Kodaikanal Lake is a gorgeous man-made lake, famed for its scenic beauty and recreational activities. You can take a boat ride, go horseback riding, or rent a bike around the lake to soak up the picturesque view. Cycling around the tranquil lake is a serene experience, and while you do so, you can shop for souvenirs at the many shops along the way.
Coaker's Walk is a one-kilometre walking plaza along the southern slope and ridge of Kodaikanal. Enjoy a scenic stroll while dappled in sunlight. There are guardrails to keep you from falling off the cliff, and views of the valley, the town of Periyakulam, and the plains are stunning. You can visit the Telescope House and take a closer look at the landscape, making for a great photo-op.
Bryant Park is located at the eastern end of the Kodaikanal Lake and is 20 acres of horticultural splendour. It's an ideal location to immerse oneself in the serenity of nature while admiring the beautiful flowers, bonsai trees, and shrubs on show. Additionally, the park is home to an exotic collection of beautiful plant species and annual flower exhibits that draw crowds from across the country.
Pillar Rocks is a popular tourist spot located in the Kodaikanal Hills. The giant towering boulders known as the Pillar Rocks are an awe-inspiring sight. The view of the valley, mist rolling over the hills, is one of the most breathtaking you'll ever see. You can stroll around, take in the scenery, and relax in the serene surroundings.
The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is a prominent centre for solar activity research in India. Established in 1989, the observatory is located at 7,000 feet above sea level. It is home to numerous telescopes and devices used to study the sun, including the High-Altitude Observatory. You'll be in awe of the cutting-edge technology used for solar monitoring, and astronomers and geophysicists from around the world run the observatory.
If you have extra time, consider spending an hour at the Museum at Shenbaganur or venturing into the lush forests of Vattakanal, located 5 km away from Kodaikanal. Travellers with young children should explore the Kodaikanal Children's Park, which is a treasure trove of fun activities for kids. Visitors with more time might consider renting a car/taxi to visit nearby attractions like Bear Shola Falls, Kurinji Andavar Temple, or Silver Cascade Falls. If you’re tight on time, skip Bryant Park, and if you're not keen on spending time at the Solar Observatory, consider the Thalaiyar Falls instead.