Kodaikanal in Three Days: What I Did and What I Learned
Here’s my journey, what I did, and the lessons I learned along the way.
Kodaikanal is one of those places that quietly draws you in. Nestled in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, it’s a hill station that balances natural beauty, colonial charm, and modern comforts effortlessly. When I planned my 3-day trip to Kodaikanal, I didn’t want to rush; I wanted to experience it fully. From misty mornings by the lake to quiet forest walks and local cuisine, every moment taught me something about the magic of the hills. Here’s my journey, what I did, and the lessons I learned along the way.
Day 1: Settling In and Exploring Kodaikanal Lake
I arrived in Kodaikanal in the morning, and the first thing I noticed was the crisp, cool air—a refreshing change from the city. The best time to visit Kodaikanal is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and clear skies make every viewpoint spectacular.
After checking into a cozy homestay near the town centre, I decided to start slow. My first stop was Kodaikanal Lake, a star-shaped man-made lake that’s perfect for a relaxed introduction to the town. Walking along the 5 km path around the lake, I watched locals and tourists pedal boats and swan boats glide over calm waters. I even rented a small rowboat for a half-hour drift—a simple yet peaceful way to begin my adventure.
Nearby, there’s a small park and an open-air market where you can try local snacks and pick up souvenirs like homemade chocolates and aromatic oils. Spending the afternoon at the lake taught me an important lesson: Kodaikanal isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about soaking in the atmosphere and letting time slow down.
Day 2: Waterfalls, Pine Forests, and the View from Coaker’s Walk
Day two started early with a hearty breakfast at my homestay. Energised, I set out to explore Coaker’s Walk, a narrow path along the ridge of the hills that offers panoramic views of valleys, plains, and forests. Early morning is the perfect time for this walk—the mist adds a dreamy quality to the scenery, and the few other walkers create a sense of quiet companionship with nature.
Next, I visited Bear Shola Falls, a small but serene waterfall tucked into the forest. It’s not about the scale here; it’s about the experience of walking through pine forests, hearing birds, and feeling the damp earth beneath your feet. Spending time here reminded me to pause and enjoy the little moments, like the scent of wet pine needles or the sound of trickling water.
In the afternoon, I explored the Pine Forests just outside the town. The tall, straight pines create a magical canopy, ideal for photography and reflective walks. As I wandered through the soft needle-carpeted forest floor, I realized why Kodaikanal has inspired artists and writers for decades—it has a quiet, meditative energy that’s hard to resist.
Day 3: Pillars of History and Local Flavors
On the last day, I decided to delve into both nature and culture. My first stop was the Bryant Park, right next to the lake. The neatly landscaped gardens, colourful flower beds, and wide variety of plant species make it a horticulturist’s dream. It’s also an excellent spot for morning tea and photography. Visiting the park gave me a chance to see how locals care for their town’s beauty, and it reminded me to appreciate small acts of care in any place I visit.
Later, I explored the Coakers Walk Extension to Suicide Point and Dolphin’s Nose. Both are viewpoints that offer sweeping views of the plains below. While the names may sound ominous, the experience is uplifting. Standing at the edge, the breeze, the views, and the open sky make you feel small in the best way possible.
By late afternoon, I explored local cafes in the town and tried Kodaikanal’s homemade chocolates and steaming cups of coffee. I also took time to stroll through the market streets, picking up souvenirs like aromatic oils and locally crafted items. These small, immersive experiences reminded me that a place isn’t only defined by landmarks but also by its daily life and flavours.
How to Reach Kodaikanal
Getting to Kodaikanal is easier than it seems, though there’s no direct railway or airport in the town itself.
By road: Driving from Bangalore takes around 8–9 hours, while from Madurai or Coimbatore it’s about 3–4 hours. The ghat roads offer scenic curves but can be narrow in places, so drive carefully.
By air: The nearest airport is Madurai (120 km), from where taxis and buses can take you to Kodaikanal.
By train: Kodai doesn’t have a railway station, but the nearest stations are at Dindigul or Madurai, followed by a road journey.
Hiring a cab for local sightseeing is often more convenient than public buses, especially if you want to explore spots like Pillar Rocks, Bear Shola, or Pine Forests without rushing.
Travel Tips, Safety, and Budgeting
Kodaikanal is generally safe for solo travellers, couples, and families. However, a few tips can make your trip smoother:
Carry light woollens—even in summer, mornings and evenings can be chilly.
Wear comfortable shoes for forest walks and trails.
Respect local wildlife; don’t litter and avoid feeding animals.
Book accommodations in advance during peak season (October–March).
A comfortable 3-day trip with mid-range stays, meals, and sightseeing costs around ₹7,000–₹12,000 per person.
I also learned that pacing yourself is crucial. Trying to cover everything in a single day not only exhausts you but also diminishes the magic of the hills.
Final Thoughts: Kodaikanal Is About Learning to Slow Down
By the end of three days, I realized that Kodaikanal isn’t just about visiting landmarks or taking pictures. It’s about learning to slow down, notice the details, and savour the little moments: a boat ride on the misty lake, the scent of pine after rain, the taste of freshly made chocolates, and the quiet that falls over the hills in the evening.
This trip taught me that the essence of a place often lies in experiences, not checklists. So, whether it’s your first time or your fifth, approach Kodaikanal with patience, curiosity, and an open heart. You’ll leave with memories that linger long after the mist clears.