vellagavi trek

Trek to Vellagavi, a sacred village in the mountains of Kodaikanal

Before writing about my recent trek to Vellagavi, I would like to take your attention to something which I feel very important. Ever since I began to take travel blogging seriously, I was very much aware of the impact my posts have on the places I write about. I had gone through the dilemma many times, whether to write about a place or not. 

Nowadays, we all are traveling with a mindset to find out something unique and be the first to experience it. I would say, social media has changed the way we travel.  We all enjoy the thrill and excitement of getting more likes and comments on every new post we put out there. 

“Unexplored places and offbeat destinations” has become a trend in travel and tourism industry. Even multi-million corporates are looking to find new potential tourism markets. Ecotourism, tribal tourism, sustainable tourism are the hot topics in the industry. People are desperate to try something new all the time. As this trend is going up, it is time to think how it affects the socio-economic scenarios of those places which are coming up as new tourism hot spots.

For example, till recently, the Spiti valley in Himachal Pradesh was a less touristy and peaceful place in the upper Himalayas. The people of Spiti are very friendly and loving. But since tourism started to grow there, everything changed there. More people started to come and the valley became more commercialized now. The authenticity of the people and the culture will be lost very soon. Pollution is now a major issue in the valley. The Spiti river, the lifeline of the valley became a garbage dumping ground. I won’t be able to see the same Spiti valley again as it is when I visited last year. In few years, Spiti valley will become a typical Himalayan tourist place like McLeodganj or Manali. You know what I mean if you have been to these places.

To be frank, as a travel writer, sometimes I feel regret for being responsible for all in some way. Many times I was confused whether to write about some of my journeys. I know that, once it becomes known to everyone, the place which I love for its uniqueness and the people won’t be the same again. Everyone who travels may not have the same mindset. Some will be very careful not to do any harm to the environment and the people living there. But some are totally opposite.  And it’s not in our hands.

If I write about these issues, those reading my blog will at least think about it and will be conscious about traveling in a better way.   It is not at all bad to explore new places and new experiences. But we need to be cautious, we have to be responsible. We should respect the nature. Our journeys should not have a negative impact on the people. For example, if we go to a village and ask for a mineral water bottle, we are creating a demand for bottled water there. Shops will stock those bottles and people coming after you buy them.  Next time, when you go there, you see plastic bottles scattered all around. This is what happens everywhere now.

With a belief that, everyone who reads this will think seriously about this, I introduce you Vellagavi, a small and beautiful village in Kodaikanal. A very remote village, not connected by roads. A village with good-hearted people. People there consider their village very sacred and do not use footwear. It is one of the best places I traveled recently. The trek to Vellagavi was a great experience. More than the mountains and nature, it was the people of Vellagavi, their affection and their innocent smiles that I cherish always. For two days, we were not outsiders, we became one among them.

Kodaikanal is one place I wish to travel quite often. Every time, it was not the same places and experiences. My love for the villages in Kodaikanal started after my visit to Kookal . A few years back, when I was with my friends in Vattakanal, we noticed a trail going down from Dolphin nose. Later found out that the trail leads to a village called Vellagavi. More information about the village and people there increased my curiosity, I was waiting for the right time for the trek to Vellagavi.

So as usual, on a weekend, I boarded the bus to Kodaikanal. One of my friends also joined me from Kodai. Started the walk from Kodaikanal, first reached Vattakanal. There is a short road from Kodaikanal to Vattakanal actually, it will take about 20 minutes walk to reach and can save you some money paying for the taxi.

Vattakanal is also an example of the changes unplanned and irresponsible tourism brought to a place over years. Two years back, when I first came here, this place was beautiful. Not many buildings, not much traffic on the road and it was beautiful. It is not the same now. Didn’t feel like spending time there at all. Brought some food from the grocery shop and started walking to Dolphin nose.

Dolphin nose is a major tourist attraction in Kodaikanal. You need to walk down about 30 minutes from Vattakanal to reach Dolphin nose. Till Dolphin nose, there will be people all the time. From there, we found the trail going further down and began our trek to Vellagavi.

The major part of the trail goes through the forest. The forests of the Western Ghats are magical. There are many flowers on the way this time. The sound and smell of the forest were peaceful as usual. Some foreigners were hiking back after visiting the village, they were struggling to climb those steep mountains.

Later, we started seeing the villagers collecting wood from the forest. With a smiling face, they welcomed us and showed the way to the village. The last stretch of the walk was little fast, we saw Vellagavi from a distance. There was a temple at the entrance itself, a big banyan tree on the side. I could feel the positive vibe of the village from the entrance itself, removed my shoes and entered the village.

Whoever we saw, greeted us and asked whether we need some tea. The kids immediately began running around, playing and made fun of us. We were invited to every house there. I should say, from some of the houses, we get the best views of the valley. They are placed at picturesque locations.

There are no roads to Vellagavi. The people of the village use the same trail to reach Kodaikanal. They have to come here to sell their crops and buy essential items. Further down from Vellagavi, the trail goes to Kumbakarai, a village at the bottom of the hills. We used that route for our return next day. Britisher’s used this trail to transport good from Kodaikanal. The trail from Kumabakarai to Kodaikanal is a famous trekking route, many people do this trek especially foreigners. This is also the part of trek route between Munnar and Kodaikanal.

The village of Vellagavi has 50 houses and more temples. Whichever direction you go, you find idols. These people came here during the time of Tipu Sultan and later formed an isolated community in the mountains. They worship many gods here. They consider their village very sacred. Till recently, nobody in the village use footwears inside the village. And even visitors are not allowed. But now, they don’t show any reluctance to outsiders.

People here are mostly farmers, coffee and avocado are the major crops they produce here. Every morning, few horses will climb the mountain to Kodaikanal to bring the necessary goods to the people. There is a primary school up to 5th standard, after that, they need to go to Kodaikanal or Periyakulam for education. Most of the young people in the village are working outside now.  What I found very interesting here is that people are very healthy. Even a 90-year-old doesn’t look like that much old.

Found a place to pitch our tents little away. The night was stary, as usual in Kodaikanal, one of the main reason for my love towards this place.

The next day, started our trek down to Periyakulam. It was much steep compared to the trail from Kodaikanal. About 2 hours walk, reached Kumbakarai. And then back to our normal lives. It was another weekend spend very well. A new place, new people and some more memories.

Trek to Vellagavi, How?

You can do this trek in different ways. You can start from Kodaikanal, walk down to Dolphin nose and then to Vellagavi. If you don’t want to spend the night there, you can walk back and stay in Vattakanal.

The next option is as we did. Trek to Vellagavi from Kodaikanal, stay there for the night and trek down to Kumbakarai, then to Periyakulam and Dindigul. You will get buses to all major places from Dindigul. Both state transport bus and private bus services are available to Chennai and Bangalore.

Kumbakarai has a very small waterfall, once you reach there ask someone to show the bus stop and the bus timings. Buses are not frequent but available. Otherwise, you will get autos from there to reach Periakulam. From Periyakulam ( between Theni-Dindigul highway), you will get buses to Dindigul, Palani or Madurai. You can plan your journey back from any of these places.

I have seen few people trek to Vellagavi from Kumbakarai and then up to Kodaikanal. In this case, the trek will be a bit difficult, the trail is steep all the way till Kodai.

Food and accommodation

Food is not at all a problem here. The people of Vellagavi will not allow you to stay hungry. They will definitely invite you to have food from their house. They really care for us. Also, there is a cafe in the village. Murugesan who is running the cafe is ready to help you with anything all the time.

If you are planning to stay in Vellagavi village, tents are the only option. They are available in the cafe.

Trek to Vellagavi; few things to know

There is only one shop in the village. It is not a proper shop, a person runs it in his home. You may not get everything there, so it is better to buy them from Vattakanal before the start of the trek.

The village will go to sleep by around 7 PM, it will be quiet after that. So talking loudly and playing loud music is not good.

As I said before, there are temples and idols all over the village, showing disrespect to them may hurt the feelings of the people.

Nowadays, many trekking agencies are organizing two days trek between Munnar and Kodaikanal. The stretch from Kumabakarai to Kodaikanal is the one that covers on the second day.

For me, the only expense was the bus fare and the food. Since I carried my tent, saved some money that way. Excluding transportation expenses, the trek to Vellagavi can be done with a really small budget.

We cannot imagine a place where there is no road connectivity, but there are still people living in such places. They live happier than us. What I understood from the people of Vellagavi is that it is not the facilities that make our life happy, it is just the goodness of our mind.

Hope your trek to Vellagavi will be a great experience.

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39 comments

The upper view with the mountains tops look soo peaceful! This seems like a beautiful trek to take!

Hi Melanie, Trek to Vellagavi village is a must do if you are coming to Kodaikanal in India.

That sunrise is definitely amazing. I can’t tell from the post where exactly that was taken.

Thanks Amy, it was taken from the village itself.

Truly sacred, Vellagavi in the mountains of Kodaikanal. Don’t worry if it is as remote as this, there will be no immediate threat of commercialization. It will be preserved for a particular kind of tourist. The one that does not seek conveniences but the purity of the people.

Even I also wish the same, the purity of the people of Vellagavi should not be lost.

