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Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

Nestled in the lush Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal, the “Princess of Hill Stations,” offers a refreshing escape for every traveler. Discover serene lakes, cascading waterfalls, and misty viewpoints among the top places to visit in Kodaikanal.

A scenic overview of the star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake with paddle boats on the water, one of the top places to visit in Kodaikanal.

Kodaikanal Lake

Kodaikanal Lake is the star-shaped centerpiece of the hill station, nestled amidst lush hills. This man-made lake was created in 1863 and is a hub of serene activity. Visitors can enjoy leisurely boat rides on its placid waters, from rowboats to pedalos. 

The 5-kilometer paved path surrounding the lake is perfect for a scenic walk, cycling, or a horse ride. It serves as the social and recreational heart of the town, offering a peaceful escape for all.

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People walking on Coaker's Walk path with a breathtaking panoramic view of the valleys and clouds, a must-see place to visit in Kodaikanal.

Coaker's Walk

A stunning pedestrian path offering breathtaking panoramic views of the plains below.

A vibrant flowerbed displaying colorful blooms in the well-maintained Bryant Park gardens, a beautiful place to visit in Kodaikanal.

Bryant Park

 A beautifully maintained botanical garden showcasing vibrant flowers and exotic plant species.

The three massive granite rock pillars standing tall against a backdrop of misty forests, a dramatic natural place to visit in Kodaikanal.

Pillar Rocks

A dramatic viewpoint featuring three massive granite pillars set against a forest backdrop.

A deep, mist-covered valley view from the Green Valley Viewpoint, a spectacular place to visit in Kodaikanal.

Green Valley View

A spectacular viewpoint offering deep valley vistas often shrouded in mist.

Water cascading down the rocky cliff of Bear Shola Falls surrounded by green foliage, a serene place to visit in Kodaikanal.

Bear Shola Falls

Bear Shola Falls is a serene and seasonal waterfall located close to the town center, within a tranquil forest reserve. The waterfall comes to life primarily during the monsoon season, when rainwater gushes down the rocky cliff.

Its name originates from a local legend that bears used to frequent the spot to drink water (“shola” meaning grove). It is a popular spot for a quiet picnic and to enjoy the soothing sounds of nature. The short, easy trek to reach it makes it an accessible natural retreat.

A display case inside the Shenbaganur Museum showing rare orchids and artifacts, a unique place to visit in Kodaikanal.

Shenbaganur Museum

 An anthropological museum featuring a unique and impressive orchid collection.

Waterfall cascading down the rocks on the ghat road near Kodaikanal, known as Silver Cascade Falls.

Silver Cascade Falls

A tall waterfall formed from the lake’s outflow, located on the main ghat road.

A viewpoint sign at Moir Point with visitors enjoying the vista of the surrounding hills and valley.

Moir Point

A scenic viewpoint offering stunning vistas of the Moir Valley and surrounding hills.

A sunlit path winding through the dense, green trees of St. Mary's Forest.

St. Mary's Forest

A serene and dense forest area ideal for a peaceful walk and quiet escape.

The white temple structure of Kurinji Andavar Temple set against a clear blue sky, a spiritual place to visit in Kodaikanal.

Kurinji Andavar Temple

The Kurinji Andavar Temple is a significant spiritual site dedicated to Lord Murugan, with a unique connection to the local environment. It is famously associated with the Kurinji flower, which blooms in the surrounding hills once every twelve years. 

The name “Andavar” means “God,” and the deity is thus revered as the “God of the Kurinji.” Perched on a hill, the temple provides a magnificent panoramic view of the Palani Hills and the distant plains. This combination of divine aura and natural phenomenon makes it a deeply special place for devotees and nature lovers alike.

A calm, reflective Berijam Lake surrounded by dense shola forests, accessible by permit.

Berijam Lake

Nestled deep within a protected reserve forest, Berijam Lake is a pristine and tranquil body of water known for its crystal-clear clarity. Access to this serene lake is restricted and requires a prior forest department permit, preserving its untouched beauty. 

The lake is a vital reservoir and is surrounded by rich biodiversity, including rare flora and fauna. Its calm, mirror-like surface perfectly reflects the surrounding shola forests, creating a picture-perfect landscape. A visit to Berijam offers a truly peaceful retreat into the heart of nature, far from the town’s crowds.

The flat, protruding Dolphin's Nose rock overlooks a deep, green valley.

Dolphin's Nose

A flat rock projection offering an exhilarating trek and spectacular valley views.

A distant view of the tall, thin stream of Thalaiyar Falls, one of India's highest waterfalls.

Thalaiyar Falls

One of India’s tallest waterfalls, appearing as a long thin tail from a distance.

The narrow, deep crevices and rock formations between the boulders of Guna Caves.

Guna Caves

 Intriguing deep caves and crevices formed between three gigantic rock boulders.

A panoramic view of the terraced garlic farms and traditional huts in Poombarai Village.

Poombarai Village

A picturesque village famous for its stunning terraced garlic farm landscapes.

The dark, narrow entrance to the ancient Kukal Cave, surrounded by forest.

Kukal Cave

Kukal Cave is an ancient and historical cave shrouded in mystery and local legend. It is believed to have been used by the indigenous Palaiyar tribal people centuries ago, serving as a dwelling and shelter. Reaching the cave involves a moderate trek through lush, scenic pathways, adding a sense of adventure to the visit. 

The cave’s interior, with its unique rock formations, offers a glimpse into the region’s deep historical past. It stands as a silent testament to the area’s early inhabitants and their connection to these hills.

A small, charming waterfall known as Vattakanal Falls, flowing over mossy rocks.

Vattakanal Falls

A charming lesser-known waterfall, a favorite spot for a refreshing dip.

A straight path leading through a tall, dense pine forest with sunlight filtering through the trees.

Pine Forest

A visually stunning man-made forest providing a magical setting for walks.

A layered landscape of ancient agricultural terraces carved into the hillside in Kavunji.

Kavunji Terraces

A village known for its beautiful ancient agricultural terrace landscapes.

A shepherd herding sheep across the vast green meadows of Mannavanur Farm with a lake in the background.

Mannavanur Lake & Farm

Mannavanur is a beautiful, offbeat destination characterized by its serene lake and vast government sheep farm set amidst rolling green meadows. The landscape, often compared to New Zealand’s pastures, is ideal for a peaceful day of picnicking and relaxation.

Visitors can watch shepherds herding their flocks across the expansive grasslands, creating a pastoral and picturesque scene. The calm lake, set against the backdrop of lush hills, is perfect for quiet contemplation and photography. It offers a unique and refreshing escape into the tranquil countryside.

A view of the challenging trekking trail leading up to the summit of Perumal Peak.

Perumal Peak

As the highest peak in the Kodaikanal region, Perumal Peak presents a challenging and rewarding trek for experienced hiking enthusiasts. The trail to the summit takes you through breathtaking landscapes of shola grasslands and dense forests, rich with endemic wildlife.

Reaching the top is an achievement that offers unparalleled, breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding Western Ghats. The trek is typically undertaken as a two-day expedition with an overnight camping stop. Standing on its summit provides a profound sense of accomplishment and a connection with pristine nature.

Explore Kodaikanal

Panoramic view of Kodaikanal Lake surrounded by lush green hills with boating facilities visible.

Kodaikanal Travel Blogs

  • Kodaikanal Travel Guide
  • Places to visit in Kodaikanal
  • Places to visit nearby Kodaikanal
  • A Complete Kodaikanal Itinerary for 3 Days

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