3 Stunning Lakes in Kodaikanal

You must start your Kodaikanal sightseeing with its namesake, Kodaikanal Lake, the deepest lake in Kodaikanal. This lake in the Dindigul district is a man-made phenomenon, built in the shape of a star, that will make you fall in love in no time! In fact, its charm has drawn many Bollywood film directors and has been the background for many Bollywood films. When you visit the lake, make sure to keep some time in your hand as this is the largest lake in Kodaikanal and that means you will need quite some time to explore the lake! Another thing to remember while planning a trip here! The lake remains open for visitors from 6 am to 5 pm. And no entry fee is needed.

There is no shortage of things to do at the biggest lake in Kodaikanal. Start with boating. You will surely enjoy paddling through the cold water of the lake amid nature’s bounty. You can also go fishing, cycling and horse riding. Swimming is allowed at the lake as well, but for that, you will need to enrol at one of the boat clubs. After all this fun activity, there is a flower show that you can attend or visit the nearby attractions, Kodaikanal Solar Observatory and Kumbakkarai Falls!

You can pay a visit to this one of the important lakes in Kodaikanal any time of the year. Still, here is what you need to know. The ideal time for a Kodaikanal Lake trip is between the summer months of April to June. The weather in these two months is perfect for sightseeing, taking part in the fun lake activities and also, for witnessing the flower show. Winter and monsoon months can be a great time as well. But there is just one issue. During the monsoon, you may not be able to take part in boating!

Our next destination is the longest lake in Kodaikanal! If you want to spend some time away from the city’s crowd, Berijam Lake is your spot. The first thing that will catch your attention here is its natural charm. Also, the lake is home to many wildlife creatures, making it one of the best places to visit in Kodaikanal for wildlife enthusiasts. No entry fee is required here. And the lake is open from 9 am to 3 pm. So, make your plans accordingly.

There are many options for you at this largest freshwater lake in Kodaikanal! Wildlife lovers, go on a jeep safari. A safari around the lake is the best way to explore all its flora and fauna. Any trekking lovers in the house? The Pambar Falls trekking with stunning scenic views awaits you! Bird watching and fishing are also great options. And before you ask, no, boating is not available here, because this lake is the source of drinking water of a nearby town! In between all these fun activities, you can go and visit the Guna Caves, Pillar Rocks and Fairy Falls!

Between October and May, you can visit this freshwater lake in Kodaikanal anytime. The weather remains quite nice and you will be able to enjoy your trip at its best. Monsoon can interfere with all these outdoor activities, hence is better to avoid. Another thing to keep in mind! You should reach the lake a little early in the morning because Kodaikanal's largest freshwater lake closes by 3 pm and only a certain number of vehicles are allowed.

We are at one of the most serene places in the hill town of Kodaikanal, the Mannavanur Lake. Calling it a nature lover’s paradise is not an overstatement. As you drive towards the Mannavanur village, you can see this scenic lake, residing peacefully in the middle of picturesque meadows and pine trees. The vegetation and fauna here are other key attractions. You can visit the lake anytime between 9.30 am to 5 pm. And you will have to pay a minimal entry fee.

There are many benches around the area. Sitting on any of the benches, enjoying the views and watching the birds flying by while soaking in the peace, is the best thing to do. But if you want some fun activities, boating, coracle rides and horse rides can be the best picks. After that, you can walk around the Mannavanur village as well.

Just after the monsoon, when the lake and its surrounding become refreshed, is the ideal time to visit the lake. From then till June, you can plan a trip here any time! The weather remains comfortable for both sightseeing and fun activities!

In the end, we will say this much. Visiting the lakes is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Kodaikanal. And you must not miss the experience while you are in the town!