Good writings pls continue

Thanks for the support Arjul

I think that some experiences are better lived in person, off the camera. It is you as a traveler who should have that, and keep that to yourself – because life’s greatest moments are ones that are lived by yourself. With that said, I really appreciate how you talked about these very important things at the very beginning of the post. Definitely, influencers can play a huge role in changing such narratives.

Thanks Hussain

I completely agree with what you have said about responsible tourism and responsibilities as a tourist. Have faced the dilema many times over. Places are never the same when you revisit a place.Happened to me on a lot of occasions. Northeast, Himalayan villages, Ladakh have changed quite a lot and become more commercial. Old world charm is slowly going away. Bad interactions make the simple villagers wary of strangers. It’s high time all of us realised it.

Vellagavi looks so pristine and untouched. I am sure the trek was magical. I was not aware of this trek and hence probably this adds to its allure. We were in Kodaikanal last year and discovered some off the beaten places. This is something that we would love to explore , next time when we are there.

Sandy, go for the trek to Vellagavi next time in Kodaikanal. You guys will like it.

Amazing photos! Have a great time on your next trip

Thanks Penny

Tourism can be such a scourge and despite having access to information some tourists still are mindless to the impact they have on out of the way places. It’s so sad about Spiti Valley. I’m in my final year of Heritage Studies and one of the modules I’ve been studying is Cultural tourism. We’ve looked at how tourism has impacted on small communities and how they’ve been forced to commercialise their traditions and rituals and how different cultures have been represented in the media. It’s so sad

Marteen, I completely agree with you. Tourism nowadays is affecting the culture and heritage of many small communities all over the world.

Amazing place… the pictures of the mountains are really great. I would like to visit some day.

Thanks Kate

I have been to Kodaikanal but never done the trek through Vellagavi. I loved the narrow paths amidst forests on slopes and beautiful snall town of Vellagavi pictures.

Yukti, I will say, you should definitely trek up to Vellagavi and spend a day here. It will be a great experience. You will like it.

wow – what an amazing sunrise! This hiking trail must be awesome – thanks for sharing all this with us!

Thanks Martina. That sunrise was amazing.

Just amazing Jithin bro… Love the way u narrated

Thanks Nawaz

Bro… how can we reach this place from Chennai (prefer train). Need your inputs 🙂

Ashiq, you need to catch a train that has stop at Kodai road station. From there, you get many buses straight to Kodaikanal. It is almost 3-4 hour journey. This is the nearest railway station to the hill station.

I have been to vellagavi last september.Did you carry your sleeping bags or did u contact bhairava(60-70 year old guy)?

Hey Anonymous, I carried my tent while trekking to Vellagavi. But we will get tents there also.

Lots of useful info! Tks!

Thanks friend

Hey Jithin,

That was a great post. We’re planning to do the trek from Kumbakarai to Vattakanal via Vellagavi. Is it possible to do within a day. Is the trail evident enough to do it on our own.

Hi Vikram. You can trek from Kumbakarai to Vattakanal in a day, but you have tube really quick. The trails are all good through the way. Better spend a day in Vellagavi. Have a nice time.

If we plan to walk from Vattakanal to Vellagavi. How many hours it’d take, at moderate pace?

Vattakanal to Vellagavi is a down trek, you can reach quickly, depends on how fast you walk. Consider 1-2 hours anyways

Hi jithin if we plan to treck from vattakanal to vellagavi is there any need to opt for a guide

Not required

Hiii jithin, such as interesting post you have shared with us. It gives more information about kodaikanal. Images are so nice. Thanks Bro.

HI Jithin, nice informative post bro. Image are too good. Thanks

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A Hiking Guide To Vellagavi, A Hidden Hamlet Near Kodaikanal

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Situated at 4196 feet above sea level, Vellagavi is a hidden gem located in the picturesque hills of Kodaikanal. Hiking is the only way to reach this village, as no vehicles can be used after Vattakanal. Fortunately for adventurous hikers like ourselves, this is one of the best nature trekking experiences in Tamil Nadu.

Trekking and Hiking are great ways to explore nature in the most barebones manner. Additionally, they are great life skills that can give you the confidence to be able to survive regardless of the resources and geographical location. These activities enable even amateur adventurers to maximize their travel experience by testing the limits of their physics and mind. Do read further to acquire all the information required to ensure you reach this unique village safely. Everything from what to pack, how to travel and the guide contact is present below.

Table Of Contents

Few interesting things about vellagavi, best time to visit, languages spoken, network availability.

• ATM Availability

Restroom Facility

Guide details.

• Hike Distance
• Hiking Route
• Hike Duration
• Difficulty Level
• At The Vellagavi Campsite

Accommodation

Electricity, hiking essentials to bring, before you start/ plan, while hiking.

• Vellagavi houses 120-150 homes and is surrounded by 24 Hindu temples dedicated to the Hindu gods. As a result, the people of this village follow a unique practice where they never wear footwear inside the village.
• There is a preliminary school but no hospital. People of the village help each other during medical emergencies.
• Owing to the road conditions, horses help in the transportation of goods.
• The hospitality of the people is so profound and surreal that words can do it no justice. It is only fair that you experience it for yourself.
• There are no pesky mosquitoes in Vellagavi.
• Vellagavi village is said to have existed long before Kodaikanal.
• The people of the village are active, productive, and healthy. They follow an organic diet and consume homegrown foods. 
• Coffee cultivation and farming are the two primary occupations.

During the monsoon months from September to November, the hiking path is submerged in water, and troves of leeches make it a frustrating trek. Hiking during the summer heat drains your energy much faster while hiking. So the best time to visit Vellagavi is in December and January. 

It is always advisable to check the weather forecast before planning.

Situated in the state of Tamil Nadu, the people of Vellagavi speak Tamil predominantly.

Jio and Vodafone prepaid (only) have excellent signal strength with 4G connectivity. Additionally, BSNL does provide good cellular coverage but their internet speed does leave a lot to be desired for.

The infrastructure to enable Wi-Fi has not been set yet. But, it is to be implemented soon.

 ATM Availability

Travelers need to be mindful that there are no ATM machines in the villages of Vattakanal and Vellagavi. However, all the shops accept online payments in addition to cash. You can scan the QR code or get their UPI Id to make a payment.

If you have to withdraw cash, then there are many ATM machines available in Kodaikanal city.

As people usually halt one night in Vellagavi, there is rarely a requirement for bathroom facilities. Not to mention there is only a toilet in the camping area for travelers. The common toilet is cleaned and well-maintained.

Pro tip: During the trek, one has to be dependent on natural resources. So, an isolated bush can be used for emergencies.

Shops are available until you reach Dolphin Nose, which is about 800 m from Vattakanal. Beyond this, no shops are available even in the Vellagavi village. Furthermore, Vattakanal has good options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Contact: Jaya Murugan – +91 9585654107, +91 6382993329 (Speaks Tamil, English, and Malayalam)

Alternate Contact: Subraj – +918939181508 (Speaks Tamil, English, and Hindi)

In our experience, Jaya Murugan is a very humble, kind-hearted person who was very concerned about our stay being pleasant during the entire journey. He has been organizing this campsite for more than 10 years now. He will accompany you from the start to the very end of the hike. Most importantly, your call never goes unnoticed.

Blogger’s Personal Note : Follow and support this eco-friendly and wonderfully nature-esque place on Instagram .

Hiking Details

Below is the cost for one night, per person. The price listed is inclusive of the meals, accommodation, and guide charges.

• Rs. 1800 for Indians, Rs.2500 for foreigners
• Rs. 5000 for a honeymoon stay

In case you are not able to complete the trek, you can avail a horseback ride for an additional Rs.1200 one way.

6 Km one way – mostly downhill for reaching Vellagavi from Kodaikanal and uphill while hiking back. 

Vattakanal – Vellagavi – Vattakanal

3 – 4 hours one way. 2D/1N for the whole hike.

Moderate to Difficult, and this is highly subject to your fitness level.

Stones, rocks, gravel, sand, and grass

Watch the sunrise with a 270° view. See the Kodaikanal mountain ranges, Periyakulam (Theni), and Vaigai dam. A bonfire is often lit to beat the cold after sunset. There are also hammocks hanging between trees that you can use to relax. The campsite is picturesque and so far away from the buzz of daily life that, all during the day, you will be surrounded by songbirds. You can fly drones in this area and capture the beauty of the place from a bird’s eye view.

No permissions are required to hike or trek on this route. But it is always better to let someone know about your whereabouts.

Pro Note: You can also descend from Vellagavi to Periyakulam (Theni) via Kumbakarai Falls. But make sure to reach before sunset as Wild Bison roam in the region.

How To Reach

The nearest airport to reach Kodaikanal is the Madurai Airport (133 Km, Airport Code: IXM). From Madurai, public buses are available every one or two hours. The journey from Madurai to the Kodaikanal bus stand is about 3 hours. 

The Kodaikanal Road (79 Km, Station Code: KQN) is the nearest railway station. This station is well connected to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Trichy, Madurai, Tuticorin, and Coimbatore. From the station, you have the option of hiring a 5 seater cab (4+1) for Rs. 2500 or an 8 seater cab (7+1) for Rs. 5500 to reach the Kodaikanal bus stand.

Public buses are available during the daytime from various cities of Tamil Nadu for one or two hours to Kodaikanal. The roadway is the cheapest and best option to reach the city.

