Planning a trip to the serene hill station of Kodaikanal? If you’re wondering how to reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore, you have multiple travel options, including road, rail, and air. Nestled in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is a popular getaway from Bangalore, offering breathtaking landscapes, lush greenery, and a pleasant climate. Whether you prefer a budget-friendly bus ride, a scenic road trip, a convenient train journey, or a quick flight, this guide will help you choose the best way to travel from Bangalore to Kodaikanal. Read on to find detailed information about routes, fares, and travel tips.
How to Reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore
Fare Table: Bangalore to Kodaikanal
| Mode of Transport | Class/Type | Approx. Fare (INR) | Travel Time | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| By Bus | Non-AC Sleeper | ₹600 – ₹900 | 8 – 10 hours | Budget-friendly |
| AC Sleeper | ₹900 – ₹1,500 | 8 – 10 hours | Comfortable overnight journey | |
| Volvo Luxury | ₹1,200 – ₹2,000 | 8 – 10 hours | Premium comfort | |
| By Car | Self-Drive (Fuel Cost) | ₹3,500 – ₹5,000 | 8 – 9 hours | Scenic drive, flexible schedule |
| Private Taxi | ₹6,000 – ₹8,000 | 8 – 9 hours | Best for families & groups | |
| By Train | Sleeper (SL) | ₹300 – ₹500 | 8 – 9 hours | Budget-friendly |
| AC 3-Tier (3A) | ₹800 – ₹1,200 | 8 – 9 hours | Good comfort | |
| AC 2-Tier (2A) | ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 | 8 – 9 hours | Premium comfort | |
| Kodai Road to Kodaikanal (After Train Journey) | Bus | ₹100 – ₹150 | 2 hours | Cheapest option |
| Taxi | ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 | 2 hours | Fast & comfortable | |
| By Flight (to Madurai) | Economy | ₹2,500 – ₹6,000 | 1 hour (flight) + 3.5 hours (road) | Fastest option |
| Madurai to Kodaikanal (After Flight) | Bus | ₹200 – ₹400 | 3.5 – 4 hours | Budget option |
| Taxi | ₹3,000 – ₹4,000 | 3.5 – 4 hours | Comfortable travel |
1. Distance from Bangalore to Kodaikanal
The distance between Bangalore and Kodaikanal is approximately 465 km by road, making it a popular weekend getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and honeymooners. Depending on your mode of transportation, the travel time can vary:
- By Road (Car/Bus): 8 to 10 hours
- By Train: 10 to 12 hours (including road travel from the nearest railway station)
- By Flight: 5 to 6 hours (including the road journey from the airport to Kodaikanal)
Now, let’s explore the various ways you can travel from Bangalore to Kodaikanal.
2. How to Reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore by Road
2.1 By Car (Self-Drive or Taxi)
One of the most scenic and comfortable ways to reach Kodaikanal is by car. The drive takes approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on road conditions and stoppages. The best route from Bangalore to Kodaikanal is:
Route 1: Bangalore – Hosur – Salem – Dindigul – Kodaikanal (Most Preferred)
- Total Distance: ~465 km
- Estimated Travel Time: 8 to 9 hours
- Road Condition: Excellent highways till Dindigul, followed by a winding uphill road to Kodaikanal
Major Attractions on the Way:
✅ Krishnagiri Dam
✅ Salem’s lush greenery
✅ Dindigul’s famous biryani spots
✅ Silver Cascade Waterfalls near Kodaikanal
Travel Tips:
✔️ Start early to avoid city traffic and enjoy a hassle-free drive
✔️ Carry motion sickness medication if you are prone to nausea on winding roads
✔️ Refuel at major towns like Salem or Dindigul, as fuel stations are scarce in the hills
2.2 By Bus (Budget-Friendly Option)
If you prefer a budget-friendly and convenient mode of travel, buses are an excellent choice. Several government and private buses operate between Bangalore and Kodaikanal.
