Kodaikanal Travel Guide
| Today in India: Pa Togan Nengminza Sangma (12 Dec) |
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the hills of the Tamil Nadu region in southern India, Kodaikanal is a serene and picturesque locality that offers a perfect escape from the chaos of city life. With its breathtaking natural beauty, pleasant climate, and rich cultural heritage, it has become a popular destination for tourists seeking tranquility and rejuvenation.
One of the main attractions of Kodaikanal is its stunning landscape. Surrounded by lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and pristine lakes, the town offers a feast for the eyes. The star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake is a focal point for visitors, where they can enjoy boating and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding hills. For a more adventurous experience, tourists can trek to the nearby Coaker's Walk, a narrow pathway that offers breathtaking views of the valley below.
Kodaikanal is also known for its diverse flora and fauna. The Bryant Park, a beautifully landscaped garden, is a paradise for nature lovers. Here, visitors can stroll through the colorful flowerbeds, relax amidst the towering trees, and even attend the annual horticultural show held in May. For those interested in wildlife, the Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit. Spread across an area of over 100 square kilometers, the sanctuary is home to a variety of animals and birds, including elephants, bisons, and langurs.
In addition to its natural beauty, Kodaikanal also boasts a rich cultural heritage. The town is dotted with ancient temples that showcase the architectural prowess of the region. The Kurinji Andavar Temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan, is particularly famous for its Kurinji flower, which blooms once in twelve years. The Palani Hills surrounding the town are also home to several historic caves, such as the Guna Caves, which are believed to have been formed by the wind.
For those seeking a spiritual experience, Kodaikanal offers the opportunity to meditate and find solace in the peaceful environs of the Kodaikanal Yoga Center. Here, visitors can learn and practice various forms of yoga and meditation techniques under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Kodaikanal Attractions - What to See and Explore
Kodaikanal offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Kodaikanal Lake, Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple, Thalaiyar Falls, Perumal Peak. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Kodaikanal – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Kodaikanal, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Meenakshi Temple (Madurai), Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal (Madurai), Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple (Palani).
Best Time To Visit Kodaikanal
Learn when is the best time to travel to Kodaikanal weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Dal
Dal is a staple food across the Indian subcontinent, referring to dried, split pulses that don’t require soaking before cooking. It is an essential component of South Asian diets and a cornerstone of many Indian dishes. Dal can be prepared in various ways, including...
Food
Momo
Momo is a cherished type of steamed dumpling that's a staple in East and South Asia, particularly in the Indian subcontinent and the Himalayan regions. You'll find it in locations such as Tibet, Bhutan, Nepal, Ladakh, Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Darjeeling.
Indian dish
Sev
Sev is a cherished Indian snack made from tiny, crunchy strands created from a chickpea flour paste. These strands are seasoned with turmeric, cayenne, and ajwain before being deep-fried to a crisp perfection. Sev is available in various thicknesses and flavors, and it...
Food
Curry
Curry is a remarkably diverse dish originating from the Indian subcontinent, celebrated for its rich and complex blend of spices and herbs such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili. Traditionally cooked in a sauce, curry manifests in various forms, each...
Paneer
Paneer is a cherished fresh cheese that is a staple in the Indian subcontinent. It's soft, unaged, and non-melting, made by curdling milk with an acid such as lemon juice. The term "paneer" has Persian origins, and while the exact origins are debated, it is believed...
Cheese
Tamil Nadu