Traveling from Pazhani to Kodaikanal, two of Tamil Nadu's most cherished destinations, offers a blend of spiritual enrichment and scenic escapades. Pazhani is a renowned pilgrimage center, famous for the Murugan Temple perched on a hill, while Kodaikanal is a charming hill station nicknamed the “Princess of Hill Stations.” If you're planning a trip from Pazhani to Kodaikanal, this guide provides everything you need - transport options, route details, estimated costs, and travel tips.
1. Distance Between Pazhani and Kodaikanal
The approximate distance between Pazhani and Kodaikanal is 65 to 70 kilometers (about 40 to 45 miles) by road. However, due to the winding roads through the Western Ghats, the travel time can range from 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on your mode of transportation and road conditions.
2. Travel Options: How Can You Travel?
There are multiple ways to travel from Pazhani to Kodaikanal:
a. By Road – Private Car or Taxi
The most convenient and flexible way to travel is by hiring a taxi or using a private car.
Estimated Cost:
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Fuel Cost (own vehicle): ₹500 to ₹800 (round trip for a small car)
Pros:
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Flexible stops for sightseeing or rest
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Comfortable for families or groups
Cons:
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Not suitable for those who get motion sickness
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Driving in hilly terrain can be challenging for new drivers
b. By Bus
There is no direct government or private bus from Pazhani to Kodaikanal. However, you can opt for a two-stage journey:
Option 1: Via Batlagundu
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Pazhani to Batlagundu (By Bus – 1 to 1.5 hours)
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Batlagundu to Kodaikanal (By Bus – 2.5 hours)
TNSTC and private buses run frequently between these routes. The climb from Batlagundu to Kodaikanal is scenic but slow due to narrow roads.
Option 2: Via Palani Ghat Road (Adukkam Route)
Estimated Cost: ₹100 to ₹150 total for both buses
Pros:
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Budget-friendly
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Frequent services from Batlagundu
Cons:
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May be crowded
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Not ideal for travelers with lots of luggage or tight schedules
c. By Train and Bus Combination
There is no train connectivity to Kodaikanal directly. However, travelers can take a train from Pazhani to Dindigul or Kodai Road, and from there, continue by bus or taxi to Kodaikanal.
Example Route:
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Pazhani to Kodai Road Railway Station (By train) – 1.5 hours
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Kodai Road to Kodaikanal (By taxi or bus) – 3 hours
Note: You’ll need to check current train availability and timings.
3. Best Route to Take
The Pazhani → Adukkam → Kodaikanal route is the shortest and most scenic, covering around 65 km. Local drivers are more familiar with it.
The Pazhani → Batlagundu → Kodaikanal route is longer (around 110 km) but safer and better maintained, making it preferable for tourists unfamiliar with mountain driving.
4. Sightseeing Along the Way
Your journey from Pazhani to Kodaikanal can be more than just a commute if you plan a few stops:
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Pazhani Murugan Temple: Start your trip with a spiritual visit
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Aruppukkottai Falls (seasonal): Small falls near Adukkam
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Viewpoints on Ghat Roads: Offer breathtaking views of the hills and valleys
5. Travel Tips
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Start Early: Especially if you’re using the Adukkam Ghat Road. It gets foggy after noon, and there are no street lights.
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Carry Snacks & Water: Limited options on the way, especially via Adukkam.
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Motion Sickness? Carry tablets if you're prone to nausea during hill travel.
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Book Taxis in Advance: Especially in peak season (April–June), cabs may be in high demand.
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Fuel Up: Make sure your vehicle has enough fuel before starting the climb; there are no petrol stations on the ghat sections.
6. Ideal Time to Travel
The best months to travel from Pazhani to Kodaikanal are:
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Summer (April to June): Cool climate in Kodaikanal, perfect for escaping the heat
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Winter (October to February): Chilly and misty - ideal for honeymooners and photographers
Avoid the monsoon season (July to September) if possible, as the Ghat roads can be slippery and foggy, increasing the risk of landslides.
7. Accommodation Tips in Kodaikanal
Popular Areas to Stay:
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Near Coaker's Walk
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Around Kodaikanal Lake
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In Vattakanal (more rustic and scenic)
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Bryant Park
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Pillar Rocks
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Dolphin’s Nose
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Green Valley View
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Berijam Lake (requires permit)
8. Sample Itinerary for a 2-Day Trip
Day 1:
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Depart from Pazhani by 8 AM
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Reach Kodaikanal by noon
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Check in and relax
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Visit Coaker's Walk, Bryant Park, and Kodai Lake
Day 2:
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Explore Pillar Rocks, Guna Caves, Pine Forest
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Optional: Berijam Lake (with permission)
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Return to Pazhani by evening or stay one more night
Conclusion
How to travel from pazhani to kodaikanal? Traveling from Pazhani to Kodaikanal is a journey that transitions you from spiritual devotion to serene natural beauty. Whether you're driving your own vehicle, hopping on a bus, or booking a taxi, the trip is relatively short but incredibly rewarding. Choose your travel option based on your time, budget, and comfort preferences. With the right planning, your journey from Pazhani to Kodaikanal can become a cherished travel memory - one filled with stunning landscapes, cool breezes, and a refreshing break from the plains below.
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