Roughly translating to “The Gift of the Forest,” the name Kodaikanal suits this naturally beautiful city well. Surrounded by the Palani Hills, Kodaikanal boasts of sprawling forests and grasslands, making it the perfect retreat from the urban jungle. Some of the must-sees in Kodaikanal include Coaker’s Walk, Bryan Park, the Silver Cascade Falls, and Kodaikanal Lake. Planning a trip here? You’ll find plenty of things to do and a number of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to the best Airbnbs in Kodaikanal. Read on to find out more.
1. A charming old bungalow with lake views (from USD 59)
Who wouldn’t want to stay in a charming, 100-year-old bungalow? One of the best Airbnbs in Kodaikanal, you will get to admire amazing views of the lake every single day, for as long as you want. You can also take a stroll in the garden whenever you want. The bungalow itself comes with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, making it ideal for no more than five people. All bedrooms boast king beds for maximum comfort. Other facilities offered include a cable TV, hot water, and household essentials. You can also request a private kitchen or a barbecue.
Maruti Villa Amazing Lake View HomestaysKodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, IndiaSuperhost
Accommodates: 5
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the view from the room was fantasticthe complimentary south india breakfast was just great couldn't have asked for morecould easily fit four or five people in all the bedswe also enjoyed a bit of light cooking in the kitchenwe bit thrilled about staying in the 100+-year-old villa the panoramic lake view from the top room enjoyableCleanliness:
rooms: nice and clean perfect for a family or 4-6 friendsthe rooms are clean and very well maintained with neat bathroomsthe toilets were well maintained rooms well cleanedthe house is generously spacious and cleanthe house was good a little cold inside clean and neatHost:
great host with awesome hospitalityhospitality of the the host was very nicethe host: arjun is an amazing hosthost arjun was very helpfularjuna great host and supportiveRead more reviewsLocation:
beautiful location of the housethe property is located in a very scenic location overseeing the lake and blessed with lush green surroundingsthe place was easy to be locatedwonderful location spacious and tidy rooms and value for moneywe will definitely come back to this place
2. Two-bedroom farm stay (from USD 106)
This rustic cottage offers the perfect spot to enjoy a nature retreat in Kodaikanal. The interior is sparsely but comfortably furnished, with rugs and floor cushions in front of the fireplace and four single beds. The windows overlook a lush green landscape and towering trees. The accommodation and its location combined will make you feel like you’re on a glamping trip, but you’ll still have access to modern plumbing since the bathroom has a toilet and shower. While you’re here, you can enjoy long walks on the 5-acre (2-hectare property) and take in the sunset from a spot just steps from the cottage.
WhisperingWaters -loft 1Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, IndiaAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
clean and cozy rooms with tidy bathroomthe place was clean and well maintainedthe bathrooms are clean and well equippedHost:
great food and hospitality provided by the staff and ownersthe hosts were great tooa superb host and efficient staffvery friendly owners and housekeeping staffsthe host is considerate and accomodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
perfect place for a getaway from the hustle of the cityproperty is beautifully maintained close to natureif you seak peace this is the placewe really liked ramdev and nagashri's place“awesome location best stay ”one of the best stays of my life
3. Cozy 3-bedroom house (from USD 139)
With its cozy, wooden interiors, you’re sure to feel warm and welcome at StayGlee! With three bedrooms and three baths, this house for rent in Kodaikanal can comfortably accommodate up to six guests at a time. Guests are free to prepare their own meals in the kitchen. Located close to the lake and the Bear Shola Falls, you are sure to enjoy the villa’s gorgeous views and tranquil environment. Should you wish to explore the area, there are also a good number of restaurants and shops just 500 meters (1,640 feet) from the villa.