Regardless of the manner of transport you take to reach the Kodaikanal Bus Stand, from there to Vattakanal, you can either walk a short distance of 3.6 km, or you can hire a cab for Rs. 300.

There are no eateries or shops available after the Dolphin Nose. Should you contact a guide, after reaching Vellagavi, you will be served a hot South Indian vegetarian lunch in the ‘meals’ form. At around 8 PM, soft Rotis with veg and non-veg gravy (based on request) and Pulav are served. The next day at around 9 AM, breakfast is served, typically, idly with podi (powder and oil), chutney, and sambar. The food served is quite appetizing.

Evening at 5 PM and in the morning at 7 AM, home-grown tea or coffee will be served upon request.

The best of all is the water – natural and surprisingly the tastiest we have ever tasted.

Pro Tip: You need not bring any trekking utensils for this hike if you plan to go with the guide.

There are several hostels in Vattakanal, the starting place of the trek. If you have planned for a night stay at the Vellagavi campsite, a tent stay is the only option. Cozy tents with comfortable blankets are provided at the campsite. Be advised that pillows are not allowed as it is considered to be a tool for murder. But you can ask for an extra blanket and use it as a pillow. You are, however, allowed to use bedrolls.

Note: The safe campsite we used is owned by the guide Jaya Murugan. Please be advised that have to pay the fees in order to stay there.

To charge your electronic devices, extension boxes with multiple sockets are available. The campsite is solar and battery-powered, making the place alight after the golden hours.

• Dettol – to cure and avoid leeches. Learn how to get rid of them the right way !
• Shoes with good grip & insole – highly recommended
• Reusable water bottle (avoid plastic) – at least 1 L of water
• Energy-rich foods – Chocolate and Energy bars, Glucose, Electrolyte drinks
• Snacks – nothing that makes a mess or those that do not agree with your stomach
• Pain relief sprays like Volini & Moov
• A waterproof jacket/sweater (if you trek during rain)
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Personal medication (if any)
• Travel first aid kit
• Pullover or jacket
• Toothbrush & toothpaste, towel, soap – Toiletries
• Additional underwear & wool socks.

Points To Remember

• You must be fully vaccinated.
• Drinking, smoking, and use of drugs are strictly prohibited.
• Start your trek at around 9:30 AM so as to get the most out of the scenic beauty & the viewpoints along the way.
• This is an environmentally friendly place. Do not litter, and do not dispose of any plastics or act in a manner that would spoil the hike in any way.
• A maximum of 25 persons can stay at a time. Pre-book and pay in advance to confirm your stay. 
• Vellagavi has gained a lot of popularity in recent times. If you want to enjoy this hike to the fullest, and if you can afford it, book the whole place for yourself and your gang, and go during weekdays.
• The direct route from the Dolphin Nose leads you to Vellagavi. There is no possibility of getting lost on this hiking route. This hike can be done independently by yourself without a guide but if you need food and accommodation, it is highly advisable to check for availability in advance.

• There are some beautiful viewpoints along the way. So, ensure you make sufficient time to connect with nature and explore as much as possible. 
• Take rest stops whenever required and stay hydrated.
• If you feel unsure of the direction, just follow the water pipe which goes to the village.
• Ensure to taste coffee, cardamom fruit, avocado, and other seasonal home-grown fruits.
• Do not hike when it gets dark, as wild bison roam in the forests.
• Always and at all times, be respectful towards nature, animals, and local people.

All the people who are interested to hike or trek this route should have minimum fitness, stamina, and the ability to sustain rugged terrains. You should be able to carry the entirety of your belongings. This hiking experience is not for people who demand changing rooms, restrooms, bedrooms, showers, or the other comforts of a quaint life. Pregnant women, babies, and elderly people are not advised to hike this route.

This hike, or any hike for that matter, will be a transformative experience. We advise you to take this hike at least once in your life, and it is good for your mind, body, and soul to immerse yourself in a challenging and introspective situation.

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The Sole Speaks

Trek to Vellagavi Village – Old Kodaikanal

A village of about 300 people, perched on a hilltop, with no connection to road is Vellagavi village in brief.

Trek to Vellagavi village, also known as Old Kodaikanal, is no easy task. One has to descend 3.5 km on a path laden with rocks, the descend is not the challenge here, it’s the return.

Difficulty level : Difficult

Distance : 3.5 km (One way)

Duration : 1.5 hours (descend) + 3.5 hours (Ascend)

History of Vellagavi Village

It is said that the villagers from the plains who were being exploited by the Kings in the 17th and 18th century (Most of South India was part of VIjayanagar Empire then), sought refuge in the hills. The Nilgiris, half way up to Kodaikanal and that is how Vellagavi/Vellakavi was settled.

However the population kept increasing until a cholera outbreak happened which forced these early-dwellers to find an alternate location. This new location is what is today known as Shenbaganur.

How to trek to Vellagavi Village

The trek starts from Vattakanal and one can either take a cab to reach Vattakanal from Kodaikanal or walk to Vattakanal.

Next to the famous Altaf cafe is a track that goes down towards Dolphin nose viewpoint. Past this vie point, a little more Echo point is a path going down on the left, this path leads to Vellagavi village.

There is little possibility of getting lost on the track as the only route is towards Vellagavi village. Oftentimes one would come across the village residents walking up and down the path. This is their only route to Vattakanal, where they get their supplies from or come to sell their produce.

Upon reaching Vellagavi, one has the choice to either walk back up the same route (no easy task by any means) or trek further down to Periyakulam. The latter goes through forest so one would need a local guide with them to walk through the area. From periyakulam one can take a bus back to Kodaikanal.

Cost of trekking to Vellagavi Village

The trek is free of cost if you go by yourself (which you should easily be able to as it’s a straight forward route with barely any diversion). In recent years some of the hostels and guest houses have started offering guided treks to Vellagavi village.

Some may suggest that it’s a forest area and therefore you need special permission but that’s not true. You need special permission to trek beyond Vellagavi village along with a local guide.

What to Bring for Vellagavi trek

There is no natural source of drinking water along the way and on a hot day, the trek can be very exhausting. Keep hydrated.

At the beginning of the hike, there are quite a few stores selling packaged snacks and freshly made local ones but after the viewpoints, there is nothing along the way until you reach the village.

Vellagavi village has a few small stores selling biscuits and other snacks. There used to be a really nice cafe selling juices and snacks at the village entrance but it had closed down during Covid. I’m not aware if it ever reopened.

It’s a remote village with a steep dirt path as the only route to reach, please don’t expect cash machines. I suspect google pay might have reached there too but please have alternatives.

It can get really hot during summers.

While a lot of the hike entails walking under the trees, there is a fair amount of uncovered distance to cover. Hill stations get some harsh sun, it would be a good idea to apply sunscreen before the hike and at the while before the ascend.

Is it worth the hassle?

Absolutely.

It’s a village that retains its authenticity to a large extent. The houses are painted in bright colors outside of which, women sit around while doing chores like cleaning coffee beans. Kids are running around bare-feet. The village is surrounded by avocado and coffee plantation.

It is not just the destination that is beautiful, the trek itself offers majestic views of the hills. Along the way, one can see the village perched on a hill-top in distance. It looks so far away like a magic land and to be a able to reach there in only a matter of 1.5 hours, feels almost like a super-power. The super-power turns into a a struggle during the return though.

Tip : Stay in Vattakanal village for the night so you can see the stunning sunrise and hike to the village fairly early.

2 thoughts on “Trek to Vellagavi Village – Old Kodaikanal”

where to stay in Vattakanal village & cost and amenities please ?

I had stayed in this hostel called ‘Dostel’ but I was only going to stay there for the night so can’t really recommend a place. There are MANY guest houses there, I’d highly recommend just finding something in person.

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Hike To Vellagavi, The Unique Barefoot Village of India

Situated at 4,196 feet above sea level, Vellagavi is a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque hills of Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu. Unlike bustling cities, this tranquil village embraces simplicity and a connection with nature. Vellagavi doesn’t beckon with grand monuments or bustling streets. Instead, it whispers a promise of a simpler, more connected life, one step at a time, quite literally.

Vellagavi is no ordinary village . It defies modern conveniences, and reaching it requires more than just a drive.  Hiking  is the only way to access this pristine hamlet. Once you leave behind the last vehicle-friendly spot at Vattakanal, the trail to Vellagavi unfolds – a journey that promises adventure, serenity, and a unique cultural experience.

Why do people not wear footwear in Vellagavi village?

As you tread the forested path, you’ll notice something extraordinary: the villagers of Vellagavi never wear footwear within their village. Their tradition stems from reverence for the land they inhabit. With just  120 – 150 homes  and  24 Hindu temples , Vellagavi is a place where spirituality and simplicity intertwine. The reason for villagers not wearing footwear in Vellagavi village is their deeply rooted religious beliefs, transforming Vellagavi into a living, breathing temple where every step becomes a silent prayer.

Beyond the Barefoot Rule: Unveiling the Village’s Soul

But Vellagavi’s charm lies beyond the unique no-shoe rule. It’s in the warmth of the villagers’ smiles, genuine hospitality, and deep respect for nature. They offer a glimpse into a world where simplicity reigns supreme, where material possessions take a backseat to community spirit and spiritual connection.

