1 August, 2025•2 min read
The 5 Luxury Journeys to Kodaikanal
from Bangalore
BY JOHNSON MANASSEH
Think about this: You wake up in Bangalore, drink your morning coffee, and a few hours later, you're in Kodaikanal, breathing in the cool mountain air and surrounded by misty hills, calm lakes, and the promise of pure relaxation. But here's the truth: where you're going is just as important as how you get there.
We’ve curated five of the most comfortable and stress-free ways to reach Kodaikanal from Bangalore, whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family getaway, or a solo wellness retreat.
It's not just about getting to the hills; it's also about enjoying every mile of the trip, from private cars with curated playlists to tasty roadside biryani.
5. The VIP Road Trip with Luxury at Your Own Pace
If you love the freedom of the road—but with none of the hassle than this is your dream option. Imagine sinking into leather seats of a luxury SUV, while a professional chauffeur navigates the scenic route, and you just sit back with snacks, your favorite playlist, and an open schedule.
Why It Works:
- Door-to-Door Comfort: Start from your doorstep in Bangalore and reach your resort without lifting your luggage once.
- Scenic Freedom: Stop where you want—grab a hot filter coffee in Hosur, stretch your legs at hilltop viewpoints, or even visit a silk weaving village near Salem.
- Ideal for Families: Kids can nap comfortably, and there's plenty of room for luggage, strollers, or extra gear.
Must-Experience Local Flavors:
- Brunch in Hosur: Stop at The French Loaf for warm croissants or grab a piping-hot dosa at A2B (Adyar Ananda Bhavan).
- Lunch in Salem: Try the iconic Selvi Mess for spicy Chettinad dishes or drop into a roadside thattukadai (street eatery) for parottas and gravy.
- Dindigul Detour: Visit a small-scale eucalyptus oil distillery or take a brief walking tour of Dindigul Fort for stunning panoramic views.
Travel Time:
9–10 hours
Cost:
₹12,000–₹18,000 for a premium SUV
Pro Tip: Leave at sunrise to catch golden mist on the ghats and beat city traffic.
4. Sleep Through the Ride in a Luxury Bus to Kodaikanal
Luxury doesn’t always mean spending a lot—today’s modern sleeper buses offer comfort like a hotel, but for much less money.
Why It Works:
- Time-Saver: Board after dinner and arrive by morning.
- Surprisingly Plush: Expect reclining bed seats, soft blankets, charging ports, and privacy curtains.
- Solo-Friendly: Great option if you’re traveling alone and want comfort and safety.
Local Flavor Along the Way:
- Dinner Before You Board: Enjoy a tasty South Indian meal at MTR near Lalbagh or CTR in Malleshwaram—both are long-time local favorites.
- Tea Break on the Way: If your bus stops in Namakkal or Karur, don’t miss the hot "degree coffee" served in metal tumblers by roadside vendors.
- Early Morning in Kodai: You’ll arrive at the Kodaikanal bus stand just as the town is waking up—try a hot banana flower vadai or a cup of herbal tea from a local stall.
Travel Time:
10–12 hours
Cost:
₹2,500–₹4,000
Operators:
KPN Travels, SRS Travels, KSRTC Airavat Club Class
Pro Tip: Book a lower sleeper or front-row upper berth for smoother rides.
3. The Fly-and-Drive Journey
Worried about time? Combine air travel with a curated car transfer and you could be sipping a hot cocoa in Kodaikanal by lunchtime.
Why It Works:
- Fastest Option: Flights from Bangalore to Madurai take just 1.5 hours.
- Comfort Transfer: Your chauffeur picks you up with cold water, snacks, and a preloaded GPS route to your resort.
- Saves Energy:It's ideal if you’re traveling with elders or kids.
Add Local Color:
- Breakfast in Madurai: Grab fluffy idlis at Murugan Idli Shop before heading uphill.
- Cultural Stop: Visit Pazhamudircholai Temple on your way—set in the middle of thick forest and considered one of Tamil Nadu’s sacred sites.
