3-Day Scenic Journey from Ernakulam to Kodaikanal, Poondi, and Kookal

Day 1: Travel and Explore Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu on May 26, 2025

3:00am

Departure from Ernakulam

Start the early morning drive from Ernakulam to Kodaikanal to maximize daylight and avoid traffic.

INR0, 7h0m

10:00am

Breakfast at Cloud Street

Enjoy a cozy breakfast with freshly brewed coffee and mouth-watering pastries in this popular Kodaikanal cafe, which opens at 8:00am.

INR300, 1h0m

11:00am

Kodaikanal Lake Boating

Enjoy rowing or pedal boating at the serene Kodaikanal Lake, offering stunning views of surrounding hills. Open from 8:00am to 6:00pm.

INR150, 1h30m

12:30pm

Visit Bryant Park

Explore this beautifully maintained botanical garden with vibrant flowers, seasonal blossoms, and manicured lawns. Open 9:00am - 6:00pm.

INR30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Cafe Cariappa

Savor traditional South Indian thali and local Tamil Nadu delicacies in this well-rated eatery near the lake.

INR350, 1h0m

2:30pm

Coaker's Walk

Take a scenic stroll on this 1 km pathway offering panoramic views of the valleys and hills. Open throughout daylight hours.

INR0, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Poondi Viewpoint

Travel 12 km from Kodaikanal town to Poondi Viewpoint to enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hills and plains. Ideal for photography and sunset.

INR0, 2h0m

6:00pm

Check-in at Hotel and Rest

Relax at your hotel after the day's travel and sightseeing. Recommended hotels include The Carlton or Sterling Kodai Lake for comfort.

INR4000, 2h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at The Royal Tibet

Enjoy a cozy dinner of Tibetan and North Indian dishes including momos and thukpa in a charming restaurant near the town center.

INR500, 1h0m

View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Kodaikanal and Kookal excursion

Kodaikanal and Kookal, Tamil Nadu on May 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at your hotel featuring South Indian favorites such as dosa and idli.

INR250, 1h0m

8:30am

Travel to Kookal

Drive approximately 25 km to Kookal, a picturesque village known for its waterfalls and scenic trekking trails.

INR0, 1h0m

9:30am

Kookal Waterfalls Trek

Enjoy a refreshing trek through lush greenery to reach Kookal Waterfalls. The trek offers stunning views and natural sights. Best done in the morning when the weather is cool.

INR0, 2h0m

11:30am

Explore Kookal Village

Walk around this quaint village, interact with locals, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

INR0, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at local eatery in Kodaikanal

Return to Kodaikanal for lunch at Tava Vegetarian, known for South Indian dishes and quick service.

INR300, 1h0m

1:30pm

Pillar Rocks

Visit the iconic Pillar Rocks, three majestic rock formations that tower over the plains below. Open all day and a must-see natural landmark.

INR20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Silver Cascade Falls

Witness the beautiful Silver Cascade Falls located 8 km from the town, cascading down from a height of 55 meters.

INR0, 1h0m

4:00pm

Shopping at Kodaikanal Market

Explore the local market for homemade chocolates, steamed nuts, and handicrafts.

INR0, 1h0m

6:00pm

Relax at hotel

Freshen up and relax at your hotel before dinner.

INR0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pastry Corner

End the day with delicious cakes and coffee at this highly-rated bakery known for its fresh pastries and evening snacks.

INR400, 1h0m

View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Return from Kookal via Scenic Stops

Kodaikanal to Ernakulam, via Kookal, Tamil Nadu on May 28, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a quick and hearty breakfast to prepare for the journey back.

INR250, 0h45m

7:15am

Visit Kurinji Andavar Temple

Before leaving Kodaikanal, visit this hilltop temple renowned for its panoramic views and the unique kurinji flowers that bloom once every 12 years. The temple opens from 6:00am.

INR0, 1h0m