The village boasts several ancient temples, each with its own story to tell. The Arulmigu Muneeswarar Temple , believed to be over 1000 years old , is the village’s spiritual heart. Its walls’ serene atmosphere and intricate carvings transport you to a bygone era.

The village also boasts a rich agricultural heritage. Lush fields, brimming with vegetables and fruits, are a testament to the villagers’ hard work and connection to the land. You can witness traditional farming methods, learn about local crops, and even lend a hand in the fields, experiencing the joys and challenges of rural life firsthand.

Vellagavi predates Kodaikanal itself. Its people lead lives of quiet resilience and health. Organic diets and homegrown foods sustain them. Coffee cultivation and farming form the backbone of their livelihoods. The absence of pesky mosquitoes adds to the village’s charm.

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Best time to visit.

Avoid the monsoon months (September to November) when the hiking path turns into a waterlogged challenge, and leeches abound. Summer heat can also sap your energy during the trek. Therefore,  December and January  offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the village. Always check the weather forecast before planning your trip.

Language and Connectivity

The village residents predominantly speak  Tamil . For communication, expect low mobile signals from Airtel and Jio. BSNL offers decent cellular coverage but lacks speedy internet.

The Trekking Experience

• Hike Distance : The trail covers approximately 13 kilometers.
• Hike Duration : Expect a moderate trek lasting several hours.
• Difficulty Level : Intermediate, with varying terrain.
• Terrain at the Vellagavi Campsite : Prepare for rocky paths and lush greenery.

How to Reach Vellagavi

• By Air : The nearest airport is Madurai Airport (105 kilometers away).
• By Train : Kodaikanal Road Railway Station is the closest railhead.
• By Road : Drive to Kodaikanal and then hike from Vattakanal.

Essentials to Pack

• Sturdy hiking shoes (since you’ll be going barefoot in the village)
• Lightweight backpack
• Water bottle
• First aid kit
• Camera (to capture the breathtaking vistas)

Points to Remember

• Respect local customs and traditions.
• Embrace the simplicity of Vellagavi.
• Interact with the warm-hearted villagers.
• Leave no trace – keep the village pristine .

Vellagavi is an experience, a chance to disconnect from the chaos of urban life and reconnect with nature’s rhythms. As you stand atop the hills, surrounded by mist and ancient trees, you’ll understand why Vellagavi remains a well-guarded secret – a testament to the enduring spirit of simplicity and reverence.

Remember, Vellagavi is not just a place; it’s a reminder that sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quietest corners, barefoot and open-hearted. So, pack your curiosity, leave your shoes behind, and step into the extraordinary world of Vellagavi.

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Historic Kumbakarai – Vellagavi – Kodaikanal trail – A dream hike to Kodaikanal

Bored with office work and tired with the blazing sun in Chennai. I decided to escape from the concrete jungle and trek in the Western Ghats to enjoy the pleasant weather, chill nights, thick vegetation, beautiful landscapes, freezing water and to reach Kodaikanal through foot which I was dreaming to complete for a long time.

Didn’t want to trek alone, therefore, invited couple of my friends who were interested in trekking and were also equally bored with city life. Sent an invitation cautioning the daring souls to get lost into the Western Ghats; enjoy its beauty; fall in love with the charming weather; getting wet in the rains and shiver in chillness almost all of whom I invited were equally interested to join me in this expedition.

A word about this trail

This trail has got historic significance since this was the walking track up to Kodaikanal in the late 18th and early 19th centuries used by the westerners before the present roads came to usage. So this is a privileged and prestigious route to trek. The distance is around 20 kms in rough terrain. Except for the Vellagavi villagers hardly any other people use this trail to reach Kodaikanal. There are not much deviation points and with the help of a compass and Google map and cross referencing both one can easily navigate this trail.

Day 1 – Astounding climb and camping in a hamlet

The trek started from Kumbakarai falls which is very popular local tourist spot. The entire place was crowded with localities since it was a weekend, we also mingled with them and took bath in the water falls and the sliding pool which is located 200 mts from the main falls. Chill water flowing from Kodaikanal valley gave us the refreshment for the day.

The sliding pool and the water in the gorge rejuvenates’ once body, mind and soul and acts as a perfect booster. Cleaning our body and freshening up our spirits we started our trek towards Vanathi Oodai (washer man stream). After 30 minutes of trek we reached Vanathi Oodai and decided to rest and have our lunch here. After spending few hours in the water and having our lunch we again started our trek.

From Vanathi Oodai the inclination starts gradually and there is no flat walk till Vellagavi except for few places. The trail is very clear and there are no much deviation points except for few over grown bushes here and there. As you start climbing you will feel the change in the weather, probably, that makes Kodaikanal a special destination to trek.

The views on the way towards Kodai is amazing at times you will be walking on the side of the mountain which will create fear and at the same time thrilling as if you are going to slip down any moment into the valley. One can easily see the Vagai dam while trekking towards Vellagavi. The tall trees, chill breeze, beautiful landscapes, the grasslands and the wonderful camaraderie made the trek more special to me.

Vellagavi a very peaceful and serene hamlet in the Kodaikanal Mountains surprised us with unexpected hospitality by its residents. Vellagavi is located at 1,300 mts altitude. Nature has gifted this hamlet with very pleasant weather, the villagers consider their village as holly place and restrict everyone from wearing footwear inside their village.

After reaching Vellagavi we went for a walk inside the village and spoke with many villagers, played with the kids and exchanged some worthy conversations with those innocent people, who love their place and cherish their secludedness. I suggest anyone who wants to relax and stay away from the stressful city life to visit and stay in this lovely place for few days and I am sure you will come back as a rejuvenated soul forgetting all your stress.

As planned we halted the night in Vellagavi and prepared and had our food. The villagers offered us a house to stay but we politely refused to stay since we wanted to sleep outdoor and we choose the primary school veranda and slept under the sky watching the glittering stars twinkling around. The mercury dipped as the night fall and we enjoyed the chillness and the outdoor squeezing ourselves into sleeping bags.

Day 2 – Breath taking views and hardcore hiking

The previous day another friend of mine called me to inform that he is going to join us in Vellagavi so I had to get up very early in the morning and had to catch him in Vanathi Oodai. I started running from Vellagavi downhill and met my friend few kilometers away from Vanathi Oodai and from there we both started hiking at a very high speed since we had to reach Vellagavi and from there to Kodai. The other group was preparing maggi for their breakfast and gearing up to trek the remaining distance to hit Kodaikanal. After few hours of non-stop hard core hiking we met the other group which was heading to Kodai from Vellagavi. We had our breakfast at Vellagavi and started trekking towards Kodai.

The hike towards Kodaikanal from Vellagavi is astounding and never fails to offer great views. There are no deviation points and one can blindly follow the trail, I enjoyed the hike especially of the refreshing climate and the brilliant views of the valley. The entire valley was covered with thick green blanket and the flowers blossoming throughout the valley, we took regular breaks to enjoy the hike and to enjoy the unpolluted, human less environment.

After reaching an altitude of 2,000 metres we reached the “Echo rock point” which offered us some beautiful view of the valley below and also the famous dolphin nose which offered us splendid view since there was very less mist we were lucky enough to enjoy the breath taking views amidst chill weather.

Few more kilometers of hike we reached Vattakanal and from there we reached the Pambar falls, few of us took bath in that freezing cold water as we completed our trek successfully, although we were tired physically, mentally we were extremely fresh and achieving the target safely everyone felt extremely delighted that they made to kodai through their legs, this sense of achievement and feeling of goodness was palpably visible in everyone’s face.

To sum up, this trek will be cherished by the participants for the adventure, fun, camaraderie it offered to us. I am sure that this trek ignited the passion for trekking among few who were new to treks and joined this Kodai mission.

Happy trekking,

Durai Murugan

Can u give any local guides phone number in trrkking

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Vellagavi Trek

Trekking to Vellagavi was an exhilarating adventure that left a lasting impression. Nestled in the Western Ghats of India, this remote village offered a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. The trek itself was a challenging yet rewarding experience, with lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and meandering streams along the way. The serene ambience and the warm hospitality of the villagers made the journey even more memorable. Exploring their traditional way of life, from farming to cuisine, provided a unique insight into rural India. The trek's pinnacle was reaching the breathtaking viewpoint, where panoramic vistas of the Western Ghats rewarded our efforts. Vellagavi trek was a remarkable journey that connected me to nature and the heart of Indian rural culture.

The following detailed itinerary provides a day-by-day breakdown of your Vellagavi trek. From your late-evening departure from Bengaluru to the moment you arrive back home, we've outlined your activities and experiences to make the most of your trip. Let's dive into the specifics.

Day 0 : Departure from Bengaluru to Kodaikanal

Day 1 : vellagavi trek, day 2 : sightseeing and departure.

Nov 24, 2023 (Friday)

Dec 01, 2023 (Friday)

For more information, please dont hesitate to give us a call at +91 93640-99494

Embark on an extraordinary expedition to Vellagavi, where nature's wonders unfold in all their splendor. This picturesque trekking trail boasts verdant landscapes, tranquil streams, and a rich diversity of wildlife, painting a breathtaking canvas of natural beauty. Prepare to be enchanted by the sheer magnificence of this hidden paradise

Backpackers experts will accompany the entire trip, and local backpackers will join us along the way.

