Top 10 Things To Do In Kodaikanal: Locals’ Guidebook

Kodaikanal, nestled in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu, is famously known as the Princess of Hill Stations. With things to do in Kodaikanal like its misty mountains, forested trails, and serene lakes, it offers an idyllic escape from the chaos of city life. 

What’s your kind of getaway, boating on a tranquil lake, hiking through pine-scented forests, or simply soaking in the mountain views? At TripzyGo, we’ve compiled the best activities to do in Kodaikanal to help you experience the true essence of this beautiful hill station in South India.

Things to do in Kodaikanal

1. Boating on Kodaikanal Lake
2. Visit Coaker’s Walk
3. Trek to Dolphin’s Nose Point
4. Explore Bryant Park
5. Visit Pillar Rocks
6. Discover Guna Caves (Devil’s Kitchen)
7. Shop at the Local Market & Chocolate Factories
8. Walk Through Pine Forests
9. Visit Silver Cascade Falls
10. Visit Berijam Lake

Looking for the perfect mix of nature and adventure? Discover the top things to do in Kodaikanal, which will steal your heart.

Boating on Kodaikanal Lake

A trip to Kodaikanal is incomplete without a peaceful boat ride on the star-shaped Kodai Lake. Surrounded by eucalyptus trees and lush hills, the lake offers pedal, row, and shikara-style boats for a perfect outing.

1. Best Time: October to June
2. Fee: ₹100 ₹200, depending on the type of boat and duration
3. Tips: Visit during sunset for a romantic vibe; wear warm layers in the evening
   Don’t miss: Among things to do in Kodaikanal, cycling around the lake or enjoying street snacks nearby is a must.
   

Visit Coaker’s Walk

Coaker’s Walk is a scenic pedestrian path along the edge of a mountain, offering uninterrupted views of the plains and valleys below.  If the day is clear, tourists can see the Dolphin’s nose point in the south and also Periyakulam town and Madurai city from the viewpoint. A visit to Coaker’s Walk is among the top things to do in Kodaikanal.

1. Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
2. Fee: ₹10 per person, ₹20 extra for telescope viewing
3. Access: 10-minute walk from Kodai Lake
4. Pro Tip: Visit early for mist-free views; great spot for selfies and romantic strolls
   

Suggested Read: Khardung La Pass in Leh-Ladakh: Guide for Your Adventure 2025 

Trek to Dolphin’s Nose Point

An adventurous trek that leads to Dolphin’s Nose point, a flat rock that offers panoramic views of the rugged cliffs and deep valleys. This moderately easy trek is ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. This trek is one of the most famous things to do in Kodaikanal.

1. Best Time: October to March
2. Fee: Free
3. Trek Duration: 30-45 minutes from Vattakanal
4. Pro Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and start early to avoid heat; carry snacks and water
5. What Not to Miss: The viewpoint resembles a dolphin’s nose hanging over the valley edge.
   

Explore Bryant Park

Located next to Kodai Lake, Bryant Park is a botanical garden with various exotic flowers, hybrids, and medicinal plants. Among activities to do in Kodaikanal, this park is an ideal picnic spot and a must-visit during the annual flower show in May.

1. Best Time: April to June
2. Fee: ₹30 (Adults), ₹15 (Children)
3. What to See: Over 700 varieties of roses and orchids
4. Pro Tip: Ideal for family visits or quiet walks amid nature
   

Visit Pillar Rocks

The towering Pillar Rocks are a set of three vertical granite boulders standing 400 feet high. Surrounded by mist and greenery, it’s a peaceful place to enjoy nature and the chill mountain breeze.

1. Best Time: September to January
2. Fee: ₹10 per person
3. Access: 7 km from Kodai town, reachable by taxi or auto
4. Pro Tip: Go on a clear day for complete visibility; carry a jacket as it’s often windy
5. What Not to Miss: The hidden mini garden near the viewpoint
   

Discover Guna Caves (Devil’s Kitchen)

Shrouded in mystery and mist, Guna Caves are a natural cave between the Pillar Rocks. This historical place in India was once a hidden spot,but it gained fame after the Tamil film Guna. The deep, narrow caves are now fenced off, but still fascinating to explore from the outside.

1. Best Time: November to March
2. Fee: ₹10 per person
3. Tips: Wear grippy shoes; not suitable for children or the elderly
4. What Not to Miss: The eerie beauty of the tree roots and mist-covered pathways
   

Shop at the Local Market & Chocolate Factories

Kodaikanal is known for its homemade chocolates, aromatic oils, eucalyptus balm, and woollen clothes. Among activities to do in Kodaikanal, exploring these small local markets is the best thing to do near the lake, which is full of these goodies.

1. Best Time: Year-round
2. Fee: Free (shopping costs vary)
3. What to Buy: Homemade chocolates, eucalyptus oil, spices, essential oils, and handcrafted items
4. Pro Tip: Sample chocolates before buying; look for co-operative stores for quality products
   

Walk Through Pine Forests

The Pine Forests of Kodaikanal are a famous thing to do are a tranquil retreat into nature. The tall, dense trees, planted during the British era, create a mystical setting perfect for peaceful walks, nature photography, and even horse riding.

1. Best Time: Morning or evening for soft light and cooler weather
2. Fee: No entry fee
3. Access: 5 km from town, easily reachable by taxi
4. What Not to Miss: Film shooting spots, walking trails, and peaceful picnic corners
5. Pro Tip: Great for photography, carry a wide-angle lens; avoid littering
   

Visit Silver Cascade Falls

As you drive into Kodaikanal, the Silver Cascade Falls is the most preferred thing to do as it welcomes you with a stunning drop of 180 feet, formed by the overflow of Kodai Lake. It’s a great photo stop and refreshment break on your journey.

1. Best Time: Post-monsoon (August to November) when the water flow is strong
2. Fee: No entry fee
3. Access: Located on the Kodaikanal Madurai road (8 km from town)
4. What Not to Miss: Local vendors selling fresh carrots and fruit by the roadside
5. Pro Tip: Avoid getting too close to slippery rocks; best viewed from the roadside viewpoint.

 Suggested Read: Best Places to Visit in India in Summer – Top Destinations 

Visit Berijam Lake 

Hidden deep inside the forest, Berijam Lake is a pristine, less-crowded gem surrounded by lush woods and wildlife. It’s accessible only with the Forest Department’s special forest entry permit.

1. Best Time: October to May
2. Fee: Free entry (Permit required, available at the District Forest Office, Kodaikanal)
3. Access: 20 km from Kodai town (private vehicles only with permit)
4. What Not to Miss: Bird watching, a zero-pollution environment, and a forest drive
5. Pro Tip: Carry your ID for permits; go early, as only a limited vehicles are allowed daily

Quick Snapshot: Kodaikanal Essentials

Location	Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu, India
Main Lake	Kodai Lake (man-made, star-shaped)
Nearby Attractions	Vattakanal Falls, Pine Forest, Silver Cascade, Berijam Lake
Best Time to Visit	October to June
Transport	Nearest railhead: Kodai Road (80 km), nearest airport: Madurai (120 km)

Visit Kodaikanal with TripzyGo this Summer

There are plenty of things to do in Kodaikanal that cater to all interests. The blend of nature, adventure, and local culture makes it one of the best hill station getaways in South India. Plan your Kodaikanal escape with TripzyGo. With our packages, we offer everything from local guides and curated stays to stress-free transport, ensuring your trip is memorable, affordable, and magical.