Kodaikanal, the Princess of Hill Stations popularly referred to as ‘Kodai’, nestles at an altitude of 2133 meters, on the southern crest of the Palani Hills in the Western Ghats. The road to Kodai winds up through coffee plantations and thick forests giving a perfect introduction to this lovely hill resort. It is the only hill station founded in India by the Americans and is noted for plantains, plums, and eucalyptus oil.
Kodai Lake: The star-shaped deep blue lake sparkles like a jewel in the crown amidst the emerald green wooded slopes. It was created in 1863, by Sir Vere Hentry Levinge (1885), the Collector of Madurai.
Boat Club: T.T.D.C boats, Kodai boats, Carlton boats provide boating facilities here. The annual boat pageant is held in May during the Summer Festival.
Bear Shola Falls: The falls 1.6 kms. from the lake are popular among picnickers.
Bryant Park: The beautiful botanical park lies on the eastern side of the lake, near the Coaker’s Walk. The annual Flower Show is held here during the Summer Festival.
Coaker’s Walk: The scenic hill-edge pathway 1 km. from Kodai Lake. A telescope installed here provides fine views of the surrounding valley.
Kurinji Andavar Temple: The shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan was built in 1936, by a European lady and named after the unique ‘Kurinji” flower. The temple affords a fine view of Palani, the famous pilgrim center, and Vaigai Dam.
Chettiyar Park: The beautiful and well-maintained park lies towards the northeastern side of the town, on the way to Kurinji Andavar temple. The amazing purple bloom of the Kurinji Flowers can be seen here once in every twelve years.
Shenbaganur Museum: The archaeological remains and the flora and fauna of the hills are displayed here. It also has one of the best orchidariums in the country with over 300 species of orchids. There are several stuffed birds and butterflies etc.
Solar Astrophysical Observatory: It was established in 1889, about 3 kms. uphill from Kodai Lake. Visitors can also see a small museum here.
Pillar Rock (7.4 kms.): The excellent viewpoint is one of the most popular attractions of Kodai. 3 granite formations are measuring 400 ft. in height. One can also see over 100 dolmens and other megalithic remains dating back to the 2nd century. A mini garden has been developed here.
Around Kodaikanal
Palani (64 kms.)
This major pilgrim center of the South is one of the six sacred abodes of Lord Subramanya. The road from Kodaikanal to Palani is endowed with breathtaking beauty. The sacred Malaikovil or hill temple dedicated to Lord Murugan or Subramanya is perched atop a 140 m. high hill and can be reached by a flight of 659 steps or an electrically operated winch. It enshrines a unique idol of the presiding deity, known here as Sri Dandayuthapani, as the idol is made of medicinal herbs.