Safety and Security Guidelines are followed at all times, and it is our topmost priority. We have certified trek leads (Male/Female) accompanying the participants at all times and our stay follows well-rounded safety measures.

We have multiple payment options on the website that you can refer to.

You can directly reserve your slots by booking on the website, please ensure proper dates are selected before confirming your booking.

You can reach out to Backpackers United to get details about your booking and other important information related to your tour packages.You can reach out to Backpackers United to get details about your booking and other important information related to your tour packages.

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Ravindra Joisa

Photographer | Traveler | Trekker | YouTuber | IT Engineer

Vellagavi Village – An incredibly magnificent community

Kodaikanal is a destination I’d want to visit. Every time I visited this location, it was different, and I had a one-of-a-kind experience. So this time, I’ll be hiking upward from Kumbakarai to Kodaikanal through Vellagavi village, a path that was formerly used to transport goods under British control, going through lush forests, by a waterfall, and through a quiet settlement. Furthermore, no one wears shoes in this hillside settlement. Vellagavi, close to Kodaika, is well-known for this.

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Reaching Vallagavi village

The route follows the Kumali-Dindigul highway, with a turnoff to Kumbakkara at Periyakulam. The hike begins in Kumbakkara. The entire hike is in the rain forest and takes about 6 hours to reach the Vellagavi village. Firstly, a temple will greet you as you enter Vellagavi village. Secondly, Vellagavi village is in the heart of the jungle, a settlement of barefoot inhabitants. The locals here consider this place to be holy and the village is super clean.

A place full of temples

A primary school and a playground are located in front of this little isolated community situated in the Kodaikanal mountains. Residents rely on centuries-old paths to travel about because there is no road linking the village to the outside world. There are more temples than dwellings, the hamlet is considered sacred, and no footwear is worn within the community. In addition, folks here go to bed at 7 p.m., soon after sunset.

Vellagavi village Stay

You may stay in motels near the Vellagavi forest reserve before or after the trip. If you are traveling on your own then you might stay at hotels in Kodaikanal. Because this is a perfect two-day weekend trip, you may camp at Vallagavi’s “Old Kodai Camping Tents,” which is located at the village’s entrance and has ready-made erected tents waiting for you to come.

You continue ‘barefoot’ through the village, through the lone bank/post office and a primary school, to the site where you may spend the evening and camp. It’s on the other side of town, away from the people, so you may enjoy the campfire without disturbing the local people at night. There is a location for visitors and hikers to stay near the entrance, as well as a shop. We erected our tent here and spent the evening around the campfire. It was good to sit in front of a campfire and enjoy the peaceful cold night. This is something that I love and usually miss when I go on Himalayan treks where a campfire is not allowed.

The uphill hike after Vellagavi village

The majority of the hiking track is in the woods. The Western Ghats’ jungles are incredibly magnificent. Unfortunately, at the time of my visit, the region right before the dolphin nose area was engulfed in flames, and the hiking route was completely engulfed in ash. We eventually made up to the all-uphill walk to Dolphine nose. Dolphine Nose is a renowned tourist site that is frequently crowded.

The tragic forest fire above Vellagavi Village

It’s worth noting that there was a large forest fire in this section of the climb, right below the Dolphin nose area, not long ago. We were told that a party of all-female hikers became stuck in the middle of the forest and perished in the forest fire. Many people had died. You can see in the video below where the ruins can still be found, and even throughout my trip, the last kilometer was under forest fire but was not intense.

A foggy day, near Dolphin Nose, where there was once a forest fire.

To summarise, this is an ideal weekend trek that includes a stay in a lovely community in the heart of the forest. Watch the movie below, and I hope it is entertaining and even motivates you to arrange a hike to ancient Kodai.

By the way, the best time to visit this location is during the post-monsoon season, which runs from October to February. Hiking during the monsoon season is not recommended since you will be in the center of a rain forest with lots of rain.

By the way, you may want to check my other trekking stories . Hope you enjoyed reading the blog post. You may buy me a coffee to support my work and the effort taken to write this post and make this video. Or the least that you can do is to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more videos and join my FriendZone for more stories.

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A village in the hills where nobody wears footwear! That is the attraction of Vellagavi near Kodaikanal drawing travellers who undertake an arduous trek through dense forest.

The 12-km trek from Top Station in Munnar to Kurangini would feel child's play compared to this trek to Vellagavi. The route is along the Kumali - Dindigul road and travellers can turn towards Kumbakkara at Periyakulam.

It is from Kumbakkara that the trek starts. The distance is just 8 km, but it may take up to 6 six hours to cover. Travellers from Kodaikanal side can start the journey on foot from Vattakanal. It is a distance of 6 km, taking 4 hours.

A van takes visitors through Tamil Nadu villages to a plantation growing dwarf mango trees. From here, one has to walk to the valleys of the Kodai mountains. Steep hills and thick woods lie in front of travellers. The path is very narrow, allowing only one person to pass at a time. The climb is steep and lemons grow in abundance on both sides.

A deep depression flanks both sides of the narrow path and any misstep can lead to a fall. The sounds of the forest creatures greet travellers. The pure air is a bonus.

Indescribable beauty of the landscape provides a feast for the cameras. Villagers lead donkeys carrying loads or goat herds along the path. Tiny shrines line the sides of the path. They present a curious sight with a spear, bells and tiny images on a platform.

When the day advances, the steep climbs prove exhausting for several visitors. But clear and clean water can be tasted from the forest streams on the way, to quench the thirst.

Local people quickly overtake you even while carrying heavy loads along the path covered with big pebbles. Any person you enquire with would reply, “The village is nearby.”

But the hours pass by without notice. While one hill is covered, the next one looms. Gooseberry trees line the path and you can pick some and chew to get some relief.

Soon, a wonderful sight awaits travellers. While orange farms spread on one side of the path, coffee and cardamom grow in abundance on the other. A tiny water-fall can also be seen in the middle of the farmland.

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Vellagavi: A village of barefoot residents in the middle of the forest

A village in the hills where nobody wears footwear! That is the attraction of Vellagavi near Kodaikanal drawing travellers who undertake an arduous trek through dense forest.

The 12-km trek from Top Station in Munnar to Kurangini would feel child's play compared to this trek to Vellagavi. The route is along the Kumali - Dindigul road and travellers can turn towards Kumbakkara at Periyakulam.

It is from Kumbakkara that the trek starts. The distance is just 8 km, but it may take up to 6 six hours to cover. Travellers from Kodaikanal side can start the journey on foot from Vattakanal. It is a distance of 6 km, taking 4 hours.

Visit Masinagudi this holiday season to be mesmerized by nature

A drive from Thekkady to Meghamalai can be as enchanting as ever

A van takes visitors through Tamil Nadu villages to a plantation growing dwarf mango trees. From here, one has to walk to the valleys of the Kodai mountains. Steep hills and thick woods lie in front of travellers. The path is very narrow, allowing only one person to pass at a time. The climb is steep and lemons grow in abundance on both sides.

A deep depression flanks both sides of the narrow path and any misstep can lead to a fall. The sounds of the forest creatures greet travellers. The pure air is a bonus.

Indescribable beauty of the landscape provides a feast for the cameras. Villagers lead donkeys carrying loads or goat herds along the path. Tiny shrines line the sides of the path. They present a curious sight with a spear, bells and tiny images on a platform.

When the day advances, the steep climbs prove exhausting for several visitors. But clear and clean water can be tasted from the forest streams on the way, to quench the thirst.

Local people quickly overtake you even while carrying heavy loads along the path covered with big pebbles. Any person you enquire with would reply, “The village is nearby.”

But the hours pass by without notice. While one hill is covered, the next one looms. Gooseberry trees line the path and you can pick some and chew to get some relief.

Soon, a wonderful sight awaits travellers. While orange farms spread on one side of the path, coffee and cardamom grow in abundance on the other. A tiny water-fall can also be seen in the middle of the farmland.

The route ahead is an incline covered with sharp and big stones which is flanked by massive trees. A little along this path, beyond a curve, is Vellagavi.

The first sight that greets visitors at Vellagavi is a temple, beyond which nobody uses footwear. There are 25 temples in this tiny village of around 150 people. The local people consider the entire village as a holy place where footwear is not allowed. Belief is supreme among the villagers here.

All the houses are built along straight rows side by side and are covered with sheets or are thatched. 'Kolam' art is seen in front of all dwellings, which are painted with multiple colours. Art also appears on the walls of the house. Some paths between houses are laid with cement.

Temples rise between houses and also at the end of the streets. In front of each temple, at least two or three persons can be seen praying all the time. The annual temple festival is the biggest event of the village.

Every face in the village greets visitors with a smile. On Sundays, the entire area resonates with the voices of kids, who are shy in front of the camera.

The only school in Vellagavi has classes only up to the lower primary level. Teachers reach here from Periyakulam and Kodaikanal. For higher studies, the children have to depend on the towns.

No medical facilities or other essential services are available at Vellagavi and local people have to carry sick people to hospitals. The only establishments in the village are a tea shop and a small provision store. The tea shop now provides a camp set-up too, considering the regular visitors arriving at Vellagavi.

Farming and rearing of goats are main occupations of the villagers, who get piped water from Vattakanal. Having a history of 300 years, Vellagavi is older than Kodaikanal, but the government seems to have no interest in developing the village. The local people suffer everything in silence.

