In the heart of Kodaikanal lies a gem of a place that is a visual masterpiece! The Pillar rocks Kodaikanal! These majestic monoliths stand tall, reaching out for the skies amidst the expansive splendor of the Nilgiri Hills. Located at an elevation of 1,755 meters above sea level, Pillar Rocks is a sight to behold, with its rugged cliffs, lush forests, and awe-inspiring vistas. It’s no wonder this natural beast has earned its reputation as one of Kodaikanal’s most cherished spots!
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Pillar Rocks Kodaikanal History
Esteemed as one of the best places to visit, Pillar Rocks Kodaikanal has an exciting story behind it. One of them is the fact that the Pillar Rocks were formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity. It is also known to have been home to the celestial beings. The most known and popular story which puts this spot in the limelight is about a cross that extended up to 30 feet which symbolized the love shared by the british couple Irine Gelli and David Gelli. The cross ceased to exist when Irvine slipped into the depths of pillar rocks and died. David tried his best to replace the cross with a wooden one which also fell after many years.
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How To Reach
By Railway: The nearest railway station to Pillar Rocks is Kodaikanal Road Railway Station, located approximately 80 kilometers away. From there, you could hire a taxi or take a neighborhood bus to reach.
By Flight: The nearest airport to Pillar Rocks is Madurai Airport, situated approximately 120 kilometers away. From the airport, you can rent a taxi or take a bus to Kodaikanal, where you can make your way to Pillar Rocks.
By Car: You can reach Pillar Rocks by using the scenic highways that wind their way through the Nilgiri Hills. The adventure from Bangalore to Kodaikanal takes approximately 8-9 hours
From Kodaikanal Bus Station: Many state buses are available at regular intervals from the Kodaikanal Bus Station. The distance to Pillar Rocks is 11 km. The bus will take you through the observatory Pillar Rocks road to reach the destination.
Timings & Entry Fee
Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 5
Things To Do At Pillar Rocks
We are here to unwrap a few details and give you a detailed guide of the Pillar Rocks, from the ‘Kurinji’ flowers that envelop the areas of these rocks giving it a unique pop of color to the vast history, we are here to display the hidden treasures that lie around so you have a smooth sailing when you plan your visit.
1. Picnic At Pillar Rocks
Looking for a slice of solitude under the Pillar rocks Kodaikanal? This spot allows you to have a comfortable picnic surrounded by the steep boulders that loom skyhigh. This place also known as Pillayar is an ode to Lord Ganesh, explore the play of fog and mist and make your way through the crevices to view the ‘Devil’s Kitchen’. You can take a walk around the textured walls of the pillars to reach a clearing that is carpeted by the ‘Kurinji flowers’, these flowers bloom every 12 years. You can even walk further to explore the nooks and crannies of these pillars as there is a lot that people don’t see from the regular view point.
2. Sunset Spectacle At Pillar Rocks
The main Pillar Rocks Viewpoint is equipped with binoculars and telescopes and distinguished information of the majestic rock formations and the lush landscapes. With the arrival of the evening hues, you can see the rugged cliffs transform and blend with the incoming contrast. You can use the telescopes to observe the retraction of light during the sunset time along with the floating mist that grazes the boulders delicately.
3. Trekking Adventures At Pillar Rocks
It’s tough not wanting to explore the rugged terrain of Pillar Rocks, the hiking trails provide an exciting adventure through the 400-feet granite rock formations and misty forests. This place is a gateway to many treks and offers well defined trails for a comfortable experience along with being a hub for birding as it provides the clear view to spot them casually soaring through the clouds.
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4. Exploring Guna Caves
Want to explore the best of South India? Guna Caves, additionally known as Devil’s Kitchen is located near the Pillar rocks Kodaikanal in Kodaikanal, these caves are carved by using the forces of nature over thousands and thousands of years, Guna Caves provide a labyrinth of passages and chambers waiting to be explored. As you go deeper into the darkness, be prepared to be amazed by the tricky stalactites and stalagmites that enhance the cavern partitions, giving rise to an otherworldly atmosphere that feels instantly out of a novel.
But Guna Caves are more than just a geological surprise – they’re steeped in history and folklore. This area is situated among 3 naturally arranged imposing boulders. According to local legend, those caves served as a shelter for the Pandavas during their exile, earning them the nickname “Devil’s Kitchen”, as the fog passes the cave, rises and springs out of the chimney-like opening, it appears as though a devil is cooking.
Final Thoughts
From the intriguing history of volcanic formations to the mythical memories of celestial beings, Pillar rocks Kodaikanal are an adventurous soul’s dream come true. As you plan your visit, make sure to indulge in the steep boulders, the wooded forests around that open up major trekking trails and recall the glory of the child within you. Don’t forget to climb up to the view point and observe the details of the crevices through the dedicated telescope.
FAQs
Be certain to carry necessities like water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, strong hiking shoes, and a digicam. If you take medication, make sure to carry it with you.
While there is no particular age limit, it’s important to not forget the difficulty levels of the treks before allowing kids to do it. Assessing their health and physical wellbeing must be at the utmost priority.
Pillar Rocks is believed to have been formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions. Legends also speak of a tragic love story of a British couple, Irvine and David Gelli, with a towering pass symbolizing their love that ended with Irvine’s untimely death.
Pillar Rocks Kodaikanal height stands tall at an elevation of 755 meters above sea level, the granite boulders almost reach for the sky and give trekkers looking for a thrilling experience, a sigh of relief.
