Upper Lake View
General Overview: Upper Lake View is a premier vantage point that offers arguably the most iconic perspective of the "Princess of Hill Stations." Located on the way to the Green Valley View, this spot allows tourists to see the famous Kodaikanal Lake in its entirety. From this elevation, the man-mad e lake reveals its unique star-shaped configuration, a detail that is impossible to appreciate from the lake's shore. The viewpoint is perched on a high ridge, providing a panoramic sweep of the town, the surrounding shola forests, and the distant mountain ranges. It serves as a perfect introductory stop for travelers arriving in the hills, offering a visual map of the geography they are about to explore. Natural Beauty: The contrast between the deep blue water of the lake and the vibrant emerald green of the surrounding valley is breathtaking. On misty days, the clouds often float below the viewpoint, creating a surreal "island in the sky" effect. The air here is noticeably thinner and cooler than in the town center, carrying the scent of eucalyptus and pine. The viewpoint is managed to ensure safety, with railings provided for visitors to lean over and soak in the scenery. It is a quiet place compared to the bustling lake area, allowing for a moment of reflection amidst the grandeur of the Western Ghats. Significance: This location is significant for understanding the urban planning of Kodaikanal. You can spot prominent landmarks like the Carlton Hotel and various colonial-era bungalows nestled among the trees. It highlights the successful integration of a man-made water body into a high-altitude ecosystem. The view serves as a testament to the vision of Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the former Collector of Madurai, who was instrumental in creating the lake in 1863. For many, this view is the quintessential "postcard" image of their Kodaikanal holiday, capturing the essence of the hill station's serene and structured beauty.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
30 to 45 MinutesPlace Type:
Vantage Point / SightseeingEntry Fees:
Zero Entry Fee: There is no ticket required to stand at the viewpoint. It is a public roadside attraction maintained by the municipality.
Parking Charges: If you are in a private car or cab, you might have to pay a small Parking Fee (approx...Zero Entry Fee: There is no ticket required to stand at the viewpoint. It is a public roadside attraction maintained by the municipality.
Parking Charges: If you are in a private car or cab, you might have to pay a small Parking Fee (approx. 20-50 INR) to the local attendants who manage the traffic flow on the narrow road.Timing:
Regular Timings: Open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is best viewed during daylight to appreciate the colors of the lake and trees.
Ideal Visit Time: Between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM is ideal for maximum visibility. Early morning can be too misty...Regular Timings: Open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is best viewed during daylight to appreciate the colors of the lake and trees.
Ideal Visit Time: Between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM is ideal for maximum visibility. Early morning can be too misty, and evening light fades quickly behind the high ridges.Special Events:
Summer Flower Show Influence: During the May Flower Show, the view from here is even more vibrant as the town below is decorated with colorful blooms, visible even from this height.
New Year Celebrations: On New Year's Eve, you can see the d...Summer Flower Show Influence: During the May Flower Show, the view from here is even more vibrant as the town below is decorated with colorful blooms, visible even from this height.
New Year Celebrations: On New Year's Eve, you can see the distant lights of the town and small firework displays reflected in the lake from this safe distance.Best Photo Spots:
The Lake Centerpiece: Align your camera so the star-shaped lake is exactly in the center of the frame. This creates the most balanced and recognizable photo of Kodaikanal.
Silhouette Shots: During sunset, the sun dips behind the hills oppos...The Lake Centerpiece: Align your camera so the star-shaped lake is exactly in the center of the frame. This creates the most balanced and recognizable photo of Kodaikanal.
Silhouette Shots: During sunset, the sun dips behind the hills opposite the viewpoint. Stand against the railing for a dramatic silhouette shot with the glowing orange sky and the dark lake below.
Macro Nature Shots: The stone railings are often covered in colorful moss and lichens. These make for great close-up shots against the blurred green valley background.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Aerial Photography: This is the primary activity. Use the wide-angle setting on your camera to capture the entire lake and the horizon. It is a staple for travel bloggers.
Telescope Viewing: Pay a small fee (usually 20-50 INR) to use the binoculars or telescopes. You can zoom in on the boats moving on the lake or spot specific colonial buildings in the town.
Local Snack Tasting: Vendors here sell Spiced Corn, Roasted Peanuts, and Hot Tea. Eating these while looking at the freezing valley below is a classic Kodai experience.
Shopping for Souvenirs: Browse the small stalls for wooden toys and knitted caps. It is a great place to pick up small gifts without the heavy crowds of the Town Bazaar.