During the return, travellers can choose to trek to Vattakanal. Beyond the temple are the stone steps which lead to the path covered with red soil. This path is better than the one from Kumbakkara as it is well-trodden with regular use. Villagers from Vellagavi often head to Kodaikanal town along this path for buying essential items. Here too, dense forest flanks both sides and ascends, descends, twists and turns are aplenty. Barefoot villagers pass visitors, but all of them enquire about your well-being.

Innocence of the rural dwelling in the forest is clearly evident. Soon eucalyptus trees come into view, indicating that Dolphin Nose viewpoint in Kodaikanal is nearby. From the top of the rock, Vellagavi's lights at night can be seen in the distance. From Vattakanal, a vehicle can take you to Kodaikanal town.

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KODAIKANAL TREK : VATTANKAL TO VELLAGAVI, A SACRED VILLAGE IN THE MOUNTAINS

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“The true India resides in its villages.”

It is these villages, with their myriad cultures and way of life, that truly epitomise the diversity that India has come to be known for, across the world.

But how often do you come across a hamlet nestled deep in a forest, where none of the inhabitants wear footwear, even while venturing out in public spaces?

No, we are not kidding.

Vellagavi, a quaint little hamlet, with a sparse population of 150, exists in relative obscurity in comparison to its extremely famous neighbour, Kodaikanal.

Located amidst the undulating forested terrains of Western Ghats, there are no roads in this hamlet, and the number of temples far exceeds the number of houses! Perhaps, that is the reason why the inhabitants of Vellagavi refuse to wear any footwear, in reverence to the local gods, who cohabit the area with their devotees.

Fascinating, isn’t it? Join us this MAR’2020

📍WHERE : Kodaikanal,Tamilnadu ⌛DURATION : 3 days (Start on Thursday and back by Monday) 📌GRADE : Medium | GROUP SIZE : 12 🌡TEMPERATURE : 18 Degree’s 🏃‍♂ DISTANCE: 6+6 KMS

Day 1 FRIDAY

● Reach Madurai @ 9 AM and Freshen up ● Start to Kodaikanal and Reach Base village then Start Trek ● Trek via Dolphin nose,Echo Rock and Reach Vellagavi by evening ● Village walk and Camping

Day 2 SATURDAY

●06:00 – Wakeup & Freshen up and Small hike to see sunrise. ●07:00 – Have Breakfast and Start Trek. ●11.00 – Visit Kodaikanal till evening. ●18.00 – Reach Home stay and Rest for the day. ●20.00 – Dinner and Rest.

Day 3 SUNDAY

●06.00 : Wake Up call and ●08.00 : Breakfast and Visit remaining places ●11.00 : Start back to Madhurai. ● 15.00 : Catch our bus to Hyderabad.

Day 4 MONDAY

9 AM : Reach HYD

Costing : 0000

𝗖𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗜𝗡𝗖𝗟𝗨𝗗𝗘𝗦.

• Transportation from Madurai Non-A/C Tempo Traveler/SUV
• Food : 1 Dinner | 1 Breakfast
• Camping with Wash rooms
• Experienced Trek Leaders
• First Aid & Expertise
• Local Guide,Forest Permissions & Entry

𝗖𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗘𝗫𝗖𝗟𝗨𝗗𝗘𝗦

• Hyderabad - Madurai - Hyderabad Transportations
• Personal Expenses Personal expenses

CANCELLATIONS & REFUND POLICY :

●INITIAL AMOUNT IS NON-REFUNDABLE/NON-TRANSFERABLE ●72 Hours Before :If we find replacement refund (25% will be deducted ) No Refund if there is No replacement in any case and replacement is not club’s responsibility. ●72 Hours -0 Hours : No Refund (No matter whether its replaced or not) ●Refunds will be processed excluding convenience fee (payment gateway charges ) ● Refunds will be processed in 4 working days after the event

THINGS TO CARRY :

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Dolphin nose to kumbakarai via... - Dolphin's Nose

• Asia    
• India    
• Tamil Nadu    
• Dindigul District    
• Kodaikanal    
• Kodaikanal - Places to Visit    
• Dolphin's Nose

The dolphin nose view was breathtaking and it had an excellent view. but the way to it was very... read more

A fun place to trek with friends. Trekking back is the best part here. Palace is very calm and ypu... read more

Dolphin nose to kumbakarai via vellagavi (Trek to the unexplored) - Vattakanal to Kumbakarai falls via vellagavi village

3-3-2018 to 4-3-2018 I have been to vattakanal several times, but this time we planned a trek to kumbakarai falls via vellagavi village. We a group of 8 members started from chennai and arrived dindugul by 6 A.M. There are lot of private and government buses from dindugul bus stand to kodaikannal. You will be finding buses every half an hour, we reached kodaikannal by 9.30 A.M, as planned we completed local sight seeing by evening, while returning to hotel rooms we enquired about vellagavi trek, but many of them said there is no permission given to this village, so don't go there it will create problems for you from forest department.So, I was planning what to do for the next day, but our initial plan before starting from chennai is to do the Kumbakarai trek.Next day morning I woke up with a fresh and steady mind to go for trek as decided and I told my friends to get ready for trekking, informed hotel cook to arrange lunch for us as many of them instructed that in vellagavi village we will not find anything to eat. And also asked our driver Thangaraj (Local Driver) to find is there any possible way getting permission from Forest department, as I expected he delayed till 10.00 A.M. and replied that trekking is not allowed there due to some naxalites roaming. Still I asked him to come and pick up from hotel, to go to Dolphin's nose point, After we got out from the cab, immediately I asked him to leave us as we have other plans. We visited vattakannal falls and then I enquired about the vellagavi trek to the local ones, they said there is no permission required to go till vellagavi village, but you have to get permission to trek till kumbakarai falls or periyakulam and it costs 250 per head. Here comes the much awaited review, the complete history of our much enjoyable trekking from Vattakannal to Kumbakarai falls via vellagavi. Starting Point - Trekking to vellagavi village starts from backside of the dolphin's nose, without any deviation the route will lead you to vellagavi village and it requires only normal trekking. Trek Time: 2 hours. We started by 1.30 P.M. and reached by 3.30 P.M. (But, if you wish to do this trek, please start before 11.00 A.M from dolphin's nose). And to our surprise there is a hotel named "OLD KODAI" runned by V. Jega Murugan and his family (Wife Chitra and their kid Yogeshwari). He said he also conducts trekking package from kumbakarai to vattakannal and vattakannal to kumbakarai, after having lunch and spending in village for one hour, I had a long chat with Jega murugan about his village and what are all the hurdles we came across reaching vellagavi by some local taxi drivers in kodaikannal, for that Jega Murugan replied that due to lot of young travellers opting this route as a exit to kodaikannal, they are talking ill about this place as their business is getting lost. You can also find the city view from Lord Murugan temple. One important note, You can smoke and drink there, but please do outside the village. He said that they also drink but in diwali only they get permission from village head. He also got us permission from forest department through phone itself and shared a valuable contact Iman (Share Auto driver), he asked me to contact Iman and he will pick us from Kumbakarai and drop in periyakulam bus stand. Below are the contact details to you, if you plan to trek this route, they will help you, vellagavi people are so kind hearted. Trek tour costs Rs. 1, 300 for veg and RS.1,400 for non-veg, this costs inculdes everything with forest department permission. Mr. Jega Murugan - 95856 54107 T.V.P. Vairavan (Murugan's Father)- 97152 94725 Iman ( Auto Driver) - 95786 10996, 96007 65531 Then we started our trek by 5.00 P.M. and started to kumbakarai, but this time the trek becomes even more difficulty, after following the routes guided by the jega murugan, we reached the Tamarind Tree by 7.30. P.M, and the I called Iman to come and pick up our team. But after sometime we found mango trees, my mind said that we are in a wrong path by the time it is 8.15 P.M. Then we called Iman, after lot of phone calls he reached us by 8.45 P.M., after got scolding from forest department, we came to periyakulam bus stand to catch bus to dindugul railway station. For Trekkers, this has to be done once in our lifetime, it will teach us a lot. For us, this trek is entirely an amazing and adventure one, as we trekked with full enjoyment and pleasure. Night trekking in forest with the help of torch lights is an added adventure. Anyway beware of wild bison. Overall the trekking of 10 kms is very very enjoyable and refreshing, this trek is contains of many sweet memories for us. Hope this review will be a useful one for may who have to trek this route, as I found no review and useful information regarding this trek. Also, Keep in mind Kumbakarai to vattakanal trek is very difficult, but still possible. I also share few very useful contact to you Micheal (has vast experience for trekking places in kodaikannal) - 82204 69444 Babu (Micheal's brother) - 74187 79377 (Taxi Driver) D. Rabeek Raja - 99424 46123, 78711 03813 (Arranges for cab and rooms in kodaikannal) Notes: Don't wear footwear in vellagavi village Contact the people which I mentioned above for details regarding tour. Please reach before 4 P.M. to kumbakarai falls, as the strict forest officers fines you. Trekking to this places is safe.

This place we had an amazing adventure. There are trails you need to trek around 1 km from the entry point. Moderate level of fitness is required to trek this place. Keep 3 hours so that you do not have to rush. Enjoy the mountain views, deep valleys. There are shops to where you could stop and take some rest. So don't worry and enjoy the trek. Have a comfortable pair of shoes.

