Ranked – Best Things to Do with Kids in Kodaikanal

A peaceful and historic church over 150 years old, La Salette Church is a serene place to visit. The church’s French-style architecture and beautiful stained glass windows attract visitors. Families can spend some quiet moments here, appreciating the spiritual ambiance and scenic surroundings.

A well-maintained botanical garden, Bryant Park is a great place for families to unwind amidst nature. The park boasts a stunning collection of flowers, exotic plants, and a greenhouse with rare species. Kids can run around on the open lawns, while parents enjoy the beautiful rose garden. The park also hosts an annual flower show, which is a delight for visitors of all ages.

Located on the way to Kodaikanal, this striking waterfall is a great stop for families to admire the beauty of nature. The cool mist from the falls provides a refreshing break from travel, and kids enjoy watching monkeys play around the area. There are also small stalls selling fresh fruits and local delicacies.

This sanctuary is famous for the rare Kurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years, covering the hills in a stunning shade of blue. Families visiting during the blooming season can witness this unique phenomenon. The sanctuary is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it an exciting place for children interested in nature.

A short hike through lush forests leads to Bear Shola Falls, a beautiful seasonal waterfall surrounded by nature. The walk is easy and enjoyable for children, making it a fun adventure for families. During the monsoon, the falls are in full flow, creating a picturesque and peaceful retreat where kids can splash around in the shallow areas.

One of the most enchanting spots in Kodaikanal, the Pine Forest is a magical place for kids and adults alike. Families can take a leisurely walk among the towering pine trees, enjoy a picnic, or even go horseback riding. The serene atmosphere and cool breeze make it an ideal spot for nature lovers.

These towering rock formations, standing over 400 feet tall, are a major attraction in Kodaikanal. Families can visit the viewpoint and admire the dramatic cliffs surrounded by mist and greenery. There is a small garden area where kids can play while parents enjoy the fresh air and take in the magnificent views.

A scenic 1-kilometer-long walkway along the edge of the hills, Coaker’s Walk offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valleys below. Families can enjoy a peaceful stroll while children marvel at the clouds floating beneath them. On clear days, telescopes at the viewpoint allow visitors to see far-off villages and even a rare phenomenon called the "Brocken Spectre," where one's shadow appears on the clouds.

A thrilling viewpoint named for its unique rock formation that resembles a dolphin’s nose, this spot offers spectacular views of deep valleys and forests. Families with older children can enjoy the short trek leading to the viewpoint, making it an adventurous outing. The sense of accomplishment after reaching the edge makes it a memorable experience.

A fascinating place for curious young minds, the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory offers insights into astronomy and space science. Families can visit the museum, which has exhibits on solar studies, telescopes, and celestial events. Kids can learn about sunspots, solar cycles, and even view the sun through special telescopes on certain days.

One of the most iconic attractions in Kodaikanal, this star-shaped lake offers family-friendly activities like pedal boating, row boating, and horse riding along the lakeside. Kids love cycling around the scenic pathway that surrounds the lake, while parents can enjoy the lush greenery and fresh mountain air. The calm waters and cool climate make it a perfect place for a relaxed family outing, with snack stalls offering local treats to enjoy by the shore.

Offering one of the best panoramic views of Kodaikanal’s valleys, Moir Point is a favorite among families. Kids enjoy looking through the telescopes available at the viewpoint, while parents soak in the breathtaking scenery. The spot is particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.

Also known as Devil’s Kitchen, Guna Caves is a mysterious and intriguing attraction for families with older kids. The deep, narrow caves surrounded by dense trees were made famous by a Tamil movie, adding to their allure. Although entry into the caves is restricted, the viewpoint offers a mesmerizing sight of the fog-covered cliffs and lush valleys.

A lesser-known but peaceful park, Chettiar Park is home to a variety of flowers, including rare Kurinji flowers that bloom once in 12 years. The well-maintained garden is a quiet retreat where families can relax, take photographs, and enjoy the fresh mountain air while children run around on the grassy lawns.