StayGlee the best home stay at KodaikanalKodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, IndiaAccommodates: 7
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we had breakfast and dinner both there - veg and non veg folks were equally happythe place has water heaters in all 3 bathrooms and was spacious and neatCleanliness:
a very clean neat and easily accessible homeit was well maintained and cleanthe place is very nicely done up and was extremely neat and cleansuch a quiet beautiful cozy clean and peaceful placecan be a bit more cleanHost:
dinesh(owner) a great host and personthe host was too polite and helpfula friendly host dineshthe host dinesh and the cook das were excellent in their hospitalitydinesh is a great hostRead more reviewsLocation:
the place is situated at a very nice locationhad an awesome time the bungalow is close to all the major tourist spotsdinesh's place is quite close to the kodaikanal lake yet in very peaceful surroundingswe loved the place and it was near to the kodai city lakehope to return back to this place
4. Charming and spacious villa (from USD 142)
Planning a trip with a large group can be difficult, but if you’re looking for the best Kodaikanal vacation rental, this home is spacious and charming. The villa should make you and all your loved ones feel right at home! The villa features just two bedrooms, but it can comfortably sleep up to 12 guests. There are two private baths, complete with towels and other bath essentials, to keep everyone feeling fresh and clean. For entertainment, you can enjoy cable TV and WiFi or lounge by the indoor fireplace and enjoy each other’s company. If you wish to prepare and enjoy your own meals, the kitchen is well-equipped, and the dining area has enough room for everyone at the table. And should you ever need food or supplies, the villa is also conveniently located within 2 km (1.24 mi) of a market and shopping area.
Jacaranda villa ! Beyond imaginationKodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, IndiaAccommodates: 12
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
wi-fi connectivity was superbthe house is huge with sufficient furniture in all roomsone last thing the water heaters ran perfectsouth indian breakfast; specially dosas served were very goodnice facilities very helpful caretaker's family yummy food on request couldn't have been any betterCleanliness:
place is clean and well maintainedits very spacious and cleanthe beds were soft with thick comforters and cleanmore than taste i always prefer cleanliness in cooking which i liked here and taste also goodthe roomsand common spaces were clean comfortable and cozyHost:
owner was very helpfulcare taker was kindthe care taker muruganandham was nice and helpfulsyed sure is a super hostexcellent care taker and good cook tooRead more reviewsLocation:
great place and locationgreat place at a great locationa charming house in a convenient locationawesome property to spend with your close friendslocation of the stay is excellent
5. Peaceful cottage in the hills (from USD 99)
Planning a relaxing family vacation to Kodaikanal? This cozy cottage would be a great place for you and your loved ones! With three bedrooms, each with its own private bath, ti can comfortably accommodate up to six guests at a time. The cottage comes with all the comforts of home, including bath essentials, central heating, a washer, cable TV, and WiFi access. The rental also has a microwave and a refrigerator, so that you can heat and store your own food. You can also have meals prepared for you for an extra fee. If you are traveling by car, there is a parking space within the premises that you can use. However, getting to Kodaikanal lake without a car should not be a problem as the cottage is located just five minutes from it on foot.
Woodstock Cottage In The Hills, KodaikanalKodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, IndiaAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the exteriors and interiors are way better and more comfortable than described or shown in the picsthe house is beautiful well furnished and extremely comfortableCleanliness:
it is well maintained clean and the bedrooms are very comfortablethe home is cosy clean well laid out and well maintainedHost:
the host and the caretaker were very goodexcellent property marvellous arrangements great hospitality from the caretakercare taker manohar hospitality and help is beyond wordsmr manohar the caretaker is quite amazing alsothe owner hari is very nice and accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
close to main markets yet located in a peaceful and scenic placego here for a nice calm peaceful time away from the citythe place is located at 2 kms from kodaikanal lake and is serene and quietwe didn’t eat out a single meal definitely a beautiful place to spend time closer to naturethe rooms and the place is better than what is shown in the picture
6. Rustic cottage in Kodaikanal (from USD 58)
The rustic feel of this cottage in Kodaikanal is sure to charm anyone over! With two bedrooms and two baths, the cottage is best for a small group or family of up to four members. The cottage features a fully functional kitchen, where you and your guests are free to prepare your own meals. There is also a spacious patio where guests can soak in the morning sun and then enjoy the breathtaking view of the city in the evening. Guests can also lounge and watch some TV by the living area. Those who wish to get out and enjoy nature instead can take a stroll by the nearby lake.
