KODAIKANAL

Kodaikanal, situated in the state of Tamil Nadu, among the Palani Hills - the Western Ghats. Also shortly known as Kodai. Kodaikanal is one of the great tourism destinations of southern India. With its intoxicating air, breathtaking scenery and serenity that you can hardly find in any other hill station, Kodaikanal is an ideal summer resort for the travel buffs of the southern plains. The local museums here will give you a good idea about the place’s past and its relevance in the present. The relics and artifacts of the Paliyans who lived in these Palani hills are carefully preserved in these museums. The abundant pear orchards in their blooming season leave scant room for leaves on the trees, making it a wonderful site to see.

Places to visit in Kodaikanal

The Lake

The star-shaped lake of Kodaikanal is one of the major attractions of this hill station. Situated at the heart of the main town area, it is also a favorite evening spot for the locals as well. Here you can also try out some boating courtesy the Boat Club that is located here. Moreover, small horse rides can also make a good pastime in the early evenings.

Flora & Fauna Museum

Located at the Sacred Heart College is a 6km hike from the town centre, but definitely worth a visit. The Orchidarium here has about 300 species of orchids and other exotic plants.

Kurinji Andavar Temple

 Temple located 3km northeast of the Lake and is dedicated to Lord Muruga.

Solar observatory

Situated at a distance of 3.2 kilometers from the Kodaikanal lake, it is one of the only three solar observatories in the world that is more than 75 years old. Built at an elevation of 2343 meters, the Solar Observatory was built at the highest point of the town. You can have a look into the solar system by booking your tickets for the scheduled shows.

Bryant Park

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.

Coaker walk

Ideal place for picturesque walk. Situated at a distance of about 1 km from the Kodai lake is the Coaker Walk. It has been named after St. Coaker of the Royal Engineers. The walk offers you a fantastic view of the plains and the distant hills.

Perumal Peak

A good adventurous Trekking point in Kodaikanal. Situated at an altitude of 2,440 meters it lies at a distance of about 11.3 kilometers from the Kodaikanal town area. The peak offers excellent opportunity for trekking for the adventurous tourists.

Viewpoint

Kodaikanal has some of the best view points from where you can have a thrilling view of the entire Kodai valley. The hill station’s best view points are Pillar Rocks, Green Valley View point and the Dolphin’s Nose. You must not miss a visit to these places as they are known for their natural marvel and beauty. You could also find some of the locally made products here to take along as the memorabilia of your visit.