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Commonly called as the Gift of the Forest, Kodaikanal is one of the popular hill stations in South India. It is a paradise on earth with many scenic places to visit. Right from accommodations to food, everything is special with Kodaikanal. There are also ample of hotels in Kodaikanal where you can stay at modest rates.
It is a fantastic spot for a family vacation, honeymoon and team outing. You will definitely feel refreshed after the Kodaikanal trip. For first time trippers, I have come up with the top 11 reasons why Kodaikanal should be your next vacation destination in your wanderlist. We hope this will be useful to make up your mind.
Lakes
Berijam Lake and Kodaikanal Lake are the two beautiful lakes in Kodaikanal. These lakes are perfect picnic spots to spend some quality time with your loved ones. Watching the calm lakes from the shore creates a positive aura. Set at just 23 kilometers from the Kodaikanal bus stand, Berijam Lake is enclosed by breathtaking lush forests with a panoramic vista.
You just need a pass from the District Forest Office to visit this place at free of cost. You can also try in fishing (only after getting prior permission from Fisheries department) if you are interested in it. The boat trip to Berijam Lake is definitely worth your time.
Despite being a star-shaped man-made lake (really it is star-shaped!), Kodaikanal Lake is the most sought tourist attractions in Kodaikanal. It is just 3 km from the bus stand and is easily accessible. Perched at a height of 2,285 m above sea level, it is a treat for the sore ears. You can try cycling and horse riding near the lake.
The next thing which one shouldnt miss trying in Kodaikanal is boating. They have all sorts of boats like rowboats and motor boats. Make the best you can while visiting these amazing lakes.
Climate
The prime reason why everyone love to visit Kodaikanal is its soothing climate. The pleasant subtropical climate is loved by every vacationer traveling to this beautiful place. Planning for a trip with your friends or family? September to May is the best time for visiting Kodaikanal.
There are a lot of things to do in Kodaikanal which changes according to the season here. Enjoy adventure activities like trekking and hiking in summer and winter seasons. Every frequent visitor would suggest you travel during the monsoon season when the scenery is absolutely stunning.
Waterfalls
It is refreshing to witness the water gliding amidst the lush greenery. You will get a sense of peace and pleasure by looking at the rushing water. These falls are definitely a wonder of nature. We recommend you to take a virtual travel around these waterfalls.
Kodaikanal has many astounding waterfalls with an awesome view which attracts a multitude of tourists each year. Bear Shola Falls, Silver Cascade Falls, Pambar Falls, Thalaiyar Falls and Fairy Falls are the best waterfalls in Kodaikanal.
Also known as Grand Cascade, Pambar Falls is a multilevel fall with a small pool at its base. The path to the falls is sprinkled with flourishing vegetation. This scenery allures repetitive trippers each year. Do visit Bear Shola Falls in monsoon when the vista is breathtaking.
Originated from Kodaikanal Lake, Silver Cascade looks like a silver strap amid the green blanket. It is a haven for nature enthusiasts and photo freaks. Take a stroll through the wilderness to view the misty Fairy Falls. These falls are an excellent spot for relaxing and are really super fun to play in the falls.
Shopping
Kodaikanal has loads of interesting options for shopping. The trip to this mystic land is incomplete without trying shopping. Buy some exotic souvenirs and antiques from this hill station. You will always face the confusion of what to buy and where to buy from.
We have come up with the list of cool stuff to buy for your friends and families. The things you can find here are hand woven shawls, scarves, spices, nuts, homemade chocolates, crockery, artifacts, handicrafts and herbal oils. There are local street shops that sell these items at affordable rates.
It is better to buy goods near the bus stop where the price will be comparatively lower than the hyped tourist places. Bargaining is very important to shop anywhere in Kodaikanal. So, practice this skill before your trip.
Holy Shrines
The holy shrines in Kodaikanal are the most popular spots in Kodaikanal which allures hundreds of devotees each year. Whenever you travel to Kodaikanal, make sure you always include these religious spots in your travel itinerary.