Rustic, Charming, Quaint Cottage at KodaikanalKodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, IndiaAccommodates: 5
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beautiful place tastefully decorated loaded with all amenities that would be needed for a happy & comfortable vacationit is stocked with good music video cd’s and satellite televisiona bathtub and a useful kitchen were the highlight of the stay for usthoughtful room with plenty of stuff to keep u occupiedCleanliness:
clean spacious and well maintained spaceclean homely and extremely cozynicely decorated place and very cleanso clean and decorated in the most thoughtful waythe rooms and bathrooms are clean and exactly as picturedHost:
the response and support by the host mrfriendly and courteous host and staffthis experience does not match up to a super host experiencenarayanaswamy the estate manager is quite helpful tooraj was really a cool host who gives a quick response for a pingRead more reviewsLocation:
the perfect location for a vacationthe location of the property is really good away from the crowdnice and comfy place a little far from the main townpros: the house is beautiful with a great locationthe house is in a beautiful location and the house is designed in a thoughtful way
7. Villa Petit (from USD 40)
With its old-style exteriors paired with its modern interiors, Villa Petit is a charming and very welcoming home in Kodaikanal. With three beds and a private bath, the villa can comfortably accommodate up to four guests at a time but is perfect for a couple and group or family of up to four members. There is also a small kitchenette where you can prepare simple meals. To keep yourself entertained during your stay, you can enjoy cable TV and WiFi at the villa. You can also take a fun day trip to the lake, which is just 2.5 km (8,202 feet) from the villa.
Villa Petit KodaiKodaikanal, TN, IndiaAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
cozy and compact villa with great amenitiesCleanliness:
the place was sparkling clean and is very beautifulit is a small cozy studio like villa which was kept very clean on arrivalplus the villa was ultra clean which was greatthe house is perfect for three and it was really cleanthe house is neat and clean ideal with all necessary essentials availableHost:
the care taker mrwilliams is also helpfulwilliams is very helpfulwillaim was an amazing host he took care of us every momentwilliams was very helpful with every request we hadRead more reviewsLocation:
all places of interest is near by drive distancethis property is situated in an ideal location at kodaikanal away from the city center and yet close bythe location is scenic and the house is really comfortablejust go around for a walk and you will love ityou will need to climb a fair number of steps to get to the place
8. Private room in an exclusive residence (from USD 25)
If a safe and hassle-free stay is your top priority, then a private room in this exclusive aparthotel would be ideal for you. Located within a gated community, you can be sure of your safety at all times. Each room in this aparthotel comes with an en-suite bathroom and a queen-size bed, which can comfortably sleep up to four guests at a time. The rooms also come with a good number of amenities, including bath essentials, cable TV, and WiFi. You will also have access to a washer and a free parking space within the premises, should you be traveling by car.
ZION Elite ResidencyKodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, IndiaAccommodates: 8
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the view from room balcony is better than any other sight seeing places i visit in kodaikanalviews from the room are also goodthe rooms have a very nice viewthe view in two of the rooms were very greatthe views from the rooms are good (only if you get a room facing the valley)Cleanliness:
rooms were clean on arrivalrooms big and cleanthe rooms are nice and cleanclean good spacious bedrooms with attached bathrooms and a common dining areathe place was spacious and super cleanHost:
the staff was very nicethe staff was very friendly and punctualthe caretaker was reachable and responsivevery friendly hotel staff will cook nice simple food and cook according to your needsvery good care taker well behaved soft spoken and very responsiveRead more reviewsLocation:
we all liked the placecalm and serene locationa great place to spend time with your family and friendsfrom austalia good place we enjoyed
9. Lovely chalet with breathtaking views
On your next trip to Kodaikanal, relax and enjoy the beauty of nature at this chalet! With two beds and a private bath, this rustic chalet can accommodate up to three guests at a time but is best for a couple or solo adventurer. Since it’s located on an organic farm, you will enjoy a very refreshing environment and breathtaking views of the mountain – even from the comforts of your bed. You will also be provided with comforts like hot water, bath essentials, and extra linen. A complimentary breakfast is also served every morning, but you will have to pay extra for lunch and dinner. There is also a vegetarian restaurant just a 10-minute walk from the chalet, where you can enjoy delicious and healthy meals during your stay.