- Fruit Trail:Especially during mango season, vendors line the road with baskets of juicy Banganapallis and Alphonsos. chocolate.
Flight Cost:
₹4,000–₹7,000
Car Transfer:
₹3,500–₹5,000
Total Time:
5–6 hours
Pro Tip: Book a morning flight to enjoy daylight views through the ghats.
2. Romantic Rail and Road Journey to Kodaikanal
If you are someone who believes that the journey is part of the adventure, than the train-to-mountain-road combo is a soulful choice. Board a cozy overnight train, fall asleep to the gentle rhythm of the tracks, and wake up ready for a breezy hill climb.
Why It Works:
- Train Nostalgia: 2AC or 1AC coaches offer a quiet, private, and restful experience.
- Scenic Drive: From Dindigul to Kodaikanal, the road winds through pine forests, spice plantations, and waterfalls.
- Local Immersion: Plenty of opportunities to interact with locals and savor regional food.
Local Touchpoints:
- Dindigul Breakfast: Try hot pongal or soft idlis — or go bold with the famous Thalappakatti Biryani, loved even in the morning here.
- En Route Culture: Take a 15-minute detour to Athoor Village to visit a lakeside temple and enjoy peaceful countryside views.
- Handmade Finds: On the ghat road, stop by local stalls selling eucalyptus oil, herbal balms, and artisanal chocolate.
Train Options:
Tuticorin Express, Nagercoil Express
Cost:
₹8,000–₹12,000 (2AC + private car)
Drive Time (Dindigul to Kodai):
2.5–3 hours
Pro Tip: Pre-arrange your taxi from Dindigul for a seamless transition.
1. The Helicopter Escape
Imagine skipping the winding mountain roads altogether and going directly to the hills of Kodaikanal. With a private helicopter charter, your journey becomes a statement—of style, exclusivity, and unforgettable views.
Why It Works:
- Ultimate Time Saver: Bangalore to Kodaikanal in just 90 minutes, versus a full-day road trip.
- Aerial Spectacle: Get a bird’s-eye view of lush valleys, waterfalls, and the Palani Hills range.
- VIP Arrival: Land at a private helipad, where your resort team welcomes you with drinks, cold towels, and possibly even a traditional garland.
Elevated Local Touches:
- In-Flight Indulgence: Enjoy cold-pressed juices or champagne, gourmet snacks, and noise-canceling headsets.
- Midway Commentary: Pilots often point out famous landmarks en route—like Dindigul Fort or the Vaigai River.
- Welcome Ritual:Upon arrival, receive a hamper of Kodai cheese, handmade chocolate truffles, and herbal teas curated by your resort.
Cost:
₹1.2L–₹2.5L (based on number of passengers & aircraft type)
Travel Time:
~90 minutes (plus resort transfer, if needed)
Pro Tip: Fly in the late morning or afternoon to enjoy beautiful mountain views and smoother skies.
Final Verdict - Which Route Fits Your Travel Style?
| Option | Best For | Duration | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxury Road Trip | Couples, Families | 9–10 hrs | ₹12K–₹18K |
| Overnight Luxury Bus | Solo, Budget Luxe Travelers | 10–12 hrs | ₹2.5K–₹4K |
| Train + Car Combo | Romantics, Slow Travelers | 10–11 hrs | ₹8K–₹12K |
| Fly + Chauffeur Car | Time-Conscious Travelers | 5–6 hrs | ₹20K–₹30K |
| Helicopter Charter | VIPs, Time-Sensitive Guests | ~1.5 hrs | ₹90K–₹1.5L (one-way) |
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Ready to Breathe in the Hills?
Whether you're traveling with your partner, your family, or even just a good book, one thing’s for sure, the journey to Kodaikanal is as beautiful as the place itself. Let the mist surround you, the birds welcome you, and the cool breeze help you relax.
Our luxury retreat is opening soon, and we’re already planning amazing ways for future guests to get here. From private car rides to scenic stops and local experiences, we’ll help you find the perfect way to reach Kodaikanal in style.