How to Go to Kodaikanal from Madurai – Complete Travel Guide - travelskodaikanal/kodai GitHub Wiki
Kodaikanal, often referred to as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” is a picturesque hill town located in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu. Situated at an altitude of 2,133 meters above sea level, Kodaikanal is known for its misty hills, lush green valleys, and serene lakes. If you're planning a trip from Madurai to Kodaikanal, you’re in for a scenic and refreshing journey. How to Go to Kodaikanal from Madurai? In this guide, we will explore all the best ways to travel from Madurai to Kodaikanal, including by car, bus, train, and taxi, as well as important travel tips to make your journey smooth and memorable.
Distance Between Madurai and Kodaikanal The distance between Madurai and Kodaikanal is approximately 115 kilometers by road. The journey typically takes about 3 to 4.5 hours, depending on your mode of transportation and traffic conditions.
Option 1: Madurai to Kodaikanal by Car (Self-Drive or Hired Cab) Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours Distance: ~115 km
The route offers scenic views, winding roads, and fresh mountain air as you ascend the hills.
Recommended Route: Madurai → Vadipatti → Vathalagundu (Batlagundu) → Perumalmalai → Kodaikanal
Highlights of the Route: Smooth highways till Vathalagundu
Curvy hill roads after Perumalmalai
Plenty of food stops and scenic viewpoints
Tips for Driving:
The last 50 km includes ghat roads with hairpin bends; drive cautiously.
Fuel up in Madurai or Vathalagundu.
Option 2: Madurai to Kodaikanal by Taxi If you prefer comfort without the hassle of driving, booking a taxi is a great choice.
Taxi Fare: Sedan: ₹2,500 – ₹3,000 (one way)
SUV: ₹3,500 – ₹4,000 (one way)
Round-trip and multi-day packages are also available.
Benefits: Door-to-door convenience
Flexible timing and route
Experienced drivers familiar with hill roads
Online taxi services like Ola Outstation, Savaari, or local tour operators offer reliable options.
Option 3: Madurai to Kodaikanal by Bus Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours Budget-Friendly
Types of Buses: Government TNSTC buses (non-AC): ₹120 – ₹150
Private AC/Deluxe buses: ₹200 – ₹350
Boarding Points in Madurai: Arappalayam Bus Stand (Main intercity terminal)
Mattuthavani Bus Stand (For private buses)
Frequency: Buses run every hour during the day.
Early morning and night buses are less frequent.
Things to Know: No direct luxury coaches, but private minibuses and semi-sleepers are available.
Ghat section roads can be bumpy, so motion sickness medicine may help.
Option 4: Madurai to Kodaikanal by Train There is no direct train to Kodaikanal as it does not have a railway station. However, you can travel part of the way by train and then take a taxi or bus.
Nearest Railway Station to Kodaikanal: Kodai Road Railway Station (KQN)
Suggested Plan: Madurai to Kodai Road: 45 minutes by train
Kodai Road to Kodaikanal: 2.5 hours by taxi or bus
Train Fare: Second Class: ₹30 – ₹70
Sleeper/AC Chair Car: ₹100 – ₹250
Last-Mile Travel:
Buses are infrequent and not always reliable from Kodai Road.
Unless you’re already planning a rail journey, it’s better to go by road directly from Madurai.
Option 5: Madurai to Kodaikanal by Bike (For Adventure Lovers) Many adventure seekers prefer to ride a motorbike to enjoy the winding ghat roads and scenic pitstops.
Tips for Bikers: Ensure your bike is in top condition, especially brakes and tires.
Start early to avoid fog and nighttime curves.
Carry warm clothes, rain gear, and a first-aid kit.
This option is perfect for young travelers or bikers looking for a thrill.
Best Time to Travel from Madurai to Kodaikanal Kodaikanal is a year-round destination, but here’s a seasonal guide:
Summer (March to June): Pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
Monsoon (July to September): Lush and green, but slippery roads.
Winter (October to February): Misty mornings, great for honeymooners.
Avoid peak weekends and public holidays if you prefer less crowd.
Sightseeing on the Way from Madurai to Kodaikanal Don’t miss out on these pitstops:
Silver Cascade Falls: A beautiful waterfall just before entering Kodaikanal.
Perumalmalai Viewpoint: Offers a breathtaking view of the valley.
Vathalagundu Fruit Market: Great for buying fresh local produce.
Travel Tips and Safety Precautions Hill Driving Experience: If you’re driving yourself, be confident with hill driving and hairpin bends.
Weather Conditions: Check weather updates before traveling, especially during monsoon.
Vehicle Condition: Make sure your vehicle is serviced and has enough fuel.
Stay Hydrated: Carry water and snacks for the journey.
Offline Maps: Internet signals can be patchy; download offline maps or use a GPS device.
Conclusion Traveling from Madurai to Kodaikanal is an easy and scenic journey with multiple transport options. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family on vacation, or a couple looking for a romantic getaway, you can choose from buses, taxis, trains, or even a road trip to suit your budget and comfort.
Kodaikanal’s cool climate, green surroundings, and peaceful ambiance make the journey truly worth it.
FAQs – Madurai to Kodaikanal Travel Q: How long does it take to go from Madurai to Kodaikanal? A: Around 3–5 hours depending on the mode of transport.
Q: Are there regular buses from Madurai to Kodaikanal? A: Yes, TNSTC and private operators run frequent buses during the day.