Kodaikanal Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Kodaikanal showing water sports and a lake or waterhole as well as a small group of people
Kodaikanal showing a sunset and landscape views
Kodaikanal showing tranquil scenes, landscape views and a sunset
Kodaikanal
Kurinji Temple which includes markets

Head into the hills of the Dindigul district to walk through forests, explore botanical gardens and enjoy dramatic views.

Kodaikanal was founded in the first half of the 19th century to provide missionaries with a sanctuary from the heat and tropical diseases that plagued the plains below. Since that time it has evolved into a major tourist destination.

There are many ways to experience Kodaikanal’s scenic charms. Rent a rowboat or peddle boat for a trip across the star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake. Alternatively, take the ferry across the 60-acre (24-hectare) man-made body of water. When you are back on dry land, cycle or walk along the path that encircles the lake.

Stroll through several acres of flowers at Bryant Park. This extensive botanical garden is home to hundreds of varieties of trees, flowers and shrubs. Don't miss the eucalyptus tree that dates back to 1857. During the summer, attend one of the park’s flower shows or horticultural exhibitions.

Hike through dense forests and valleys and pass by waterfalls and spectacular rock formations. Take in the views from Dolphin's Nose, a large flat rock that juts out over a chasm that is 6,600 feet (2,011 metres) deep. Enjoy a picnic in the shadow of Pillar Rocks, three massive vertical rock columns.

Learn more about the Kodaikanal’s environment at the Shembaganur Museum of Natural History. There are hundreds of stuffed birds, mammals and reptiles on display as well as a dried collection of insects and living orchid species.

Along with its scenic and natural attractions, the town has a scientific institute known for its research of the sun. At the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory in the Palni Hills, tour the astronomy museum that concentrates on the work of the observatory's astronomers.

The closest international airport is in Madurai, 71 miles (114 kilometres) away and the nearest train station is Kodai Road, at a distance of 50 miles (80 kilometres). Rent a car for the freedom to explore Kodaikanal's mountainous scenery. The roads leading into the town offer beautiful views of the Ghats mountain ranges.

Where to stay in Kodaikanal

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Vattakanal

When in Vattakanal, you can plan a visit to Kodaikanal Golf Club and Kodaikanal Lake, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Vattakanal
Mist Cottage & Home Stay

Mist Cottage & Home Stay

2.5 out of 5
2nd Cross Street MM St Building Society, Kodaikanal, TN
The price is AU$14 per night from 26 Oct to 27 Oct
AU$14
26 Oct - 27 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this villa in Kodaikanal. Enjoy free parking and patios. Popular attractions Kodaikanal Lake and Silver Cascade Falls are located nearby.
Mist Cottage & Home Stay
The Tamara Kodai

The Tamara Kodai

5 out of 5
#22, La Providence, St. Mary’s Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
The price is AU$288 per night from 23 Nov to 24 Nov
AU$288
23 Nov - 24 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Kodaikanal. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Kodaikanal Lake and Bryant Park are ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (19 reviews)
Good

Reviewed on 7 Aug 2025

The Tamara Kodai
The Carlton

The Carlton

5 out of 5
Lake Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Fully refundable
The price is AU$310 per night from 15 Nov to 16 Nov
AU$310
15 Nov - 16 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury resort in Kodaikanal. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Kodaikanal Lake and Coaker's Walk are ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (45 reviews)
overall good experience

Reviewed on 17 July 2025

The Carlton
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Mist Cottage & Home Stay

Mist Cottage & Home Stay

2.5 out of 5
2nd Cross Street MM St Building Society, Kodaikanal, TN
Stay at this villa in Kodaikanal. Enjoy free parking and patios. Popular attractions Kodaikanal Lake and Silver Cascade Falls are located nearby.
Mist Cottage & Home Stay
Le Hayat 4Bhk Pvt-Villa Kodaikanal TN

Le Hayat 4Bhk Pvt-Villa Kodaikanal TN

3.5 out of 5
MM street, Kodaikanal, TN
Stay at this 3.5-star villa in Kodaikanal. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Kodaikanal Lake and Silver Cascade Falls are ...
Le Hayat 4Bhk Pvt-Villa Kodaikanal TN
Nashika Homestay

Nashika Homestay

3 out of 5
Old Upper Lake Rd, Kodaikanal, TN
Stay at this 3-star villa in Kodaikanal. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Kodaikanal Lake and Bryant Park are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
Had a great view. Caretaker stays in the outhouse and cooks great meals for a reasonable price. Close to lake and hiking trails.

Reviewed on 2 June 2025

Nashika Homestay
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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