Mannavanur Lake (மன்னவனூர் ஏரி) is a quiet lake and grassland spot in the Palani Hills, about 33 km from Kodaikanal town, reached via Poombarai. Entry is Rs 30 for adults and Rs 20 for children, and activities include coracle rides, kayaking, horse riding and a zip line. The nearby Rabbit and Sheep Farm is open 9:00 am–4:30 pm.
Last Updated: 12 October 2026
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Mannavanur village, Kodaikanal taluk, Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu |
| Distance from Kodaikanal | About 33 km (via Observatory Road and Poombarai) |
| Entry fee | Adult Rs 30, child Rs 20 |
| Camera fees | Still Rs 50, video Rs 300 |
| Activities | Coracle Rs 100, horse riding Rs 100, kayak Rs 250 (single) / Rs 400 (double), zip line Rs 500 |
| Lake timings | 9.30AM to 5.30PM, All days |
| Best time | October–March |
| Nearby | Mannavanur sheep farm, Poombarai village and viewpoint, Kookal |
Mannavanur Overview
Mannavanur (கொடைக்கானல் டூ மன்னவனூர் தூரம்) is a peaceful hill village just 33 km away, known for its scenic lake, lush farmlands, and the famous Rabbit and Sheep Farm. Whether you’re after boating on Mannavanur Lake (மன்னவனூர் படகு சவாரி), a quiet countryside drive, or a half-day add-on to your Kodaikanal itinerary, this guide covers entry fees, timings, activities, and the best time to visit.
This charming village offers a memorable experience for families, couples, and nature lovers. Mannavanur Lake Kodaikanal, the famous Mannavanur Rabbit and Sheep Farm, Mannavanur eco tourism park (மன்னவனூர் சூழல் சுற்றுலா பூங்கா), and the stunning farmland views are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Mannavanur.
It is an ideal place to relax, explore nature, and enjoy quality time with your loved ones.
Why Visit Mannavanur?
Beautiful Village: Experience the stunning view of farmlands, villages, valleys, and hills.
Kodaikanal Mannavanur Lake (கொடைக்கானல் மன்னவனூர் ஏரி): A must-visit place in Kodaikanal, offering activities such as boating (மன்னவனூர் படகு சவாரி), horse riding, kayaking, zip-lining, bird watching, and more.
Rabbit and Sheep Farm: A short distance from the lake, this farm lets you see different sheep and rabbit breeds and enjoy more lake views — see our full Rabbit and Sheep Farm guide for entry fees and timings.
Shopping: During your travel, you can buy vegetables like carrots, beetroots, sweetcorn, peas, garlic and strawberry here. In Mannavanur, agriculture is the main source of income for locals.
Places to Visit in Mannavanur (மன்னவனூர் பார்வை இடங்கள்)
There are two important places to visit when you travel to Mannavanur:
- Mannavanur Lake – Famous for the lake and its activities.
- Rabbit and Sheep Farm – Famous for sheep and rabbit breeds and lake views.
Mannavanur Lake
Mannavanur is a beautiful village surrounded by lush green farmlands, plants, and high-density forests. This place offers visitors a peaceful escape from the busy city life.
Kodaikanal Mannavanur Lake Location
Mannavanur Lake is located in the Kodaikanal region of the Dindigul district in Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated about 33 kilometers away from the main town of Kodaikanal, and it is easily accessible by road. Visitors can take a cab (Kodaikanal cab services) or drive their own vehicle to reach the lake. Kodaikanal to Mannavanur distance is 33 km.
The Beauty of the Lake
Mannavanur Lake is one of the best places to visit in Mannavanur. This natural lake is surrounded by beautiful hills, valleys, and lush green grasslands, creating a refreshing and scenic environment.
The water in Mannavanur Lake Kodaikanal is calm and clear, making it a perfect spot for photography and for spending quality time with your family. The peaceful and serene atmosphere makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature.
There is also a small bridge built across the lake, where the flowing water looks truly beautiful. Visitors can stand on the bridge, take photos, and feel the cool breeze as the water flows below. It’s a simple yet wonderful experience that adds to the charm of the lake.
🚣 Activities to do at Mannavanur Lake (மன்னவனூர் சுற்றுலா)
There are many activities that visitors can enjoy at Mannavanur Lake. Some of the popular Mannavanur Lake activities are:
- Coracle (பரிசல் சவாரி)
- Horse Riding
- Kayak
- Zip Line
Coracle Ride at Mannavanur Lake (மன்னவனூர் பரிசல் சவாரி)
A coracle ride is the classic way to experience Mannavanur Lake, and it’s usually the first activity people try when they visit. These traditional round boats drift gently across the calm, clear waters while you take in the misty hills, pine forests, and open meadows surrounding the lake — it’s peaceful rather than thrilling, which is exactly the appeal.
