Kodaikanal Travel Blog: Exploring the Beauty of Hill Station

How to Reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore?

1.By Road: The most convenient and popular way to reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore is by road. The distance between the two cities is approximately 465 kilometers, and the journey takes around 8-9 hours depending on the traffic and route.

You can either drive your own vehicle or hire a taxi. The route generally followed is Bangalore – Hosur – Krishnagiri – Dharmapuri – Salem – Namakkal – Karur – Dindigul – Kodaikanal. Ensure you have a map or GPS navigation to guide you along the way.

By Bus: There are several private and government-operated buses available from Bangalore to Kodaikanal. These buses operate on a regular basis and offer varying services such as air-conditioned, sleeper, and semi-sleeper buses.You can check with the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) or private bus operators for schedules, fares, and availability. Online ticket booking platforms can also be used for convenience.

2.By Train: Kodaikanal does not have its own railway station, so you cannot reach there directly by train. However, you can take a train from Bangalore to the nearest railway station, which is Kodaikanal Road Station (KQN) or Dindigul Junction (DG). These stations are well-connected to Bangalore via trains.

From Kodaikanal Road Station or Dindigul Junction, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kodaikanal. The road journey from these stations to Kodaikanal takes approximately 2-3 hours.

3.By Air: Kodaikanal does not have an airport, and the nearest airport is Madurai Airport (IXM), located around 120 kilometers away from Kodaikanal. Several domestic airlines operate regular flights from Bangalore to Madurai. From Madurai Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kodaikanal. The journey usually takes around 3-4 hours.

Things to Do in Kodaikanal:

1. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Kodaikanal Lake 
2. Indulge in adventurous activities like cycling, horse riding, and camping.
3. Treat your taste buds with local delicacies, including homemade chocolates and freshly brewed coffee.
4. Visit Manavannur lake and nearby Rabbit farm
5. Explore the mesmerizing flora at the Kodaikanal Botanical Garden.
6. Visit the Shembaganur Museum
7. Take a refreshing walk through the pine forests and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.

1. The Enchanting Beauty of Kodai Lake: Our adventure begins with the heart of Kodaikanal, the mesmerizing Kodai Lake. Encircled by verdant hills, this man-made lake provides a perfect spot for boating and leisurely strolls along its pristine shores. The scenic beauty of the lake is enhanced by the surrounding landscapes and the charming rowboats dotting its surface. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the lake’s serene beauty during the misty mornings or enchanting sunsets.

2.Exploring the Lush Greenery of Coaker’s Walk: We venture to Coaker’s Walk, a picturesque pathway offering breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below. As you meander along the paved trail, surrounded by misty clouds and a dense cover of trees, you’ll encounter several viewpoints that provide stunning vistas of the undulating hills and the distant plains. Coaker’s Walk is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts alike.

3.Trekking Amidst Nature’s Abundance at Pillar Rocks: For those seeking an adrenaline rush and a close encounter with nature, Pillar Rocks is the ideal destination. These towering granite cliffs, standing at an impressive height of approximately 400 feet, create a majestic sight. Embark on a trek through the verdant forests, and you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the pillar-like rock formations against a backdrop of lush greenery and cascading waterfalls.

4. Serenity at its Best: Bryant Park and Silent Valley View: To experience tranquility and witness an impressive assortment of flora, head to Bryant Park. This meticulously maintained botanical garden boasts a wide variety of flowers, hybrids, and horticultural exhibits. Take a leisurely stroll along the garden’s pathways, inhale the fragrant aromas, and capture the vibrant colors of nature. Adjacent to Bryant Park, Silent Valley View offers a peaceful vantage point to soak in the breathtaking vistas of the undulating hills and the valley below.

