Kodaikanal

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The majestic Pillar Rocks in Kodaikanal, with three giant granite boulders standing tall against a backdrop of green valleys and a misty sky.

Pillar Rocks

8 km from Kodaikanal Lake

Best Time

September to May

Entry Fee

₹15 per person

Status

Open Now

About Pillar Rocks

Are you an adventure lover and want to try out trekking, mountain climbing and rock climbing?! Three to four hours of trekking through the thick fogs and woods before reaching Pillar rocks offer you nothing less than an enthralling adventurous experience!

Pillar Rocks is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Kodaikanal. It consists of three giant granite boulders that stand vertically, reaching heights of about 400 feet. These magnificent rock formations are often shrouded in mist, creating a mystical and awe-inspiring sight.

The 400-feet towering granite rock formations are a natural beauty to explore. From the vantage point of the Pillar Rock, you can enjoy the serene beauty of Kodaikanal. These three rocks stand shoulder to shoulder. The gap between the two rocks is called the 'Devil's kitchen’. If you go on a trek, there will be guides to lead the way. There are also waterfalls near the rocks. The tourist destination with its natural setting and lighting, is any photographer's paradise. Photographers can come here early in the morning to get a breathtaking view of the sunrise. The lush greenery and the garden with a wide variety of flowers at the base of the rock formations, is an ideal picnic spot for families. Families can savour their tea and snacks from nearby shops.

You can also go on a group hiking trip to the scenic summit of Pillar Rocks. Once, there existed a 'white cross' on these rocks representing the eternal love of a man called David Gelli for his wife Irine Gelli. While on their honeymoon, Irine Gelli is said to have slipped into the pillar rocks. David, in her memory, placed a white cross on top of the rock, after which he is believed to have committed suicide to be united with his wife. But the cross withered with time, despite several efforts to maintain it.

The entry timing to the Pillar rocks is between 9 am and 4 pm, including Sundays. The fee per person is Rs 5, and you need to pay Rs 20 for a still camera shot. If you take your kids along, be extra careful to keep them away from the edge of the rocks. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes. Also note that liquor consumption is prohibited at the place.

Highlights

  • Three Pillars: Unique geological formation of three vertical rocks
  • Viewing Platform: Well-maintained platform for safe viewing
  • Mini Garden: Beautiful garden surrounding the viewpoint
  • Misty Atmosphere: The rocks are often enveloped in fog, adding to their mystique

Legend

Local legend suggests that these massive rocks were once a single rock that was split into three by a lightning strike. The gap between the rocks is called Devil's Kitchen (Guna Caves), featured in the famous Tamil movie "Guna."

Timings

  • Open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
  • Best visited in the morning for clearer views

How to Reach

Located about 8 km from Kodaikanal Lake, Pillar Rocks can be reached by taxi or auto-rickshaw. The road winds through beautiful pine forests.

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Back to Attractions

From Town Center

Pillar Rocks is 8 km from Kodaikanal Lake. Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw for a scenic 20-minute drive through beautiful pine forests.

From Airport

Madurai Airport (115 km) is the nearest. Reach Kodaikanal town first, then take a local taxi to Pillar Rocks.

From Railway

From Kodai Road station (80 km), travel to Kodaikanal town. Local transport is available for the journey to Pillar Rocks.

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