How to Plan a Perfect Bangalore to Kodaikanal Trip?

Nestled in the hills of Tamil Nadu’s Dindigul district, Kodaikanal is a charming town, renowned for its spectacular natural beauty. Featuring picturesque waterfalls, stunning lakes, forested valleys, and lush green hills, Kodaikanal attracts several tourists from Bangalore, who are looking for a relaxed getaway from the hustle and bustle of their busy life.

The man-made star-shaped lake is one of the prime attractions of Kodaikanal. Kodaikanal’s tranquillity and pleasant weather will take away all your stress and will make you fall in love with the beauty of this place. So, if you wonder how to plan a perfect trip to Kodaikanal from Bangalore, check out this blog in which we have mentioned everything you need to know. This will not only help you plan a trip, but it will also ensure a memorable journey.

Travel Options and Distance

Kodaikanal is around 465 kilometres away from Bangalore and a road trip would take approximately 8 to 10 hours. Choose your travel options wisely according to your travel plan and distance from the place you plan to travel. Here are the travel options you can choose from.

1. By Road (Taxi or Self Drive)

Road travel is one of the most popular and convenient ways to reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore. The route from Bangalore to Kodaikanal rewards travellers with the views of forests, hills, and small villages. The two prime routes are mentioned below:

Bangalore–Krishnagiri–Dharmapuri–Salem–Kodaikanal: This route takes you directly to Kodaikanal from Bangalore in around 8 hours. The well-maintained road provides a comfortable journey with scenic views along the way.

Bangalore–Hosur–Shoolagiri–Krishnagiri–Dindigul–Kodaikanal: This route is longer and ideal for those who want to avoid traffic.

Self-driving is the best option, allowing you to explore at your own pace, but those who are not comfortable with long drives can hire private taxis or shared cabs for the journey.

2. By Train

Kodaikanal is not connected to Bangalore by train. Travellers willing to travel by train can reach Dindigul, the nearest town around 80 km from Kodaikanal. Upon reaching Dindigul, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Kodaikanal. It would take around 7 to 8 hours to reach Dindigul from Kodaikanal.

3. By Bus

Tourists can also take a private or government-run bus from Bangalore to Kodaikanal. It will take almost 9 to 10 hours to reach Kodaikanal by bus. There are options like sleeper buses, luxury buses, and semi-sleeper buses and you can choose any one from them as per your preference. Book your bus tickets in advance because the seats are limited, especially during the peak tourist season.

Choose the Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal’s weather remains pleasant throughout the year and you can visit this place all around the year. However, the best time to visit depends on the type of expericne you seek.

Kodaikanal in Summer: The summer months in Kodaikanal (from March to May) offer cool and comfortable weather conditions, making it the ideal time for sightseeing and other outdoor activities. The temperature ranges from 20 to 30 degrees, providing the perfect escape from Bangalore’s scorching heat.

Kodaikanal in Monsoon: From July to September Kodaikanal experiences the monsoon season, adding lush greenery to the landscapes making them look even more appealing. However, heavy rainfall can make outdoor activites and trekking challenging. It is a great time to visit for those who want to enjoy the misty surroundings of this picturesque hill station but be prepared for unexpected weather changes.

Kodaikanal in Winter: Winter (October to February) is perfect for those who are willing to experience the cosy vibes of this beautiful hill station. The Kodaikanal Winter Festival during these months, adds a festive vibe to this charming hill town.

Things to Do in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal offers a wide range of activities, from thrilling treks to relaxing picturesque viewpoints. Here are some of the top things to do in Kodaikanal mentioned below:

1. Visit the Famous Kodaikanal Lake

The star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake is one of the prime attractions in this hill station. Here you can enjoy cycling, boating, or just enjoy the views of the surroundings.

2. Dolphin’s Nose Trek

Those who seek adventure can trek to the Dolphin’s Nose. This thrilling and scenic trek takes trekkers through dense forests, offering eye-pleasing views of the Western Ghats along with the picturesque valley below. The total duration of this trek is around 3 to 4 hours.

3. Explore Guna Caves

You can visit the Guna Caves, also famous as the Devil's Kitchen. Surrounded by the dense forest, this is a set of mysterious caves, that offer exciting experiences for nature and history lovers.

4. Visit Silver Cascade Falls

Located on Kodaikanal’s outskirts, the Silver Cascade Falls is one of the famous tourist spots. Cascading down from a height of 180 feet, this waterfall offers a quick tranquil stop during your trip to Kodaikanal.

Kodaikanal Stay Options

Kodaikanal has many stay options ranging from affordable hotels to premium resorts. Some of the best places to stay in Kodaikanal are mentioned below:

1. Lake Road: The Lake Road area near Kodaikanal Lake has a wide range of guesthouses, hotels, and homestays with easy access to the prime attractions and Kodai Lake itself.

2. Coaker’s Walk Area: Those willing to enjoy surreal views and a stay near the prime attractions can find hotels or resorts in the Coaker’s Walk area.

3. Vattakanal: If you seek a quieter and more scheduled environment, you can find accommodation in Vattakanal. This area features serene landscapes and the crowd is also less.

Conclusion

A Banglore to Kodaikanal journey promises a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle into the lap of nature. Offering cool weather, scenic beauty, and a wide range of adventure activities, this trip is ideal for those seeking a relaxed getaway. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip now and get ready for a hill station escape in Kodaikanal. Explore the beauty, try new things, make new friends, and create happy memories to cherish forever.