Some of the famous places of worship are Kurinji Andavar Temple, Palani Temple, Sacred Heart Church, Sangam Pallivassal and St Peters Church. The devotees believe that the God provides them good health, prosperity and the child boon by visiting these holy shrines.
These religious spots are not just for devotes but also for travelers who love to view the elegant architecture of these sites. Meditating in these religious places is the best way for introspection (Really, its worth it!).
Accommodations
Being a regular tourist place, you can find accommodations in different budget ranges. The best thing about staying in Kodaikanal is you can live in harmony with nature. Instead of staying at regular hotels, you can opt for scenic cottages that give you a charming vista of the hill station.
You can diverse options to choose your stays like beautiful villas, bungalows, homestays, dormitories, and cottages. You can get the feel of staying at your home because of the amiable hospitality and service quality of the resorts in Kodaikanal.
You will definitely have lasting memories after your vacation in Kodaikanal. This will definitely motivate you to visit Kodaikanal often.
Food
A perfect holiday is incomplete without tasting the delicious local cuisine. Kodaikanal is a pro in its local, vegetarian food (mainly South Indian) and there are ample of eateries to satiate our taste buds. You can also find restaurants that serve different cuisines like Tibetian, Tandoori, Chinese and North Indian.
Do try the aromatic and fresh wood fire pizza and flavorful pasta from the Cloud Street. The Royal Tibet serves the best momos, roasted chicken, and thukpas.
For folks with a sweet tooth (like me!), Pastry Corner offers the best pastries, filter coffee, and rich chocolate cakes. So, guys dont forget to visit these places and try the best delicacies Kodaikanal can offer.
Scenic Points
There are multiple panoramic scenic points to view when in Kodaikanal. You should not miss seeing places like Pillar Rocks, Suicide Point (Green Valley View), Coakers Walk, and Bryant Park.
Green Valley View offers an alluring vista of the beautiful Vaigai Dam set in a lush backdrop from the hilltop. The Pillar Rocks have three vertically positioned boulders and stretches to a height of 400 feet. It is an exquisite picnic spot in Kodaikanal.
Coakers Walk is a one-kilometer pedestrian trail on a steep mountain slope. The entire path is filled with lush greenery with a cloudy setting. If you are into nature, your next stop should be Bryant Park. It is popular for its rich and exotic flora and fauna. Dont miss the Annual Horticulture Show held every May each year.
Culture
The Kodaikanal culture is a blend of erstwhile tribal life, medieval British and American influence. The population here is a mix of Tamilians and native tribes like Puliyans and Paliyans. Kodaikanal also has a small Tibetian community which has a major influence on the food and culture.
Handwoven clothes, homemade cheese, and chocolates are widely bought by all tourists in Kodaikanal. Major festivals celebrated here are Chithirai Festival, Mother Salette Festival, Tea & Tourism Festival and Dance Festival.
The local clans are amiable towards tourists and you will surely enjoy the colorful and beautiful Kodaikanal culture. You will be enticed with the simple way of living in Kodaikanal.
Adventure Sports
Kodaikanal offers many adventure activities for daredevils who love the adrenaline rush. Have a wholesome experience by trying exhilarating activities like Trekking, Hiking, Horse Riding, Boating, and Biking. You will definitely visit Kodaikanal regularly to try these exciting fun activities.
Kodaikanal hosts a lot of trekking and hiking activities every year to attract tourists each year. You should try biking and horse riding to explore the beauty of this lovely region. Your vacation is incomplete without enjoying the boating at the Kodai Lake. You will feel refreshed after a long boat ride.
All nature lovers will surely enjoy watching the birds in Kodaikanal. The pleasure you will attain is beyond the words. Trying all these activities will be surely an experience of a lifetime.
Do visit the wonderland, Kodaikanal when you plan a vacation next time. Nandri Vanakkkam!
If you are looking for accommodations in Kodaikanal that fits your budget, do try Ulo Hotels.
Author's Bio:
Abinaya Kannan is from Chennai and working as the Content Writer in Ulo Hotels. She likes traveling and loves to write about Travel & Leisure.
