Kodaikanal in Monsoon: Discovering the Town’s Rainy Charms

Kodaikanal, a popular hill station in Tamil Nadu, is known for its pleasant climate throughout the year. However, Monsoon in Kodaikanal brings a magical transformation that charms visitors.

The monsoon season in Kodaikanal typically starts in June and lasts until September. As the first raindrops fall, the town transforms into a lush green paradise, with the trees and plants springing to life. The rain brings a respite from the heat, and the air is filled with the sweet aroma of wet earth.

During this time, Kodaikanal’s landscape is covered with mist, making it look like something straight out of a fairytale. The valleys are shrouded in mist, and the hills are covered in a blanket of greenery. The forests come alive with the chirping of birds, and the gushing sound of waterfalls can be heard in the distance.

Kodaikanal’s waterfalls are a sight to behold during the monsoon season. The Bear Shola Falls, Silver Cascade Falls, and the Pambar Falls are just a few of the many waterfalls that are in full force during this time. The cascading waterfalls create a beautiful spectacle, and the mist surrounding them creates an otherworldly atmosphere.

The Magic of Monsoon in Kodaikanal : Places to explore

Kodaikanal offers many attractions and activities to enjoy during the monsoon season. From scenic walks to trekking and birdwatching, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful hill station. Here are some must-visit attractions and activities to enjoy in Kodaikanal during the monsoon season:

1. Enjoy the scenic beauty

The monsoon season transforms Kodaikanal into a lush green paradise with waterfalls, misty mountains, and beautiful valleys. Enjoy the natural beauty of the place by taking a leisurely walk on Coakers Walk, hike or trek.

2. Visit the waterfalls

Kodaikanal is home to several beautiful waterfalls such as Bear Shola Falls, Silver Cascade Falls, and Glen Falls, Pambar Waterfalls. During the monsoon season, these waterfalls are at their best, and visitors can witness the beauty of cascading water.

3. Take a boat ride in the lake

Kodaikanal Lake is a popular tourist attraction that offers boat rides. During the monsoon season, the lake is surrounded by greenery and mist, making it an ideal place to enjoy the beauty of the hills.

4. Go on a cycling tour

Explore the beautiful countryside of Kodaikanal by going on a cycling tour. This is a great way to explore the hills and valleys, and experience the scenic beauty of the place.

5. Try local food

Kodaikanal is known for its local cuisine, which includes dishes like idlis, dosas, vadas, and pongal. During the monsoon season, enjoy these dishes with a cup of hot filter coffee, and relish the authentic taste of Tamil Nadu.

6. Visit the Kurinji Andavar Temple

The Kurinji Andavar Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is located on a hilltop. During the monsoon season, the temple is surrounded by mist and greenery, making it a beautiful sight to behold.

7. Attend a cultural event

Kodaikanal has a rich cultural heritage, and during the monsoon season, several cultural events and festivals take place. Attend these events to experience the local culture and tradition.

8. Birdwatching 

Kodaikanal is home to many species of birds, and the monsoon season is an ideal time to go birdwatching. The rain brings out the birds in full force, and one can spot many different species during this time. 

9. Local Markets

Kodaikanal has many local markets selling handmade items, spices, and tea. Exploring the local markets is a great way to experience the local culture and cuisine.

Food Festivals during Monsoon in Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal offers visitors a unique culinary experience and vibrant cultural festivals during the monsoon season. From hot and spicy dishes to traditional dance performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful hill station.

Kodaikanal’s cuisine is a blend of Tamil and Kerala cuisines. During monsoon season, hot and spicy food is a popular choice to beat the cold weather. Some must-try dishes include kuzhi paniyaram, a fluffy and crispy dumpling made with fermented rice and lentil batter; varuval, a spicy and crispy fried chicken or fish dish; and kothu parotta, a popular street food made with minced parotta, egg, and vegetables.

Kodaikanal offers a variety of food festivals during the monsoon season, providing visitors with an opportunity to taste and experience the diverse culinary traditions of Tamil Nadu.

Here are some of the popular food festivals to enjoy in Kodaikanal during the monsoon season:

1. Kodaikanal Food Festival

This food festival is organized by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department and takes place in August every year. It is a week-long festival where you can taste a variety of local and traditional dishes from different regions of Tamil Nadu.

2. Chocolate and Nut Festival

Kodaikanal is famous for its homemade chocolates and nuts. The Chocolate and Nut Festival is held in August and September and is a great opportunity to taste and buy different varieties of chocolates and nuts.

3. Tea and Spice Festival

Kodaikanal is also known for its tea and spice plantations. The Tea and Spice Festival takes place in July and August and is a great opportunity to taste and buy different varieties of teas and spices.

4. Fruit Festival

Kodaikanal is surrounded by hills and valleys where a variety of fruits are grown. The Fruit Festival is held in August and September and is a great opportunity to taste and buy different varieties of fresh fruits like strawberries, apples, and plums.

