July 10, 2025
Bengaluru to Kodaikanal Distance: A Complete Travel Guide

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July 10, 2025
CM Content Team
Planning a getaway from Bengaluru to the serene hills of Kodaikanal? You’re in for a delightful journey. The scenic hill station of Kodaikanal, tucked away in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, is a beloved escape from the city’s chaos. Known for its misty mountains, lush green valleys, and cool climate, it’s no surprise that many Bengaluru residents choose it for a rejuvenating break.
Whether you're a nature lover, a road trip enthusiast, or someone just looking to relax amidst the clouds, understanding the distance and how to get there is key to planning a smooth journey. Here’s a detailed guide on the Bengaluru to Kodaikanal distance, best routes, modes of transport, travel time, and more.
The distance from Bengaluru to Kodaikanal by road is approximately 447 kilometres. This can vary slightly depending on the route you take and your mode of transport. If you’re travelling by car or bus, the journey typically takes 8 to 10 hours, including a few pit stops for food and fuel.
Though the aerial distance (straight-line) between the two cities is about 305 kilometres, the actual travel distance is longer due to the winding roads and the climb up the ghats.
There are a few major routes you can take to reach Kodaikanal from Bengaluru by road. The most preferred and straightforward one is via National Highway 44 (NH44), which offers good road conditions and multiple rest stops along the way.
Bengaluru → Hosur → Krishnagiri → Dharmapuri → Salem → Dindigul → Batlagundu → Kodaikanal
This is the fastest and most comfortable route, covering around 398 km.
Driving from Bengaluru to Kodaikanal is one of the most popular choices for travellers who want flexibility and enjoy road trips. The drive takes approximately 9 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and stopovers. Early morning departures are recommended to beat the city traffic and enjoy the cooler morning temperatures during the ghat section climb.
Plenty of private and state-run buses operate between Bengaluru and Kodaikanal. You can choose from non-AC, semi-sleeper, AC sleeper, and Volvo options, depending on your comfort. Most buses leave Bengaluru in the evening and reach Kodaikanal early the next morning, making it a time-efficient option.
There is no direct train to Kodaikanal, but you can take a train from Bengaluru to Kodai Road or Dindigul. From either station, you’ll need to hire a taxi or board a local bus to reach Kodaikanal, which is about 80 km away.
The train journey to Kodai Road takes around 7–8 hours. Once you reach the station, the drive uphill to Kodaikanal takes about 2 hours. This mode is suitable for those who want to avoid long road travel but don't mind a bit of multi-step planning.
The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is in Madurai, which is around 120 km away. You can take a direct flight from Bengaluru to Madurai (approx. 1 hour flying time), and then hire a taxi from Madurai to Kodaikanal, which will take another 3–4 hours.
While this might seem faster, the total travel time with airport check-ins, baggage, and road transfer often ends up matching the time taken by a road trip. However, it can be a good option for those who prefer to avoid long car or bus journeys.
Le Poshe Resort in Kodaikanal offers a peaceful stay surrounded by greenery and misty hills. The rooms are clean, spacious, and equipped with basic comforts for a relaxed holiday. Guests can enjoy simple South Indian meals at the in-house restaurant. This resort in Kodaikanal is a quiet spot, perfect for families and couples looking to unwind.
Club Mahindra membership lets families explore over 140+ Club Mahindra resorts worldwide, offering a wide range of holiday destinations. It’s designed for those who enjoy regular getaways with comfort and convenience. The membership opens doors to scenic stays across India and abroad.
The journey from Bengaluru to Kodaikanal is a beautiful shift from city buzz to serene hills. Spanning around 447 km, the trip is as memorable as the destination. Whether by car, bus, or train, each route offers a glimpse of India’s diverse landscapes. Whether you choose to cycle around the lake, take a leisurely walk through a misty lane, or simply unwind in your resort, Kodaikanal offers something for every kind of traveller.
Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd. (MHRIL), a part of Leisure and Hospitality sector of the Mahindra Group, offers quality family holidays primarily through vacation ownership memberships and brings to the industry values such as reliability, trust and customer satisfaction. Started in 1996, the company's flagship brand ‘Club Mahindra’, today has over 300,000 members , who can holiday at 140+ resorts in India and abroad.