Kodaikanal Lake, Tamilnadu

About Kodaikanal Lake

Over the years a boat club, boathouse and boat service (with Rowing Boats and Pedalling boats and a public ferry) for the public and tourists has become fully functional and is of aesthetic significance for tourism. Boat Pageant and Flower Shows are a regular feature in the summer season which attracts tourists.The lake is star-shaped, centrally located in the town of Kodaikanal and is surrounded by lush green hills of the northwestern Palani Hills range, which is the main watershed for the lake.

A railway line extended from Chennai to Tirunelveli with an intermediate station at Ammaianayakkanur (later renamed Kodai Road) was built in 1875, to provide a gateway to Kodaikanal town and there on to the lake through a foot trek of 18 km from the railhead. The nearest railheads to the lake presently are the Kodai Road railway Station at 80 km and the Palani Railway station at 64 km distance, from the town. Madurai (at 121 km) and Coimbatore (at 135 km) airports are the closest to the Lake. Kodai Lake is well connected by road with regular bus services operating to Madurai, Palani, Kodaikanal Road, Theni, Dindigul, Thiruchirapalli, Kumili, Erode, Bangalore and Coimbatore.

Climate/Weather

Summer - 19.80�C Winter - 17.30�C

History

There is proof of settlement of prehistoric tribes at Kodaikanal by visible artifacts such as dolmens homes of great stone slabs. After the primitive tribes of Paliyans and Pulyans in 14th century, villagers of Palani foot hills fled into Kodai hills, to escape from the oppressive rule in the plains and also from the invasion of Tippu Sultan.

Interesting places to Visit

Silver falls:

This is the first attraction that unfolds in front of a tourist on the Madurai - Kodaikanal road. The excess water in the Kodai Lake comes down as a fall at about 8 kms from Kodaikanal. It is like a pit stop for vehicles and tourists as there are shops selling fruits and other forest products.

Kodaikanal - Lake:One of the main attractions for the tourists of Kodaikanal is the Kodai lake which is at a distance of 3kms from the bus stand. In 1863, Vera Levinge, a former District Collector of Madurai settled in Kodaikanal after his retirement. He was the man of resource and creative ideas for this lake. By spending his own money he converted the marshy land with several streams of lake by constructing a strong bund and brought boats from Tuticorin. It is reported that the foreign resident’s even used to swim in the lake.

Docters Delight (3 kms): Beyond the Pillar rocks is an old bluff on the way to Berijam Lake which commands a fine view.

Silver Cascade : The water falls may be seen as the tourist approaches Kodaikanal by the main Ghat road, it lies 8 kms away from the town.

Fishers Seat : (2 kms from Shenbaganur) is a curiously conical now in runis, erched on a precipice. From there one can see clouds raising above the jungle 3000 ft. below.

Dolphins Nose : (8 kms) From where one needs a good nerve to look at the yawning chasm below.

Nearest Visiting places

. Kulkkal Cave : It is a favourite camping site ideal for trekking. It is 40 kms from Kodaikanal.

Berijam Lake (21 kms): This lake supplies drinking water to Periakulam Town. It is of special attraction to anglers. The scenery around here is beautiful.

Madurai:Madurai or is the oldest and second largest city of Tamil Nadu. This city is located on Vaigai River and was the capital of Pandyan rulers. The Pandyan king, Kulasekhara had built a gorgeous temple around which he created a lotus shaped city. It has been a center of learning and pilgrimage, for centuries. Legend has it that the divine nectar falling from Lord Shiva’s locks gave the city its name - ‘Madhurapuri’, now known as “Madurai”.Madurai is famous for its Meenakshi Temple, one of India’s biggest Temples which is dedicated to Meenakshi, the consort of lord Shiva. Exquisite sculptures, hall of thousand pillars, icons, photographs & illustrations make this Temple a famous tourist spot. The Temple is an excellent example of Dravidian architecture. The Meenakshi temple complex is one of the largest and certainly one of the most ancient.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

For accommodation near Kodaikanal Lake, nearby towns offer budget lodges, guesthouses, and mid-range hotels. Book ahead during peak season (December-March).

Help Line/Phone Number

Police Station:

Police Station Madurai

Police Station Dindigul

Nearest Hospital:

Madurai,Dindigul

Location info

**Address:**Kodaikanal,Dindigul, Tamil Nadu,,India
**District:**Dindigul
**Nearest City:**Madurai 121 km
Best time to visit: April to June, and September to October, but can be visited throughout the year.

How to reach Kodaikanal Lake

Nearest Railway Station: Kodai Road.
**Nearest Airport:**Madurai (120)
**Road Transport:**Kodaikanal is well connected by road with the major cities and towns of the state.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol Pump Kodaikanal ,Tamilnadu,India

Best time to visit Kodaikanal Lake

November to March when the weather is pleasant. Early morning (6–8 AM) offers beautiful reflections on the water surface. Late afternoon (3–5 PM) is good for walks and photography. Migratory birds visit during winter (November–February).

Timings & opening hours

Accessible during daylight hours. Best visited between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Some lakes managed by forest departments have specific visiting hours. Boating, if available, operates between 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry is generally free. Nominal parking fee of INR 10–30 may apply. Boating charges: INR 50–200 per person depending on boat type. Some maintained lake parks may charge INR 10–20 entry.

Duration needed

1–2 hours for a relaxed visit including a walk along the banks. If boating is available, allow an additional 30–45 minutes. A picnic visit may extend to 3–4 hours.

Safety tips

Swimming is generally not permitted in most lakes — observe warning signs. Keep away from sluice gates and deep areas. Supervise children at all times near the water. Avoid visiting alone after dark. Do not litter — help keep the lake clean.

Things to carry

Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during your visit.
Comfortable Footwear: For walking and exploring.
Camera: Capture memorable moments.
Hat and Sunglasses: Sun protection.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

By Air: Madurai International Airport (IXM) is the nearest major airport, well-connected to domestic destinations including Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad. Taxis and app-based cabs are available from the airport.

By Train: Kodaikanal Road Station (KQN) is the nearest major railway station, served by express and passenger trains connecting to cities across India. From the station, local transport including auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses are available.

By Road: Kodaikanal Lake is well-connected by Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) buses and private operators. Regular bus services from Madurai and nearby towns connect to the destination. National and state highways provide good road connectivity for self-drive visitors.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Tamil Nadu. 4G is reliable in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and along major highways. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain rural interior areas. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes in urban areas.

Food & restaurants nearby

Near Kodaikanal Lake, small eateries and food stalls serve local Tamil Nadu snacks. Visitors can enjoy fresh coconut water, sundal, bhajji, and roasted corn. For proper meals, nearby towns have restaurants offering vegetarian South Indian thali meals including rice, sambar, rasam, and curd.

Things to do at Kodaikanal Lake

Take a peaceful walk along the lake embankment and enjoy the serene water views. Watch for birds — many lakes attract herons, egrets, kingfishers, and migratory waterfowl during winter. If boating is available, enjoy a ride on the placid waters.

Things to visit & highlights

The lake with its expansive water surface reflecting the sky. The surrounding green banks and vegetation. Birdlife along the shores — particularly during winter when migratory birds arrive. The sunset view over the lake is especially beautiful.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Kodaikanal Lake? Early morning (6–8 AM) or late afternoon (3–5 PM) between November and March for pleasant weather and good bird watching.

Can I go boating at Kodaikanal Lake? Boating facilities vary by lake. Check with the local tourism office or visit early to confirm availability.

Are there food options near Kodaikanal Lake? Food stalls and small eateries may be available near the lake. The nearest town offers more comprehensive dining options.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.