Types of Buses Available:
🚌 KSRTC Buses – Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation runs sleeper and semi-sleeper buses
🚌 Private Volvo/AC Buses – Available from various operators like SRS Travels, KPN Travels, and GreenLine Travels
🚌 Non-AC Buses – Cheapest option, but less comfortable for a long journey
Bus Timings and Duration:
- Most buses depart from Bangalore in the evening (around 8:00 PM – 10:30 PM) and reach Kodaikanal early in the morning (~6:00 AM – 7:30 AM).
- Travel time is 8 to 10 hours depending on the bus type and route.
Boarding Points in Bangalore:
- Majestic (Kempegowda Bus Stand)
- Shanthinagar Bus Stand
- Electronic City
- Madiwala
Drop Points in Kodaikanal:
- Kodaikanal Bus Stand (Near the town center)
Approximate Ticket Prices:
- Non-AC Sleeper: ₹600 – ₹900
- AC Sleeper: ₹900 – ₹1,500
- Volvo Luxury: ₹1,200 – ₹2,000
3. How to Reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore by Train
Since Kodaikanal does not have a railway station, travelers must take a train to Kodai Road Railway Station (KQN), the nearest railhead, located 80 km away. From there, taxis and buses are available to reach Kodaikanal town.
Best Train Options from Bangalore to Kodai Road:
🚆 Tuticorin Express (16236) – Departure: 9:15 PM | Arrival: 5:40 AM (Approx. 8h 30m)
🚆 Nagercoil Express (17235) – Departure: 8:15 PM | Arrival: 5:15 AM (Approx. 9h)
🚆 Kanyakumari Express (16526) – Departure: 9:40 PM | Arrival: 6:10 AM (Approx. 8h 30m)
How to Reach Kodaikanal from Kodai Road Railway Station:
🚖 By Taxi: Private cabs cost ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 and take about 2 hours.
🚌 By Bus: TNSTC buses are available from Kodai Road to Kodaikanal and cost ₹100 – ₹150 per person.
Pros of Train Travel:
✔️ Comfortable overnight journey
✔️ More budget-friendly compared to flights
✔️ Suitable for families and elderly travelers
4. How to Reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore by Flight
The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai Airport (IXM), located about 120 km away. Other nearby airports include:
✈️ Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) – 180 km
✈️ Trichy Airport (TRZ) – 200 km
Flights from Bangalore to Madurai:
- Airlines Operating: IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India
- Flight Duration: ~1 hour
- Average Ticket Price: ₹2,500 – ₹6,000
How to Travel from Madurai Airport to Kodaikanal:
🚖 By Taxi: Private cabs cost ₹3,000 – ₹4,000 and take 3.5 to 4 hours.
🚌 By Bus: Direct and connecting TNSTC buses available for ₹200 – ₹400 per person.
Pros of Air Travel:
✔️ Fastest way to reach Kodaikanal
✔️ Best for travelers short on time
✔️ Comfortable and hassle-free
5. Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal enjoys pleasant weather all year round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:
🌸 Summer (March – June): Ideal for sightseeing and trekking
🍂 Monsoon (July – September): Best for nature lovers, but roads can be slippery
❄️ Winter (October – February): Perfect for honeymooners, with chilly weather and misty landscapes
6. Local Transport in Kodaikanal
Once you reach Kodaikanal, you can explore the hill station using:
🚕 Taxis – ₹1,200 – ₹3,000 per day for sightseeing
🛵 Bike Rentals – ₹400 – ₹700 per day
🚶 Walking Tours – Best way to explore the lake and town area
7. Conclusion: Best Way to Reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore
- If you love road trips, drive via Salem – Dindigul – Kodaikanal for a scenic journey.
- For budget travelers, overnight buses are the best option.
- If you prefer comfort, take a train to Kodai Road and then a taxi to Kodaikanal.
- If you’re short on time, flights to Madurai with a cab ride to Kodaikanal are the fastest way.
No matter how you choose to travel, Kodaikanal’s charm will make your journey worthwhile. Pack your bags and get ready for a refreshing hill station getaway! 🚀🌿✨