Kodaikanal is one of the most popular peaceful hill stations in Tamil Nadu. It is a striking hill resort on the Palani hills in the Dindigul district of TamilNadu. Located 120 Km/75 mile away from Madurai, Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill station at an altitude of about 2133 m on the southern tip of upper Palani hills in Tamil Nadu in the Western Ghats. With her wooded slopes, mighty rocks, enhancing waterfalls and a beautiful lake, Kodaikanal will mesmerize any visitor. Kodaikanal was established in 1845 as a refuge from the high temperatures and tropical diseases of the plains. Much of the local economy is based on the hospitality industry serving tourism. The town of Kodaikanal sits on a plateau above the southern escarpment of the upper Plani Hills at 2,133 metres (7,000 ft), between the Parappar and Gundar Valleys. These hills form the eastward spur of the Western Ghats on the Western side of South India. It has an irregular basin as its heartland, the centre of which is now Kodaikanal Lake.
About Kodaikanal :
Kodaikanal referred to as ‘The Princess of Hill Stations’, is situated amidst the folds of the verdant Palani hills in the Western Ghats at an altitude of about 2133 m. Kodaikanal is one of the most frequented hill resorts in India. With its spectacular rocks, tranquil woods, lovely lake and intoxicating air, Kodaikanal is an ideal hill resort for the tourists from all over.The pride of Kodaikanal is the ‘Kurinji-flower’, which blossoms once in 12 years. The hill-plantain fruits and plums are known for their freshness and taste. Kodaikanal lies pretty in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu. The summer retreat of Kodaikanal literally means ‘gift of the forest’.Kodaikanal is a city in the hills of the taluk division of the Dindigul district in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Kodaikanal is referred to as the “Princess of Hill Stations” and has a long history as a retreat and popular tourist destination.
Places To See In Kodaikanal Tamil Nadu :
- Berijam Lake : Berijam Lake located at a distance of 21 km from Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu is one most beautiful lakes of South India. Spread over an area of 24 ha, the lake is star shaped and is known for its clean and clear water. Berijam Lake supplies drinking water to Periyakulam town. It is a popular picnic spot with a beautiful view.
- Kodaikanal Trekking : Move towards Kodaikanal in the Palani Hills for small-time trekking. You can take short treks and hikes to tourist spots close by as well to local viewpoints. Overnight treks are also possible here where one can spend a night at a local village.
- Dolphin’s Nose : Located about 8 km from the Berijam Lake is the Dolphin’s Nose, a flat projecting rock from where one can take a breathtaking view of the widening gorge below.
- The Perumal Peak : About 11 km from Kodaikanal, the Perumal Peak is a trekker’s delight. Climbers begin their ascent from the Neutral Saddle.
- Kukal Cave : Kukal Cave, 40 km from Kodaikanal, is a favourite camping site for trekkers. Reportedly, descendants of the Paliyans still live here.
- Star Shaped Lake : Star shaped lake is known as the Kodaikanal Lake, this is a man made lake which is probably the most liked attraction in the hill station. Situated right in the center of Kodaikanal hill staion, the lake was converted from a marshy land by former Collector Sir Vere Levinge. This star shaped lake covers an area of nearly 60 acres and provides facilities for boating. You can also take a horse ride by the sides of Kodaikanal Lake which is surrounded by different types of trees.
- Solar Observatory : One of the only three solar observatories in the world, the observatory in Kodaikanal is almost 75 years old. Located at a distance of 3 km from the lake and at an altitude of 2343 m., the observatory is at the highest point of Kodaikanal Hill Station. You can buy tickets for a show that is played in this observatory that will give you a glimpse of our solar system.
- Fairy Falls : Fairy falls have become an inseparable part of people of Kodaikanal as an interesting spot for picnics. It has also become famous among tourists for its crystal clear waters. A swim at the foot at the falls will leave surely leave you refreshed and re-energized.
