Kodaikanal Lake
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu · Kodaikanal travel guide
Man-made lake perfect for boating, cycling, and relaxing.
A star-shaped, man-made lake surrounded by lush greenery. It is the centerpiece of Kodaikanal, offering boating, cycling, and horse riding. The mist-covered lake in the early morning creates a magical atmosphere, attracting tourists for leisurely walks and scenic boat rides.
Plan your visit
| Time to spend | About 2.5 h (1–4 h) |
|---|---|
| Best time of day | 8–11 AM — misty morning, calm for boating and cycling; 4–5:30 PM — soft light before cold evening |
| Avoid | 5:30–7 PM — cold and dark falls early, boating closed |
| Best months | Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct |
| Months to avoid | Nov–Dec |
| Entry fee | Free entry |
| Setting | Outdoor |
| Effort | Easy — ~5 km flat loop around the lake |
| Good for | Families, Kids, Elderly, Couples, Solo, Groups |
| Rating | 4.5 / 5 on Google (7,773 reviews) |
Peak season Apr-Jun; Nov-Dec rain and cold can close boating and spoil views.
Frequently asked questions
How much time do you need at Kodaikanal Lake?
Most visitors spend about 2.5 h; 1–4 h depending on pace.
What is the best time to visit Kodaikanal Lake?
8–11 AM, for misty morning, calm for boating and cycling. The best months are Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct.
What is the entry fee for Kodaikanal Lake?
Entry is free.
More things to do in Kodaikanal
- Topslip Anamalai Tiger Reserve (ATR)
- Kodaikanal Hill Station
- Valparai Hills View and Aliyar Dam View Point
- Pine Forest
- Mannavanur Lake
- Vattakanal Waterfalls
- Meghamalai
- Guna Cave