India is known for its scenic beauty and natural landscapes, and one of the best ways to experience this is by taking a road trip. The drive from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal is a perfect example of a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. Located in the state of Tamil Nadu, the road trip from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal covers approximately 170 kilometers and takes about 4-5 hours, depending on the route and stops along the way. Here’s a guide to the scenic drive and the must-visit places along the route.
Starting Point: Coimbatore
Coimbatore is a major city in Tamil Nadu and serves as the starting point for this scenic drive. The city is known for its textile industry, temples, and natural beauty. Before starting the drive, you can explore some of the must-visit places in Coimbatore, such as the Marudamalai Temple, Kovai Kondattam Amusement Park, and the Perur Pateeswarar Temple.
Route Options
There are two main routes to reach Kodaikanal from Coimbatore. The first route is via Palani, which is the shortest and fastest route, covering a distance of approximately 115 kilometers. The second route is via Udumalpet, which is a longer route covering a distance of approximately 150 kilometers. Both routes offer scenic views, and the choice of route depends on your preference and time availability.
The Palani Route
The Palani route is the fastest and shortest route to reach Kodaikanal from Coimbatore. The route passes through the Palani hills and offers stunning views of the Western Ghats. The drive takes approximately 3 hours, and there are several must-visit places along the way.
Avinashi Temple: Located just 40 kilometers from Coimbatore, the Avinashi Temple is a must-visit place for those interested in Hindu mythology and architecture. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its beautiful carvings and sculptures.
Palani Murugan Temple: The Palani Murugan Temple is one of the most popular temples in South India and is located in the town of Palani. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati. The temple is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Kodaikanal Road: The Kodaikanal road is a beautiful stretch of road that passes through dense forests and tea plantations. The road is a treat for nature lovers and offers stunning views of the Western Ghats.
The Udumalpet Route
The Udumalpet route is a longer route compared to the Palani route, but it offers more scenic views and options for pitstops. The route passes through the Annamalai hills and offers stunning views of the lush green forests and waterfalls. The drive takes approximately 4-5 hours, and there are several must-visit places along the way.
Monkey Falls: Located just 28 kilometers from Coimbatore, the Monkey Falls is a popular tourist attraction known for its scenic beauty and the monkeys that inhabit the area. The falls are surrounded by dense forests and offer a refreshing break during the long drive.
Aliyar Dam: The Aliyar Dam is a beautiful dam located in the town of Aliyar. The dam is surrounded by lush green forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Valparai: Valparai is a small hill station located in the Anamalai hills. The town is known for its tea plantations and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The drive from Udumalpet to Valparai is particularly scenic, with several hairpin bends and waterfalls along the way.
Topslip: Topslip is a small town located in the Anamalai hills and is known for its wildlife sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to several species of animals, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and deer. The drive to Topslip is particularly scenic, with several waterfalls and tea plantations along the way.
Kodaikanal: The Final Destination
Kodaikanal is a popular hill station located in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu. The town is known for its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and tourist attractions. The town is situated at an altitude of 2,133 meters and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Must-visit places in Kodaikanal:
Coaker’s Walk: Coaker’s Walk is a scenic promenade located in the heart of Kodaikanal. The walk offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys and is a popular spot for photography.
Kodaikanal Lake: The Kodaikanal Lake is a man-made lake located in the center of the town. The lake offers boating facilities and is a popular spot for picnics.
Bryant Park: The Bryant Park is a beautiful park located near the Kodaikanal Lake. The park is known for its beautiful flowers and is a popular spot for nature lovers.
Guna Caves: The Guna Caves are a set of caves located in the Pillar Rocks area of Kodaikanal. The caves are known for their natural beauty and are a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts.
Pillar Rocks: The Pillar Rocks are a set of rock formations located near the Guna Caves. The rocks offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys and are a popular spot for photography.
Conclusion
The road trip from Coimbatore to Kodaikanal is a perfect example of a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. Whether you choose the Palani route or the Udumalpet route, the drive is sure to be a memorable one. Along the way, there are several must-visit places that offer a glimpse into the rich culture and natural beauty of Tamil Nadu. Kodaikanal, the final destination, is a popular hill station that offers several tourist attractions and a pleasant climate. Overall, this road trip is a perfect way to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Tamil Nadu.
