10 Things To Do In Kodaikanal: A Spectacular Destination In Tamil Nadu

A picture of a beautiful destination Kodaikanal, also known as the princess of hill stations.

Kodaikanal is often called the “Princess of Hill Stations,” rightly because it suits everyone destined for a tranquil adventure. Lush greenery, serene lakes, and picturesque landscapes have created an intimate escape from busy daily lives. Whether walking hand in hand through misty hills or an adventurous boat ride, the list of things to do in Kodaikanal has to etch memories for you. The top things to do in Kodaikanal make sure that trip renders unmatchable experiences.

10 Best Things To Do In Kodaikanal

Here are some of the best things to do in Kodaikanal, rendering the best experiences to you and your mates:

1. Take A Stroll On Coaker’s Walk

A picture of a street shop with clothes in Coaker’s Walk with valley views.

Photo: Rangan Chatterjee 261 / Wikimedia Commons

Coaker’s Walk is a beautiful walking path, almost 1 km long, along the slopes of Kodaikanal. It offers magnificent views of the valleys and the distant mountains. The pathway, clothed with greenery all around, is an ideal spot to enjoy a quiet stroll. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when mist has started rolling in. Walking along Coaker’s Walk is one of the best things to do in Kodaikanal. This creates unforgettable moments during this splendid getaway.

Entry Fees: ₹10 per person
Location: Near Kodaikanal Lake

2. Do Boating In Kodaikanal Lake

A picture of Kodaikanal Lake, which is one of the best things to see in Kodaikanal.

Photo: tshrinivasan / Wikimedia Commons

Boating on Kodaikanal Lake is the most serene of all experiences you can share. It is a star-shaped artificial lake fringed by luscious greeneries, and renting paddle boats and rowboats for boating for an amazing ride. Gliding along the calm waters, with mist rising around you, is among the best things to do in Kodaikanal for anyone looking to be immersed in nature. The lake also offers horse riding around its periphery, adding to the location’s charm.

Entry Fees: ₹50 per hour for paddle boats
Location: Kodaikanal Lake, near Bryant Park

3. Get A Thrilling Experience At The Guna Cave

A picture of Guna Caves surrounded by eerie mist and forest, offering an adventurous feel.

Photo: sowrirajan s / Wikimedia Commons

For adventurous people, a visit to the Guna Cave proves to be an electrifying experience. In the thick Shola forests, the caves were shot for the Tamil film “Guna”. Since then, this has been an instant tourist destination, the cave’s shroud mystery. Cavities and narrow pathways conspire with the eerie environment to make the trip quite an adventure. You can move out of the place and watch the beauty around with mist-laden woods. This is one thing not to be missed amidst some of the exciting activities in Kodaikanal wanting to experience something offbeat.

Entry Fees: Free
Location: Pillar Rocks Road

4. Rejuvenate Yourself At The Bryant Park

A picture of vibrant flowers in Bryant Park, one of the best things to do in Kodaikanal.

Photo: Ishfaq Shams / Wikimedia Commons

A visit to Bryant Park offers a refreshing break, with vibrant flower beds and nicely kept landscapes. The park is known for its stunning collections of roses, exotic plants, and glasshouses, giving it a calm and serene ambience ideal for strolls. People can enjoy a leisurely walk, relax under the shady trees, or even attend the flower shows held during summer. The silent ambience and colourful flowers make it one of the best things to do in Kodaikanal for a quiet retreat amidst nature.

Entry Fees: ₹30 per person
Location: Near Kodaikanal Lake

5. Go For The Adventurous Trek To Dolphin’s Nose

A picture captured from Dolphin’s Nose rock formation with couples enjoying the misty vistas.

Photo: ACKSEN / Wikimedia Commons

A must-do for adventurous couples is a hike to Dolphin’s Nose Rock Formation. It takes the shape of a dolphin’s nose and opens into a panoramic view of the valley below. A moderately tricky trek passes through the beautiful landscape, breathtaking on top, especially on a misty morning. You can enjoy the peacefulness and the lovely views, one of the best adventure activities to do in Kodaikanal. The experience of reaching out to this gorgeous viewpoint helps one build the bond with oneself.

