Varanasi to Kodaikanal — Distance, Route & Travel Guide

Uttar Pradesh to Tamil Nadu · Compare flights, trains, buses & driving options

Varanasi
Uttar Pradesh
Kodaikanal
Tamil Nadu
1,775 km
aerial distance (straight line)
1,103 miles · Road distance: ~2,396 km
How to get from Varanasi to Kodaikanal
By Flight
No direct flights
Nearest to Kodaikanal: Madurai (IXM)
🚆
By Train
~43.6 hrs
2,396 km · Multiple daily trains
View Trains
🚗
By Car
~47.9 hrs
2,396 km via highway
Quick facts
Aerial distance
1,775 km (1,103 mi)
Road distance
~2,396 km
Fastest mode
Train (~43.6 hrs)
Cheapest mode
Train
📍 Varanasi to Kodaikanal distance overview

The straight-line (aerial) distance from Varanasi to Kodaikanal is approximately 1,775 km (1,103 miles). By road, the distance increases to approximately 2,396 km due to the terrain, highways, and road networks connecting Uttar Pradesh to Tamil Nadu.

1,775 kmAerial distance
~2,396 kmBy road
~43.6 hrsFastest route
✈️ Reaching Kodaikanal by air
No direct airport

Kodaikanal does not have its own commercial airport. The nearest airport is Madurai (IXM). Travellers typically fly to the nearest airport and then continue their journey by road or rail.

Search Flights to Nearest Airport
🚆 By train — Varanasi to Kodaikanal
~43.6 hours ~2,396 km Multiple daily trains

Indian Railways connects Varanasi and Kodaikanal with multiple daily services. The journey takes around 43.6 hours — Rajdhani and Shatabdi express trains are faster, while mail and passenger trains make more stops.

AC First Class (1A)Premium, 2-berth cabins
AC 2-Tier (2A)Curtained berths, comfortable
AC 3-Tier (3A)Popular, good value
Sleeper Class (SL)Budget, non-AC

Book in advance through IRCTC, especially during festivals and holidays when seats fill up quickly.

Check Trains on IRCTC
🚗 By car — Varanasi to Kodaikanal
~47.9 hours ~2,396 km

A road trip from Varanasi to Kodaikanal covers approximately 2,396 km and takes around 47.9 hours. Actual time depends on traffic, road quality, and stops along the way.

Start early to avoid city traffic and use daylight hours, especially on mountainous or rural terrain. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry sufficient fuel for remote stretches.

💡 Travel tips for Varanasi to Kodaikanal
📅
Book early
Book flights and trains 2-3 weeks in advance during peak season (Oct-Mar) for better prices and availability.
🌧️
Check weather
Avoid monsoon (Jun-Sep) for road trips. Road conditions can deteriorate and flights may face delays.
💳
Carry valid ID
Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID is required for train travel and recommended for bus journeys.
💤
Plan rest stops
For drives over 8 hours, plan overnight halts. Fatigue driving is dangerous on Indian highways.
Where to stay in Kodaikanal
Budget to luxury hotels from ₹999/night. Compare prices on FareEagle.
View Kodaikanal Hotels
🔗 Useful travel resources

For official travel information, regulations, and booking services:

IRCTC — Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation — Book train tickets online

Airports Authority of India — Airport information and flight status

DGCA — Directorate General of Civil Aviation — Indian aviation regulator

Incredible India — Official tourism portal of India

Frequently asked questions
What is the distance from Varanasi to Kodaikanal?
The aerial (straight-line) distance from Varanasi to Kodaikanal is approximately 1,775 km (1,103 miles). The road distance is approximately 2,396 km, which takes about 47.9 hours by car.
What is the fastest way to travel from Varanasi to Kodaikanal?
The fastest option is by train, taking approximately 43.6 hours. Kodaikanal does not have a major airport, so flying requires reaching the nearest airport at Madurai (IXM).
What is the best time to travel from Varanasi to Kodaikanal?
The best time to travel depends on the weather at your destination. Generally, October to March offers the most pleasant weather across most of India. Avoid monsoon season (June-September) if travelling by road, as heavy rains can cause delays and road closures. For hill stations, summer (April-June) is peak season.
How long does the train take from Varanasi to Kodaikanal?
The train journey from Varanasi to Kodaikanal takes approximately 43.6 hours. Express trains like Rajdhani and Shatabdi are faster, while mail/passenger trains take longer with more stops. Check train schedules and availability on IRCTC.
Can I book Varanasi to Kodaikanal travel on FareEagle?
Yes! FareEagle lets you compare and book and hotels for the Varanasi to Kodaikanal route. Compare prices across operators, get instant confirmation, and enjoy transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
Routes from Varanasi