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Places to visit in Kodaikanal
There’s something magical about hill stations – the winding roads, the smell of eucalyptus in the air, and a soft mist enveloping the trees like a warm blanket. But that did not prepare us for the peaceful charm of Kodaikanal. Known as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” this small town located in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu was all we needed for a quick escape from the noise of the city.
Let me tell you about my 3-day trip — the places to visit in Kodaikanal, the mistakes I avoided or made, and a brief detour to a lesser-known gem nearby, Poondi.
Day 1: Arrival and exploration of the heart of Kodaikanal
Early in the morning, we started our journey from Bangalore. The best way to reach Kodaikanal – We chose to take our car. If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can go by train or flight to Madurai, then it’s a 3-4 hour climb. The roads are well-maintained, and the scenery becomes more lush as you ascend.
By noon, we made it to our nice GRT resort. After a quick freshen up, we enjoyed some lunch at the resort and then went straight to Kodaikanal Lake. You can take a paddle boat ride here – it’s a bit touristy, but very soothing. After that, we walked around the lake, and it was likely the most calming thing we did during this trip.
Next, we made our way to Coaker’s Walk to enjoy the sunset view of the mountains. It was quite a long walk, and we thoroughly enjoyed the gorgeous mountain scenery during the sunset.
Must visit places on the first day
Kodaikanal Lake – Boating, take a walk by the lake, and visit nearby shops.
Bryant Park is great, especially for those who like flowers and photography.
Coaker’s Walk – for a glimpse of misty mountain scenery (walk before 5:30 pm)
Day 2: Waterfall and Pine forest
We had an early breakfast and set off to see some of the most beautiful places to visit in Kodaikanal. First, we visited Vattakanal Waterfall, which is conveniently located next to the road and can be easily accessed by walking a short distance. It looks even more stunning when you are close to it. We spent some time here, snapped some pictures, and then continued. Next, we explored Pillar Rocks and Guna Caves, which were a bit intimidating but very captivating.
By the afternoon, we took a break in the pine forests — another one of the must-visit places to visit in Kodaikanal. We stayed here for a while and enjoyed the scenery despite the crowds. It’s a perfect place for great photos.
After that, we returned to our resort and rested after dinner.
Must visit places on the 2nd day
Vattanakal Falls.
Guna Caves (also known as Devil’s Kitchen)
Pine forest
Day 3: A leisurely rest at Poondi
One of the lesser-known places to visit in Kodaikanal is Poondi village. Located around 30–35 km from Kodaikanal, it’s perfect for a half-day trip.
Poondi is serene, pristine, and surrounded by nature and agricultural land. We enjoyed hours at the scenic Poondi Lake, admiring the still water’s reflection and the farmland that once was. There are hardly any people here — just locals, birds, and maybe a few wanderers like us.
On our return, we stopped for lunch at a cafe close to Poondi and took some food for the drive back to Bangalore.
If you enjoy special spots, Poondi is a treasure.
Best time to visit Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal is enjoyable nearly all year, but:
April to June is peak season: clear skies, ideal for sightseeing.
July to September – A period for monsoon enthusiasts. Fog, rain, and lush greenery all around.
October to February: Cool and calm, perfect for those who prefer fewer tourists and misty mornings.
We visited in early December, and even though we experienced some rain, it was stunning – greenery was abundant, crowds were smaller, and the air felt fresh after the rain, with cool nights.
How to get there
Closest Airport/Railway Station: Madurai
From there, you can take a taxi, bus, or drive yourself to Kodaikanal
In Kodaikanal:
You can rent a bike or a car, which are available near the lake
Alternatively, hire a local taxi for a full-day excursion
To Poondi:
The best option is to take a taxi or jeep from Kodaikanal city
The roads are narrow but can be navigated.
Travel tips from my experiences: Always take a light jacket – the weather shifts quickly, even during winter. Avoid overloading your plans; Kodaikanal moves at a slower pace. Don’t miss out on trying the local treats, such as homemade chocolate and eucalyptus oil. On a clear night, enjoy the sunset at Coaker’s Walk.
Final Thoughts
Kodaikanal wasn’t merely a trip; it was a source of relief. From sipping hot tea while gazing at the mountains to getting lost in the foggy forests, each moment felt like life paused. And the little side trip to Poondi brought a sense of peace to the journey. So, if you’re seeking a serene and breathtaking destination that offers a touch of adventure, consider exploring some of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal during a 3-day trip. Believe me, every twist and turn of the road is truly rewarding.