Why Kodaikanal remains one of India’s most loved hill stations

Are you someone who is craving a break from the grind? Kodaikanal, also known as “Princess of Hill Stations” is that good news we all need. This hill station has been inviting travellers since the British turned it into their summer escape in 1845. But it’s important to note that Kodaikanal is not some dusty colonial relic; the town’s charm is alive, kicking, and layered with reasons that make it a must-visit.
First off, the scenery is downright ridiculous—in the best way. Kodaikanal’s star attraction, the man-made Kodaikanal Lake, sprawls across 60 acres in a perfect star shape, fringed by emerald hills and whispering eucalyptus trees. Rent a pedal boat or stroll the 5-kilometer path around it, and you’re guaranteed postcard-worthy views at every turn. Then there’s Coaker’s Walk, a kilometer-long pathway perched on a mountainside, where you can gawk at plunging valleys and—if you’re lucky—catch the Brocken Spectre, a rare trick of light casting your shadow onto the clouds. Add in the Pillar Rocks, three 400-foot granite giants shrouded in mist, and you’ve got a lineup of natural wonders that feel like they’re showing off just for you.
Kodaikanal is more than just scenic beauty—it’s an experience that blends serenity with adventure. The Pine Forest, planted over a century ago by Bryant, is a tranquil haven of towering trees, where the soft rustle of pine needles enhances its peaceful allure. For those drawn to mystery, Guna Caves (or Devil’s Kitchen) exude an eerie charm, once associated with tales of disappearances, though now only accessible for distant viewing. If trekking excites you, Dolphin’s Nose—a rocky outcrop at 6,600 feet—presents a breathtaking yet vertigo-inducing view of dramatic cliffs and endless skies.
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The weather is another major attraction. While the plains below endure scorching heat, Kodaikanal remains pleasantly cool throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 27 degrees Celsius. Summer (April to June) is the peak season, offering clear skies ideal for exploration, but even the monsoon transforms the town into a misty, green paradise that’s simply enchanting. It’s easy to see why British bureaucrats and missionaries once sought refuge here from the heat, leaving behind treasures like the 150-year-old La Salette Church, whose Gothic arches echo the town’s rich history.
Then there’s the food and shopping—little bonuses that seal the deal. Kodaikanal’s markets are full of homemade chocolates (seriously, don’t leave without some), organic spices, and handcrafted goodies you won’t find anywhere else. Grab a plate of spicy biryani or a steaming dosa from a local joint, and you’re tasting the soul of Tamil Nadu with a hill-twist. It’s comfort food with a view.
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What really sets Kodaikanal apart, though, is how it balances the wild with the welcoming. The crowds haven’t stripped away its old-world charm—yet. You can still find quiet corners like Bear Shola Falls, where the water crashes through dense forest, or Chettiar Park, with its rare Kurinji flowers that bloom once every 12 years. Sure, it’s got its touristy bits, but wander off the beaten path to spots like Vattakanal village—nicknamed “Little Israel” for its backpacker vibe—and you’ll see why people keep coming back.
Kodaikanal’s pull isn’t just about what you see; it’s what you feel. It’s the crisp air hitting your lungs, and more. So, pack a jacket, lace up your shoes, and head to Kodai. You won’t just visit; you’ll wonder why it took you so long to get there.