Kodaikanal – South India’s Monsoon Paradise

Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal

Following the hot, blazing summer that leaves a blistering trail of restlessness across the length and breadth of the country, are the sweet, sultry monsoon months. If you want more out of your monsoon months then mere chai and pakode, if you’re more of the trek in the mountains than the saawan ke jhoole kind of person, India has much to offer. Southern India, in particular, has a number of monsoon getaways that are popular with trekkers, adventure enthusiasts, avid nature lovers, and honeymooners alike. The best among these, aptly named “the Princess of hill stations”, is Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu.

Green, breathtakingly beautiful, romantic Kodaikanal is a very popular tourist destination. It is also one of the most sought after getaways during the monsoon months due to the presence of many trekking trails and adventure sports opportunities.

What is the best time to visit Kodaikanal?

This is a question best answered only when we know what the traveler wants from Kodaikanal. If what you want is to get away from the tropical heat of southern India, then the best time to visit Kodaikanal is between April and June. The cool weather, the summer blossoms, the great views shall enthrall you. October to March is best suited for those who love the cold winter feel of the mountains and wish to enjoy the vibrant festivals such as Navaratri, Pongal, and the local Tea and Tourism festival.

If you don’t mind the unpredictable mountain rains, if you are looking for the solitude that the mountains offer in monsoons, if you love the verdant green vistas, however, you must visit Kodaikanal during the monsoon months (July – September).

How To Reach Kodaikanal?

Located at an altitude of about 2,133 metres above sea level, Kodaikanal in Palani Hills is easily accessible from all major cities in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Madurai Airport (120 kilometres away) is the nearest but easy connectivity from Coimbatore International Airport (150 kilometres away) makes it an easily accessible destination. Tamil Nadu is known for its excellent bus connectivity and Kodaikanal may be easily reached from all parts of the state.

Things to See and Do in Kodaikanal

Boating in Kodai Lake – Boating in the vast blue expanse of the Kodai Lake and looking up the majestic hills that surround this lake may be some of the most beautiful experiences in Kodaikanal.

Reveling at the beauty of Green Valley View – Green Valley View Point is also called Suicide Point but death may be the last thing on your mind when  surrounded by such beauty.

Picnic on the shores of Berijam Lake – For all those who love a nice cool day away by the lake, nibbling on a picnic lunch and reading a book by the lake, Berijam Lake is the perfect destination.

Drive to Pillar Rocks – The massive Pillar Rocks rise vertically to a height of about 400 feet – an impressive granite outcrop that never fails to impress a visitor.

Visit Dolphin’s Nose – Very close to Pillar Rocks is Dolphin’s Nose. As you may have guessed, it is a dolphin shaped rock. The views from this point are gorgeous.

Look down Devil’s Kitchen – If you’re impressed by the name, wait till you look down this deep but dangerous cleft. Use your imagination as bats fly out of the dark crevices and you can pretend to feel the fires of hell.

Walk along Coakers walk – Coakers walk is a kilometre long path constructed in 1872. It is perfect for people who love to walk or ride a bike along the mountains, enjoy the natural beauty, and visit the telescope house at the end of the walk.

Pray at Kurunji Temple – One of the greatest attractions of Kodaikanal is the Kurunji flower that blooms only once in 12 years. The Kurunji plants are grown and preserved around a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Kartikeya. Even of it is not time for the Kurunji to bloom, the temple is worth a visit.

Visit Pambar Falls – There are about 5 different and very beautiful waterfalls in Kodaikanal but the Pambar Falls is the most charming, undoubtedly. This is one attraction you cannot miss in Kodaikanal.

Trek to Palani – If you’re an adventure enthusiast, this is one trek you cannot afford to miss. 65 kilometres of wilderness and mountainous paths – the beauty, though is reserved for those who dare to make this trip.