Tucked away in the misty hills of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is the kind of place that feels like a deep breath of fresh air. Literally. Known as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” this charming town is all about scenic beauty, cozy weather, and a slow-paced vibe that makes you want to stay a little longer than planned.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a peace seeker, a honeymooner, or just someone desperate for a break from city chaos—Kodaikanal has something magical for everyone. From serene lakes and dense pine forests to waterfalls that suddenly appear on the roadside, this place is full of little surprises.
And the best part? You don’t need a week to soak it all in. Just 3 days are enough to cover the must-visit spots, enjoy the local food, and still have time for spontaneous detours.
In this blog, I’ve put together a no-BS, time-efficient, and totally doable 3-day itinerary of places to visit in Kodaikanal—so you can focus on what really matters: making memories.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
🛣️ How to Reach Kodaikanal from Major Cities
| Mode | From | Route Details | Approx. Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚆 Train | Chennai | Train to Kodai Road → Cab/Bus to Kodaikanal | 10–11 hrs |
| Bangalore | Train via Dindigul → Kodai Road → Taxi/Bus | 9–10 hrs | |
| Coimbatore | Train to Dindigul → Taxi/Bus to Kodaikanal | 6–7 hrs | |
| ✈️ Air | Madurai Airport | Fly to Madurai → Taxi to Kodaikanal (120 km) | 3.5–4 hrs |
| Trichy Airport | Fly to Trichy → Taxi to Kodaikanal (150 km) | 4.5 hrs | |
| Coimbatore | Fly to Coimbatore → Drive to Kodaikanal (180 km) | 5 hrs | |
| 🚌 Road Trip | Chennai | NH38: Chennai → Trichy → Dindigul → Kodaikanal | 9–10 hrs |
| Bangalore | Hosur → Salem → Dindigul → Kodaikanal | 8–9 hrs | |
| Coimbatore | Coimbatore → Palani → Kodaikanal | 4.5–5 hrs | |
| Madurai | Madurai → Periyakulam → Kodaikanal | 3–4 hrs | |
| 🚌 Bus Services | Most South Indian cities | TNSTC / SETC government and private buses operate daily | Varies (overnight options available) |
🎒 Travel Tip: Try to arrive by noon so you can squeeze in a few places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days without rushing on Day 1.
No matter where you’re coming from, once you hit those winding hill roads, you’ll know the journey was worth it. And with your travel sorted, you’re all set to explore the best places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days—with zero travel stress.
Places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days
🌄 Day 1: Welcome to the Misty Hills of Kodaikanal
You’ve made it to Kodaikanal! Whether you took the scenic drive or rolled in by bus, now it’s time to soak in the fresh mountain air and start your adventure. Day 1 is all about getting familiar with this hill station’s charm and hitting the classic must-visits without burning yourself out.
🕘 9:00 AM – Check-in and Freshen Up
Most hotels and homestays in Kodaikanal offer early check-ins. Grab a hot shower, sip on some local filter coffee, and get ready to explore. Pro tip: choose a stay near the lake or Coaker’s Walk for easy access to attractions.
🧭 10:30 AM – Coaker’s Walk
Start your day with a leisurely stroll on Coaker’s Walk. This narrow path built on the edge of a cliff offers breathtaking views of the valley below. On clear days, you can even see Dolphin’s Nose and Madurai city shimmering in the distance.
🌥️ Tip: Go early for less crowd and better visibility before the mist rolls in.
🌸 11:30 AM – Bryant Park
Right next to Coaker’s Walk is Bryant Park, a beautifully maintained botanical garden perfect for plant lovers and Instagrammers alike. You’ll find exotic flowers, tall eucalyptus trees, and even a greenhouse.
📸 Don’t miss: The rose garden section—it’s pure aesthetic bliss!
🍽️ 1:00 PM – Lunch at Cloud Street or Astoria Veg
Time to recharge. Head to Cloud Street for wood-fired pizzas and continental fare, or Astoria Veg if you’re craving hearty South Indian meals.
🛶 2:30 PM – Kodaikanal Lake & Boating
One of the most iconic places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days, Kodaikanal Lake is a must! Rent a pedal boat or rowboat and enjoy the calm waters surrounded by pine-covered hills.
🚴 Want something more active? You can rent a bicycle and cycle around the lake (a 5 km loop).
🌲 4:30 PM – Pine Forest Walk
Next, head over to the Pine Forest—an enchanting patch of tall, whispering trees that look like something straight out of a movie. Take a walk, click some moody photos, or just sit and enjoy the cool shade.
