This road trip from Bangalore to Kodaikanal isn’t just about getting from city life to cool mountain air — it’s a journey that takes you through historic towns, hidden food gems, forest-covered highways, and finally into the serene Western Ghats.
Bangalore – The Urban Launchpad
We began our journey early morning from Bangalore. The city was just beginning to stir — the cool breeze of dawn, the smell of filter coffee drifting from roadside stalls, and the sight of the city’s skyline disappearing in our rearview mirror set the mood for adventure.
Once we hit Hosur Road, traffic thinned, and greenery started to show up. As we crossed into Tamil Nadu, the signboard welcomed us with the scent of fresh earth after light drizzle — a perfect road trip blessing.
Hosur
Experience: Just past the border lies Hosur, a modest industrial town that surprises with its local charm. We stopped at a popular local joint for steaming pongal, vada, and strong filter coffee. The staff were warm, and the place buzzed with morning activity — truck drivers, students, and fellow travelers like us.
Locals recommended taking a short detour to Kelavarapalli Dam, just a few kilometers away. A quiet reservoir surrounded by eucalyptus trees — peaceful and perfect for a photo break.
Distance from Bangalore: 40 km
Krishnagiri
Experience: Driving into Krishnagiri, you’re greeted by rolling hills and mango orchards. It’s literally known as the “Mango Capital” of Tamil Nadu. We stopped at a roadside fruit stall to buy juicy Imam Pasand mangoes — the vendor insisted we try a slice right there, and it was divine!
We climbed up to Krishnagiri Fort, a 16th-century structure that sits atop a hill. The trek is short, and the panoramic views of the town and mango plantations are worth every step.
Distance from Hosur: ~45 km
Dharmapuri
Experience: In Dharmapuri, the famous Hogenakkal Falls is just a 45-minute detour. Though we didn’t go all the way this time, we chatted with travelers returning from there who described their coracle rides and the sound of the roaring falls.
Closer to the highway, we visited the Hanumanthathirtham Temple beside the river, where locals sat in meditation under tamarind trees. A small stall nearby served crispy bajjis with coconut chutney — just what we needed.
Salem
Experience: As we drove into Salem, the temperature rose slightly, but the city greeted us with clean streets and vibrant life. We explored the 1008 Lingam Temple — unique and tranquil, where stone Shiva lingams were arranged in long, spiraling rows.
Lunch was at a well-known Chettinad restaurant, where we devoured chicken curry, egg kotthu parotta, and nannari sarbath. Before leaving, we picked up some Salem-special murukku and jackfruit chips from a sweet shop.
Distance from Dharmapuri: 65 km
Dindigul
Experience: On the way to Kodaikanal, Dindigul is a necessary and beautiful stop. First, we visited the Dindigul Fort, perched on a rocky hill with ancient stone steps. The view of the plains from up top was mesmerizing — farmlands, temple towers, and cloudy skies.
But the highlight? Dindigul biryani. We stopped at Thalappakatti Biryani Hotel, where the aroma hits you the moment you step in. Cooked with seeraga samba rice and tender mutton, it was hands down one of the best biryanis of the trip.
Distance from Salem: 130 km
Ghat Road Begins – The Climb to Kodaikanal
Experience: The real magic begins as you leave Dindigul and start ascending the Palani Hills. The hairpin bends began, and the weather cooled rapidly. We rolled down our windows and breathed in the eucalyptus and pine-laced air.
Wild monkeys sat lazily by the road, watching cars go by. Water trickled down mossy rocks, and sunlight broke through tall trees in shafts of golden light. Every few turns offered breathtaking views of the valley below.
We made a brief stop at Silver Cascade Falls, right before Kodaikanal — its waters tumbling noisily over black rocks, cooling the air around.
Once reach Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal isn’t just a destination—it’s an emotion wrapped in mist, pine forests, and lake reflections. If you’ve only got a day, this guide takes you through a perfect one-day itinerary, from sunrise to sunset, with stories, flavors, and silence that stays with you long after you leave.