Short Nature Walk: Follow the Uppe...Aerial Photography: This is the primary activity. Use the wide-angle setting on your camera to capture the entire lake and the horizon. It is a staple for travel bloggers.
Telescope Viewing: Pay a small fee (usually 20-50 INR) to use the binoculars or telescopes. You can zoom in on the boats moving on the lake or spot specific colonial buildings in the town.
Local Snack Tasting: Vendors here sell Spiced Corn, Roasted Peanuts, and Hot Tea. Eating these while looking at the freezing valley below is a classic Kodai experience.
Shopping for Souvenirs: Browse the small stalls for wooden toys and knitted caps. It is a great place to pick up small gifts without the heavy crowds of the Town Bazaar.
Short Nature Walk: Follow the Upper Lake Road for a few hundred meters in either direction. The road is lined with towering trees and offers smaller, quieter viewpoints that most tourists miss.
Bird Spotting: Look out for the Blue-capped Rock Thrush and Hill Myna which are frequently seen in the trees bordering the viewpoint.
Educational Stop: Read the information boards (if available) about the history of the lake's creation and the importance of preserving the local watershed.
Information
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Why Famous:
The Star Shape Visibility: It is the only place in town where you can clearly see that Kodaikanal Lake is shaped like a star. This geometric curiosity makes it a world-famous spot for geography students and curious travelers.
Panoramic Town Vie...The Star Shape Visibility: It is the only place in town where you can clearly see that Kodaikanal Lake is shaped like a star. This geometric curiosity makes it a world-famous spot for geography students and curious travelers.
Panoramic Town Views: Beyond the lake, it offers a 180-degree view of the Kodaikanal town layout, making it famous for those who want to see how the "Princess of Hill Stations" is nestled within the mountains. -
Architecture:
Observational Infrastructure: The "architecture" here consists of a paved viewing gallery built along the mountain road. It features a reinforced stone and concrete railing that extends for about 50 meters.
Telescopic Installation: There is...Observational Infrastructure: The "architecture" here consists of a paved viewing gallery built along the mountain road. It features a reinforced stone and concrete railing that extends for about 50 meters.
Telescopic Installation: There is a dedicated Telescope House (though often privately operated) that features high-powered lenses for detailed viewing. The dimensions of the viewing deck are designed to accommodate roughly 50 to 100 people at a time. The site is integrated into the natural slope, using tiered steps to provide multiple levels of visibility. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Reach Madurai Airport and take a 3-hour cab ride.
By Train: From Kodai Road Station, take a bus to the main stand, then a local auto.
By Road: The viewpoint is directly on the Upper Lake Road, a majo...By Air: Reach Madurai Airport and take a 3-hour cab ride.
By Train: From Kodai Road Station, take a bus to the main stand, then a local auto.
By Road: The viewpoint is directly on the Upper Lake Road, a major artery for tourist vehicles.
By Local Transport: It is just 3 KMS from the bus stand. You can easily reach it by Auto-rickshaw or a rented scooter. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Summer (April to June): Perfect clear skies. You can see for miles, and the lake is a brilliant blue.
Winter (November to February): Expect beautiful morning frost and mist. The air is crisp and the views are "moody.
Read MoreSummer (April to June): Perfect clear skies. You can see for miles, and the lake is a brilliant blue.
Winter (November to February): Expect beautiful morning frost and mist. The air is crisp and the views are "moody.
" Evening Visit: Arrive around 5:00 PM to see the town lights begin to twinkle as the sun sets.Near Tourist Places:
1. Coaker's Walk (3. 2 KM), 2. Kodaikanal Lake (2 KM), 3. Bryant Park (2. 5 KM), 4. Green Valley View (4 KM), 5. Pillar Rocks (6 KM), 6. Guna Caves (7 KM), 7. Pine Forest (5 KM), 8. Moir Point (8 KM), 9. Solar Observatory (4 KM), 10. Chettiar Park (5 KM).Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: The road is narrow and has heavy traffic. Stay within the designated pedestrian areas and do not climb over the railings.
Packing: Carry a light sweater even in summer, as the wind at this height can be chilly.Health & Safety: The road is narrow and has heavy traffic. Stay within the designated pedestrian areas and do not climb over the railings.
Packing: Carry a light sweater even in summer, as the wind at this height can be chilly.
Cash & ATM: The nearest ATMs are in Kodaikanal Town (3 KM away). Carry cash for snacks and telescopes.
Connectivity: 4G/5G signal is excellent here due to its proximity to the town and height.
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