☕ 5:30 PM – Chai & Snacks at Altaf’s Café
If you’re up for a short drive, stop by Altaf’s Café on Pambarpuram Road for chai, coffee, and Israeli-style snacks. It’s a hidden gem with a view.
🌄 6:30 PM – Sunset at Moir Point
End your day with a peaceful sunset at Moir Point, located slightly outside the main town. The view is worth the drive, especially as the hills slowly fade into dusk.
🍛 8:00 PM – Dinner & Rest
Head back to your stay, grab a cozy dinner, and maybe sip on some hot chocolate before calling it a night. You’ve only just scratched the surface of Kodaikanal—and Day 2 is going to be even better.
| Time | Activity | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Check-in & Freshen Up | Settle into your stay near the lake or Coaker’s Walk |
| 10:30 AM | Coaker’s Walk | Panoramic views, early morning mist, photo ops |
| 11:30 AM | Bryant Park | Rose garden, exotic plants, peaceful walk |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch at Cloud Street / Astoria Veg | Wood-fired pizza or authentic South Indian thali |
| 2:30 PM | Kodaikanal Lake | Boating, cycling loop, lakeside chill |
| 4:30 PM | Pine Forest | Tall trees, moody vibe, nature walk |
| 5:30 PM | Chai at Altaf’s Café | Offbeat café with views & Israeli snacks |
| 6:30 PM | Sunset at Moir Point | Peaceful sunset spot with scenic valley views |
| 8:00 PM | Dinner & Rest | Cozy evening and early lights-out for Day 2 |
✨ Travel Tip: Mix a bit of nature, relaxation, and iconic spots on Day 1 to ease into the hill station vibe. The best places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days are spread out—no need to rush!
🌞 Day 2: Adventure and Scenic Beauty
Day 2 is perfect for exploring some of Kodaikanal’s more adventurous and offbeat places. After a relaxed Day 1, get ready for a mix of nature trails, waterfalls, and stunning viewpoints.
🕘 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Pastry Corner
Start your day with some fresh baked goodies and strong coffee at Pastry Corner, a beloved local bakery famous for its bread, pastries, and sandwiches.
🏞️ 9:00 AM – Dolphin’s Nose
Head out early to Dolphin’s Nose, a dramatic rock outcrop that offers sweeping views of the plains and cliffs below. The short trek to the viewpoint is scenic and well worth the effort.
🚶♂️ The trek is moderate and takes about 30 minutes one way. Wear comfortable shoes!
💦 11:00 AM – Bear Shola Falls
Next, visit Bear Shola Falls, a serene waterfall nestled inside a forest reserve. The trail is short and easy, perfect for a quick nature break and some fresh misty air.
🌿 12:30 PM – Lunch at The Royal Tibet
Enjoy authentic Tibetan food at The Royal Tibet Restaurant—their momos and thukpa come highly recommended and will give you a delicious energy boost.
🚶♀️ 2:00 PM – Bryant Park (Optional revisit) or Pillar Rocks
If you want, you can revisit Bryant Park to relax among flowers, or head to the Pillar Rocks, one of Kodaikanal’s iconic natural rock formations offering stunning views and photo ops.
🌲 4:00 PM – Guna Caves (Devil’s Kitchen)
Visit the mysterious Guna Caves, known locally as Devil’s Kitchen. These eerie caves surrounded by dense forest and sharp rocks have a fascinating (and slightly spooky) vibe.
⚠️ Caution: The terrain can be slippery. Go with a guide or experienced locals.
☕ 5:30 PM – Evening Chai at Café Cariappa
Wind down your adventurous day with some aromatic South Indian filter coffee at Café Cariappa, a cozy spot loved by locals and travelers alike.
🍽️ 7:30 PM – Dinner at Tava Vegetarian Restaurant
For dinner, try Tava Vegetarian Restaurant for flavorful North and South Indian dishes served in a homely atmosphere.
🌙 Optional: Night stroll at the Lake
If you still have energy, take a peaceful moonlit stroll around Kodaikanal Lake to end your day on a calm and magical note.
