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Madurai to Kodaikanal

The Madurai to Kodaikanal route is the most popular and scenic approach, covering approximately 120 kilometers in about 3 hours by road. The journey begins on the NH-85 highway, th

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120 kmDistance

3 hrsDuration

Tentative Fare Estimate

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Car / Taxi

Swift Dzire₹5,855

Ertiga₹7,430

Innova₹7,745

Innova Crysta₹9,570

Tempo Traveller (12)₹13,100

Round trip · incl. driver allowance & GST

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Bus

Non-AC Seater₹130

AC Seater₹220

Non-AC Sleeper₹190

AC Sleeper₹280

Volvo / Multi-Axle₹390

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Train

Sleeper₹100

Economy₹150

Third AC₹200

Second AC₹270

First AC₹370

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Tentative estimate only, based on typical Indian public-transport tariffs (state transport bus fares, IRCTC sleeper/AC class rates, standard outstation taxi per-km rates) — not a live quote from any operator.

Overview

The Madurai to Kodaikanal route is the most popular and scenic approach, covering approximately 120 kilometers in about 3 hours by road. The journey begins on the NH-85 highway, then turns onto the winding Ghat Road at Batlagundu, which climbs through lush forests and offers breathtaking views of the plains below. This route is well-maintained and passes through small towns and viewpoints, making it a favorite for first-time visitors. The drive is especially beautiful during the monsoon season when waterfalls cascade down the hillsides. Travelers can choose between private taxis, state-run buses, or a combination of train and road for a memorable trip to the 'Princess of Hill Stations'.

Route Map

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By Car: Madurai to Kodaikanal

120 km · ~2h 24m · About 2h of driving, plus stops.

Start from Madurai
An early start keeps you ahead of city and highway traffic.
120 km · 2h 24m drive from previous stop
Arrive in Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Stops are typical for this road, not a fixed itinerary. Timings assume about 50 km/h on average — traffic, tolls and road conditions vary.

By Bus: Madurai to Kodaikanal

120 km · ~2h 40m · Buses on this route are usually available as direct services. Operators and departure times vary — check live availability.

Board at Madurai
Go to the main bus stand / ISBT in Madurai. Overnight buses usually leave in the evening; book a seat in advance for sleeper and Volvo services.
Madurai → Kodaikanal
Non-AC or AC Seater · ~120 km
~2h 40m|Tentative fare ₹130–₹390
Search buses Madurai to Kodaikanal
Arrive in Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Hotels in Kodaikanal

Halts and change points are typical for this route, not a specific operator’s schedule — check live availability and timings when booking.

By Train: Madurai to Kodaikanal

Nearest railway stations: Madurai Jn for Madurai, Kodaikanal Road (about 46 km away) for Kodaikanal.

Direct trains

Chendhur Express#16736 · Express

12:20 AMMadurai Jn

39m6 stops

12:59 AMKodaikanal Road

1A2A3ASLRunning days & live status ↗

MADURAI - VILLUPURAM PASSENGER#56706 · Passenger

12:55 AMKudalnagar

37m2 stops

01:32 AMKodaikanal Road

Running days & live status ↗

MADURAI - CHENNAI EGMORE Vaigai SF Exp#12636 · Superfast

06:45 AMMadurai Jn

31m6 stops

07:16 AMKodaikanal Road

CCRunning days & live status ↗

Madurai Dindigul Passenger#56710 · Passenger

07:55 AMKudalnagar

40m5 stops

08:35 AMKodaikanal Road

Running days & live status ↗

NAGERCOIL - MUMBAI CST Balaji Exp#16352 · Express

09:50 AMMadurai Jn

40m6 stops

10:30 AMKodaikanal Road

2A3ASLRunning days & live status ↗

Train details come from a 2015 railway timetable snapshot — newer trains, changed timings and running days are not included, so confirm on IRCTC before you plan around a train.

Stops & Places Along the Route

Good places to break the journey from Madurai to Kodaikanal.

BatlagunduFrom Madurai: 90 km from Madurai
A small town at the foothills of the Palani Hills, Batlagundu is the gateway to Kodaikanal. It has a famous Murugan temple and is a good place to stretch your legs.
Restaurants and tea stallsFuel stationsATMs and small shops
Silver Cascade FallsFrom Madurai: 110 km (on the Ghat Road) from Madurai
A seasonal waterfall located about 8 km from Kodaikanal town. It is a popular photo stop, especially after rains when the water flow is strong.
Parking areaSmall snack vendorsViewing platform

Hotels in Kodaikanal

Treebo hotels in Kodaikanal. Tell us your dates and we'll get you a rate.

