In the morning, depart from Chennai and make your way to Kodaikanal. Take a scenic drive through the hills, enjoying the lush greenery and stunning views along the way. In the afternoon, arrive in Kodaikanal and check into your hotel. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and sampling delicious South Indian cuisine.
Estimated Cost: Varies
Estimated Time Spent: Full day
Restaurants
Head to Murugan Idli Shop for a traditional South Indian breakfast experience. Enjoy fluffy idlis and crispy dosas with a variety of chutneys. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Alif Restaurant for delicious Biryani and other North Indian dishes. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and friendly service. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Cloud Street for a rooftop dinner with a stunning view of the city. Indulge in their signature dishes like Butter Chicken and Pasta with a refreshing drink. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Thursday, September 7: Kodaikanal
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Kodaikanal Lake. Take a boat ride on the serene lake and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Coaker's Walk and take a leisurely stroll along the path offering panoramic views of the valley. As the evening approaches, head to the Bryant Park and relax amidst the colorful flowers and well-manicured lawns.
Kodaikanal Lake: Entrance fee - INR 20, Boat ride - INR 60, Estimated Time Spent: Half day
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cloud Street, a cozy restaurant known for its fluffy pancakes and creamy coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Cafe Cariappa, a charming cafe offering a variety of sandwiches, salads, and wraps. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and indulge in their mouthwatering grilled chicken sandwich. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
In the evening, visit Hilltop Biryani House for a flavorful dinner. Savor their aromatic biryani, cooked with a blend of spices and tender meat. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Friday, September 8: Poombarai and Valparai
Embark on a day trip to Poombarai, a scenic village nestled amidst the hills. Explore the village and its breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Valparai, a peaceful hill station known for its tea plantations. Visit the Aliyar Dam and enjoy the tranquil ambiance. Spend the evening at leisure, taking in the natural beauty of Valparai.
Poombarai: Estimated Cost: Varies, Estimated Time Spent: Half day
Valparai: Estimated Cost: Varies, Estimated Time Spent: Half day
Aliyar Dam: Free entry, Estimated Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Hotel Maruti
A popular breakfast spot in Valparai, Hotel Maruti offers a wide range of South Indian dishes including dosas, idlis, vadas, and filter coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about 100 INR per person.
Lunch: Hotel Saravana Grand
Hotel Saravana Grand is a multi-cuisine restaurant located in Valparai. They serve delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes including biryanis, curries, and Chinese cuisine. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
Dinner: Hotel Green Hill
Hotel Green Hill is a cozy restaurant in Valparai known for its mouthwatering Indian and Chinese dishes. They also have a nice selection of desserts. The average cost for a meal here is about 250 INR per person.
Saturday, September 9: Kodaikanal
Explore the mystical Silver Cascade Falls, located on the outskirts of Kodaikanal. Admire the cascading waters and enjoy the serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the Pillar Rocks, a set of three giant rock formations offering breathtaking views of the valley. As the day comes to an end, take a peaceful walk through the serene surroundings of the Bear Shola Falls.
Silver Cascade Falls: Free entry, Estimated Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Bear Shola Falls: Free entry, Estimated Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Muncheez Breakfast Corner: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Muncheez, offering a range of delicious options like pancakes, omelettes, and fresh fruit bowls. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
The Terrace: Indulge in a delicious lunch at The Terrace, known for its panoramic views and mouthwatering Indian and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Cloud Street: Head to Cloud Street for a memorable dinner experience, with a menu featuring an array of delectable Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, September 10: Athirapally
Embark on a scenic drive from Kodaikanal to Athirapally, located in Kerala. Visit the majestic Athirapally Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in India. Take in the breathtaking views and enjoy the misty surroundings. Spend the day exploring the nearby Vazhachal Falls and the pristine Sholayar Forests. In the evening, return to Kodaikanal.
Athirapally Falls: Entrance fee - INR 40, Estimated Time Spent: Half day
Vazhachal Falls: Free entry, Estimated Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Sholayar Forests: Free entry, Estimated Time Spent: Varies
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day. Enjoy a wide variety of delicious breakfast options like sandwiches, muffins, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Saravana Bhavan. Indulge in authentic South Indian vegetarian dishes like dosas, idlis, and thalis. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Cloud Street. This rooftop restaurant offers a mesmerizing view of the city along with a delicious menu including continental and Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday, September 11: Kodaikanal
On your last full day in Kodaikanal, visit the serene Berijam Lake. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Pine Forest, known for its tall pine trees and scenic trails. As the evening approaches, head to the Green Valley Viewpoint and witness the stunning panoramic views of the valley.
Berijam Lake: Entrance fee - INR 20, Boat ride - INR 500, Estimated Time Spent: Half day
Pine Forest: Entrance fee - INR 10, Estimated Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Green Valley Viewpoint: Entrance fee - INR 10, Estimated Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious south Indian breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop. Known for their fluffy idlis and crispy dosas, this popular restaurant offers a wide variety of vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Astoria Veg Restaurant for a scrumptious thali meal. Enjoy a variety of traditional Tamil Nadu dishes, including rice, sambar, rasam, and several curries. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Indulge in a hearty dinner at Cloud Street Restaurant. With its cozy ambiance and mouthwatering continental cuisine, this restaurant is a perfect spot to end your day in Kodaikanal. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, September 12: Departure
On your last day, check out from your hotel and bid farewell to Kodaikanal. Depart for your onward journey, taking with you beautiful memories of your time in this picturesque hill station.
Estimated Cost: Varies
Estimated Time Spent: Half day
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious and filling breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop. Indulge in flavorful South Indian delicacies like fluffy idlis and crispy dosas. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Tangerine. Enjoy a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at The Royal Afghan. Feast on succulent kebabs and aromatic biryanis in a regal setting. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Kodaikanal, don't miss the opportunity to visit the lesser-known Guna Caves. These ancient caves offer an intriguing experience and are believed to have been formed by a meteorite. Another hidden gem is the Kodai Chocolate Factory, where you can indulge in delicious handmade chocolates. Locals also love to spend time at the serene Bear Shola Falls, away from the tourist crowds, to enjoy the peaceful ambiance and natural beauty.