Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Ten Degrees, a cozy and elegant European-style bakery and cafe in the heart of Kodaikanal. Indulge in their freshly baked goods like croissants, danishes, and muffins, or try their famous eggs Benedict with homemade hollandaise sauce. Their coffee, lattes, and cold brews are also highly recommended. The beautiful interiors and relaxing ambience make it a perfect spot to start your day.
Head over to Kodai Chocolate Factory for a sweet experience of their chocolate-making process, from cocoa bean to the final product. You can watch the chocolatiers at work and learn about the history and science of chocolate-making. Finish the tour with a chocolate tasting of their signature truffles, bars, and fudges. Don't forget to buy some of their handcrafted chocolates to take back home. This is a must-visit destination for all chocolate lovers in Kodaikanal.
For a hearty lunch, head to Potluck Cafe, a cozy spot that serves a variety of Indian and continental dishes. You can try their thali, sandwiches, pastas, and salads, all made with fresh ingredients and homemade sauces. Their desserts like carrot cake and brownies are also popular among the locals. The friendly staff and cozy decor make it a great place to relax and refuel for the rest of your day.
Silent Valley Viewpoint is a breathtaking location that offers panoramic views of the green valleys and misty mountains of Kodaikanal. The viewpoint is surrounded by lush forests and is easily accessible by car or bike. Take a leisurely walk around, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and soak in the beauty of nature. This location is perfect for casual travelers wanting to relax and appreciate the views.
Round off your day with a delicious dinner at Hilltop Towers, an award-winning rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the valley. They serve a range of continental, Chinese, Indian, and South Indian dishes. Try their signature dishes like Butter Chicken and Cheesy Garlic Bread. Their cocktails and mocktails are also highly recommended. The cozy ambiance and live music make it an unforgettable dining experience in Kodaikanal.
Start your second day in Kodaikanal with a delicious breakfast at Cloud Street, a trendy cafe that serves a range of freshly baked goods, sandwiches, omelets, and pancakes. The cafe has a rustic and bohemian vibe and is perfect for Instagram-worthy pictures. Try their Gooey Chocolate Bomb, a waffle stuffed with Nutella and chocolate chips, or their classic Eggs & Toast. The coffee here is also a must-try.
Pine Forest is a famous filming location in Kodaikanal, known for its tall pine trees, serene ambiance, and picturesque trails. You can take a leisurely walk, go on a nature hike, or have a picnic here. The forest is also famous for its eucalyptus trees that radiate a minty aroma. This is an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventurists alike.
For a satisfying vegetarian lunch, head to Tava, a restaurant that specializes in North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese dishes. Their thali, biryani, dosas, and naans are all worth trying. Their classic Indian kulfi is the perfect dessert to cool off on a hot day. The staff here are friendly and attentive, making it a pleasant dining experience in Kodaikanal.
Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is an astronomical observatory that researches solar physics, solar astronomy, and atmospheric sciences. You can visit the observatory and learn about the different telescopes and instruments they use for their research. The observatory also has several historical artifacts and photographs from the past century. If you're lucky, you may even get a glimpse of the sun's surface through their specialized telescopes.
End your trip with a scrumptious dinner at Tibetan Brothers, a restaurant that serves authentic Tibetan and Chinese cuisine. Their momos, thukpa, noodles, and stir-fries are all highly recommended. The staff are friendly and the interiors are simple and cozy. Try their sweet and salty butter tea for a unique experience. This is a great place to have a casual dinner before you head back home.
If you have more time, you can explore other popular destinations in Kodaikanal like Coaker's Walk, Bryant Park, and Pillar Rocks. You can also try out some of the street food vendors near the Kodaikanal Lake. If you have less time, you can skip the Kodai Chocolate Factory tour or the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory. It's always a good idea to check the opening and closing times of each location before you head there.