Coracle Safety
The coracle rides are operated under the Mannavanur Eco-Tourism Management Committee (ETMC), in coordination with the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, with safety measures in place:
- Trained Operators: Rides are led by staff trained in First Aid and water rescue.
- Life Jackets Mandatory: Every passenger is required to wear a life jacket during the ride.
- Limited Fleet: Only 5 coracles operate at a time, keeping the experience calm and uncrowded rather than a rushed, high-turnover activity.
Coracle Pricing
- Coracle Ride (1 person) – Rs 100
Why Try the Coracle Ride?
Because only a handful of coracles run at once, it stays a quiet, unhurried experience rather than a crowded tourist activity — you get proper time out on the water instead of a quick lap. And like the other activities here, the fee you pay goes back into the ETMC’s local conservation and community efforts, so it’s a simple way to support the village while enjoying one of Mannavanur’s most iconic experiences.
Tip: Since only 5 coracles are available, arrive early or be prepared for a short wait during weekends and peak season.
Horse Riding at Mannavanur Lake
For a slower-paced way to take in the views, horse riding along the banks of Mannavanur Lake is one of the most popular activities here. It’s a great option for families or anyone who wants to enjoy the lush meadows, pine forest, and the lake itself without the adventure-sport intensity of kayaking or ziplining.
Who Runs It
Horse riding at Mannavanur is handled by four local horse riders from the surrounding villages, working under the Mannavanur ETMC. They know the terrain well, and their horses are trained specifically for guiding visitors along the lakeside routes, which makes it a comfortable experience even for first-timers or children.
Horse Riding Pricing
- Horse Riding (one round) – Rs 100
Why Visitors Love Horse Riding Here
Beyond just being a relaxing activity, choosing to ride here directly supports the local families who run it — the ETMC’s revenue-sharing setup means your ride fee goes straight back into the community, while also helping preserve traditional horse-riding practices that have been part of Mannavanur for generations. It’s an easy way to add a memorable, low-effort activity to your visit while giving back to the village.
Kayaking at Mannavanur Lake
Mannavanur has recently added kayaking to its list of lake activities, and it’s quickly becoming one of the highlights of a visit here. Paddling out across the calm, high-altitude waters with the grasslands and pine forests rising around you is a completely different way to experience the lake compared to the coracle ride. You can choose a single kayak for a solo paddle or a double kayak to share the experience with someone else.
Kayaking Rules & Safety
Kayaking at Mannavanur Lake is run under the supervision of the Mannavanur Eco-Tourism Management Committee (ETMC), in coordination with the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, so safety protocols are taken seriously:
- Trained Supervision: Every session is overseen by an operator trained in First Aid and water rescue.
- Life Jackets Mandatory: All participants must wear a life jacket — no exceptions.
- Age & Weight Limit: Kayaking is open to visitors aged 10 years and above, with a weight limit of 55 kg per person.
- Limited Fleet: There are only 5 single kayaks and 4 double kayaks available, so during peak season and weekends you may need to wait your turn.
Kayak Pricing
- Single Kayak – Rs 250
- Double Kayak – Rs 400
What Makes Kayaking Here Special
Beyond the fun of it, kayaking here plays a small part in supporting the local Mannavanur community — the activity is run by the ETMC, and the fees collected go back into maintaining the lake and funding conservation work in the surrounding eco-sensitive zone. So it’s a good option if you want an adventure activity that also gives something back to the place you’re visiting.
Tip: Since the kayak fleet is small, try to reach the lake early — especially on weekends — to avoid a long wait for your turn.
Ziplining at Mannavanur Lake
If you’re looking for a bit of adrenaline to go with the scenery, Mannavanur now has a zipline that runs 250 meters across the lake. It’s a short but thrilling ride — you get a bird’s-eye view of the grasslands, pine forest, and the lake itself as you glide across, which is a completely different perspective from anything else you can do here.
Zipline Safety Standards
The zipline is operated by the Mannavanur Eco-Tourism Management Committee (ETMC) along with the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, and follows strict safety protocols:
- International Safety Standards: The setup and operation follow recognized safety benchmarks for zipline adventure activities.
- Certified Safety Gear: Every rider is fitted with a proper safety harness and helmet before launch.
