Budget-Friendly 3-Day Kodaikanal Itinerary from Chennai

Day 1: Lake and Park Exploration

Kodaikanal, India on August 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Astoria Veg Restaurant

Enjoy a budget-friendly South Indian breakfast with clean and quick service to start your day off right.
INR150 approx., 1h

9:30am

Kodaikanal Lake

Kodaikanal’s star-shaped lake is perfect for a scenic boat ride or a relaxing walk around the perimeter, giving you great photo opportunities.
Boat ride INR100 per person, 2h

11:30am

Bryant Park

A beautiful botanical garden near the lake featuring vibrant flowers, medicinal plants, and a greenhouse; entrance is quite affordable.
INR20 per person, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Ten Degrees

Offering budget-friendly South Indian and continental dishes with mountain views, perfect for a relaxed midday meal.
INR300 approx., 1h

2:30pm

Silver Cascade Falls

A beautiful waterfall located on the way from Kodaikanal to Madurai; free to visit and a great quick stop for nature lovers.
Free, 0.5h

4:00pm

Coaker’s Walk

A scenic paved pedestrian path offering stunning views of the valley and hills ideal for an evening stroll.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Curry Chatty

A budget-friendly restaurant serving authentic Tamil Nadu meals, known for its generous portions and great taste.
INR250 approx., 1.5h

Day 2: Hill Viewpoints and Natural Beauty

Kodaikanal, India on August 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Royal Tibet Family Restaurant

Try budget-friendly Tibetan and North Indian breakfast options to fuel your day of sightseeing.
INR200 approx., 1h

9:30am

Pillar Rocks

Three giant rock pillars rising 400 feet high, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities; minimal entry fee applies.
INR30 per person, 1h

11:00am

Green Valley View (Suicide Point)

Offers panoramic views of the plains and Vaigai Dam, great for nature photography; free entry.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Café Cariappa

A cozy café offering budget-friendly Indian and continental dishes with warm ambiance.
INR300 approx., 1h

2:00pm

Bear Shola Falls

A serene waterfall located close to the city, best visited during or after the rains for full flow; free to visit.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Pine Forest

A famous forest of tall pine trees popular for photography and quiet strolls; no entry fee.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at The Royal Tibet Restaurant

Try delicious Tibetan dishes in another well-reviewed budget-friendly local spot.
INR250 approx., 1.5h

Day 3: Adventure and Local Markets

Kodaikanal, India on August 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Sol

Enjoy budget-friendly breakfast items including sandwiches and coffee before your day starts.
INR200 approx., 1h

9:30am

Guna Caves (Lockhart’s Folly)

A must-visit adventurous spot with eerie rock formations; note entrance around INR20 per person though group may require permission or guide.
INR20 per person, 1.5h

11:30am

Silent Valley View

A peaceful viewpoint with panoramic views of the valley and hills; open and free to visit.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pastry Corner

Known for budget-friendly baked goods and sandwiches, great for a lighter meal.
INR200 approx., 1h

2:30pm

Shopping at Kodaikanal Market

Explore local shops for souvenirs like homemade chocolates, locally grown spices, and handicrafts; ideal for last-minute shopping.
Free to enter, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at The Tredis Tea Room

Enjoy traditional Tamil meals and teas in a budget-friendly family-owned restaurant to end your trip on a tasty note.
INR250 approx., 1.5h