Kodaikanal

The forested slopes of the majestic hills of the Western Ghats vie with the magnificent beaches of the Coromandel Coast, Located 120 kms away from Madurai; Kodaikkanal is a beautiful hill station and is at an altitude of 2133 mtr on the southern tip of the upper Palani hills in the Western ghats. Kodaikkanal has a bracing climate where temperature does not vary much from summer to winter. Fruits like plums and plantains grow abundantly on the wooded slopes apart from a wide variety of flowers, among which is the famous Kurinji flower, which blooms once in twelve years.

Kodai's most enchanting sights include the star shaped lake, spread over an area of 24 hectares where fishing allowed and boating facilities are available; one of the world's oldest Solar Observatories that was built in 1899; and the Orchidorium at the Sacred Heart College where about 300 species of orchids can be seen. There are also a number of picturesque walks like Coaker's Walk and Priest's Walk. Kodai's best viewpoints are Pillar Rocks, and Green Valley View. Bear Shola Falls, Silver Cascade, Fairy Falls and Glen Falls are popular with picnickers while the Perumal Peak is a favourite with trekkers. The Kurinji Andavar temple 3.2 kms away is dedicated to Lord Subramanya.

MUST SEE:
Berijam Lake: Berijam Lake, situated 21 Kms from the township, lies in a beautiful valley, reflecting the glory of the specious in its clean waters. Dolphin's nose (8 Kms), a projecting rock provides a view of the deep chasm below. Then go on get higher upon life. Climb the misty and high Perumal Peak. And you'll be rewarded with one of the most wonderful views in and around Kodaikkanal.

Dolphin's Nose : This is a flat projecting rock from where one can have a look at the breath-taking view of the Yawning Chasm below.It is about 8 Kms from the lake.

The Perumal Peak : It is 2,440 metres high and is about 11.3 Kms from Kodaikanal. This peak offers excellent opportunity for trekking.The climb begins from a point known as Neutral Saddle(Perumal Mallai Village).

Shebaganur Museum : 5.6 Kms away is easily one of the best orchidoriums in the country offering the visitor, more than 300 species of orchids.

Green Valley View : It is about 5.5 Kms from the lake and very near to Golf club. It commands a beautiful view of the entire Vaigai Dam. As the valley is very deep and dangerous, this place was once called as "Suicide Point".

Solar Physical Observatory : It is 3.2 Kms from the lake. Its elevation is 2343 meters. It was founded in 1989 at the top most point in Kodai. Visitors are allowed to closely observe the stars, planetary movements during visiting hours and on prior appointments.

Kurinji Andavar Temple (3.2 Kms) : It is dedicated to Lord Murugan. It offers the worshipper a beautiful view of the northern plains and the Palani hills

NEAR BY DESTINATIONS:
Kukal Cave 40 kms

BEST TIME TO VISIT: April to June and resumes from September to October.

THE WAY TO KODAIKANAL:
By Air: One can reach Kodaikanal either by air from Madurai (20 kms) or Coimbatore (135 kms).

By Rail: The nearest railhead is Kodai Road Railway Station, which is 80 km away.

By Road: Kodaikanal is connected by road with Chennai (520-km), Ooty (264-km), Trichy (197-km), Coimbatore (175-km), Kumili (160-km), and Madurai(120-km). Regular bus services are available from Madurai, Palani, Kodaikanal Road, Theni, Dindigul, Tiruchirapalli, Kumuli (Thekkady) and Coimbatore. Additional buses ply during the season. Taxis and vans are available for local transportation. There are no auto-rickshaws in Kodaikanal.

Route: Chennai-Trichy-Dindigul-Trichy, Distance:502.7 Kms.