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Kodaikanal or Kodai is often referred to as the "Princess of Hill stations" and is a popular tourist destination. International Tourism is what that keeps the city going. Established in the mid 19th century, Kodaikanal always served as a scenic and cool hill station to beat the high temperatures of the lowlands.
Being one of the most well known hill stations of India, the sylvan beauty on the upper palani hills lines its south near Madurai in Tamil Nadu. With its rocks, woods, lovely lake and bracing air, Kodaikanal is an ideal hill resort for the tourists.
A special flower plant 'Kurunji'(Strobilanthus Kunthanus) last blosommed four years ago is the special attribute to Kodaikanal. Kodaikanal is one of the most popular scenic hill stations in India, which captures the tourist and is frequented all through the year.Kodai is situated at an altitude of about 2,133-m high and covers an area of 21.45-sq-km.
History of Kodaikanal
With a very quiet and peaceful history, Kodaikanal remains one of those few hill stations that were loved by the British during their reign. Established in the year 1845, Kodaikanal then saw settlement by American Missionaries who later set up schools and educational institutions that are of great repute today.
Special attractions in and around Kodaikanal
- Kodaikanal Lake
- Green Valley View
- Astrophysical Observatory
- Fairy Falls
- Shenbaganur Museum
- Kurinji Andavar Temple
- Pillar Rocks
- Coaker's Walk
Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal
The best time to visit the place is April to June and September to October.
Location
State: Tamil Nadu
District: Dindigul
How to reach Kodaikanal
Nearest airport: The nearest airports are at Madurai, Coimbatore and Trichy.
Directions by road from nearby cities: Kodaikanal is well connected by road to Madurai, Coimbatore and Trichy.
Tourism Department
Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation
Tourism Complex, No.2, Wallajah Road
Chennai - 600002
Tel: 91-44-25367850 Extn.221; 25383333, 25389857, 25360294
Climatic Conditions
The climate of Kodaikanal is unique and pleasant throughout the year.
Clothing
To save yourself from the biting winter cold, it is good to carry heavy woolen clothes; while during summers, light woolen will be manageable.
Tourism attractions near Kodaikanal
- Lake view: At a distance of 3km from the bus stand, the gleaming water of the star-shaped lake is a photographer’s paradise. The beauty of the lake can never be captured on film or words. Boating and sporting is fun at this speculator picnic spot.
- Brynt park: Designed and named after Mr. H.D. Bryant, the park is an exotic collection of variety of flowers, shrubs and herbs. The park extends over an area of 20.5 acres is beautifully maintained drawing large crowds every year.
- Kurinji Andavar temple: The name of the temple symbolizes ‘God of the Hills’ and is dedicated to Lord Murugan. It is at a distance of 3.2 km; the beautiful kurinji flowers add to its special beauty.
- Silver cascade: The romance of the hills is obvious at this junction; mountains cradling pure waters of the falls are an impressive sight. It is 8 km from Kodaikanal.
This article was contributed by Abhay Tandon
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