Kodaikanal's charm isn’t limited to its misty mountains and serene lakes—it also comes alive in its bustling markets and vibrant street food lanes. From homemade chocolates to steaming South Indian snacks, every corner has something delightful to offer. Here are the top places to experience Kodaikanal’s local flavors and shopping vibes.
1. Anna Salai Market
Why visit: This is the heart of Kodaikanal’s local life, where you’ll find everything from vegetables and spices to woollens and souvenirs.
Highlights: – Local produce like carrots and avocados – Essential oils – Handmade scarves and hats
Timing: 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM
Entry: Free
2. Kodai Daily Bazaar
Why visit: A compact market filled with authentic local shops offering fresh items and street snacks all day long.
Highlights: – Fresh greens and flowers – Hot vadas and samosas – Traditional snacks wrapped in paper cones
Timing: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
3. PT Road Street Food Lane
Why visit: One of the best stretches to enjoy roadside delicacies while walking near the lake and browsing souvenir stalls.
Highlights: – Spicy corn on the cob – Masala peanuts – Piping hot bhajjis and pakoras
Timing: 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Entry: Snacks from ₹20
4. Moonjikkal Market Area
Why visit: A lesser-known market loved by locals, perfect for grabbing farm-fresh produce and trying low-key eats.
Highlights: – Organic vegetables – Homemade pickles – Street-style lemon rice
Timing: 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
5. Potluck Street Cart (near Coaker’s Walk)
Why visit: This tiny food cart offers surprisingly bold flavors and is often surrounded by hungry visitors taking a break from sightseeing.
Highlights: – Veg momos – Mini burgers – Schezwan fried rice bowls
Timing: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Most items under ₹100
6. Chocolate Lane (near Seven Roads Junction)
Why visit: Ideal for chocolate lovers, this cluster of shops and stalls showcases Kodaikanal’s famous homemade treats.
Highlights: – Fudge bars – Chili chocolate – Almond and fruit blends
Timing: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Packets from ₹50 to ₹200
7. Bryant Park Perimeter Stalls
Why visit: These temporary stalls pop up seasonally around the park, offering snacks and fun souvenirs.
Highlights: – Cotton candy – Bhel puri – Fruit salad with masala
Timing: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry: Free entry; snacks from ₹30
8. Tibetan Market (near the Lake)
Why visit: A great place for quirky winter wear and unique Himalayan-inspired bites from Tibetan vendors.
Highlights: – Handwoven shawls – Thukpa and momos – Purses and woolen caps
Timing: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
9. 10 Mile Road Fruit Sellers
Why visit: This stretch has small fruit stalls where you can taste local produce and homemade preserves straight from nearby farms.
Highlights: – Avocados – Hill bananas – Bottled fruit jams
Timing: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Items priced by weight
10. Upper Lake View Street Corners
Why visit: With a stunning view of the lake and delicious aromas in the air, this is the perfect spot to grab something warm and spicy.
Highlights: – Roasted peanuts – Hot tea with ginger – Chilli bajjis
Timing: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Snacks start from ₹15
Feature Image:- Photo by Abhishek Prasad on Unsplash