An adventurous and a great trekking experience while reaching this wonderful Dolphin nose point in kodaikanal. There also prior to this spot mountain view and after Dolphin nose very near Echo rock can be covered in this tour. Please take caution while u go near the dolphin nose point. The view from the dolphin nose is spectacular. The beauty of the mountains covered by fog is spellbound. Echo rock is two minutes away from dolphin nose. Reaching dolphin nose will take you maximum 1 hour and returning back will take 2 hrs at the most.Don't miss dolphin nose and be very careful while you take pictures at this point...krishna Duvvuri

It's a cliff the looks like the dolphin's nose . You need to trek down around 1-2 km from the drop point if you're driving on your own or on hire. Use footwear with good grip. It's a valley view point. Locals use this trek able path to go further down to villages further down the valley.

The trek to Dolhin's Nose begins from the main road. There are three places of interest, coming one after another: Mountain Beauty, Dolphin's Nose and Echo Point. You have to trek all the way down on a very rocky, uneven path of about 1.5 km. At some places the path is crisscrossed with thick roots. To add to the hardship are mules which carry loads up and down the path. You have to be out of their way. Suerly not for kids and the aged. All three places are nothing much in themselves. The only redeeming factor is the beautiful, scenic views along the way. If the fog rolls in then there will be no view. Dolphin's nose is a couple of rocks jutting out from the mountain. Through a certain angle coupled with a lot of imagination it forms the shape of a dolphin's snout. The way back up is very streneous. Standing on the Dolphin's Nose and taking a selfie is very dangerous. A teen recently fell and lost his life. If you still decide to take the trek, wear good shoes and carry only the bare minimum. I assume that many other reviewers have given this place 4 or 5 stars for the scenic beauty along the way.

Very beautiful views. Best to visit early morning. The climb up is tiring but completely worth it and fun. Only negative is the litter on the way.

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Inside Vellagavi: Here’s Why Nobody In This Unique Mountain Hamlet Wears Footwear!

Located amidst the undulating forested terrains of Western Ghats, there are no roads in this hamlet, and the number of temples far exceeds the number of houses!

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Vellagavi, a quaint little hamlet, with a sparse population of 150, exists in relative obscurity in comparison to its extremely famous neighbour, Kodaikanal.

Greeting travellers at the entrance to Vellagavi is a temple, after which one can find as many as 25 temples interspersed between houses and also at the end of streets.

Besides a tea shop and a small provision store, the villagers have to head to Kodaikanal to meet most of their day-to-day requirements.

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A trek to the spiritual village in Kodaikanal

Vellagavi - Kodaikanal Trail

All of us will be familiar with the queen of hills aka Kodaikanal, As the name suggests it is the queen of hills.Now a days Kodaikanal has become a famous tourist spot and huge amount of people are coming to see her beauty everyday. So most of the destinations are crowded.For those who prefer tranquility and serenity  I will suggest an village called vellagavi which is  an small hamlet located at the top of the hill, This village will make you feel  like heaven on the earth , genuinely speaking. I have been in this heaven for two times and returned back with a  ton of memories.The journey starts from vattakanal, The trek takes about 3.5 to 4 hrs for the beginners but this would be a trek of happiness ,On the way you can see the beautiful dolphin nose ,echo point, small home stays , magical forests and the foggy climate will leave you goosebumps.The initial trek is smooth but as it goes it becomes little bit rough, At the same time you can see the villagers with loads of weight in their head, barefoot walking to Kodaikanal in great speed, Actually that scene gives you the energy to move faster, After a long trek starts the end of one hill and and the beginning of the other, We are in to lush green forest and there are small tea and coffee estates sideby, One can hear the barking of dogs from the estate. This trek will end at the entry of vellagavi (the wandering souls) the village with about 300 odd people.There is an Murugan temple at the entry of the village , None of the villager's were footwear and most of their names are associated with God (lokashakti,Shiva etc )There is an post office,  anganwaadi in the village . (nursery school) The whole village treats there guests as god.As you go forward towards the village there are acres of land on plantation crops it will keep you awestruck.You can even spend a night there in the anagnvaady,There are small shops in the village which provide tea, cigarettes, biscuits and other food items.There are lots of rice sacks in front of every home and most of the houses do have dogs the nearest town for the villagers is Kodaikanal, We can call them as alienated people but I would like to call them the godly people, You will also feel the same once you come here . I can't say much more about this place, The whole thing you want to do is go there and experience it ,It's really the heaven on the earth with the heavenly people.The village is an epitome of spirituality.

View of vellagavi from the midway of the trek

A home in the village

The village nursery school

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Vellagavi Trek

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• 2 Days  1 Nights 
• Difficulty - Easy Moderate

Trekking to Vellagavi was an exhilarating adventure that left a lasting impression. Nestled in the Western Ghats of India, this remote village offered a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. The trek itself was a challenging yet rewarding experience, with lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and meandering streams along the way. The serene ambience and the warm hospitality of the villagers made the journey even more memorable. Exploring their traditional way of life, from farming to cuisine, provided a unique insight into rural India. The trek's pinnacle was reaching the breathtaking viewpoint, where panoramic vistas of the Western Ghats rewarded our efforts. Vellagavi trek was a remarkable journey that connected me to nature and the heart of Indian rural culture.

• Vellagavi trek offers stunning views of lush green forests, rolling hills, and pristine landscapes.
• The trek takes you through a diverse ecosystem with a chance to spot various flora and fauna.
• Vellagavi is a less-travelled trekking destination, providing a quieter and more serene experience compared to popular trekking spots.
• The trek often includes a visit to the tribal village of Vellagavi, providing insight into the local culture and lifestyle.
• The trek offers a sense of adventure and exploration as you navigate through forested trails and hilly terrain.

Private Vehicle

Pushback Seater

On Friday, Get picked up in Bangalore from the following points and start your Vellagavi trekking tour.

Indiranagar

• Reach Kodaikanal, where you will be freshening up and having a hot breakfast.
• Post breakfast, let's have a quick team brief & start the trek 
• Total trek distance 10 km (Both ways)
• Witness cascading Vattakanal waterfalls
• Explore the panoramic views from the dolphin nose & reach the camping area by 1.00  p.m.
• Reach the camping area, followed by lunch witness the beauty of Kodai.
• Enjoy a bonfire with music followed by dinner for the night and retire for the day.
• Overnight stay in Tents

Pushback seater

• Wake up early to witness the beautiful sunrise.
• Freshen up and have breakfast.
• Begin your descent back from your current location.
• Enroute, stop for lunch.
• After lunch, head to Kodaikanal for a day of sightseeing.
• Explore the scenic attractions in Kodaikanal.
• Kodai Lake You can take a boat ride or simply stroll around this beautiful lake.
• Coaker's Walk Enjoy a scenic walk with panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
• Back to Bangalore with a Bag full of memories

Hosted by Backpackers United

Backpackers United is the leading and fastest-growing Travel Community, founded in 2017, that offers exceptional travel experiences in India. Our team of young, dynamic, and passionate travelers is committed to exploring the great outdoors through sustainable nature trails. We believe in providing a unique travel experience that takes our fellow travelers off the beaten path to discover the hidden gems of nature. We offer a diverse range of travel services, including treks to unexplored places in both North and South India, Cycling Tours, Holiday Packages, Sightseeing, Backpacking Trips, Corporate treks, Team Outings, Personality Development through adventure activities, experiential learning trips specially curated for school and college students, a variety of Adventure activity packages, and much more. Our experienced travel planning team curates each itinerary to ensure every penny is worth the experience. At Backpackers United, we have executed over 2K trips for more than 20,000 enthusiastic travelers, and our weekend treks and trips from Bengaluru are the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. We offer customizable travel packages that cater to specific needs and requirements, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience. Our commitment to sustainable tourism and responsible travel ensures that we leave a positive impact on the communities we visit. We encourage travelers to explore the great outdoors in a way that respects and preserves nature, and we promote eco-friendly practices in all our trips and treks. Join our community of adventure seekers, and experience the thrill of exploring nature in a unique and sustainable way. Book your next adventure with Backpackers United and make unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

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• Transportation from Bangalore to Bangalore (non-AC)
• Trek Lead from Backpackers United
• 2 Breakfast, 1 lunch 1 Dinner
• Tent Stay(twin sharing)
• Dinner on day 2
• Personal Expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the Inclusions.

