One of the top hill stations of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal has many well-known attractions. Yet, in spite of its popularity, it remains a serene island and retains the simple charm of a century ago. Part 10 of an Outlook special series on tourist spots of Tamil Nadu.
Dense woods, undulating hills, meandering rivers, cascading waterfalls, and verdant valleys – Kodaikanal’s scenic beauty is past compare. At an elevation of 7000 feet, Kodaikanal has charms to mesmerise any traveller. No wonder its name translates to ‘Gift of the Forest’.
Nature, calling
Kodai developed into a hill station when the British missionaries started retreating here in the summers. Today, the 'Princess of Hills' is a preferred destination not only for weekend tourists from the southern part of the country but for travellers from all across India.
Kodaikanal is perfect for both visitors who are content to watch in admiring silence the play of white clouds on the mountains and those who have more active holiday interests.
The Kodai checklist
Berijam Lake, with its calm, azure waters, acts like a magnet for all who come here. Fringed by forests, Berijam Lake can be visited with a permit from the forest department.
Kodai Lake, a star-shaped artificial water body, was constructed in 1863 by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the then-collector of Madurai who moved to Kodaikanal after retirement and decided to build this lake on an abandoned marshy land.
A holiday in Kodaikanal is incomplete without a visit to Coaker's Walk. This man-made walking plaza was built by Lt. Coaker in 1872.
The famous Pine Forest of Kodaikanal was cultivated by Mr Bryant about a century ago and today, it happens to be one of the most visited places.
Bryant Park, on the eastern side of Kodai Lake and also named after Mr Bryant, is rich with various species of plants and shrubs. The park educates and trains students of Ornamental Horticulture as it is a recognised demonstration centre.
For plant lovers the Government Rose Garden is another must-visit. With over 1600 varieties of rose here, it is a stunning spot.
Poombarai, a village 50 minutes away from Kodai Lake, is a picturesque spot with sweeping valley views, terraced cultivations and a historic temple that puts it firmly on any tourist’s radar. Tiny cafes, tea stalls and old houses with tiled roofs add to its charm.
Guna Cave, one of the area's most mysterious locations, was made popular by the Tamil movie Guna. An intriguing place that cannot be entered, it allows hikes around its misty and rugged environments.
Adventure lovers can have a great time trekking to places like Pillar Rocks, Dolphin Rocks or even further to Kumabkarai.
Vattakanal Falls, three kilometres from Kodaikanal town, is famous for its rich biodiversity. The cold-water pool formed by the waterfall is a lovely spot.
Another beautiful waterfall in the area is the Silver Cascade Falls. Its water is believed to be rich in various minerals and to have healing properties.
About four kilometres from Kodaikanal Bus Station, is the 'Grand Cascade' or Pambar Falls. This can be reached through a steep, slippery path behind Pambar house.
Visitors with a spiritual bent can visit the Kurinji Andavar Temple and offer prayers there.
The visitors’ calendar
Kodai is a hill station and as such, it is cool and pleasant throughout the year. The best time to visit would still be the summer months from March to early June. Monsoons and winters are both moderate here, making visits during those seasons also favourable.
Getting there
By Air : The nearest airport is Madurai Airport at an approximate distance of 130 km.
By Train : The nearest station is Kodai Railway Station situated at an approximate distance of 80 km.
By Road : Kodaikanal is well-linked to several other major cities and traveling to Kodaikanal via road can be a fun experience.
Accommodation:
Hotel Tamil Nadu
Fern Hill Road, Kodaikanal
Tamil Nadu 624101
