Kodaikanal Lake — the star-shaped jewel at the heart of Kodai — is more than just a pretty view. Spread across 60 acres and rimmed by eucalyptus and pine trees, this man-made lake sits at an altitude of 2,285 metres and is the most visited spot in Kodaikanal. Whether you are travelling with family, your partner, or a group of friends, the things to do in Kodaikanal Lake will easily fill half a day of your itinerary.
From peaceful boat rides and lakeside cycling to horse riding and street shopping, Kodai Lake has something for every kind of traveller. This guide covers every activity available at the lake, along with prices, timings, and practical tips so you can plan your visit without any surprises.
About Kodaikanal Lake
Kodaikanal Lake was built in 1863 by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the then Collector of Madurai. It is an artificial lake created by constructing a dam across a natural valley. What makes it instantly recognisable is its unique star shape — visible clearly from elevated viewpoints — which was deliberately designed as part of its construction.
The lake is roughly 5 km in circumference, making it a pleasant walk or cycle around its edge. The surrounding path is lined with pine trees, local flower sellers, food stalls, and small shops, giving it a vibrant, festive atmosphere throughout the year.
Things to Do in Kodaikanal Lake
Here are the main activities you can enjoy at and around Kodai Lake:
1. Boating in Kodaikanal Lake
Boating is the most popular activity at Kodai Lake and the one most visitors come for. Managed by Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC), the boating service offers three types of boats to suit different preferences:
- Row boats – for a slow, peaceful experience across the calm water
- Pedal boats – great for couples and families; you control the speed
- Shikara boats – covered canopy boats for a more relaxed, scenic ride
The lake is especially beautiful in the early morning when mist rolls across the water and the surrounding pine-covered hills are reflected on the still surface. A boat ride here is one of those Kodaikanal experiences that stays with you long after the trip.
Boating Prices (approximate):
| Boat Type | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Row Boat (2 seater) | 30 minutes | ₹80–₹100 |
| Pedal Boat (2 seater) | 30 minutes | ₹100–₹120 |
| Shikara Boat | 30 minutes | ₹150–₹200 |
Prices are subject to change. Check with the TTDC counter at the lake on the day of your visit.
➡️ Read more: Boating in Kodaikanal Lake – Price, Timings & Tips
2. Cycling Around Kodaikanal Lake
Cycling is one of the most enjoyable and affordable things to do at Kodai Lake. The 5 km path around the lake is flat, shaded, and well-maintained — perfect for a leisurely ride at any pace.
Several rental shops along the lake road offer cycles at reasonable hourly rates. You can choose from regular bicycles, tandems (double-seat cycles perfect for couples), and children’s cycles. The rental shops will typically offer a 30-minute or 60-minute slot.
The best time to cycle is in the early morning between 7 AM and 9 AM, when the lakeside is quieter, the air is cool and crisp, and you get the path largely to yourself before the tourist crowds arrive.
Cycling Rental Price (approximate): ₹50–₹100 for 30 minutes, depending on the cycle type.
➡️ Read more: Cycling in Kodaikanal Lake – All You Need to Know
3. Horse Riding Near Kodaikanal Lake
Horse riding is a fun and memorable activity near Kodai Lake, especially popular with families and children. The Horse Riders’ Union, situated close to the lake, offers well-maintained horses for short and long rides around the lakeside area.
Even if you have never been on a horse before, there is no need to worry — a trained horse guide accompanies you throughout the ride, ensuring your safety and comfort at all times. You can choose your preferred route and duration, and the price is calculated accordingly.
Horse riding gives you a completely different perspective of the lake and its surroundings, and it makes for some wonderful photographs as well.
Horse Riding Price (approximate): ₹150–₹300 depending on route and duration.
➡️ Read more: Horse Riding in Kodaikanal – What to Expect
4. Shopping and Street Food at Kodai Lake
The road around Kodaikanal Lake is lined with small shops, stalls, and vendors selling a delightful range of local products. This stretch is one of the best spots in Kodaikanal for casual shopping and snacking.
What to buy:
- Handmade ornaments, wooden crafts, and Toda jewellery
- Homemade chocolates (Kodaikanal is famous for its chocolate shops in this area)
- Eucalyptus oil, natural honey, and herbal products
- Miniature star-shaped lake souvenirs
What to eat:
- Hot corn on the cob roasted over coals — a lakeside staple
- Fresh fruit bowls and juices
- Maggi noodles and local snacks at the small dhabas lining the road
- Kodaikanal’s famous homemade chocolates in flavours like coffee, cardamom, and chilli
Shopping and snacking here is a relaxed, unhurried experience. Take your time, try the chocolate samples, and pick up a few local gifts to take home.