Treebo Aall Season

Kodaikanal

Treebo Kodai Kings Park, 650 M From Kodai Lake

Kodaikanal

Treebo Tranquil Heights

Kodaikanal

Things to Do in Kodaikanal

Boating on Kodaikanal Lake

Rent a pedal boat, rowboat, or canoe and glide across the star-shaped lake, surrounded by hills and pine trees. The calm waters offer a serene experience, and you can…

1-2 hours

Walk along Coaker's Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along this paved ridge-top path, which offers panoramic views of the plains and valleys below. On clear days, you can see as far as the village…

30-45 minutes

Visit Pillar Rocks

Drive to this viewpoint where three massive granite pillars rise 122 meters from the valley floor. The site offers spectacular views and is a popular spot for…

1-2 hours

Explore Bryant Park

Wander through this botanical garden, established in 1908, which features a variety of trees, shrubs, and colorful flowerbeds. If you visit in May, you can enjoy the…

1-2 hours

See Silver Cascade Falls

Stop at this roadside waterfall on the ghat road, which is fed by the overflow from Kodaikanal Lake. The falls are particularly impressive after rain, and the misty…

30 minutes

Trek to Kurinji Andavar Temple

Hike or drive to this temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, which is surrounded by hills that bloom with kurinji flowers every 12 years. The temple offers panoramic views…

2-3 hours

See all places in Kodaikanal →

Suggested Kodaikanal Itinerary

Day 1Day 1

Boat ride on Kodaikanal Lake
Stroll or cycle around the lake path
Explore Bryant Park's botanical gardens

Day 2Day 2

View Pillar Rocks and explore the viewpoint
Stop at Green Valley View and Suicide Point
Visit Kurinji Andavar Temple

Day 3Day 3

Sunrise at Dolphin's Nose viewpoint
Visit Silver Cascade Falls
Shop for spices and souvenirs

Full 3-day itinerary →

Travel Tips

Start early (by 7 AM) to avoid traffic and enjoy the best views on the Ghat Road.

Carry light woolens as temperature drops significantly as you climb.

The Ghat Road has 40 hairpin bends; drive cautiously, especially in monsoon.

Keep cash for tolls and small purchases; ATMs are limited on the hill.

If prone to motion sickness, take medication before the journey.

Check weather conditions before starting, as heavy rain can cause landslides.

Budget Estimate

road

Self-drive rental from Madurai: ₹2,500–₹3,500 per day including fuel for a small car

Toll charges on NH-85: ₹50–₹100 (approx.)

Driving from Madurai is the fastest and most flexible option. The route is well-signposted and offers numerous scenic stops along the way.

train

Second class fare: ₹30–₹60

Sleeper class (if available): ₹100–₹150

There is no direct rail to Kodaikanal, but the nearest station is Kodai Road, about 80 km away. From there, taxis or buses complete the journey.

bus

Ordinary bus fare: ₹80–₹100

Express bus fare: ₹120–₹150

State-run and private buses operate frequently between Madurai and Kodaikanal. The journey is budget-friendly and offers a local experience.

Extend Your Trip

Add a nearby place to your Kodaikanal trip and see the full Madurai → Kodaikanal → next stop route.

Kodaikanal → Munnar

About 65 km by road

Plan Madurai → Kodaikanal → Munnar Munnar guide

Kodaikanal → Chinnar

About 80 km by road

Plan Madurai → Kodaikanal → Chinnar Chinnar guide

Kodaikanal → Idukki

About 90 km by road

Plan Madurai → Kodaikanal → Idukki Idukki guide

Kodaikanal → Thekkady

About 105 km by road

Plan Madurai → Kodaikanal → Thekkady Thekkady guide

Plan My Trip: Madurai to Kodaikanal

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Madurai to Kodaikanal road safe for first-time hill drivers?

Yes, the road is generally well-maintained, but the Ghat Road has sharp curves and steep gradients. Drive slowly, use lower gears, and avoid overtaking on blind turns.

2. What is the best time to travel from Madurai?

Early morning is ideal to avoid afternoon fog and to reach Kodaikanal by lunchtime. The period from April to June and September to November offers pleasant weather.

3. Are there direct buses from Madurai to Kodaikanal?

Yes, TNSTC and private operators run direct buses from Madurai Periyar Bus Stand and private bus stands. The journey takes about 3.5 hours.

4. Can I hire a taxi from Madurai airport?

Yes, prepaid taxi counters are available at Madurai airport. The fare to Kodaikanal is around ₹2,500–₹3,000, and the drive takes about 3 hours.