Pillar Rocks, Kodaikanal: How To Reach, Best Time & Tips

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Pillar Rocks Overview

Pillar Rocks, in the small town of Kodaikanal, is not only a stunning tourist attraction but also a place with a fascinating history. The place is known for its scenic beauty and serenity, which people seek out for a rejuvenating holiday. While there are many interesting places to see when you are in Kodaikanal, there are none quite like the Pillar Rocks. These consist of three giant rock formations that stand tall at a height of 400 feet from the ground. Towering over the plains of Kodaikanal, they offer a breathtaking view of the surrounding natural beauty from its many vantage points.

The Pillar Rocks are sought out by rock climbers, trekkers, hikers, mountain climbers and even families and friends who are in for an adventure-filled time in Kodaikanal. These rocks rise vertically upward from the ground and have remained untouched by the human hand which makes it even more interesting. There are several hidden nooks and crannies in the rocks that are worth exploring, with each offering a unique view of the surrounding landscape.

There are also other natural attractions in the nearby areas such as the Devil’s Kitchen, which is the crags in between the rocks, as well as a scenic mini-garden, which itself is also an attractive viewpoint. You can also find food stalls selling local delicacies near the garden. All in all, the Pillar Rocks is the perfect place for a serene picnic or an adventure-filled weekend with your loved ones, when you are in Kodaikanal.

How To Reach

Public transport in Kodaikanal is very sparse. The easiest and most convenient way to travel within Kodaikanal is by hiring a private car or a taxi for a day tour. You can even book a taxi for half a day if you can manage to finish your tour of the Pillar Rocks by the first half of the morning.

You can find cars and taxis for hire at the Kodaikanal Bus Stand. There are daily tours that are organized from the bus stand and you can take your pick from the packages available- which will obviously include a trip to the Pillar Rocks.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit the Pillar Rocks is in summer, which is between the months of April and June. The weather doesn’t get too overwhelming in summer, with temperatures varying between 20 degrees Celsius and 36 degrees Celsius. Early mornings are relatively cool and perfect for adventure activities such as trekking, hiking and sightseeing from the summit.

It is advisable that you don’t visit the Pillar Rocks during monsoon because the slopes and the ground can get very slippery. The sharp edges and the deep gorges on the face of the rocks can make it dangerous to go sightseeing at the summit during this time.

Even though winters are also pleasant in Kodaikanal, there is no point going to the Pillar Rocks during wintertime because of the mist and fog, which will take away the real beauty of the Pillar Rocks- its sites and surroundings.

Other Essential Information

- Location: Pillar Rocks Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu 624101

- Timings: Monday to Sunday (9:00 am – 4:30 pm)

- Entry fees: Free entry

- Visitor’s Facilities: Washroom facilities, photography allowed, food stalls, day tour packages, locker and storage facilities

- Parking Facilities: There is a dedicated parking area right beside the summit of Pillar Rocks. Since there is no alternative way to travel to the Pillar Rocks without a hired car, this parking area is convenient and easily accessible from all the main viewpoints at Pillar Rock.

- Distance from Kodaikanal Bus Stand: Pillar Rocks is located at a distance of about 7km from the Kodaikanal Bus Stand.

- Pillar Rocks and David Gelli’s Tribute to Love: The Pillar Rocks have David Gelli’s Tribute to Love attached to its history forever. It is believed that David Gelli- an Englishman- came to Kodaikanal and fell so deeply in love with the place that he brought his new wife, Irene Gelli to the town for their honeymoon. They even travelled to the summit to take some photographs, but by bad luck, Irene slipped into the deep gorge between the pillars and died. David returned to the place after many days to set up a white, wooden cross in her memory and returned again after three days. He was never seen after that and it is believed that he too, jumped to his death to be reunited with his wife.

The white cross set up by Davis Gelli was a point of attraction on Pillar Rocks for many years. Its upkeep was first taken on by some students and after that by the state government. However, due to lack of maintenance, the cross now has ceased to exist. It still remains one of the main talking points of Pillar Rocks, with visitors searching for the white cross even today when they visit.

- Wooden White Cross at Pillar Rocks: The Wooden White Cross was set up by David Gelli as a tribute to his dead wife, who fell from the summit of Pillar Rocks and lost her life during their honeymoon to Kodaikanal. It is one of the most haunting images associated with Pillar Rocks and is a much sought-after topic of conversation amongst locals and visitors.

It is believed that after setting up the cross, David Gelli also jumped to his death from the top of Pillar Rocks to be with his wife. However, there is no proof of that since he was never seen again after that. The wooden cross that the Gellis’ left behind was an interesting point of attraction for many years, until one side of it was destroyed by extensive rain. A few students who came to visit the place took upon themselves to maintain the upkeep of the cross.

However, after they stopped regularly maintaining the cross, the State government intervened and took over the responsibility of maintaining the cross. In fact, it has been repaired and rebuilt several times, but always seemed prone to damage or destruction. The cross no longer exists, but its memory lingers in everyone’s mind as they visit the haunted summit of Pillar Rocks.

- Picnic Spot and Mini Garden at Pillar Rocks: Apart from the rocks itself and their impressive summit, there are many unique and attractive picnic spots around the actual rocks which you can enjoy when you are travelling with your friends and family. You can find quiet and serene spots in the shadows of the Pillar Rocks, near its base, from where you can still get a panoramic view of the surrounding areas.

