- Height
- About 400 ft (122 m)
- Best time
- Mornings; September to May
- Ideal time needed
- 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Nearest railway station
- Kodai Road
- Nearest airport
- Madurai
What to see
The main railing gives a clear view of the three pillars and the valley below. Close by is a small, well-kept garden that suits families wanting a picnic or a rest. Devil's Kitchen, the cave area not far from here, draws many visitors as well, but only the viewpoints are open to the public, as the caves themselves are closed for safety.
A local story
Guides and shopkeepers like to tell a romantic story linked to the rocks involving a man named David Gell, marked by a white cross that has faded with time and is now hard to make out from the viewpoint. Treat it as local lore rather than history.
Food and shopping
A row of stalls near the entrance sells snacks, souvenirs and warm clothing. The hot chilli bajji is a favourite with visitors on cool, misty afternoons. You are welcome to bring your own sandwiches and drinks for the garden, but please take your rubbish back with you.
Best time to visit
Mornings usually give the clearest views, before the mist builds up. April to June is the peak holiday season in Kodaikanal, and September to May is broadly the best period; heavy monsoon days can hide the rocks entirely.
How to reach
Pillar Rocks is a short drive from Kodaikanal town and the lake, on the same road as Green Valley View, Guna Caves and the Pine Forest, so all of these fit into a half-day tour. Kodai Road is the nearest railway station, and Madurai has the nearest airport.
Also nearby
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