boathouse kodaikanal
Boating on Kodaikanal Lake is managed across multiple government and club boat stations located along the star-shaped lake’s perimeter. Here are the key details and FAQs regarding boating services in Kodaikanal.
Key Boating Locations
TTDC Boat House-I is operated by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation and provides rowboats, pedal boats, and specialty watercraft for visitors.
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Daily)
- Boat Types Available: 2-seater pedal boats, 4-seater pedal boats, rowboats, and water cycle boats.
TTDC Boat House – 2 offers additional boarding docks along Lake Road to help reduce queue times during peak tourist seasons.
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Daily)
- Boat Types Available: 2-seater & 4-seater pedal boats, 6-seater rowboats, and 6-seater pedal boats.
Kodaikanal Boat And Rowing Club is one of the oldest boating organizations on the lake, offering pedal boats, rowboats, and boatman-driven Kashmiri Shikara rides.
- Boat Types Available: 2-seater/4-seater pedal boats, rowboats with boatmen, and Kashmiri Shikara rides.
Kodaikanal municipality boathouse is managed by the local municipal body, offering general public boating facilities right along Lake Road.
- Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Daily)
Boat House (Kodaikanal Municipality) provides additional rowboat and pedal boat rental services along the eastern curve of the lake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the operating timings for boating at Kodaikanal Lake?
Boating counters generally operate between 8:30 AM / 9:00 AM and 5:30 PM every day.
2. What are the approximate ticket prices and options?
Prices vary slightly depending on whether you book via TTDC or private/municipal counters:
- 2-Seater Pedal Boat: ~₹200 – ₹400 for 30 minutes (includes refundable deposit where applicable).
- 4-Seater Pedal Boat: ~₹300 – ₹600 for 30 minutes.
- Row Boats (4 to 6-seater): ~₹245 – ₹500 for 20 minutes (with boatman).
- Kashmiri Shikara Ride: ~₹415 – ₹500 for 20–30 minutes.
3. Are life jackets mandatory?
Yes, wearing safety life jackets provided at the boarding counter is strictly enforced for all passengers before entering any boat.
4. What is the best time of day to go boating?
Early morning (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM) is ideal to avoid long queues, experience calm waters, and enjoy clear, misty lake scenery.
5. Are there other activities around the boathouse?
Yes, the 5 km road surrounding the lake offers bicycle rentals, tandem bikes, horse riding, and local street market stalls.
Would you like details on nearby accommodation, dining options around Lake Road, or driving directions to the boat house?