The garden near Pillar Rocks is also one of the most attractive features about the place because of the many flowers, plants and shrubs that grow there. You can also get a stunning view of the actual Rocks from a slight distance, which introduces you to its complete grandeur and majesty. A picnic there is a perfect idea because of the food stalls that flank the gates of the garden.

Highlights and Scenic View from Pillar Rocks

A lot of people who travel to Pillar Rocks for the first time wonder if it is a man-made attraction. However, the Pillar Rocks have existed long before humans started to populate Kodaikanal, and is one of the many examples of the wonders of nature. These steep, vertically rising, parallel rocks stand at a height of 400 feet from the ground and offer visitors some of the most stunning views of the surrounding area.

It is a pleasant climb to the top if you are planning to hike or trek, and you can find several small caves, gorges, platforms and viewpoints when you are there. It is the perfect place for taking photos and holding a picnic, with panoramic views of the mountain ranges of the Western Ghats, white clouds, lush green valleys and dense forests to keep you company. If you want a view of the Pillar Rocks themselves, then you can also check out the mini garden located at the base of the Pillar Rocks a short distance away. You can sit amidst fresh flowers throughout the year and watch the majestic Pillar Rocks looming above you.

History of Pillar Rocks

The strange structure, the sharp edges and careful positions of the Pillar Rocks in Kodaikanal make it look as though it were man-made. In fact, several people who visit the place first believe these are some impressive man-made structures. However, these Pillar Rocks have existed for several centuries, and no one is really sure how long ago these were formed. Despite its elusive early life, the Pillar Rocks have a number of local legends attached to it, which makes a visit to these rocks incredible exciting, irrespective of the view it offers.

The name of the Pillar Rocks is now forever attached to the name of David Gelli, an Englishman, who fell in love with the beauty of Kodaikanal. After his wedding to Irene Gelli, he travelled to Kodaikanal for his honeymoon where the couple visited the Pillar Rocks. However, Irene died in a tragic accident by falling from the summit and died. It is believed that David Gelli set up a striking white cross on the top of the rocks and many believe he jumped into the caverns after his wife since he was never seen again. Even though the cross has been destroyed by nature, many still search for this haunting symbol of love when they reach the top of the Pillar Rocks.

Places to Stay Near Pillar Rocks

Kodaikanal is a popular tourist destination and it has led to a number of hotels and resorts springing up in the area to accommodate the influx of tourists. Here are a few convenient places for you to stay in if you are planning to visit Pillar Rocks.

1. Villa Retreat- This small cottage hotel is one of the most sought-after hotels in Kodaikanal because of the stunning view it offers from its property. It is located at a height, which gives it the advantage of being a viewpoint as well. With warm hospitality and delicious local food being prepared in the hotel itself, this is one of the best places to stay in Kodaikanal.

2. Kodai Resort- Kodai Resort is located just 4.4km from Pillar Rocks. It is sought out for its comfortable rooms, convenient location, hospitable staff and incredible home-cooked meals that are served as breakfast, lunch and dinner. The rooms are furnished with all the amenities you might need to make your stay comfortable.

3. The Carlton- The Carlton is an impressive luxury resort in Kodaikanal, where you can choose private rooms with private balconies from where you can enjoy an unparalleled view of the surrounding countryside. They have a private garden of their own and luxury services such as free WiFI, an in-house restaurant, AC rooms and much more.

Places to Eat Near Pillar Rocks

If you are in the mood for an impromptu picnic but have not been able to pack your food from beforehand, there is no need to worry. Pillar Rocks is surrounded by restaurants, food stalls and eateries that serve local delicacies as well as many other cuisines to keep you satiated. Here are some of the nearest places to eat in Pillar Rocks.

1. Cloud Street- Cloud Street us a friendly café that offers a range of Asian, European, Continental, Italian and Vegan options. When you are there, you must try their lasagna and pizza, all of which can be enjoyed in a casual dining setting with a great view.

2. Café Cariappa- Café Cariappa is an organic café that has a number of snacky delicacies, along with steaming cups of traditional South Indian coffee. The café also has provision for outdoor seating, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Kodaikanal landscape.

3. Tava- If you are looking for a more wholesome meal, you can check out Tava, which serves up a range of delicious South Indian, North Indian and Asian food, at extremely pocket-friendly prices. The place resembles a roadside Dhaba, and the food is homely and freshly prepared.

Tips Before Visiting Pillar Rocks

Here are a few handy tips that can make your trip to Pillar Rocks even more rewarding:

1. If you are travelling with kids, make sure that you keep them close by and safe at all times because of the edges of the rocks.

2. The place is ideal for a picnic, so if you are planning to travel in large groups, you can pack for a picnic- with food and mats and water.

3. When you are in the area, don’t just see Pillar Rocks. There are several other nearby attractions such as the Devil’s Kitchen or Guna Caves, the pine forest and much more.

4. No matter what time of the year you are travelling, wear shoes that give you a good grip on the rock face.

5. Comfortable clothes in which you can hike and climb is also essential if you want your trip to be hassle-free.