- Trained Operators: Experienced staff manage the launch and landing points on both ends to ensure a safe, controlled ride.
Kodaikanal Zipline Price
- Zip Line – Rs 500 per person
Is the Zipline Worth It?
It’s one of the more unique things you can do at any lake in the Kodaikanal region — most nearby spots only offer boating, so the zipline gives Mannavanur an extra edge if you’re traveling with teens or anyone who wants a bit more excitement. As with the other activities, your ticket fee also goes toward supporting the local ETMC-run conservation efforts around the lake.
🌤 Best Time to Visit Mannavanur Lake
Mannavanur can be visited throughout the year thanks to its cool, pleasant climate, but a few seasons stand out:
- October–November: Post-monsoon greenery is at its best, and the surrounding farmlands and grasslands look their lushest.
- December–January: Expect mist and cold mornings — pack warm clothing if you’re visiting during this period.
- April–June: A popular escape from the plains’ summer heat, with comfortable daytime temperatures.
- February–March: A quieter season with fewer crowds, good for travelers who prefer a peaceful visit.
Early morning visits are best for bird watching and calmer lake activities before tour groups arrive.
🦣 Wildlife and Nature
Mannavanur Lake is surrounded by beautiful hills and dense forests rich in wildlife and natural vegetation. The area is home to a wide variety of birds, colorful butterflies, and many other small insects, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
The forests near the lake are also home to animals such as elephants, deer, wild boars, wild dogs, bison, and monkeys. Visitors may not always see these animals, but the region is known for its rich biodiversity.
The natural beauty of Mannavanur Village is truly breathtaking. The calm environment, fresh air, and peaceful surroundings let visitors relax and enjoy nature, undisturbed.
Mannavanur Lake Kodaikanal Timings
Timings: 9.30AM to 5.30PM, All days.
🎟 Mannavanur Lake Kodaikanal Entry Fee
Entry fee for Mannavanur Lake (மன்னவனூர் நுழைவு கட்டணம்)
- Adult – Rs 30
- Child – Rs 20
- Still Camera – Rs 50
- Video Camera – Rs 300
- Coracle – Rs 100
- Horse Riding – Rs 100
- Kayak (Single) – Rs 250
- Kayak (Double) – Rs 400
- Zip Line – Rs 500
🍽 Mannavanur Lake Food & Snacks
You can buy snacks like tea, green tea, lemon tea, black tea, ginger tea, coffee, biscuits, and noodles. For lunch, options include variety rice, meals, chicken, and chapati.
Mannavanur Lake Photos
📃 Rules – DO’s ✅
- Observe the wonderful wildlife activities.
- Listen to the mesmerizing bird calls.
- Photograph wildflowers.
- Admire the beauty of wild orchids.
- Enjoy the gurgling sound of wild streams.
- Use a hand-lens to admire miniature life forms.
- Enjoy photographing the sunrise and sunset over the mountain peaks.
📃 Rules – DON’Ts ❎
- Don’t go inside the forest without permission.
- Don’t drink or smoke inside the forest.
- Polythene and plastic items are strictly prohibited inside the forest.
- Don’t make noise inside the forest, as wild animals live there.
- Don’t disturb or feed the wild animals.
- Don’t walk on the grass.
Mannavanur Rabbit and Sheep Farm
A short distance from the lake is the Mannavanur Rabbit and Sheep Farm, maintained by the Central Government as part of an ICAR Agri Eco-Tourism site. You can see different sheep and rabbit breeds, enjoy more lake views, and even spot a few Tamil movie shooting locations.
For full details on entry fees, timings, and what to see there, check our mannavanur sheep farm kodaikanal
If you are driving past Mannavanur, extend your trip 10 km further to visit Poondi village near Kodaikanal.
How to Reach Mannavanur from Kodaikanal (மன்னவனூர் செல்லும் வழி)
You can reach Mannavanur Lake by traveling through Poombarai Village. The lake is located about 33 km from Kodaikanal Lake, making it a scenic drive from the main town.
To reach the lake, take the Kodai Observatory Road from Kodaikanal. After driving a few kilometers, you’ll enter the beautiful Kodaikanal Reserve Forest area. Continue along the same road until you reach the Poombarai Road junction.
From there, follow Poombarai Road towards Mannavanur. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Palani Temple, green valleys, rolling hills, Poombarai Village, and vast farmlands — a memorable, scenic drive.
If you’d rather not drive, check our Kodaikanal to Mannavanur bus timings for public transport options.
