If you are tired of the same schedule every day, a road trip from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal is just what you need. Located in the Palani Hills, Kodaikanal is one of Tamil Nadu’s most loved hill stations. Known as the “Princess of Hill Stations,” it is famous for its pleasant weather, misty mountains, and beautiful lakes.
Travelling from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal is an experience in itself. The trip allows you to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the region. For a smooth and enjoyable journey, booking a car rental in Coimbatore using Savaari’s car rental app is a great option. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, this trip promises to be unforgettable.
Table of Contents
- Why Travel from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal?
- Traveling from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal by Car
- Best Time to Take a Road Trip from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal
- Popular Routes to Travel from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal
- Best Route From Coimbatore to Kodaikanal
- Attractions in Kodaikanal for Sightseeing
- Savaari Recommends: Popular Places to Eat in Kodaikanal
- Hotels and Resorts: Accommodation in Kodaikanal
- Nearby Road Trips from Kodaikanal
- Highway Updates
Why Travel from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal?
Traveling from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal by road is one of the best ways to experience the charm of Tamil Nadu. The drive is refreshing, offering a perfect mix of greenery, mountain views, and quiet countryside.
This journey allows you to explore hidden gems along the way, such as quaint villages, roadside tea stalls, and natural attractions. You can stop to take pictures, enjoy some snacks, and feel the cool breeze as you ascend toward the hill station.
By booking a reliable cab service in Comibatore with Savaari, you can enjoy a stress-free and comfortable journey, making your road trip memorable.
Traveling from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal by Car
The distance from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal by car is approximately 171 kilometers, and the journey takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Start your drive from Coimbatore, heading toward Kodaikanal via Pollachi. The roads are in good condition, and the journey gets more scenic as you approach the hills. The winding ghat roads near Kodaikanal add a sense of excitement to the trip.
If you’re not comfortable driving yourself, consider hiring a chauffeur-driven Coimbatore to Kodaikanal cab through Savaari. This way, you can relax, enjoy the views, and let a professional driver take care of the road. Alternatively, for a group size of more than eight people, you can also book a tempo traveller in Coimbatore with Savaari and enjoy a pleasant group travel experience.
Important Highway Information: Coimbatore–Kodaikanal Highway
| Highway Name | National Highway 83 |
| Alternate Name | NH-83 and Palani–Kodaikanal Road |
| Total Distance | 171 Km |
| Starting Point | Coimbatore |
| End Point | Kodaikanal |
| Highway Quality | Excellent |
Quick Facts about Coimbatore to Kodaikanal
| Road Distance from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal | 171 Km |
| Aerial Distance from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal | 102.25 Km |
| Time to Travel from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal by Road | 4–5 Hrs |
| Travel Time from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal by Train | 5-6 Hrs |
| Best Routes from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal | NH-83 and Palani-Kodaikanal Road |
| Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal | November to February |
Best Time to Take a Road Trip from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal
The best time for a Coimbatore to Kodaikanal road trip is between November and February. During these months, the weather is cool and pleasant, making the drive enjoyable and comfortable. It’s best to avoid traveling during the summer months (April to June) as it can get quite hot, and the monsoon season (July to September), when heavy rains might affect road conditions.
To have a smooth and hassle-free trip, consider booking a cab through the Savaari cab booking app. It ensures a convenient and affordable journey from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal, allowing you to enjoy the scenic route and relax without worrying about the drive.
Popular Routes to Travel from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal
Here are a couple of popular routes to travel from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal by car:
Route 1: Coimbatore to Kodaikanal via NH-83 and Palani-Kodaikanal Road
This route offers smooth roads for most of the journey, with ghat sections closer to Kodaikanal. The distance from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal via this route is 171 km, and it is the fastest and most scenic route, passing through green fields, coconut groves, and charming towns.
Suggested Places Along the Way
- Aliyar Dam, Pollachi: Aliyar Dam is a peaceful spot surrounded by beautiful hills, perfect for a relaxing break. The scenic views of the dam and its serene surroundings make it a great place for nature lovers. It’s also ideal for photography and enjoying some quiet time amidst nature. Read more about the top things to do in Pollachi.
- Udumalai Tirupathi, Udumalaipetti: A popular pilgrimage site for locals and visitors, Udumalai Tirupathi is a peaceful temple dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara. People visit to offer prayers and seek blessings in a calm, spiritual environment.
- Palani Murugan Temple, Palani: Palani Murugan Temple is a famous hilltop shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the town and nearby areas from the temple. It’s a must-visit for its spiritual significance and scenic beauty.
Popular Places to Eat on This Route
- Amutha Surabhi, Pollachi: Amutha Surabhi is a popular restaurant in Pollachi known for its tasty South Indian food. It offers a variety of dishes like dosa, idli, biryani, and delicious vegetarian meals. The food is fresh, flavorful, and prepared in a homely style.
