the city's hustle and bustle.
- Kodaikanal Solar Observatory: An interesting place to visit for astronomy enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the celestial world.
- Kodaikanal Yoga Center: A serene spot where locals love to practice yoga and meditation amidst nature.
- Dolmen Circle: An archaeological site that offers a peek into the region's ancient history.
- Kodaikanal Pine Forest: A beautiful forest area that offers a refreshing walk amidst towering pine trees.
Remember, the best way to experience a place is often to step off the beaten path. Engage with locals, try the street food, and let the rhythm of the cities guide you.