Kodaikanal is one of the finest destinations and hill stations to visit in Tamil Nadu. There is no shortage of amusing attractions, sites, and activities that visitors can indulge in. Kodaikanal offers a perfect melange of “activities to do ” for adventure enthusiasts and attractions to visit for families. This is one of the most frequently visited destinations in Tamil Nadu which is also a center of multiple man-made marvels. The entire hill station is dotted with numerous beautiful viewpoints and the endless charm of mother nature.
While you are planning your next trip to Kodaikanal, There are a few activities you must indulge in. This destination has something for everyone which is why hundreds of people visit here every year. Although the best time to visit Kodaikanal is between June and September, still you will see a lot of visitors here throughout the year. So let’s look at some of the best things to do in Kodaikanal that will elevate your visiting experience.
Let loose yourself and enjoy these activities in Kodaikanal
1. Explore the flora and fauna
Also known as the “princess of hill stations”, Kodaikanal boasts a huge variety of flora and fauna. This picturesque hill station is surrounded by forest that offers a great time for people who love exploring and wish to spend some time in peace. From the forested areas to the orchids, there is so much for people who want to explore the flora or fauna here at this hill station.
Kodaikanal is also known to be home to Kurinji Flower; one that blooms just once every 12 years. On the other hand, it also has species of birds and animals that will be rare to find in other places. So exploring them can be considered as one of the offbeat things to do in Kodaikanal, that will keep you in bliss.
Flora in Kodaikanal | Rhododendrons, Eucalyptus, Magnolia, Kurinji flowers, Pine trees, Rosemary |
Fauna in Kodaikanal | Malabar Whistling Thrush, Oriental Honey Buzzard, Great Tit, Indian Blue Robin, Nilgiri Flycatcher, Indian Gaur, Macaques |
2. Visiting the Waterfalls for a blissful time
When it comes to finding an adventurous activity to do in Kodaikanal, hiking to the waterfalls is one of the best. There are multiple waterfalls at this hill station and you can spend some time rejuvenating your soul. The location of these waterfalls are quite amazing and the surrounding is not just peaceful but soothing as well. It won’t be wrong to say that visiting one or multiple falls is one of the best things to do in Kodaikanal with friends. Here are some of the most popular waterfalls in Kodaikanal to visit.
Silver Cascade Falls | Thalaiyar Falls |
Bear Shola Falls | Glen Falls |
3. Hike the Kumbakarai-Kodaikanal Trail
Hiking is known to be one of the most popular and opted activities to do across the globe. If you are visiting here during the summer season, do not miss out on trekking on this trade. Hiking the Kumbakarai-Kodaikanal Trail is known to be simply awesome. It is also one of the best things to do in Kodaikanal in May. Being a popular hiking Trail you get to go through some of the most scenic landscapes of the Western Ghats.
Needless to say that with the breathtaking views on your route, this outdoor activity will be a memorable adventure for you. But here is some important information that you should keep in mind while walking on this train.
Total distance of the trail | 15 km |
Difficulty Level of the Trail | Moderate to Difficult |
Average time to complete the hike | 5 to 6 hours (It depends on your fitness and speed) |
Starting point of the Trail | Kumbakarai Falls (Approx 70 km from Kodaikanal) |
Highlights of the Trail |
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Important Tips |
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4. Walk up to the lakes
Sometimes people visit Kodaikanal to have a peaceful time with their family or friends. If you too are planning a trip to this hill station for a rejuvenating trip; don’t worry! There are multiple viewpoints, secluded spots, as well as picnic areas in the entire hill station. These places are known for offering a peaceful time to all the visitors and some of them are all around beautiful lakes. You get a chance to do multiple activities around some of these lakes but for those who are looking for some peaceful time, that is in abundance here.
Name of the lakes | Distance from Kodaikanal |
Kodaikanal Lake | Inside the hill station |
Berijam Lake | Approx. 22 km |
Mannavanur Lake | Approx. 35 km |
Perumalai Lake | Approx. 16 km |
Poombarai Lake | Approx. 18 km |
5. Gaze at valley views from lookout points
There are less number of offbeat things to do in Kodaikanal but whatever is offered by this hill station, you will be amused with that. Usually whenever we think about a hill station, irrespective of its location; the first thing that comes to our head is natural beauty and gazing at the valley from multiple viewpoints. Isn’t it? If you wish to treat your eyes and soul with some of the most enchanting views of the Kodaikanal Valley, then we have something for you. Here are some of the most Instagrammable viewpoints of the hill station.
Coaker’s Walk | Dolphin’s Nose |
Pillar Rocks | Green Valley View (Suicide Point) |
Silent Valley View | Telescope Houses |
6. Temple Hopping
For all those pilgrims heading to Kodaikanal, there are a number of Hindu and Jain temples in the hill station. Some of them are quite ancient whereas others are recently built (comparatively) but you will find your peace here. Therefore, while exploring the hill station and its surroundings, you can visit these temples and offer your prayers to the lord.
Kurinji Andavar Temple | Shri Rama Krishna Temple |
Subrahmanya Temple | Jain Temple (Poombarai) |
Mariamman Temple | Sri Ganesha Temple |
7. Go biking around Kodaikanal Lake
Now, visiting Kodaikanal Lake will open up the chances of enjoying multiple activities here. Some of them being things to do in Kodaikanal with family whereas others can be done by those visiting solo or with friends. One of the activities to perform around the lake is to cycle on the trail. Yes, you heard that right! Cycling around Kodaikanal Lake is going to be a wonderful activity that will surely give you a great time. Apart from enjoying the scenic beauty around the lake, you can also have a lot of fun by eating from the stalls around.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best things to do in Kodaikanal, it becomes highly subjective. It depends on multiple factors including the time you have, the people you are traveling with, and the budget. But the activities that we have mentioned above will not only give you a great time at this hill station but also allow you to explore it well. So, while planning or creating your itinerary, make sure to integrate all these fun-loving, heart-throbbing, and rejuvenating things to do in Kodaikanal in 2 days or more.
See also: Things to do in Ooty | Things to do in Munnar