Every visitor to Kodaikanal stops by the lake at the heart of the town. But tucked away in the forest is another lake—quiet, restricted, and far less visited. This is Berijam Lake, located about 20 km from Kodaikanal.
My Previous Visit to Berijam Lake
I first visited Berijam Lake about 16 years ago, during the trek from Kodaikanal to Munnar. The trek began at Berijam, and we spent a night in that serene and beautiful place. Back then, Berijam Lake was completely off-limits to regular tourists. The trek was organized by a Trekking Club. Today, neither does the club exist (it was shut down after a tragic incident), nor are permissions granted for the Kodaikanal–Munnar trek. However, access to Berijam Lake itself has become easier.
How to Visit Berijam Lake
You’ll need a permit from the DFO (District Forest Office) in Kodaikanal. Only 30–35 vehicles are allowed per day, and permits are issued around 8:30 AM. The fee per vehicle is ₹300. As a tourist, you have a few options:
- Drive Your Own Vehicle – You’ll have to get the permit yourself, which means standing in line well before the office opens. Knowing India, this isn’t a pleasant experience—especially during peak season. (Read about my avalanche experience!) Also, during holidays, non-Tamil Nadu vehicles may not even be granted permission!
- Hire a Vehicle with a Driver – The most hassle-free option. Any local travel agency can arrange this, usually bundled as a “Forest Tour.” If you’re on a tight budget, tourist buses are also available and more affordable. The rates are standard across Kodaikanal.
- Forest Department Bus – The forest department runs its own bus service from the Moir Point check-post to Berijam Lake. Tickets can be purchased at the check-post, though exact details vary.
We chose to hire a car with a driver, who took care of all the permissions.
Our Experience
The route from Kodaikanal to Moir Point is dotted with tourist spots. Traffic was already building up, but our driver assured us it was lighter than usual since we started early!
At Moir Point, we stopped briefly at the check-post while our driver handled the formalities. We quickly rushed to see the views. It is also the last place where there is a washroom and also we can get food items.
Beyond the check-post, we entered another world. The usual tourist rush disappeared, and our car glided through a quiet forest road.
There are several viewpoints along the way where we stopped:
- Silent Valley View
- Berijam Lake View
- Cap’s Fly Valley
- Herbal Forest View
About 14 km from the check-post lies Berijam Lake. Apart from a few forest department buildings, there’s no sign of human presence. Tourist access is limited to certain areas, and boating is not allowed.
We had the lake entirely to ourselves. It was blissfully silent, and we soaked in the tranquility. While I focused on the lake’s beauty, my daughter was fascinated by the variety of arthropods scurrying around.
Information & Tips
- The trip starts around 9:30 AM from Kodaikanal and you’ll return by 3:00 PM.
- No food or water is available after the check-post. Pack accordingly.
- Berijam Lake is closed on Tuesdays.
- Unlike the main Kodaikanal town, Berijam Lake is still clean and untouched. Let’s hope it stays that way.
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