Discover Kodaikanal
The Princess of Hill Stations
Nestled in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu at an elevation of 2,133 meters, Kodaikanal is often referred to as the "Princess of Hill Stations." Its name translates to "The Gift of the Forest" in Tamil, aptly describing its lush landscapes and natural beauty.
Unlike many hill stations developed by the British, Kodaikanal was established by American missionaries in 1845 as a retreat from the tropical diseases and heat of the plains. This unique history has given the town a distinct character, blending Tamil culture with Western influences.
The town is centered around the star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake, a man-made lake created in 1863 that serves as the heart of the town. Surrounded by misty hills, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls, Kodaikanal offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Natural Wonders & Rich Cultural Heritage
Kodaikanal is blessed with an abundance of natural attractions that showcase the region's stunning biodiversity and geological features. The Pine Forest, with its tall trees creating a carpet of pine needles on the forest floor, offers a serene walking experience unlike any other in South India.
Dolphin's Nose, a flat rock projecting over a thousand feet into the valley, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Nearby, the cascading Silver Cascade Falls, formed from the outflow of Kodaikanal Lake, creates a mesmerizing spectacle as it drops from a height of 180 feet.
Beyond its natural beauty, Kodaikanal boasts a rich cultural tapestry woven from indigenous traditions and colonial influences. The native Paliyar tribe, one of the oldest indigenous communities in India, has inhabited these hills for thousands of years, living in harmony with nature and practicing traditional medicine.
The town's colonial heritage is evident in its architecture, particularly in buildings like the Christ the King Church and the 160-year-old Kodaikanal International School, one of Asia's oldest international schools. These structures stand as testaments to the town's unique historical development.
Our Accommodation Options
Choose from our diverse range of handpicked stays in Kodaikanal's most scenic locations
Luxury Cottages
Cozy wooden cottages nestled among pine trees with panoramic valley views and modern amenities.
Glamping Tents
Luxury camping with comfortable beds, electricity, and private bathrooms with stunning mountain views.
What Our Guests Say
Hear from travelers who have experienced the magic of Kodaikanal with TimberTrails
Priya Sharma
Mumbai
“Our stay at the luxury cottage was magical! The misty mornings, cozy fireplace, and stunning views made our honeymoon perfect. The staff was incredibly attentive and the homemade food was delicious.”
Stayed at: Luxury Cottages
Rahul Mehta
Bangalore
“The glamping experience exceeded our expectations! It was the perfect balance of adventure and comfort. Waking up to the mountain views was breathtaking, and the guided treks arranged by TimberTrails were excellent.”
Stayed at: Glamping Tents
Vikram Singh
Chennai
“The treehouse retreat was a unique experience that my wife and I will never forget. Sleeping among the treetops while being completely comfortable was amazing. The staff went above and beyond to make our anniversary special.”
Stayed at: Treehouse Retreats
About TimberTrails
Founded in 2018, TimberTrails was born from a passion for the natural beauty of Kodaikanal and a desire to share authentic experiences with travelers.
We carefully select and manage a portfolio of unique accommodations across Kodaikanal's most scenic locations. Our team of local experts ensures that each property meets our high standards of comfort, sustainability, and authentic experience.
Local Expertise
Our team knows every trail and hidden gem in Kodaikanal
Sustainable Tourism
We're committed to preserving Kodaikanal's natural beauty
Curated Experiences
Each stay is handpicked for its unique character and location
24/7 Support
Our team is always available to assist with any needs
Our mission is to provide authentic, immersive experiences that connect travelers with the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Kodaikanal while supporting local communities and preserving the environment for future generations. We believe that responsible tourism can be a force for positive change, creating economic opportunities for local residents while encouraging conservation efforts.
Ready for Your Kodaikanal Adventure?
Book your perfect stay now and experience the magic of Kodaikanal's misty mountains, serene lakes, and lush forests