Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Kodaikanal Music Festival is one of the most-awaited yearly events that combines magical music with breathtaking views of a hill station. It takes place amidst lush landscapes and a serene ambience at Kodaikanal and attracts music lovers from all four corners of the world. The festival is mainly during the cooler months and serves as an oasis during the long, sultry plains summers. Whether you come to witness the live shows or to enjoy the electrifying atmosphere, this festival will surely be one of a kind for all.
Location
Photo: Challiyan / Wikimedia Commons
The location of the Kodaikanal Music Festival is at the picturesque hill station of Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu. It is popularly known for its green surroundings, calm lakes, and climate. Kodaikanal forms an ideal backdrop for this thumping musical extravaganza. The festival usually takes place all over town, with performances at scenic locations that are the essence of this festival. From listening to the music near a lake to relishing the sounds against a hilltop backdrop, this venue adds magic to this experience.
How To Reach
Photo: Etha / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
These are travel options that lead you to Kodaikanal to attend the music festival:
By Road: Kodaikanal can be reached by roads connecting the surrounding cities of Madurai, Coimbatore, and Chennai. Buses and taxis are plentiful in these cities.
By Train: The major railway station is located at Madurai, 120 km from the place; a taxi or bus takes one to Kodaikanal.
By Air: Nearest Airport Madurai around 130 kms. Connecting flights are available to major cities of India.
Things To Do At The Kodaikanal Music Festival
1. Explore Kodaikanal’s Natural Beauty
Photo: tshrinivasan / Wikimedia Commons
One can take some time off from attending the Kodaikanal Music Festival to explore the beautiful natural beauty of the town. Kodaikanal is known for its lush green landscapes, serene lakes, and mist-covered hills. One would even opt to have a boat ride to take in the serenity of Kodaikanal Lake, walk up and down Coaker’s Walk enjoying panoramic views, or at Pillar Rocks, the breathtaking vistas, all while staying outside of these activity-packed options that would strike the most fantastic balance with the sounds of the music festival going on, making you forget everything and getting back into touch with nature when watching the Kodaikanal Music Festival.
2. Witness The Cultural Programs
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Kodaikanal Music Festival mainly brings together the very varied music genres available nowadays. Indian classical, different modern bands, and all types of folk performances happen at this festival. If live concerts or cosy acoustic sessions and folk are their tastes, something lies within it for all interested people. Multiple picture-postcard venues will host the shows against the serene backdrop of the music.
3. Attend Workshops And Classes
Photo: Yan Krukau / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Going to the Kodaikanal Music Festival is not just about being a spectator but also about doing activities. During the festival, there will be interactive workshops where you can learn from the artists and different kinds of music or learn about the creation of the music. These interactive sessions provide valuable insights into the cultural context of the festival. Whether a first-time attendee or a seasoned festival visitor, attending these workshops will make your time at the Kodaikanal Music Festival all the more memorable and connect you with the local artistic community.
Places To Visit In And Around Kodaikanal
1. Kodaikanal Lake
Photo: Mohan Babu V / Wikimedia Commons
One of the largest venues where you would attend the Kodaikanal Music Festival is at the heart of Kodaikanal. This artificial lake, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a serene experience, whether on a boat ride or a lakeside stroll. This is one scenic getaway, so the spot naturally calls for a relaxed session before or after any of the performances, which may or may not happen. One may indulge in a picnic with others near the lake, too.
Entry Fees: ₹10 entry fee, ₹200 for a boat ride
Location: Central Kodaikanal
Best Time To Visit: Any time during the festival
2. Coaker’s Walk
Photo: shashank bhagat / Wikimedia Commons
Coaker’s walk is a must-visit for any music lover exploring the Kodaikanal Music Festival. It is a one-kilometre pedestrian walk that provides glorious views of the valley below and the surrounding mountains. The walk is suited for a silent walk with the benefit of fresh air and the scenic beauty of a place. Coaker’s Walk is also an apt location to click some snaps with melodies as the backdrops.
Entry Fees: ₹10
Location: Near Kodaikanal Lake
Best Time To Visit: Morning or evening
3. Pillar Rocks
Photo: Dhanil K / Wikimedia Commons
Pillar Rocks, an 8 km distance from Kodaikanal, is a unique and breathtaking view of the three massive granite rock pillars standing tall against the luscious greenery behind them. It is so perfect for nature lovers as they would attend the Kodaikanal Music Festival, and the surrounding area of Pillar Rocks is also great for a short hike in which they can have all panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making this place a peaceful retreat to the alive festival atmosphere.
Entry Fees: ₹30
Location: 8 km from Kodaikanal town
Best Time To Visit: During the festival
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation at the Kodaikanal Music Festival is abundant and can be chosen from anywhere on the budget scale to luxury. Nothing comparable to Kodai Resort Hotel or Sterling Kodai Lake, which also offers incredible scenery and a lovely ambience, giving you a more luxurious staying experience. Hilltop Inn or Zostel Kodaikanal could be excellent choices for those travelling on a budget but are just as comfortable without spending big. All the places would be convenient, with access to the festival and the town’s remarkable places.
Where To Eat
Photo: Chan Walrus / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
While visiting the Music Festival of Kodaikanal, one can also enjoy its delicious food. Cloud Street offers a wide variety of regional and international foods, like delicious Tibetan dishes inside the Royal Tibet, South Indian specialities at Tava, and warm coffee in Cafe Cariappa. These restaurants provide excellent food, and one can find a perfect place to relax after a concert at the festival.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Wolfgang / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of A Trip
A trip to Kodaikanal can range between INR 5,000 and INR 15,000 ($70-$200), depending on your choice of accommodation and activities. Credit cards are widely accepted in most shops; however, it’s best to carry some amount in cash, especially if shopping at local markets and small shops.
Tips For Travellers
- Book accommodations in advance as the number of visitors to this festival is enormous.
- Carry warm clothes, sometimes the evenings can get cold.
- Book your travels well in advance, especially during the peak season.
The Kodaikanal Music Festival is a grand opportunity for music lovers to celebrate with vibrancy set against the calm scenic backdrops of Kodaikanal. For both vibrant performances, the different culture, and a cooler climate, this festival creates a very enriching experience for all visitors. Do not miss this lovely opportunity to see and hear the beauty of Kodaikanal, book your trip with TripXL.
Cover Photo: mikky k / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
