A Nature One-Day Trip in Kodaikanal

  1. 8:00 AM: Coaker's Walk
    Located in the heart of the city, this scenic walk offers beautiful views of the valley and surrounding mountains. The walk takes about 30 minutes to an hour, and there are several viewpoints along the way. Don't miss the Telescope House, where you can see the entire valley through a telescope.
    Est. time from previous location: 0 minutes
    Est. distance from previous location: 0 km
  2. 10:00 AM: Bear Shola Falls
    This beautiful waterfall is located in the reserve forest area and surrounded by lush green trees and rocks. The water flows all year round and is best visited during the monsoon season. The waterfall is a 1.5 km trek down a winding forest road, with steep stairs in some places, so wear comfortable shoes.
    Est. time from previous location: 2 hours
    Est. distance from previous location: 2 km
  3. 12:00 PM: Lunch at Hilltop Inn Restaurant
    Located in the heart of Kodaikanal, Hilltop Inn Restaurant offers a wide range of delicious South Indian and Continental food. The restaurant is known for its stunning views of the rolling hills, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
    Est. time from previous location: 2 hours
    Est. distance from previous location: 4 km
  4. 1:00 PM: Pine Forest
    A serene and scenic forest with tall pine trees and a thick canopy of green leaves. You can take a stroll, relax, and have a picnic amid this beautiful setting. There are several shops near the forest where you can buy, souvenirs, and snacks.
    Est. time from previous location: 1 hour
    Est. distance from previous location: 3.5 km
  5. 3:00 PM: Guna Caves
    A famous tourist spot located in the Pillar Rocks area with lofty rocks and hidden chambers. Legend has it that these caves were once used by the great Indian freedom fighter, Veerapandiya Kattabomman, to hide from the British. The caves are deep, so carry a torch or flashlight with you.
    Est. time from previous location: 2 hours
    Est. distance from previous location: 4.5 km
  6. 5:00 PM: Kodai Lake
    Kodaikanal's star attraction is a man-made lake located in a picturesque setting. Here you can boat or take a stroll around the lake. There are several stores and shops nearby where you can buy souvenirs and snacks.
    Est. time from previous location: 2 hours
    Est. distance from previous location: 4 km

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Coaker's Walk (1 hour, free)
  • Bear Shola Falls (2 hours, free)
  • Lunch at Hilltop Inn Restaurant (1 hour, INR 600)
  • Pine Forest (1 hour, free)
  • Guna Caves (2 hours, INR 30 for entry)
  • Kodai Lake (2 hours, INR 70 for boat ride)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 700

Useful Tips

If you have more time, check out the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, Berijam Lake, or Kurinji Andavar Temple. However, if you have less time, you can skip Pine Forest. To avoid the crowds, visit the attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon, except for Kodai Lake, which is usually less crowded from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM or after 4:00 PM. Finally, wear comfortable shoes and carry sunscreen and water for a comfortable trip.

0