- Distance from Kodaikanal bus stand
- About 5.5 km
- Best time of day
- 10 am to 3 pm
- Views
- Palani Hills and Vaigai Dam
What to see
The view takes in ridge after ridge of the Palani Hills falling away into the plains, with the reservoir of the Vaigai Dam visible in the distance when visibility is good. The drop below the railing is very deep, so stay behind the barriers and keep a close hand on children. Bonnet macaques are common here; keep food out of sight and do not feed them. Binoculars are useful if you want to pick out details on the plains far below, and a light jacket helps, since the wind at the edge can feel cold even on a sunny day.
Shopping on the way
The walk from the parking area to the viewpoint is lined with stalls selling Kodaikanal's homemade chocolates, souvenirs, spices and flowers. It is a handy place to pick up edible gifts to take home.
When to visit
Mist often fills the valley in the early morning and again in the late afternoon, so the clearest views are usually between about 10 am and 3 pm. After heavy rain the valley can stay clouded for much of the day; if you arrive and see nothing but white, it is often worth waiting a few minutes, as the mist can lift quickly.
How to reach
The viewpoint is about 5.5 km from Kodaikanal bus stand, and taxis and local sightseeing vehicles go there regularly. Most day tours of Kodaikanal include it along with Coaker's Walk, Pillar Rocks and the Guna Caves, and we can arrange a car for the full circuit. Parking near the viewpoint is limited at weekends and during the April–June holiday season, so an early start helps. The road from the town centre is narrow in places, and traffic can back up when tour vehicles arrive together.
Also nearby
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