- Coaker’s Walk : Situated around 1 Km from the lake, the coaker’s walk proves to be an exceptional place to get some of the most fascinating views of the surrounding areas. Named after the Lt. Coaker, it is situated on the southern end of Kodaikanal.
- Kurinji Andavar Temple : Dedicated to Lord Murugan, Kurinji Andavar Temple is situated at a calm and secluded place, some 3 km away from the star shaped lake. The beautiful temple gives you beautiful views of Northern Plains and Palani Hills.
- Flora & Fauna Museum : Kodaikanal located at the Sacred Heart College is a 6km hike from the town centre, is definitely worth a visit. The Orchidarium here has about 300 species of orchids and other exotic plants that are very popular among the travelers visiting the Kodaikanal hill station.
- Astrophysical Observatory : Kodaikanal built in 1889, this laboratory stands on the highest point in the area. The observatory is used mainly for research in meteorology and solar physics. It also houses a small museum.
- Bryant Park : Bryant Park is a botanical park situated on the eastern side of the lake. It was landscaped and stocked by a British officer after whom it was named. Cut flowers are exported from here. In month of May, the annual horticultural show in held here.
- Water Falls : There are numerous waterfalls in the area such as Bear Shola Falls, Silver Cascade, Fairy Falls and Glen Falls, which are popular picnic spots.
- Pillar Rocks : located about 7km from the lake, there are three rocks magnificently jutting into the sky to a height of about 400ft. the views from here are spectacular.
- Kodai Club : Built during the colonial period, the Kodai Club serves to safeguard the colonial legacies within its interiors. There is a library featuring books by different known English authors and a bar with stuffed heads of lions, tigers and bison, clinging on its walls.
- Kodai Lake : This is an artificial lake offering boating and fishing facilities for its visitors.
Adventure in Kodaikanal :
Head for Kodaikanal in the Palani Hills for small-time trekking. You can take short treks and hikes to tourist spots close by as well to local viewpoints. Overnight treks are also possible here where one can spend a night at a local village.
Fairs & Festivals In Kodaikanal :
There are several beautiful hill stations in Tamil Nadu. With the Summer Festivals, the hills are even hospitable to welcome the visitors. The summer festival is held in the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’, the evergreen Ooty; the exquisite Kodaikanal or the salubrious heights of Yercaud. Cultural programs, adventure sports, boat races, flower and fruit shows add to the splendour of the festival.
Shopping :
The famous places to visit in Kodaikanal for shopping are the Khadi Emporium, Handloom Co-operative Stores and Travancore Crafts Work, Government Sales Emporium, Kurinji Mini Supermarket, Spencer and Company.
Entertainment :
The Golf Club is located 5-km from the Kodaikanal Lake. Boating and Angling facilities are available at the Kodaikanal Lake. Picturesque trek routes are available in and around Kodaikanal. For details, contact: The Trek Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Tamil Nadu, Chennai.
Best time to visit Kodaikanal :
The temperature in summer range from a maximum of 20°C to a minimum of 11°C, and in winter from 17°C to 8°C. This hill station has a pleasant climate throughout the year, therefore can be visited at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit is June and September to October.
Travel Information :
Air : The nearest airport is Madurai, 120 km away. It is well connected to other airports.
Train : The nearest railway station is Kodai Railway Station, which is 80 km away.
Road : Kodaikanal is connected by road with important towns. Regular bus services are available from Madurai, Palani, Kodaikanal Road, Theni, Dindigul, Tiruchirapalli, Kumuli (Thekkady) and Coimbatore.
Location: 120 Km From Madurai, Tamil Nadu
District Area : 22 sq. km.
STD Code : 04542
Languages Kodaikanal : Tamil and English.
Area : 84sq.Kms
Significance: Gift of Forest
Altitude: 2,133m above sea level
Climate: Summer 11.3°C to 19.8°C, Winter 8.3°C to 17.3°C.
Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October.