Top Things to Do and See In Kodaikanal To Experience The City's Ultimate Charm

Spanning a whopping 60 acres, this oasis is the epitome of tranquillity, perfect for a dreamy picnic or a love-drenched stroll with your special someone. The real adventure kicks in when you hop aboard one of the many boats available! Whether you're feeling fancy with a rowboat, pedal-pushing with pedal boats, or zooming around on motorboats, there's no shortage of fun to be had. For thrill-seekers, this isn't just any old lake – it's a water sports paradise! Take the plunge into kayaking or canoeing for an adrenaline rush like no other. And don't forget to take some gram-worthy pictures at this goldmine of photography while you're here. 

Timings: 6 AM to 5 PM

Entry Fees: Free

Boating Prices: Starting from INR 70 for a pedal boat.  

Every step in Kodaikanal is a picture-perfect moment waiting to happen! One of the must-do activities here is a leisure walk along the legendary Coaker's Walk. This is a narrow pathway around the edge of a cliff that offers jaw-dropping views of the sprawling valley below. Strap on your walking shoes because this stroll is your gateway to Kodaikanal's breathtaking beauty. The walkway also has an observatory for you to imbibe the scenic beauty of this spot even more. Don't forget to pack your camera, you wouldn't want to miss the chance to snap some Insta-worthy shots! 

Timings: 6 AM to 7 PM

Entry Fees: INR 10 per person and INR 20 for the observatory

If you're on the lookout for a slice of serenity look no further than Berijam Lake. Tucked away amidst dense forests, this shimmering oasis is like something out of a fairytale. Picture perfect views? Check! Crystal-clear waters? Double check! And fishing fanatics, you're in for a treat with trout and salmon just waiting to be hooked! The journey to this hidden gem is an adventure in itself with a scenic drive through winding roads, lush forests and jaw-dropping hill views. Once you've got to the lake, let the peaceful vibes wash over you as you take a stroll or simply kick back by the water's edge. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Strap on those hiking boots and dive into the trekking trails or keep your binoculars handy for some birdwatching!

Timings: 9 AM to 3 PM

Entry Fees: Free

Towering rock formations reaching for the skies, standing proud at a staggering height of over 400 feet! These structures aren't called "Pillar Rocks" for nothing – they're like nature's own skyscrapers, ready to awe and inspire. Lace-up those hiking boots and hit the trails because these rocks aren't just for show, they must be explored! You'll want to have your camera ready to capture those epic views from the top. So, whether you're a seasoned hiker or just a nature lover looking for some awe-inspiring sights, the Pillar Rocks is a must-visit when you're at Kodai.

Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM

Entry Fees: INR 5 per person

If you've got a soft spot for breathtaking views, then Dolphin's Nose is your ultimate place! A scenic trek through lush forests, steep climbs, and narrow ridges, all leading to the pièce de résistance the Dolphin's Nose itself. This flat, protruding rock formation is more than just a quirky name. Panoramic views of valleys, mountains, and everything in between. Every step of this 3 to 4 hour trek is worth it when you're surrounded by such stunning scenery. We'd recommend exploring Dolphin's Nose during the monsoon season when the hills are vibrantly green and the waterfalls are in their prime state.

Timings: 6 AM to 5 PM

Entry Fees: Free

Calling all  adventure enthusiasts! If you're craving an adrenaline-pumping experience in Kodaikanal, look no further than the legendary Guna Caves, also known as the Devil’s Kitchen. Nestled near the Pillar Rocks, these caves have an intriguing vibe and captivating geological formations. You get to explore narrow passages, deep chambers, and mysterious rock formations, including stalagmites and stalactites. The caves' slippery terrains and narrow passages demand caution, while low ceilings pose a potential hazard for head injuries, so beware. With limited lighting in the depths, navigating through the complex paths requires vigilance. Yet, amidst these challenges lies the allure of discovery and the thrill of exploration.

Timings: 9 AM to 4:30 PM

Entry Fees: INR 5 per person

Kodaikanal is famed for its charming cafes and pastry shops, offering a tasty selection of freshly baked bread, cakes, and pastries accompanied by aromatic coffee. Among the renowned establishments, 'Pastry Corner' holds a special place as a beloved Kodaikanal landmark. Located on Bazaar Road, this bakery has a nostalgic ambience where you can indulge in treats such as cream buns, cinnamon buns, brownies, butterscotch pastries, sandwiches, and some top-notch filter coffee or delicious hot chocolate. Apart from pastries, you can check out the local street food scene. You'll find some delicious snacks like piping hot vadas, bondas, and bajji and It's a great chance to mingle with the locals while enjoying some delicious grub.

Kodaikanal is renowned for its top-notch coffee, as well as its homemade chocolates and high-quality cheeses all organically grown. Make sure to swing by ‘The Chocolate Factory’ in Kodaikanal for a selection of handcrafted chocolates which is also customizable. Grab some cheese from ‘Kodai Cheese’, one of India's oldest cheese-making outlets established in 1972. For local honey, head over to 'Hoopoe on a Hill', a small home-based operation in a nearby village, run by a collective of women who source wild honey gathered by the Adivasi communities of the Palani Hills, offering an array of honey varieties such as jamun, multi-floral, eucalyptus, and the rare Cerana and Dammer.