5. Walking Around the Lake
If you prefer a calm, no-cost activity, simply walking the 5 km perimeter of Kodaikanal Lake is deeply satisfying. The path is scenic at every turn — pine trees, flower beds, the shimmer of the lake on one side, and the cool hill-station air around you.
Walking is also a good option if you want to spend more time at the lake without committing to a specific activity. Many visitors combine a walk with stops at the food stalls, a browse through the shops, and a rest at one of the benches overlooking the water.
Tip: The eastern side of the lake, near the boat house, tends to be busier. Walk further around to the quieter southern and western stretches for a more peaceful experience.
Visitor Information – Kodaikanal Lake
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Lake Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu 624101 |
| Entry Fee | Free (activities charged separately) |
| Boating Timings | 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (TTDC counter) |
| Best Time to Visit | Early morning (7–9 AM) or late afternoon (4–6 PM) |
| How to Reach | 1 km from Kodaikanal Bus Stand; auto-rickshaws and cabs readily available |
| Parking | Available near the lake; can get crowded on weekends |
Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal Lake
Kodai Lake is open year-round and each season offers a different experience:
- April to June (Summer): Peak season. The lake is busy with families escaping the plains heat. All activities run at full capacity. Book accommodation early.
- July to September (Monsoon): The surrounding hills turn lush and green. Mist hangs over the lake in the mornings and evenings. Boating may be restricted on heavy rain days.
- October to November (Post-Monsoon): Beautiful clear skies, waterfalls in full flow nearby, and a pleasant nip in the air. One of the best times for photography.
- December to January (Winter): Cool, misty, and atmospheric. Christmas and New Year bring a festive crowd. Temperatures can drop to 5–8°C at night — carry warm layers.
Tips Before You Visit
- Carry cash — most lakeside rental shops and vendors do not accept UPI or cards.
- Weekends and public holidays get very crowded; visit on a weekday if you have the flexibility.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes — the path around the lake is uneven in places.
- Kodaikanal Lake is at 2,285 m altitude; even in summer, evenings can turn cold quickly. Carry a light jacket.
- The homemade chocolates sold near the lake are worth every rupee. Do not miss them.
Places to Visit Near Kodaikanal Lake
Once you are done at the lake, these attractions are all within easy reach:
- Bryant Park – A well-maintained botanical garden just next to the lake. Entry fee applies.
- Coaker’s Walk – A 1 km cliff-side promenade with stunning valley views. About 5 minutes from the lake.
- La Saleth Church – A beautiful historic church situated right on the lake road.
FAQs – Things to Do at Kodaikanal Lake
What are the main things to do at Kodaikanal Lake? The main activities at Kodai Lake are boating, cycling, horse riding, lakeside shopping, and walking the 5 km perimeter path. Boating is the most popular and is managed by Tamil Nadu Tourism.
What is the boating price at Kodaikanal Lake? Boating prices range from approximately ₹80 to ₹200 depending on the boat type (row boat, pedal boat, or shikara boat) and duration. Prices are set by TTDC and are subject to revision.
What time does boating start at Kodaikanal Lake? The TTDC boating counter at Kodaikanal Lake typically opens at 9:00 AM and closes by 5:30 PM. Arrive early on peak season days to avoid long queues.
Is there an entry fee for Kodaikanal Lake? No, there is no entry fee to walk around Kodaikanal Lake. Individual activities like boating, cycling, and horse riding are charged separately.
Is Kodaikanal Lake good for couples? Yes — Kodai Lake is one of the most popular spots for couples in Kodaikanal. A shikara or pedal boat ride, cycling on a tandem bicycle, and an evening walk along the lake path are all perfect for couples.
How long does it take to visit Kodaikanal Lake? Allow at least 2 to 3 hours to fully enjoy the lake — including boating, a cycle ride or walk around the perimeter, and some time for shopping and snacks. If you are a slow explorer, half a day is ideal.
Conclusion
Kodaikanal Lake is the beating heart of Kodai, and no trip to this hill station is complete without spending time here. Whether you are gliding across the water on a shikara, pedalling around the pine-fringed path, or simply sitting on a bench watching the mist roll in, the lake has a way of slowing you down in the best possible way.
Plan to spend at least half a day here, arrive early to beat the crowds, and make sure you pick up a box of those famous lakeside chocolates before you leave.
📌 Planning a trip to Kodaikanal? Check out our Kodaikanal tour packages or book a cab with us for a hassle-free experience.
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