Policy and Terms

• If cancellation are made 15 days before the date of travel then 50.0% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees
• If cancellation are made 7 days to 15 days before the date of travel then 75.0% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees
• If cancellation are made 0 days to 7 days before the date of travel then 100.0% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees

Terms and Conditions

• Any photos or videos taken during the trip by Backpackers United's content creators or clients are owned by Backpackers United and can only be used by the company for advertising purposes. No one else can use the content for commercial use without obtaining proper permission from Backpackers United.
• Full payment for the trip must be completed before the trip begins. Failure to complete payment may result in the cancellation of the trip.
• All travellers must have a valid government-issued ID that will be verified before boarding. No boarding will be allowed without a valid ID.
• The transfer of bookings is not allowed. Only the names mentioned at the time of confirmation will be allowed to travel.
• For international travel, clients must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months from the date of intended travel and not damaged in any way. Backpackers United is not responsible for clients who book travel with passports that do not meet this requirement. Any denial of entry at immigration or any additional cost arising from alternate arrangements for deportation must be borne by the travellers.
• No refunds will be given for any inclusions that are not utilized by the client.
• Travelers are responsible for their luggage and belongings. Backpackers United is not responsible for any damage or missing items.
• The time of departure is fixed and all travellers must report at the pickup point 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure. The air conditioning will be switched off in the hills and the driver will have the discretion to turn off the AC during the trip for safety reasons.
• Drinking and smoking are strictly prohibited during the tour. Backpackers United's tours involve physically demanding activities such as trekking and camping at high altitudes, so clients are advised to be in good physical shape.
• Backpackers United is not responsible for any accidents, bodily injury, illness, death, loss or damage to baggage or property, or any damages or claims arising from negligence or delay by any person not employed by Backpackers United.
• Any misconduct or indiscipline will not be tolerated during the tour.
• Backpackers United is not responsible for any delays or alterations to the itinerary due to natural hazards, accidents, weather conditions, landslides, political closures, or any untoward incidents.
• Backpackers United does not provide any insurance policies to cover sickness or accidents, or losses due to theft or other reasons.
• Alterations to the itinerary may be necessary due to various factors, such as weather and road conditions, and the physical ability of participants, in the interest of safety, comfort, and general well-being. 

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// Kodaikanal

10 Best Trekking Places In & Around Kodaikanal

by middha on August 9, 2018

Nature is at its finest in Kodaikanal – the Queen of Hills; the green vistas and misty mountains always beckoning the adventure enthusiast and the trekker alike. The hill town in Tamil Nadu is a centre point from where many thrilling treks begin.

From easy to moderate level treks, amateur, as well as expert trekkers, can have their share of fun in the lap of the Kodaikanal mountains. Compiled below is the list of best trekking places in and around Kodaikanal.

Please note that most treks (except the minor ones) require permission from Forest Department. So check online or ask your hotel desk for guidance.

Trekking Places in Kodaikanal

1. bear shola trek.

Bear Shola Falls

A very short trek that is best experienced during monsoons when the Bear Shola Falls are in full flow. It’s a good trek during other parts of the year for its scenic trail.

The trail is simple but uphill. The forest trail is narrow, winding and filled with rich biodiversity. Small streams will cross your path now and then. Since the trek is only 1 km long, it is frequented by families and amateur trekkers all year around.

2. Pine Forest Trek

Pine Forests

This is an enchanting trek through the heritage pine forest reserve of Kodaikanal. A fairly easy trek, also a major sightseeing spot, the Kodaikanal pine forests are thick, lush, and very well-maintained.

Along with pine trees, you will find shola and eucalyptus trees and pretty mushrooms. Many movies of the south are shot here and the place is cited as a photographer’s heaven. You can also camp here after obtaining necessary permissions.

3. Dolphin’s Nose & Echo Rock

Dolphin’s Nose

This is one of the most popular treks in Kodaikanal. The summit is a flat rock that resembles the nose of a dolphin. First-time trekkers can navigate the trail with considerable ease. The trail is rough at the start, the starting point is Pambar Bridge.

There are many shops and snack shops along the trail which is fairly visible.  The trek will take you 3-4 hours and the trail is around 2 kilometres long. The views include Periyakulam town and Vaigai Lake. Echo Rock which is a little ahead is also another great viewpoint.

4. Pillar Rocks Trek

Mist on Pillar Rocks

This is a four-hour trek that will lead you to the top of vertical pillar-shaped boulders, navigating through the fog and semi-difficult routes. Start early in the morning and walk through slippery rocks and thick forests to reach the summit.

Also, visit Devil’s Kitchen which are scary and dangerous chambers created between the Pillar Rocks. Guna Caves which are located within are a must-visit for a slightly more adventurous soul. They are 3000 feet deep caves formed out of the chasms of the pillar rocks. The downhill trek is exciting and the surroundings are eerie. Take a guided trek for safety.

Trekking Places Near Kodaikanal

5. vattakanal trek.

Group of trekkers

A most scenic trek, the cliff is in the south of Palani Hills.  You can start the trek early in the morning or by mid-day.

Your trial includes walking through dense forests, Shola Nursery and the Pambar Falls. The trek will take you around 3 to 4 hours. Return by evening and eat fresh snacks in the food shacks along the way.

• Distance from Kodaikanal: 6 kilometres

6. Silent Valley View and Caps Fly Valley

Silent Valley Trek (source)

Not only are these must-visit sightseeing spots, they are also moderately easy treks to high mountains that provide spectacular views from their summits. Both are located enroute Berijam Lake.

Trails are visible, although fog may block your views oftentimes. Caps Fly Valley is famous for its atmospheric pressure, where any light object when thrown in the air, returns to you.

• Distance from Kodaikanal: 16 kilometres

7. Vellagavi – Kumbakkarai Falls

Vellagavi village (source)

This is an extension of Dolphin’s Nose Trek, in that it moves further ahead from there to Vellagavi and ultimately towards Kumbakkarai Falls. This is a relatively unexplored trail, sparsely populated as it moves through the forest of Vellagavi.

A regular trail from Dolphin’s Nose will take you to Vellagavi village in about two hours. Have lunch at Old Kodai, check out the village and proceed to Kumbakkarai Falls on a rugged terrain in three hours and then reach Periyakulam village.

8. Elephant Valley Falls Trek

Views of the trail (source)

This is a lesser-known but truly exhilarating trek that will take an entire day.  It starts from Kodaikanal, passing through the village of Vilpatti. 

Take a detour to visit the Kurunji Andavar Temple, head on to Ganesh Puram and then reach the final destination, the scenic Elephant Valley Falls or Anju Veedu Waterfalls, which are high cascading waterfalls that have formed due to Palar stream from where they originate. The area is an important elephant corridor.

• Distance from Kodaikanal: 25 kilometres

9. Perumal Peak

Trekking to Perumal Peak (source)

A widely popular trek in Kodaikanal, the trail will take you atop the summit where you can kiss the clouds. It is a day-long trek so start early.

The trail is well-marked and quite easy even for beginners. You will find rich flora and fauna on the trail which starts at the foothill of Perumalmalai village. There are many eateries and stalls here. Popular activities here are mountain biking. Trekkers generally prefer camping overnight at campgrounds.

• Distance from Kodaikanal: 21 kilometres

10. Berijam to Munnar Trek

Munnar trekking (source)

Apart from the scenic Berijam Lake, the area is famous for trekking too. You can choose to do the Berijam to Munnar Trek which takes around three days across 80 kilometres.  The Berijam to Munnar Trek is the most famous winter trek and also the most tiring trek.

There are many lodges and eateries along the way, as the trail is well traversed. It passes through Kilvara, Koviloor, Top Station and all the way to Munnar. Carry woollen clothes and rain gear and strong hiking shoes.

• Distance from Kodaikanal: 100 kilometres

Do undertake a guided trek if you’re unsure of the trail or are trekking for the first time. Many trekkers have sometimes reported having lost their way in the unexplored regions of Kodaikanal mountains. Do you have questions? Write to us in the comment box below.

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Experience The Monsoon In India – A Travel Guide To The South

This monsoon season, don’t just sit back coz of the rains as it is the time when some destinations come to life. Monsoon in India is a whole new world ...

// Dharamshala // Alleppey // Varanasi // Udaipur // Ooty // Kodaikanal // McLeod Ganj // Shillong // Leh and Ladakh // Destinations // Gangtok // Kutch // Puri

There are 12 Best Family Holiday Destinations in India that you must explore

From the majestic Himalayan range in the north to the gleaming Indian Ocean shoreline in the south, and from the Gulf of Kutch in the west to the coastlines of ...

// Destinations // Valley Of Flowers // Kheerganga // Lansdowne // Cherrapunji // Gangtok // Tawang // Leh and Ladakh // Shillong // Kodaikanal // Udaipur

10 Best Places To Visit In July In India To Witness Natural Beauty this Monsoon Season

The best places to visit in July in India may transport you to the highlands, plains encircled by knolls, and exotic countries of blossoming stories. Ladies and gentlemen, and ...

The Ultimate Guide To Places To Visit in Kodaikanal In 2 Days

A world of dreamy hills, enchanting pathways, and unspoilt natural beauty awaits you in Kodaikanal. Branded as ‘Queen of Hill Stations’ in South India, Kodaikanal is the perfect destination ...

// Nandi Hills // Chikmagalur // Lonavala // McLeod Ganj // Kodaikanal

5 hill-stations in India, where you can actually touch the clouds

The horizon is, without a doubt, the greatest of all the world’s wonders. ‘Blurry Blue Skies with Fluffy White Clouds’ is the best of them all! Take a scenic path ...

// Rishikesh // Dharamshala // Chennai // Mahabaleshwar // Mumbai // India Wide // Kodaikanal // Udaipur // Munnar // Weekend Getaways

Complete locations and plans! If you can’t decide where to go for weekends then check out the most intriguing weekend getaways!

The year 2021 has come to an end, and the year 2022 brings excellent news. What’s more exciting than a long weekend. Weekends are the most fun time of the ...

Treebo derives its name from "Bo Tree", the fig tree under which Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment. The fig tree family - banyan, peepal among others - has inspired not just our name but also what we do.

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