While most tourists head straight to Coaker’s Walk or Kodai Lake, an undiscovered paradise lies tucked away in the upper Palani Hills: Poondi Village.
Located roughly 35 km away from the main Kodaikanal town, Poondi (often associated with the serene Poondi reservoir area and nearby terrace farms) offers mist-covered valleys, dense pine trees, step-farming hillslopes, and undisturbed peace.
If you are looking to escape the crowded tourist spots of Kodaikanal, here is your complete travel guide to exploring Poondi.
Why Visit Poondi Village Near Kodaikanal?
Unlike the commercial centers of Kodaikanal, Poondi remains largely untouched by mass tourism.
- Breathtaking Terrace Farming: The hills in and around Poondi feature vibrant step-farming slopes where local farmers cultivate garlic, carrots, and potatoes.
- Untouched Nature: Dense forests, cool mountain streams, and serene natural lakes surround the region.
- Ideal for Offbeat Travelers: Perfect for backpackers, campers, nature photography enthusiasts, and trekkers looking for quiet trails.
Key Details at a Glance
| Parameter | Details |
| Distance from Kodaikanal | ~35 km (approx. 1 hour 15 mins drive) |
| Best Time to Visit | September to March (Post-monsoon & Winter) |
| Nearest Airport | Madurai Airport (IXM) – 165 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Kodai Road Railway Station (KZN) – 115 km |
| Ideal Trip Duration | 1 Full Day or 2 Days (with overnight camping) |
How to Reach Poondi from Kodaikanal
Reaching Poondi is an adventure in itself, taking you through winding ghat roads, eucalyptus groves, and scenic hamlets like Poombarai and Mannavanur.
- By Private Vehicle / Taxi: Renting a car or scooter from Kodaikanal town is the most convenient option. Take the Kodaikanal – Poombarai – Mannavanur – Poondi route.
- By Local Bus: Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) operates limited daily buses from the Kodaikanal Central Bus Stand towards Poondi and Kilavarai. Check timings at the station a day in advance. (Check Kodaikanal to Poondi bus timings)
Top Things to Do in & Around Poondi Kodaikanal
1. Explore the Scenic Countryside & Step Farms
Walk through the village pathways to witness local agricultural life. The vibrant green step-farming patches set against the backdrop of rolling blue hills make for incredible landscape photography.
2. Visit Nearby Mannavanur Lake & Sheep Farm
Poondi is located just a short distance past Mannavanur. Combine your trip with a stop at Mannavanur Lake to enjoy coracle rides, walk through rolling grasslands, and visit the Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute (CSWRI) farm.
3. Trekking and Nature Walks
The region around Poondi offers several natural trekking routes leading through shola forests and mountain streams.
Important Note: Always hire a local guide or check with forest department authorities before venturing deep into forest trails around the Palani Hills range.
4. Experience Stargazing & Camping
Because Poondi experiences almost zero light pollution, nighttime brings crystal-clear views of the starry sky. Several eco-resorts and private campsites offer tent stays along the ridges.
Best Time to Visit Poondi
- Monsoon (July – September): Lush green scenery, misty valleys, and brimming water bodies. Drive carefully as roads can get slippery.
- Winter (October – February): Chilly weather with temperatures dropping to 5°C–12°C. Clear skies make it ideal for sightseeing and trekking.
- Summer (March – June): Mild and pleasant weather (15°C–25°C), providing a great escape from the plains.
Places to Stay in Poondi
While luxury commercial hotels are rare in Poondi, you will find several authentic stay experiences:
- Eco-Homestays: Local villagers offer traditional homestays with home-cooked South Indian meals (featuring fresh local produce like Kodai garlic).
- Campsites & Farmstays: Located on the outskirts towards Mannavanur, offering tent accommodations, bonfires, and stargazing.
- Kodaikanal Town: Alternatively, stay in main Kodaikanal town and take a day trip to Poondi.
Essential Travel Tips for Poondi
- Fuel Up Early: Refuel your vehicle in Kodaikanal town, as there are limited/no petrol pumps past Poombarai.
- Carry Cash: Mobile network signals (especially mobile data) can be weak in parts of Poondi. Keep sufficient cash for food and local purchases.
- Pack Warm Clothing: Even during summer, evenings can get crisp and chilly. Bring a jacket, thermals, and rain gear if visiting during the monsoon.
- Respect Local Culture & Eco-System: Keep the area clean—carry your plastic waste back to Kodaikanal town for proper disposal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Poondi from Kodaikanal? Poondi is roughly 26–40 km from Kodaikanal town depending on the exact route, and about 6–7 km past Mannavanur on the village-tour road.
Can I visit Poondi and Mannavanur in one day? Yes — most travelers combine both, along with stops like Poombarai and the Sheep & Rabbit Farm, as part of a full-day Kodaikanal village tour.
Is there accommodation in Poondi? Poondi itself has very limited stay options. Most visitors base themselves in Kodaikanal town or nearby Mannavanur and visit Poondi as a day trip.
What is Poondi famous for? Poondi is known for its quiet lake, surrounding grasslands and shola forest, and its role as one of the lesser-visited stops on the Kodaikanal village tour circuit.
Do I need a guide to visit Poondi? Not for the lake and village itself, but if you’re planning to trek into the surrounding hills, a local guide is strongly recommended.
Final Thoughts
Poondi won’t show up on the standard Kodaikanal itinerary, and that’s exactly the point. If Mannavanur already felt like a break from the crowds, Poondi takes it a step further — a small lake, open grassland, and a village pace that hasn’t changed much for tourism. Pair it with Mannavanur and Poombarai for a full village-tour day, pack a warm layer, and pin this for your next Kodaikanal trip!