- Kick Grass, Udumalaipetti: Kick Grass is a popular café and hangout spot. Known for its relaxing ambiance, it offers a variety of snacks, beverages, and light meals. The place is perfect for spending time with friends or family while enjoying good food in a cozy setting.
- Shree Lakshmi Bhavan, Palani: Shree Lakshmi Bhavan is a well-known restaurant in Palani offering delicious South Indian vegetarian food. It is famous for its fresh and tasty meals, including dosas, idlis, and flavorful thalis. The air-conditioned dining area provides a cool and comfortable environment, making it perfect for families.
Route 1: Coimbatore to Kodaikanal Road Conditions
The road conditions from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal via this route are good overall, with well-maintained highways up to Palani. The Kodaikanal roads after Palani are narrow and winding, so drive carefully, especially during monsoons.
Route 2: Coimbatore to Kodaikanal via Palani-Kodaikanal Road
The Palani-Kodaikanal Road offers smooth roads for most of the journey, with some ghat sections closer to Kodaikanal. The distance from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal via this route is around 182 km.
Suggested Places Along the Way
- Ariyas Mahal, Palladam: Ariyas Mahal is a beautiful park, offering a glimpse into the past with its well-maintained surroundings. The palace is a quiet spot for photography and appreciating the local heritage.
- Uppar Dam View Point, Dharapuram: The Uppar Dam View Point offers breathtaking views of the dam and its surroundings. It is a peaceful spot to relax, enjoy nature, and take beautiful photographs.
- The Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, Palani: The Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple is one of the most famous temples dedicated to Lord Murugan. Located atop Palani Hill, the temple is a popular pilgrimage site. Devotees climb 693 steps or use the cable car to reach it.
Popular Places to Eat on This Route
- Annalakshmi Mess, Palladam: Annalakshmi Mess is a famous local eatery known for its traditional South Indian food. The place offers delicious and affordable meals, including rice, sambar, and dosa. With its simple ambiance and quick service, it’s a great spot for those craving authentic and homemade-style meals.
- Apoorva Restaurant, Dharapuram: Apoorva Restaurant serves a wide range of Indian dishes, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Known for its tasty food and quick service, it is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The clean atmosphere and affordable prices make it a go-to place for a satisfying meal.
- Hotel Gowri Krishna, Palani: Hotel Gowri Krishna is a popular place known for its tasty South Indian meals. It offers a variety of dishes, especially vegetarian options, in a clean and comfortable setting.
Route 2: Coimbatore to Kodaikanal Road Conditions
The roads from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal are in good condition, with smooth highways up to Palani. After Palani, the roads become difficult, so it’s important to drive carefully. Be extra cautious, especially during the monsoon, as the terrain can be slippery and more challenging.
Best Route from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal
The best route from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal is via NH-83 and Palani-Kodaikanal Road. The traffic flow on this route is generally moderate, with fewer vehicles on the highway. The road maintenance on NH-83 is excellent, ensuring a comfortable ride. However, after Palani, the Palani-Kodaikanal Road becomes narrow and winding, with a few challenging curves.
Other Means of Traveling from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal
If you’re planning a trip from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal, here are some other ways to get there:
How to Reach by Train?
There are no direct trains from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal, but you can take a train to Palani, the nearest railway station to Kodaikanal. From there, you can hire a Savaari taxi or take a bus to Kodaikanal. The train journey to Palani takes around 2-3 hours. For train bookings and updates, visit the IRCTC website.
How to Reach by Flight?
Kodaikanal does not have an airport. The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai Airport (IXM), which is about 136 kilometers away. While there are no flights from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal, you can fly to Madurai Airport and then take an airport taxi in Madurai with Savaari to Kodaikanal. Flight tickets are relatively expensive, ranging from INR 5,000 to INR 7,000, and less convenient compared to other modes of travel.
How to Reach by Bus?
There are several private and government buses available from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal, and the journey usually takes 5–6 hours. Ticket prices vary between INR 300 and INR 800, depending on the type of bus you choose. It’s an affordable and convenient option.
Price Comparison for Choosing Different Travel Means
Here is a cost comparison for traveling from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal:
| Travel Means | Estimated Cost |
| Coimbatore to Kodaikanal Cabs | INR 4176 |
| Coimbatore to Kodaikanal Train | – |
| Coimbatore to Kodaikanal Flight | – |
| Coimbatore to Kodaikanal Bus | INR 300 – INR 800 |
For a comfortable and stress-free journey, you can book a Coimbatore to Kodaikanal car rental through the Savaari cab booking app. Enjoy the convenience of a private car, explore scenic routes, and take breaks whenever you like. Savaari offers affordable rates and easy one-way drop-offs, making your trip to Kodaikanal enjoyable and relaxing.
Attractions in Kodaikanal for Sightseeing
Kodaikanal is a magical hill station that feels like a hidden treasure in the hills. With its misty weather, sparkling lakes, and charming viewpoints, it’s a place where every corner tells a new story.
