April 20th, 2018 by Lipika Sharma

Nestled in the lush green folds of the Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is spread across the scenic Western Ghats at an altitude of 7,200 feet.

This hill station offers visitors a unique mix of nature and culture. Its wooded slopes, rolling hills, scenic waterfalls and lakes come together to provide a beautiful setting to enjoy its famous homemade chocolates.

Let the fresh mountain air of this place infuse new life into you as you set out to explore the serene hill station of Kodaikanal.

Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal boasts pleasant weather almost throughout the year. Still, early summers from March to June and year-end months from December to February are considered better for a trip here.

Monsoons from July to August tend to make the slopes slippery giving visitors a tough time travelling around the area.

Places to Visit in Kodaikanal

(i) Star-shaped, the Kodai Lake is centrally located with rich green Palani Hills forming the borders of the lake. The vast area of the lake also offers tourists ample opportunities for boating, horse riding, cycling and angling.

(ii) Located further at a distance of 5.5 kilometres from Kodaikanal Lake, the Green Valley View is a point where one can take in the mesmerising views of the plains, deep valleys and hills.

(iii) Pillar Rocks are another major attraction of the place. Three vertically positioned boulders rise from the bright green valley to reach up to a height of 400 feet touching the clouds. It also constitutes a beautiful mini garden famous for picnics and relaxation.

(iii) 2 kilometres from the Kodaikanal Lake, Bear Shola Falls come to life during monsoons. Cascading from the hilltop amidst the soothing sound of chirping birds is a treat for tourists.

(iv) The lovely path of Coaker’s Walk feels like a walk among the clouds. It is a preferred location for morning and evening walks and to capture beautiful views of the valleys and hills of Kodaikanal.

(v) Berijam Lake is a quaint reservoir in Dindigul district overlooking the surrounding landscape. Encircled by acacia and pine trees, and sparkling blue waters filling up the lake; this view makes for a pristine spot.

(vi) It takes a moderate level 3-kilometre long trek to reach The Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint where you can experience Kodaikanal at its best – plunging valleys, rugged terrain, clear skies, and the splendour of green slopes forming the natural scene. This place is also ideal for photography.

Where to Eat in Kodaikanal

(i) Altaf’s Cafe on the Dolphin’s Nose Road offers delicious Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine.

(ii) Hotel Astoria on Bazaar Road is usually crowded with tourists and locals during lunchtime trying to get a taste of the all-you-can-eat thalis.

(iii) Choose Hilltop Towers on Club Road if you fancy biryanis and seafood.

(iv) Cafe Cloud Street on Poet Tyagaraja Road offers a perfect assortment of Italian, Spanish and Mexican dishes.

Where to Shop in Kodaikanal

(i) It is common to spot backpackers taking their pick of fresh fruits, vegetables, intricate shawls, jewellery, bone and walnut wood items at the famous Anna Salai Market.

(ii) The Potters Shed on PT Road sells a variety of handmade stoneware pottery that is microwavable, dishwasher safe and oven-proof.

(iii) Do not leave Kodaikanal without buying some homemade chocolates and stashes of different teas and coffees from Spices Corner.

Kodaikanal is way beyond a typical hill station. In the scenic backdrop of lush mountains and forest lakes, a trip to this town is a guarantee of a memorable holiday in the hills.

Find Best Hotels In Kodaikanal

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About Lipika Sharma

Fast learner, slow eater with an itch for travel and fashion. Always ready for long drives, offbeat destinations and cake. Often sarcastic, mostly joking. Still learning how to be a morning person.