Kodaikanal is situated in the Palani Hills of the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, South India, and is considered the ‘Princess of the Hill Stations.'’ Throughout the year, the hill station presents everything, from beautiful lakes to forests and mesmerizing views. However, it can be said that the attraction and beauty of Kodaikanal are different in each of these seasons and have a different flair in each season. From the rich green vegetation of summer to the cool and mystical haze of the monsoon, Kodaikanal is a new place in a new season each time one visits the place. Exploring more of Kodaikanal and how long it takes to take a tour of this serene place will determine the beauty that one will experience in this natural abode.
In this guide, we will let you know about the right time to visit Kodaikanal so that you do not miss the best that the hill station can offer. In this case, we will discover the various seasons to propose what each one has to give; the greenery and fresh weather of the monsoon season, the blooming flowers, and the good weather of summer. So, depending on your vacation schedule, here are the best times to visit Kodaikanal.
Spring starts from March up to May, and there is a moderate temperature between 15°C and 25°C. Flowers start to open, and the scenery becomes stinging with colors, so it is an excellent environment for nature.
Summertime has to be the best time to visit Kodaikanal though the heat ranges between 20°C to 30°C. The climate is favorable for outdoor activities, and the outlook of the scene is green and beautiful.
The monsoon season is another beautiful period for visiting because the rain leads to Kodaikanal being a green city. The climate is moderate, it is between 15 ° C and 25 ° C, and the hills are shrouded by a mist that looks rather mysterious.
Autumn belongs to the transitional type of climate and the period from September to November is suitable for traveling with cool, rather mild temperatures that vary between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius. There are little to no clouds which is perfect for touring and outdoor-related activities.
1. Trek to Dolphin’s Nose: The entire valley is visible from the top unlike other treks where tall trees provide obstruction and this is perhaps the reason this trek is highly attractive. Pack your lunch if you are planning to have lunch as there are no restaurants there to offer you a meal.
2. Visit the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory: Even though these are rather specific for astronomy enthusiasts, such an observatory helps to explain the phenomena unfolding above us and is a special treat for the audience.
3. Explore the Wildlife Sanctuary: Actually, it remains one of the best times to practice bird watching because some of the bird species are migratory.
4. Enjoy the Autumn Colors: One more way of discovering the town and the nearby areas is by day-walking in the evening, to be able to see the changes in the colors of trees.
Winter is a peaceful season with less than 10 ° C – 20 ° C cool temperatures. This is the best season for nomads, adventure lovers, and those who wish to walk through the serene beauty of the queen of hills Kodaikanal.
1. Trek to Berijam Lake: Take a break and relax on a clean lake that is adjacent to the green forests. The weather is colder which makes a hike a very refreshing one.
2. Bonfire Nights: Bonfire nights are also common in many resorts because they create a homely atmosphere and people love to share stories in the night.
3. Visit the Kodaikanal Church: The severely aesthetic architecture of the charming church is best captured in this season besides the winter season.
4. Enjoy Local Cuisine: Have breakfast, lunch, and dinner with local delicacies in comfortable cafes and restaurants. Instead, winter holds a better opportunity for having hot soups and other traditional South Indian foods.
Kodaikanal is a place that can be visited around the year; however, the ideal time to visit mainly depends on the interests of the tourist. Floral lovers should visit in spring, families and adventure lovers in summer, those interested in nature and rains in monsoon, those who wish to see clear skies and a calm and peaceful land should visit in autumn, and if one wishes to live in solitude then winter is the best time to visit in Kodaikanal. If the time you choose for your visit is not an issue, then soon, you will be able to experience the beauty of Kodaikanal’s sceneries and the warmth of its people in your heart. So get set go and be ready with Capture a Trip.
✈️ I'm Rinki Sharma — a passionate traveler and storyteller. Through my travel blogs, I capture the essence of every destination, from hidden gems to well-trodden paths. I believe every journey has a story, and I love sharing mine to inspire others to explore, connect, and discover the world with...View Author Profile