Sunrise Chalet. Cozy EcoHome In Nature ParadiseKodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, IndiaTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it is an apt place for anyone looking for a peaceful time in natureas for the details of the accommodation the room was very niceHost:
the staff is sweet and the host - alex makes sure you have everythingalex and his cats are the best hosts one could ask foralex was very kind to visit us and he made sure we had a comfortable staygreat host in alex who is warm hospitable and helpfulalthough the owner wasn't there the caretaker sharanya was there to help us anytimeRead more reviewsLocation:
the place is truly peaceful quiet and located in beautiful surroundingsbeautiful location but do be prepared for a lot of stairs if you have any mobility issuesalex has got a beautiful place at a serene locationgood place to get peace but own food is recommended
10. The Orchid
The Orchid is a spacious and beautiful villa surrounded by lush greenery. With four bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bath, the villa can accommodate up to 10 guests at a time – perfect for a large gathering like a family reunion. The kitchen is well-equipped, and guests are free to prepare their own meals. However, it is worth noting that the use of the gas range comes with added fees. To keep guests entertained, cable TV is available at the house. There is also a game room filled with toys that kids can enjoy. Those who wish to explore the area can also check out the nearby lake, located just 3.5 km (2.17 mi) from the villa.
Adhithya Holidays (The Orchid)
11. Charming bungalow by the lake
Artsy and tastefully decorated, this charming bungalow-style home is not just Instagram-worthy but also a very convenient place to stay in Kodaikanal. The cottage has enough space to comfortably accommodate up to eight guests with its three bedrooms and three baths. The kitchen is spacious and comes with all the basic tools needed to prepare simple meals. You can prepare your own food, but there is also a full-time maid who can cook for you during your stay. For fun and leisure, you can enjoy cable TV in the house, or explore the nearby lake.
Amherst Cottage - by the LakeKodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, IndiaTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we had an extremely comfortable stay in all aspectsCleanliness:
food is excellent and the villa is very cleanHost:
the host zoheb and the manager subbu were really friendly and made sure that we were comfortableexcellent service and food from the caretakersthank you subbu for being very responsivethe caretakers were much helpful to satisfy all our requests immediatelythe cook was very helpful ever ready to make us hot pakodas and ginger teaRead more reviewsLocation:
very neat and calm place right near the lakebeautiful cottage in a lovely location and enjoyed the fire place
12. Modern and stylish home
This modern and stylish home is another accommodation in Kodaikanal that would be great for a large family or group traveling together. With four bedrooms, the home can comfortably sleep as many as 14 guests at a time! Guests can keep fresh and clean in the home’s four bathrooms, each stocked with towels and other bath essentials. The kitchen and dining areas are also quite spacious, so preparing and enjoying meals together should not be a problem. Cable TV and Wi-Fi are also available for your entertainment.
Cloudscape15Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, IndiaTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
classy build and pretty nice views during morning breakfast and evening snacksit has small bar section huge kitchen and sofa with philips woofer system was a surpriseyou will find new movies original dvds for your bedroom tv which has a soundbar and tatasky tooCleanliness:
it was very clean and food served was very tastythe villa is very clean spacious and luxuriousthe rooms and common spaces were clean comfortable and cosyit was a great stay the place is super awesome clean spacious with all amenitiesthe place is clean and comfortable to stay and has beautiful viewsHost:
amazing hosts had a wonderful staythe care taker was not maintaining it properlythe host has some real classy tasteyogi the caretaker was wonderful and he make us hot water from the stovethank you sanjay for being our hostRead more reviewsLocation:
sanjay's place is located in a beautiful location in kodaikanalpretty close to all attractionsthe location of the house is simply amazingwe definitely wish to come back again to sanjay's placestaying at sanjay's place was amazing experience right from booking the place until check out
Retreat to nature in Kodaikanal
There’s no better way to feel relaxed and rejuvenated than to get in touch with nature. With its stunning forests and bodies of water, Kodaikanal is just the place to be if you’re looking for a quiet retreat from the urban jungle. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful city, the Airbnb vacation rentals listed above are sure to make you feel completely stress-free during your stay.
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