Entry Fees: Free
Location: Vattakanal, near Kodaikanal

6. Experience The Flora And Fauna At Berijam Lake

A picture of Berijam Lake with serene waters, one of the best things to do in Kodaikanal.

Photo: DRUID1962 / Wikimedia Commons

Berijam Lake is one of the most secluded and serene places in Kodaikanal. It will suit everyone’s needs who desire to be close to nature. Dense forests, varied flora, and fauna surround the lake. It’s a very peaceful abode to spend some time together. Activities include bird watching, nature walks and boat rides. One of the best activities to do in Kodaikanal is witnessing the lake, combined with serene environmental surroundings.

Entry Fees: ₹200 per person
Location: Near Pillar Rocks, Kodaikanal

7. Offer Prayers To Lord Muruga At Kurinji Andavar Temple

A scenic picture of Kurinji Andavar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Muruga.

Photo: Navneet Sharma / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

With spiritually conscious couples, Kurinji Andavar Temple is one quietly fulfilling visit. This temple is dedicated to Lord Muruga and is famous for its serene surroundings and the Kurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years. Thus, this temple could offer some quiet ambience with solace and spirituality. The beautiful views from the temple premises make it worth visiting. Praying in this holy place is something great to do in Kodaikanal to find inner peace in this escapade.

Entry Fees: Free
Location: Kurinji Temple Road, Kodaikanal

8. Go For A Night Safari At JC Residency

A picture of wildlife sightings, which is one of the best things to do in Kodaikanal.

Photo: icecube11 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

It’s the perfect destination to look for that unique and thrilling experience, a night safari at JC Residency. With guided safaris led by professionals, you can traverse through the dense Kodaikanal forests while potentially sighting nocturnal wildlife in its habitat. The experience assumes a thrilling dimension when one explores the forest at night. It quickly ends up being one of the most adventurous things that people could do in Kodaikanal. It is an enlightening yet thrilling safari, really up-close with nature.

Entry Fees: ₹1500 per couple
Location: JC Residency, Kodaikanal

9. Know About Paliyan Tribe In Kukkal Caves

A picture of ancient Kukkal Caves, offering insight into Paliyan Tribe’s life.

Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

For those who love history and culture, Kukkal Caves is quite an exciting spot to visit through the life of the ancient Paliyan Tribe. The caves, situated at the hill, have long been used as abodes for the tribe way back. They can now be visited today for adventure and education while trekking through the surrounding forest and the entrance to the caves. Set against the beautiful landscape, this is one of the most valued doable things in Kodaikanal to know more about the region’s history.

Entry Fees: Free
Location: Kukkal Village, Kodaikanal

10. See Wonders In Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

A picture of Solar Observatory, stargazing here is one of the best things to do in Kodaikanal.

Photo: Anirvan Shukla / Wikimedia Commons

The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is said to let people enjoy a night of gazing at the stars. Powerful telescopes have been provided at the observatory, offering an extraordinary night sky view. You can learn about celestial bodies and enjoy a night under the stars. This peaceful place is a great charm of this observatory, and it is one of the best experiences you may have in Kodaikanal. The clear night sky and peaceful atmosphere make this day unforgettable for everyone.

Entry Fees: ₹50 per person
Location: Observatory Road, Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a dream location for everyone with excitement, and calm. Its dreamy scenery, quiet lakes, and lush grass offer a perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments. Whether it’s a peaceful walk on Coaker’s Walk or an exciting night safari, the things to do in Kodaikanal cater to every one’s wants. This hill town is the ideal spot to relax and reconnect, with the best things to do in Kodaikanal for a trip. Plan your tour with TripXL, pack your bags and get ready for that unforgettable experience.

Cover Photo: Thangaraj Kumaravel / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Kodaikanal is from October to March when the weather is cool and perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Yes, Kodaikanal offers several luxury resorts like The Tamara Kodai and Sterling Kodai Lake, ideal for a stay.
Yes, bicycles are available for rent near Kodaikanal Lake, offering a fun way for people to explore the town.
Yes, cafes like Cloud Street and Café Cariappa offer cosy ambiences perfect for a romantic date.
Absolutely! With its scenic beauty and romantic spots, Kodaikanal is a popular honeymoon destination for couples.

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