On your places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days trip, Day 2 is all about adventure and scenic spots that will give you a deeper connection with nature and the hill station’s unique charm.
| Time | Activity | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Breakfast at Pastry Corner | Fresh pastries, bread, and strong coffee |
| 9:00 AM | Dolphin’s Nose Trek | Stunning cliff views, moderate 30-min trek |
| 11:00 AM | Bear Shola Falls | Serene waterfall in a forest setting |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch at The Royal Tibet | Authentic Tibetan momos and thukpa |
| 2:00 PM | Pillar Rocks or Bryant Park | Iconic rock formations or floral botanical park |
| 4:00 PM | Guna Caves (Devil’s Kitchen) | Mysterious caves, spooky vibes, slippery terrain |
| 5:30 PM | Evening Chai at Café Cariappa | Cozy spot for South Indian filter coffee |
| 7:30 PM | Dinner at Tava Vegetarian | Delicious North and South Indian vegetarian meals |
| Optional | Night Stroll at Kodaikanal Lake | Peaceful moonlit walk to end the day |
🌄 Day 3: Hidden Gems and Relaxation
On the last day of your places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days itinerary, it’s time to unwind and explore some offbeat yet charming spots that many visitors miss. This day is all about soaking in the peaceful vibes and making memories.
🕘 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Cloud Street
Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at Cloud Street, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious baked goods. Try their waffles or eggs Benedict for a treat.
🌺 9:30 AM – Silent Valley Viewpoint
Visit the tranquil Silent Valley Viewpoint early to enjoy misty mountain views and some quiet reflection time. It’s a lesser-known spot with breathtaking scenery.
🚣♂️ 11:00 AM – Boating at Berijam Lake
Head to Berijam Lake, a serene and less crowded spot perfect for boating or simply relaxing by the water. The surrounding forest adds to the charm and peacefulness.
🚌 Note: Entry to Berijam Lake requires permission from the forest department, so plan ahead.
🥗 1:30 PM – Lunch at Café Silent Shores
Enjoy a light, healthy lunch at Café Silent Shores near Berijam Lake. They serve fresh, organic dishes that will keep you refreshed.
🌳 3:00 PM – Pine Tree Walk and Echo Point
On your way back, take a gentle walk through the Pine Tree Walk and stop by Echo Point, where you can experience the natural echo phenomenon.
☕ 5:00 PM – Tea Time at TTK Viewpoint
Before sunset, relax at the TTK Viewpoint café with a warm cup of tea or coffee while watching the sky change colors over the hills.
🌙 7:00 PM – Final Dinner at Cloud Street
Wrap up your places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days trip with a memorable dinner back at Cloud Street, enjoying their great food and cozy atmosphere.
Complete your places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days trip by exploring some peaceful hidden spots and enjoying a relaxed last day.
| Time | Activity | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Breakfast at Cloud Street | Cozy ambiance, delicious waffles and eggs Benedict |
| 9:30 AM | Silent Valley Viewpoint | Misty mountain views, quiet and less crowded spot |
| 11:00 AM | Boating at Berijam Lake | Serene lake surrounded by forest, require forest permit |
| 1:30 PM | Lunch at Café Silent Shores | Fresh, organic, healthy meals |
| 3:00 PM | Pine Tree Walk & Echo Point | Scenic walk and natural echo experience |
| 5:00 PM | Tea Time at TTK Viewpoint | Tea or coffee with panoramic sunset views |
| 7:00 PM | Final Dinner at Cloud Street | Cozy dinner to end your Kodaikanal trip on a high note |
Final Thoughts & Travel Tips for Your Kodaikanal Trip
Kodaikanal is truly a magical hill station that perfectly blends nature, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re wandering around the serene lake, trekking to breathtaking viewpoints, or savoring local flavors at cozy cafés, this places to visit in Kodaikanal in 3 days itinerary ensures you get the best of everything without rushing.
Tips to Make Your Kodaikanal Trip Even Better:
- Pack Smart: The weather can be unpredictable—carry light woolens even in summer and comfortable trekking shoes.
- Start Early: Many popular spots are less crowded in the mornings and offer stunning sunrise views.
- Local Food: Don’t miss trying homemade chocolates and fresh local produce; they’re a treat!
- Respect Nature: Keep the trails clean, avoid littering, and be mindful of wildlife, especially around forest areas like Berijam Lake.
- Plan Permits: If you plan to visit spots like Berijam Lake, check for necessary permits in advance.
- Stay Hydrated: Walking and trekking can be tiring—keep water handy throughout the day.
- Ask Locals: They often know hidden gems and the best times to visit popular spots.
With these tips and the 3-day itinerary, your trip to Kodaikanal will be memorable, relaxing, and full of beautiful moments. So pack your bags, set your spirit free, and get ready to explore this charming hill station!
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