Kodaikanal to Mannavanur Taxi Fare
If you’re looking for a cab service from Kodaikanal to Mannavanur, we arrange tour trips covering Mahalakshmi Temple, Palani View, Gundar Waterfalls, Poombarai View, Poombarai Temple, Poombarai Village, Mannavanur Sheep Farm, and the lake view.
The Kodaikanal to Mannavanur taxi fare is Rs 2800 in the off-season. For seasonal pricing, please contact us or use our trip calculator.
🆚 Mannavanur Lake vs Other Places in Kodaikanal
Not sure if Mannavanur is the right choice for your trip? Here is a quick comparison with the other popular spots.
| Place | Distance from Kodaikanal | Crowd | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mannavanur Lake | 33 km | Low | Lake, activities, sheep farm, grassland views |
| Berijam Lake | ~21 km | Low | Forest scenery (permit needed) check berijam lake permission here |
| Kodaikanal Lake | In town | Very high | Boating, cycling, shopping, first-time visitors |
| Poombarai | ~15–18 km | Low | Village views, terraced farms, temple |
| Kookal Lake | Far, offbeat | Very low | Short walk, offbeat exploring |
| Vattakanal | ~8 km | Medium | Cafés, Dolphin’s Nose, short trips |
Mannavanur Lake vs Berijam Lake
Berijam Lake is inside a reserved forest, so you usually need a Forest Department permit and have to follow set timings. Mannavanur has open grassland, a ticket counter at the lake and activities like coracle, kayak and zip line. Choose Berijam for forest scenery and Mannavanur for open views and activities.
Mannavanur Lake vs Kodaikanal Lake
Kodaikanal Lake is in the town centre and is always crowded, but it has everything close by: cafés, cycling, horse riding and Bryant Park. Mannavanur is calmer and more scenic, but it takes about an hour to reach. First-time visitors should see Kodaikanal Lake first and add Mannavanur if they have an extra day.
Mannavanur Lake vs Poombarai
You don’t need to choose between them. Poombarai is on the way to Mannavanur, so most visitors see Poombarai village, the temple and the valley views first, then continue to the lake and the sheep farm.
Mannavanur Lake vs Kookal Lake
Kookal Lake are for offbeat travellers who like a short walk and don’t mind a long drive. Mannavanur is easier, has food stalls, and suits families.
Mannavanur Lake or Vattakanal?
Vattakanal is close to town and good for cafés and Dolphin’s Nose, so it suits a half-day or an evening. Mannavanur is for a full-day outing with a slow, scenic drive.
Our pick: If you want a peaceful day trip with activities and views, choose Mannavanur. If you are short on time, choose Vattakanal or Poombarai.
Places to Visit Near Mannavanur Lake
When you travel to Mannavanur Lake, you can also visit:
- Poombarai Village View
- Poombarai
- Kulanthai Velappar Temple
- Mahalakshmi Temple
- Berijam Lake
- Kukkal Lake
- Poondi Village
Overall, a wonderful place to enjoy a peaceful holiday with family.
Checkout: Resorts available in and around the Mannavanur
FAQ
About 33 km by road, usually around 1 to 1.5 hours by car. The route goes through Poombarai.
Mannavanur entry fee (மன்னவனூர் நுழைவு கட்டணம்) is ₹30 for adults and ₹20 for children, collected by the Forest Department ETMC at the counter.
Plan one to two hours for the lake, plus up to an hour for the Rabbit and Sheep Farm. On a day trip that also covers Poombarai, allow most of the day.
Yes, if you prefer a quiet lakeside and grassland setting over crowded town attractions. It suits families and photographers, and the drive via Poombarai is part of the appeal.
Berijam suits forest lovers and needs a permit. Mannavanur has open grassland views and activities like coracle, kayak, horse riding and zip line.
Yes. Poombarai is on the route to Mannavanur, so you can cover both in one trip.
Yes, coracle rides are available at Mannavanur Lake. Only 5 coracles operate at a time, so you may have to wait during busy hours. The fee is Rs 100 per person.
Yes, you can reach by your own car to this lake.
Explore more tour packages to Kodaikanal:
Palani to Kodaikanal Tour Package | Kodai Road to Kodaikanal Tour Package | Dindigul to Kodaikanal Tour Package
If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments below — I’ll do my best to help.
Have a great journey, Thank you
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We reached in the evening and it was a lovely experience. Ticket cost was 30 per person. There was ample parking space but its free outdoor parking. Not many people were in, so it was very peaceful. There are some water activities but it was drizzling when we visited.
I visited this place after visiting Sheep farm