2-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Kodaikanal in May 2023

  1. Day 1: Coakers Walk
    10 minutes (2.3 kilometers) from Kodaikanal Bus Stand

    Begin your trip by taking a stroll on Coakers Walk, a tranquil pathway offering breathtaking views of Kodaikanal's lush green hills. Take in the stunning scenery while enjoying refreshing drinks and snacks available from local vendors. Coakers Walk has been temporarily closed after heavy rainfall for safety reasons. In the meantime, take a visit to the Kodaikanal Pine Forest, an incredible site situated nearby, offering an excellent spot for a picnic while getting lost in the beauty of nature.

  2. Day 1: Bryant Park
    20 minutes (3.8 kilometers) from Kodaikanal Pine Forest

    After the Pine Forest, head over to the splendid Bryant Park, a botanical garden consisting of an extensive collection of flowers, hybrids, and grafts of garden plants. The park also hosts an annual flower show in May, showcasing a display of varied beautiful flowers such as petunias, cacti, and gorgeous dahlias. Take a peaceful stroll through the well-kept garden trails, learn about various species of flora, and enjoy a delicious lunch available from the food vendors inside the park.

  3. Day 2: Kodai Lake
    5 minutes (900 meters) from Kodaikanal Bus Stand

    Start the second day of your trip by heading to Kodai Lake, an artificial lake created by Sir Vere Henry Levinge that offers a range of fun-filled activities to delight children and adults alike. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride while admiring the beautiful surroundings of hills and trees or satisfy your adrenaline cravings by trying various adventure activities like horse riding or cycling around the lake. There are ample opportunities for shopping, food, and drinks, making it an ideal spot for spending an entire day with your family.

  4. Day 2: Bear Shola Falls
    15 minutes (3.8 kilometers) from Kodai Lake

    Conclude your trip by enjoying a perfect retreat amidst nature at the Bear Shola Falls. This breathtaking waterfall cascades down in two tiers, surrounded by verdant greenery, and offers an excellent spot to enjoy a relaxing bath. Keep in mind that it is not advisable to visit the falls during the monsoon season as the heavy rainfall may cause landslides. Instead, spend your time exploring nearby attractions like the Guna Caves or indulge in some street foods available from local vendors in the area.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Coakers Walk (30 min, free)
  • Kodaikanal Pine Forest (1 hour, free)
  • Bryant Park (2 hours, INR 30 per person, INR 100 for camera)
  • Kodai Lake (4-5 hours, INR 80 per person for boating, INR 300 per hour for horse riding, INR 100 per hour for cycling)
  • Bear Shola Falls (2-3 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 290 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can consider a visit to the Kurinji Andavar Temple, which is famous for its beautiful Kurinji flowers or the Kukkal Caves for exploring magnificent rock formations. If you have less time, consider skipping the Pine Forest or the Bear Shola falls to allow ample time for other attractions. Do not forget to carry comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing for your trip.

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