We, a group of 10 friends, began our journey from Tiruvannamalai Railway Station 
(Google map link https://maps.app.goo.gl/2TckP66XSG7adyu16) on a Friday evening by train:train:& reached Madurai early the next morning:sunrise_over_mountains:. From there, we caught the first bus:bus: to Kodaikanal. It was a full rush! While climbing the ghats, the views were stunning
. On the way to Kodaikanal, we passed by the stunning 
Silver Cascade Waterfall—a tall & powerful stream of water tumbling from the rocks, offering a refreshing sight and a perfect spot for a quick photo 
stop.
*(Google map link https://maps.app.goo.gl/Uh2u32eg2cC8NspM7)
We reached Kodai (shortly, Kodaikanal is called) around 9:30 a.m.The climate was very cool and pleasant at 20°C 
.
Photo of Kodaikanal Bus stand
At the bus stand (Google map link https://maps.app.goo.gl/2TckP66XSG7adyu16), we booked our rooms and a local travel agency package for ₹750 per person (including stay and travel). The agency told us to get freshened up and be ready by 12:30 p.m. A minivan 
came to pick us up and shared with 4–to 6 other groups.
Our trip started with a glimpse of the Pambar Waterfall from the van itself. The guide explained that many years ago, clean fresh water used to flow, but sadly:cry:, drainage water is now being released into it 
.
View of Pambar waterfall
(Google maps link https://maps.app.goo.gl/TnEMgs77UhsrPWkJ7)
We paid ₹50 to enter the reserved Forest area🌳. First, we visited the Pillar Rock Viewpoint. The guide gave us 10 minutes to explore. The view was breathtaking—a scenic stretch of mountain ranges! Entry was ₹10 per person. We clicked some group photos here . The three giant rock pillars standing tall and close together are an iconic symbol of Kodaikanal & rise to a height of about 400 feet, offering a dramatic view against the misty backdrop.
Photos of Pillar rocks & mountain scenes
(Google map link https://maps.app.goo.gl/E4vnNDhyDh3UgwDi9)
Next, we headed to the Guna Caves (also known as Devil’s Kitchen). Due to it being the weekend, we got stuck in a traffic jam 
. Entry via the guide was direct, but if going alone, you’d pay ₹10. The crowd was massive, like a local fair 
! We had to walk around 750 meters to reach the cave point. While walking, I experienced a drizzle—it added to the vibe 
. The twisting roots of trees created a web-like 
pattern, making it a great photo spot. The other side was fenced, beyond which lies the Devil’s Kitchen, a 5000-ft deep gorge, which is prohibited for safety reasons 
. This spot became even more popular after the movie 
Manjummel Boys. Taking photos here was tough due to the crowd, but instant photographers were available. Restrooms and snack 
shops like roasted corn and masala corn were also there.
Photos of Guna Cave & the web like structure formed from the roots
(Google map link https://maps.app.goo.gl/P1G7J8bF7nxgwMMG6)
Then we moved to the Pine Forest (entry ₹10 per person). Walking through the tall pine trees was a unique experience 
. A board explained that the forest was created by Mr. Bryant, a British forest officer, between 1905–1915. The forest floor was grey with cones and dried leaves—a natural wonder! Horse riding and photographers were available here too. Even at 3:00 p.m., the climate was cool. We collected pine cones as keepsakes 
. Shops outside the forest had slightly higher prices (tourist spots!).
Photos of Pine forest
*(Google map link https://maps.app.goo.gl/A1nD11iQVqHq2pxMA)"
Next, we visited Moir Point—a spectacular viewpoint with a panoramic view of the mountains 
. Entry ₹10. A board shared its history: it was once Four Mile Road, later named after Sir Thomas Moir, who built Goshen Road in 1929. A watchtower here gave us stunning views. We clicked lots of photos and videos. Outside, there were snack shops and souvenirs.
Photos of iconic bull
statue, tower & panoramic view of mountain ranges.(Google map link https://maps.app.goo.gl/AKjWePu92CnUtfNCA)
While returning, we passed by the Suicide Point (not a designated spot, just beside the road) which offers a deep valley view.
Soon, we reached the Upper Lake Viewpoint, from where we could see Kodaikanal Lake from above.
This is the upper Lake View
(Google map link https://maps.app.goo.gl/CUBMhW87uTQGSPQR6)
This photos are from the lake view point (below)
(Google map link https://maps.app.goo.gl/HjLs7fSakjiLJGq68)
Due to the 
weather, Kodaikanal is perfect for chocolate production 
. There are so many chocolate shops around! We visited SG Natural Oil and Spices, where we explored a wide variety—dark, white, dry fruit mix, also you can purchase spices & condiments, essential oils & vines🍾.
Photos othe products available in this shop.
(Google map link https://maps.app.goo.gl/NRypJj8P42d7v2NG9)
We missed a few attractions like
boating 
in Kodai Lake & Coaker’s Walk, but overall, it was a memorable 
one-day trip. We stayed overnight & left on Sunday morning. At night 
, the temperature dropped to 12°C—our first time experiencing such cold 
.
Tip: Visit Kodaikanal during summer weekdays to avoid the crowd, traffic, & parking issues.
Final Request: Let’s keep Kodaikanal clean! Don’t damage public property, & please don’t litter 
plastic 
or any other things especially in reserved forest areas. Use dustbins only 
.
Hope this virtual experience of Kodaikanal was interesting & informative…
Thank you 