Some of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal that are waiting to amaze you are:
- Kodaikanal Lake: Kodaikanal Lake is a star-shaped, man-made lake surrounded by green hills. It is a peaceful place where you can relax and enjoy the fresh air. Boating on the lake is fun, and you can also rent bicycles to ride around it. People enjoy walking along the paths or just sitting by the water. Horse riding is another exciting option.
- Coaker’s Walk: Coaker’s Walk is a beautiful walking path with amazing views of the valleys and hills. It is a quiet and peaceful place, ideal for a stroll. On clear days, you can see rivers, villages, and mountains far away. The cool breeze makes the walk even more enjoyable. There is a telescope house where you can see the view more closely.
- Bryant Park: Bryant Park is a lovely garden near Kodaikanal Lake. It has colorful flowers, green plants, and tall trees. It’s a peaceful place where you can walk, relax, or enjoy a picnic. The glasshouse inside the park has many beautiful plants. In summer, the park hosts a flower show that is fun to see.
- Pillar Rocks: Pillar Rocks are three tall stone pillars standing in the middle of misty hills. They are a famous tourist spot in Kodaikanal. From this viewpoint, you can see stunning views of the hills and valleys. On clear days, the view is very beautiful, and when it’s cloudy, the mist adds a magical touch. There is a small garden near the rocks where you can sit and relax.
- Guna Caves: Guna Caves are mysterious caves surrounded by thick forests. These caves became famous after appearing in the Tamil movie Guna (1991). The area around the caves is full of tall trees and mist, making it look magical. You cannot go inside the caves as it is not safe, but you can enjoy the view from outside.
Savaari Recommends: Popular Places to Eat in Kodaikanal
Visitors from far and wide come to Kodaikanal not only to admire its stunning natural beauty but also to savor its delicious food. The hill station offers a mix of flavors that delight every palate. Here are some popular places to eat in Kodaikanal that add to the charm of your journey:
- Whistler Cafe: Whistler Cafe offers a mix of Italian and Chinese dishes with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Their breakfast menu includes several options from North Indian to South Indian cuisines. The food is delicious, and the ambiance makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy your meal.
- Cloud Street: Cloud Street is an eatery known for its amazing Italian food and pizzas. The chill vibe and delicious flavors make it a must-visit in Kodaikanal. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty meal with friends or family in a relaxed setting.
- Orchard Restaurant: Orchard Restaurant serves a variety of Indian and Southwestern dishes. The fish curry, chicken biryani, and fish fry are particularly loved for their authentic taste, reminiscent of home-cooked food. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance and delicious menu make it a favorite for many.
- Altaf’s Cafe: Altaf’s Cafe is a delightful spot offering Lebanese and cafe-style dishes. Their Israeli and Yemeni breakfast options are a unique treat (their falafel is highly recommended!). The seating is charming, with a front area that provides a relaxing dining experience.
- Tava Vegetarian Restaurant: It is a small yet popular spot known for its delicious Indian and Asian vegetarian food. Their Battoora and Shrikhand are must-tries, along with the flavorful black dal.
- The Royal Tibet: The Royal Tibet is a cozy restaurant serving authentic Tibetan food. Their momos and thukpa are particularly popular. It’s a great spot for those looking to try traditional Tibetan dishes in a simple and comfortable atmosphere.
Hotels and Resorts: Accommodation in Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. Some recommended places to stay include:
| Hotel Name | Address | Phone Number |
| The Carlton | Lake Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu – 624101 | +91 4542 248 555 |
| Sterling Kodai Valley | No. 25, Pallangi Road, Attuvampatti, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu – 624101 | +91 79697 92010 |
| Club Mahindra Resort | Solheim House, Noyce Road, near Coaker’s Walk, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu – 624101 | +91 4542 241 365 |
| Green Pastures Kodaikanal by Hill Country | Arackal Road, Attuvampatti, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu – 624101 | +91 95512 82828 |
Nearby Road Trips from Kodaikanal
If you’re up for exploring more, here are some nearby road trips from Kodaikanal that make the journey worth it:
| Destination | Distance (approx.) | Time Taken (approx.) | Price |
| Kodaikanal to Munnar | 167 Km | 4-5 Hrs | ₹3185 |
| Kodaikanal to Madurai | 117 Km | 3 Hrs | ₹1560 |
| Kodaikanal to Ooty | 252 Km | 6-7 Hrs | ₹3250 |
| Kodaikanal to Thekkady | 148 Km | 3-4 Hrs | ₹3230 |
A road trip from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal is more than just a journey; it’s an adventure filled with stunning views, delicious food, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to relive old memories, this trip promises a refreshing break from routine.
For a hassle-free travel experience, book a cab with the Savaari cab booking app and enjoy the flexibility, comfort, and joy of exploring at your own pace. Let the beauty of the hills and the charm of Kodaikanal make your road trip truly special!