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Salem to Kodaikanal by car

Salem to Kodaikanal by car via Karur and Dindigul, climbing the Palani hills for the lake, Coaker's Walk and pine forests.

Kodaikanal coakers walk
Distance
About 255 km by road
Drive time
5.5–6 hours one way
Pickup
Salem
Destination
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Trip type
One way, or stay over and return
Vehicles
Sedan, SUV, tempo traveller, coach

About the trip

Kodaikanal is a cool hill town in the Palani hills, built around a star-shaped lake and surrounded by pine forest, shola woods and valley viewpoints. Families from Salem come for the weather, boating and walks, often staying two or three nights. The route goes south via Namakkal, Karur and Dindigul, then climbs the ghat road from Batlagundu or Palani.

What to see in Kodaikanal

On the road

Go via Namakkal, Karur and Dindigul, then up the Batlagundu ghat past Silver Cascade Falls. Allow extra time for the climb and avoid driving the ghat after dark.

Choose your vehicle

SedanEtios, Dzire or similarUp to 4 guests

Airport runs, couples and small families on short trips.

SUVInnova Crysta6–7 guests

The usual pick for family trips, ghat roads and long days on the highway.

PremiumInnova Hycross, Fortuner4–6 guests

Extra room and comfort for special occasions and senior guests.

Tempo Traveller12 to 18 seatsGroups

Extended families, pilgrimage parties and office outings.

Mini coach & coach32 to 50 seatsLarge groups

Weddings, school trips and temple tours with a big party.

Every car is air-conditioned and comes with an experienced driver. Our quote is all-inclusive — fuel, tolls, parking, interstate permit and driver batta — and is confirmed in writing before you book.

More car trips from Salem

Book a car for this trip

Send us the date, pickup point, number of people and whether you need a return. We reply with the vehicle and a single all-inclusive price.

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