5. Mesmerizing Cascades: Silver Cascade and Bear Shola Falls: No trip to Kodaikanal is complete without marveling at its cascading waterfalls. Silver Cascade, located on the outskirts of the hill station, is a splendid waterfall that gushes down from a height of around 180 feet. Its pristine beauty and the surrounding greenery make it an idyllic spot for photography and enjoying a picnic. Another gem, Bear Shola Falls, is a tranquil oasis hidden within a reserved forest. The waterfall, named after the bears that used to frequent the area, offers a serene ambiance and a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of the town.

6. Manavannur Lake: Manavannur Lake, also known as Manavannur Pallam, is a picturesque freshwater lake located in outskirts of Kodaikanal. The biodiversity of Manavannur Lake is remarkable. It is home to numerous species of migratory birds, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Visitors can rent boats and explore the pristine waters, soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds them

Kodaikanal Itineray:

Day 1: Arrival and Local Sightseeing:

1. Begin your day by visiting Coaker’s Walk, a charming paved pedestrian path offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills.
2. Proceed to Bryant Park, a beautifully manicured garden featuring an extensive collection of exotic flowers, hybrids, and varieties of plants.
3. Next, visit the Kodaikanal Lake, a star-shaped artificial lake, where you can enjoy boating and capture stunning views of the surrounding hills.
4. End your day by exploring the bustling local markets and indulging in some shopping for homemade chocolates, aromatic oils, and souvenirs.

Day 2: Nature’s Delight

1. Embark on a nature trail to the enchanting Pillar Rocks, a set of three giant rock pillars standing tall amidst lush greenery.
2. Visit the serene Berijam Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and panoramic views. You can also indulge in activities like fishing and birdwatching here.
3. Make your way to the mesmerizing Silver Cascade Falls, a picturesque waterfall cascading down from a height of 180 feet.
4. Conclude your day with a visit to the Dolphin’s Nose viewpoint, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and the distant Catherine Falls.

Day 3: Adventure and Exploration:

1. Start your day with a trek to the beautiful Green Valley View (formerly known as Suicide Point), known for its breathtaking vistas and lush landscapes.
2. Proceed to the Bear Shola Falls, a tranquil waterfall nestled amidst dense forests, offering a serene atmosphere and a great spot for picnics.
3. For adventure enthusiasts, a visit to the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is a must. Explore the scientific wonders of the universe and learn about solar research.
4. Visit Manavannur Lake, explore this beautiful lake by boat. Visit nearby Rabbit farm, taste the fresh carrots grown in the village.
5. Wrap up your trip with a visit to the serene and ancient Kurinji Andavar Temple, known for its intricate architecture and religious significance.

Popular Kodaikanal Tour Package From Bangalore:

If you’re a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family, you can join the Muddie Trails Kodaikanal tour package from Bangalore. If you want to travel on your own we also provide you with the customized tour package to Kodaikanal. Let us take care of the details while you immerse yourself in the beauty of this enchanting hill station. Start planning your dream getaway today!

Best Homestays in Kodaikanal:

We have a list of five popular homestays that are well-regarded in July 2023. Please note that availability and ratings may have changed later, so it’s always a good idea to check recent reviews before making a booking. Here are five homestays in Kodaikanal that were highly recommended:

1. Lofty Meadows Villa | Rooms & Caretaker
   Location: Green Valley Viewpoint
   Rating: 4.5/5 (145 ratings)
   Facilities: Kitchenette, living room, bonfire
2. Farm House | Rooms & Caretaker                             
   Location: Near Chettiar Park
   Rating: 4.7/5 (74 ratings)
   Amenities: Kitchenette, caretaker, indoor games
3. Zostel Kodaikanal 
   Location: Near Kodaikanal Lake
   Rating: 4.1/5 (467 ratings)
   Facilities: Kitchenette, living room, barbeque
4. Stay Inn | Rooms & Restaurant
   Location: Naidupuram
   Rating: 4.4/5 (72 ratings)
   Amenities: Living room, caretaker, restaurant
5. Berry’s Kodaikanal Villa | Rooms & Caretaker   
   Location: Kodaikanal
   Rating: 4.2/5 (41 ratings)
   Facilities: Living room, free parking, kids’ meals