A Journey to the Princess of Hill Stations: My Kodaikanal Trip - cottageskodai/cottageskodaikanal GitHub Wiki

With its rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, misty mornings, and serene lakes, Kodaikanal promises a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. My recent Kodaikanal Trip to this magical hill station was nothing short of a dream—a journey filled with scenic beauty, fresh mountain air, and cherished memories.

Day 1: The Ascent to Paradise The journey to Kodaikanal began from Madurai, a bustling city located about 120 kilometers away. As our vehicle climbed the winding ghat roads, the scenery transformed dramatically. Lush greenery replaced concrete buildings, and the temperature began to drop noticeably. We made frequent stops along the route to admire the breathtaking valleys and take pictures of the majestic Palani Hills.

By late afternoon, we arrived in Kodaikanal town. Surrounded by eucalyptus and pine trees, the hill station greeted us with cool weather and a refreshing breeze. We checked into a cozy heritage cottage near the Coaker’s Walk and settled in for the evening. The peace and quiet of the place was a welcome contrast to the chaotic rhythm of city life.

Day 2: Lakes, Walks, and Starry Nights Our second day began with a visit to the iconic Kodaikanal Lake, a man-made star-shaped lake that forms the heart of the town. Surrounded by a 5-kilometer walking path, the lake is ideal for morning strolls. We rented bicycles and circled the lake, stopping to feed ducks and click photographs.

Boating in the lake was a highlight. As we rowed across the placid waters, the reflections of the trees and the sky created a mirror-like canvas. Vendors selling hot corn and homemade chocolates dotted the lake’s periphery, adding a festive charm to the area.

Next, we walked over to Bryant Park, located adjacent to the lake. It’s a beautifully maintained botanical garden with a rich variety of flowers, shrubs, and hybrids. A riot of colors and floral fragrances greeted us, making it a haven for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.

In the afternoon, we explored the Coaker’s Walk, a paved pedestrian path along the edge of steep slopes. The view from here was awe-inspiring, offering panoramic glimpses of the valley below. Clouds drifted in and out, sometimes covering the entire landscape in a soft, white veil.

Though it was closed during our visit, the open skies were enough to mesmerize us. With minimal light pollution, the night sky came alive with constellations and shooting stars.

Day 3: Waterfalls and Wonders The third day was reserved for exploring Kodaikanal’s natural attractions. We began with a trip to the Silver Cascade Falls, located on the Ghat Road. The cascading water, surrounded by thick foliage, created a picturesque spot where travelers paused to take selfies and sip on local herbal teas.

Our next stop was the Pillar Rocks, three vertically aligned boulders standing over 400 feet high. These majestic pillars are often shrouded in mist, adding to their mystique. The view from the surrounding garden area was surreal, and the clouds played hide-and-seek with the peaks.

We also visited Guna Caves, formerly known as Devil’s Kitchen. These deep, narrow chambers between the rocks were made famous by the Tamil film Guna. Though entry to the deeper parts of the caves is restricted for safety reasons, the surrounding pine forest and eerie atmosphere made it a thrilling spot to explore.

In the late afternoon, we stopped at Moir Point, another excellent vantage point that offers a wide view of the valley. The tranquil surroundings and cool breeze made it a great place to unwind with a cup of hot chocolate from a nearby stall.

Day 4: Farewell, with a Promise to Return On our last day, we woke up early to catch the sunrise at Dolphin’s Nose, a flat rock jutting out over a steep cliff. The early morning trek through the forests and rocky paths was invigorating.

Before departing, we spent some time at Chettiar Park, a less-crowded botanical garden perfect for relaxation. Its serene atmosphere made it a great place to reflect on our journey.

The local markets were buzzing with activity, and we picked up a few items to remember this wonderful trip.

Why Kodaikanal Captivated My Heart Kodaikanal is not just a place—it’s a feeling. It’s the soft rustle of pine trees in the breeze, the warmth of a bonfire on a chilly night, the thrill of standing at the edge of a cliff, and the delight of discovering hidden waterfalls. It is ideal for honeymooners, families, solo travelers, and adventure seekers alike.

Despite its popularity, Kodaikanal hasn’t lost its soul. The local people are warm and welcoming, the environment is clean, and every corner seems to whisper stories of peace and natural grandeur.

Travel Tips for Visiting Kodaikanal Best Time to Visit: April to June for summer escape; September to October for post-monsoon beauty; December to January for chilly winter vibes.

How to Reach: The nearest airport is Madurai. You can also travel by train to Kodai Road and then take a cab up the hills.

Stay Options: Book early during peak seasons.

What to Pack: Warm clothes, walking shoes, rain gear (if visiting in monsoon), and a good camera!

Conclusion

My trip to Kodaikanal was a serene retreat from the mundane. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure lover, or simply someone in need of peace, Kodaikanal has something special to offer. As we descended the hills, I promised myself—I’ll be back. Because once you fall under Kodaikanal’s spell, you’ll always yearn for more.