5. Mushroom Festival

Kodaikanal has a variety of mushrooms growing in the hills during the monsoon season. The Mushroom Festival is held in September and is a great opportunity to taste and learn about different varieties of mushrooms and their culinary uses.

Festivals during Monsoon in Kodaikanal 

Kodaikanal is a lively and vibrant place during the monsoon season, with numerous festivals and celebrations that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.

1. Vinayaka Chaturthi

Vinayaka Chaturthi, also known as Ganesh Chaturthi, is celebrated in August or September. It is a ten-day festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. People prepare modak, a sweet dish, as an offering to Lord Ganesha.

2. Dussehra

Dussehra also known as Navratri is a nine-day festival celebrated in September or October, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. People fast during the day and perform poojas at home and in temples. On the ninth day, people celebrate Vijayadashami, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

3. Deepavali

Deepavali, also known as Diwali, is a five-day festival celebrated in October or November. It is the festival of lights, where people light lamps and candles to celebrate the victory of good over evil. People prepare sweets and snacks and exchange gifts with friends and family.

4. Christmas

Christmas is celebrated in December, with carol singing, lighting of the Christmas tree, and a festive feast. The churches in Kodaikanal hold midnight masses and distribute sweets and cakes.

Book Your Accommodation in Advance

When planning a trip to Kodaikanal, booking your accommodation in advance is essential. Kodaikanal is a popular tourist destination, and during monsoon season, accommodation can fill up quickly. By booking early, you can secure the best deals and ensure that you have a comfortable and affordable place to stay. Waiting until the last minute can result in higher prices, limited availability, and a stressful start to your trip.

Kodaikanal has a wide range of accommodation options, including budget hotels, guesthouses, and luxury resorts. However, during peak season, it can be difficult to find a good place to stay at a reasonable price. Therefore, it is advisable to book your accommodation well in advance.

One can find many types of accommodation available in Kodaikanal, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. To choose the right accommodation for your needs and budget, consider the following: •

• Location: Being in proximity to tourist attractions one can save time and money on travelling from hotels to the place you want to visit.

• Price: Visiting a tourist is expensive generally during peak season. A little money you saved on booking hotel at lowest price adds an advantage to you.

• Amenities: Consider the amenities offered by hotels at similar prices and make sure you accommodation includes all the amenities like wifi, room cleaning on time, etc,.

• Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to get an idea of the quality of the accommodation and the level of customer service.

Pack Appropriately

When planning a trip to Kodaikanal, it’s important to pack appropriately to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Knowing the weather and climate will help you pack appropriate clothing and gear.

Here are some essentials to pack for your trip to Kodaikanal: 

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Kodaikanal has many scenic trails and attractions that require walking or hiking, so comfortable shoes are a must. 

• Warm Clothing: Even though the weather is generally pleasant, temperatures can drop in the evenings and early mornings, so bring a light jacket or sweater.

• Rain Gear: If you’re visiting during the monsoon season, it’s important to bring a raincoat or umbrella to stay dry.

• Sun Protection: The sun can be strong in Kodaikanal, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.

• Camera Gear: Kodaikanal is a paradise for photographers, so pack your camera, lenses, and other gear to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.

• Personal Medication: If you have any personal medication, make sure to bring enough for your entire trip.

• Pack Light: While it’s important to pack appropriately, try to pack as light as possible to avoid excess baggage fees and make it easier to get around. Only bring what you need, and consider using packing cubes to help you stay organized.

Be Prepared for Unpredictable Weather

The monsoon season in Kodaikanal experiences heavy rainfall and occasional landslides. It’s important to keep an eye on weather forecasts and avoid traveling during severe weather conditions.

• Carry rain gear: If you’re traveling during the monsoon season, it’s essential to carry rain gear such as a raincoat, umbrella, or waterproof jacket to stay dry. It’s also a good idea to carry a plastic bag to protect your belongings from getting wet.

• Suitable clothing: Wear comfortable and lightweight clothes that dry quickly, as you may need to change clothes frequently during the monsoon season. Avoid wearing sandals or open-toed shoes, as they can get waterlogged and cause blisters.

• Know about your surroundings: During adverse weather conditions, it’s important to stay safe and avoid venturing out alone. Always carry a charged phone and keep emergency contacts handy. If you’re staying in a hotel, familiarize yourself with the evacuation procedures in case of a natural disaster.

• Stay indoors: It is best to stay indoors during heavy rain or thunderstorms and avoid outdoor activities such as trekking or hiking. Wait for the weather to clear up before venturing out again.

Kodaikanal is a town that truly comes alive during the monsoon season. From the lush greenery that blankets the landscape to the glistening waterfalls that flow in abundance, Kodaikanal’s rainy charms are a sight to behold. Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking to trek through the rain or simply looking to enjoy the serene beauty of the town, Kodaikanal in monsoon has something to offer everyone. So if you’re planning a trip to Kodaikanal, don’t miss the opportunity to witness the town’s rain-soaked wonders for yourself.