Kodaikanal Lake

Kodaikanal Lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kodaikanal town, located in Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu. This man-made lake located at the heart of the hill station and covers an area of around 60 acres. It was built in 1863 by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the British collector of the Madurai district, as a reservoir for the town. Today, the lake attracts thousands of visitors every year for boating, cycling, and relaxing walks along its banks.

What makes Kodaikanal Lake different from most lakes in India is its star shape. When viewed from above, the lake clearly takes the form of a five-pointed star — a design feature from the original construction plan. A 5 km path runs around the entire perimeter of the lake, and this walking and cycling track is one of the most used recreational routes in the hill station.

Kodaikanal situated at an elevation of about 2,225 meters above sea level, which keeps the area cool and pleasant for much of the year. The lake is surrounded by eucalyptus trees, small food stalls, boat hire shops, and cycle rental counters. If you are planning a visit to Kodaikanal, the lake is one of the first attractions most visitors explore.

History of Kodaikanal Lake:

Kodaikanal Lake was created in 1863 by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, who served as the British collector of the Madurai district at the time. The original purpose was to provide a reliable water source for the growing hill station that British officers and missionaries were developing. The star-shaped layout of the lake was part of the original construction plan. Over time, this practical reservoir became a central social and recreational space for Kodaikanal town.

During the British period, Kodaikanal grew into a popular resting place for European residents of South India who wanted relief from the seaside heat. The lake waterfront path became a spot for evening walks, and boating was introduced as a fun activity. The lake has kept this character for over 160 years and is today maintained by the Tamil Nadu government.

Why Kodaikanal Lake is Famous?

Kodaikanal Lake in Dindigul district is famous for its unusual star shape and its central location within one of Tamil Nadu's most visited hill stations. Visitors come here for a mix of outdoor activities, scenic walks, and the relaxed atmosphere the lakefront provides even during peak tourist season.

• Unique star shape clearly visible from elevated viewpoints around the town
• 5 km circumference path ideal for morning walks and cycling
• Affordable boating options including row boats, pedal boats, and motor boats
• Surrounded by well-known attractions such as Bryant Park and Coaker's Walk
• Pleasant climate year-round due to the high altitude location
• One of the oldest man-made lakes in Tamil Nadu, built during the British period

Things to Do at Kodaikanal Lake:

1. Boating on the Lake — Hire a row boat, pedal boat, or motor boat from the boat house near the main entrance. Boating is open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM every day. Row boats accommodate 2 to 4 people and are the most popular choice for families.
2. Walking or Cycling Around the Lake — The 5 km path around the lake is paved and wide enough for both pedestrians and cyclists. Cycle rental shops are available near the boat house area at affordable hourly rates.
3. Visit the Boat Club — The Kodaikanal Boat Club, located on the lake's edge, is a heritage structure from the British period. It provides rowing boats and organises occasional club activities.
4. Horse Riding Along the Shore — Ponies are available for hire along certain stretches of the lakefront path, mainly catering to children and families.
5. Visit Nearby Bryant Park — The botanical garden maintained by the Tamil Nadu Horticulture Department is just about 1 km from the lake. It is a good follow-up stop on the same day.

Kodaikanal Lake Entry Fee:

There is no entry fee to visit Kodaikanal Lake or to walk along the lakeside path. The area around the lake is a public space and is open to all visitors free of charge. Charges apply only if you choose to hire a boat.

Kodaikanal Lake Boating Charges:

Note: Boating charges may vary slightly by season and are set by the Tamil Nadu government boat operators. Confirm prices at the boat house before boarding.

Kodaikanal Lake Timings:

The lakeside area is accessible to visitors at all times. Boating services operate from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm every day, including weekends and public holidays. There are no closed days for the lake itself.

Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal Lake:

The best time to visit Kodaikanal Lake is from October to June. During these months, the weather in Kodaikanal is cool and dry, with temperatures ranging between 8°C and 20°C. The skies are mostly clear, which makes the boating experience more pleasant and the views across the lake cleaner.

The monsoon months of July and August bring heavy rainfall to Kodaikanal. While the lake and its surroundings look very green during this period, the cycling path can get slippery and boating is sometimes suspended during rain. December to February is cold at this altitude — temperatures can drop below 5°C at night, and mist covers the lake for much of the morning.

Places to Visit Near Kodaikanal Lake:

• Coaker's Walk
• Bryant Park
• Bear Shola Falls – 2 km
• Dolphin's Nose – 7 km
• Pillar Rocks – 8 km
• Silver Cascade Falls – 8 km
• Green Valley View – 6 km

Visitors who want to explore more of Tamil Nadu's hill country can combine a trip to Kodaikanal Lake with a visit to Ooty in the Nilgiris or head south to the temples of Meenakshi Temple in Madurai. The drive between Kodaikanal and Ooty takes around 4 hours through the Tamil Nadu hills.