Coaker’s Walk
I began my day with a stroll on the famous Coaker’s Walk, a narrow path skirting the edge of the hills. The morning chill bit into my jacket, and the mist danced across the valley. Then, just as the sun rose, the clouds parted—and there it was. A glowing canvas of valleys, waterfalls, and distant villages waking up with me.
Tourist Reflection: It wasn’t just a walk—it felt like gliding along the sky. Every few steps gave a new angle, a new mood. I stood still at the telescope point, watching the play of clouds and sun. It was soul medicine.
Breakfast at Astoria Veg
Hunger brought me down to Astoria Veg, a simple, no-frills local spot in the heart of Kodai town. I had a hot plate of pongal with vada, spicy sambar, and a cup of strong filter coffee. The place was buzzing with travelers and locals alike.
Food Experience: The pongal was creamy and perfect, with pepper just right. The waiter smiled when I asked for a second coffee. It was the kind of meal that made you feel grounded—comforting and genuine.
Guna Caves (Devil’s Kitchen)
Next stop was the mysterious Guna Caves, wrapped in dense forests and legend. As I entered the pine forest trail, the air changed—cool, quiet, and filled with the scent of wet wood. The twisted tree roots and deep crevices looked like something out of a fantasy film.
Tourist Insight: I didn’t expect to feel spooked and fascinated at the same time. The place had an ancient energy. I spent a while just sitting under a giant pine tree, listening to the forest breathe.
Pillar Rocks Viewpoint
A short drive took me to the Pillar Rocks, three towering vertical boulders rising from the cliffs. The mist came and went in waves, revealing the massive structures for brief seconds. Couples posed for photos, vendors sold roasted corn, and monkeys watched everyone.
Tourist Thought: When the rocks appeared through the mist, it felt spiritual. I couldn’t speak—I just stared. It was like nature showing off in slow motion.
Lunch at Cloud Street Café
I opted for something different for lunch—Cloud Street Café, a rustic, artsy restaurant that’s popular with backpackers. I had a wood-fired Margherita pizza, a bowl of fresh vegetable soup, and a refreshing lemon soda.
Food Review: The place felt like a blend of mountain vibes and hippie calm. The pizza was thin and crisp, and the soup warmed me inside out. People were playing board games and writing in journals—classic Kodai vibe.
Boating and Cycling Around Kodaikanal Lake
Post lunch, I rented a cycle and took a slow round around Kodaikanal Lake, one of the most iconic parts of the hill town. Trees lined the curved road, horses trotted past, and laughter echoed from boats in the lake.
I later rented a rowboat and drifted out onto the water. Ducks followed us, and the mountains stood still around the lake like silent guards.
Tourist Reflection: There was a moment when I stopped rowing and just let the boat float. The silence, the smell of eucalyptus, and the cool touch of breeze—it felt like I was inside a dream.
Shopping at Pothemedu Viewpoint Market Stalls
On my way back to town, I passed through small roadside stalls near Pothemedu Viewpoint, picking up handmade eucalyptus oil, chocolates, and locally woven shawls. The vendors were warm, happy to share stories about their crafts.
Traveler Tips: Buy directly from the small stalls. I got a hand-carved keychain from a smiling old man who told me his grandson was studying in Coimbatore.
Bryant Park Flower Walk
As the golden hour hit, I entered Bryant Park, a botanical garden near the lake. The flowers were in full bloom—zinnias, dahlias, and bright marigolds. Families clicked pictures, couples sat on benches in soft conversation, and I took a slow, final walk through the rows of flowers.
Tourist Reflection: It was the perfect cool-down before sunset. I sat by a bed of roses, watching the sun dip behind the trees. It was quiet, and for a moment, everything made sense.
Dinner at Tava Vegetarian Restaurant
For dinner, I visited Tava, a small North Indian restaurant famous for its rotis and sabzis. I ordered paneer butter masala, garlic naan, and jeera rice—and finished off with a sweet gulab jamun.
Food Memory: This was the best way to end the day. Simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. The paneer melted in my mouth, and the jamun felt like a warm hug.
