KODAIKANAL, TAMIL NADU – THE PRINCESS OF HILL STATIONS

Kodaikanal is a hill station located in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is situated in the Palani Hills in the Western Ghats and is known for its scenic beauty, mild climate, and lush greenery. The town is often referred to as the “Princess of Hill Stations” due to its charming atmosphere and natural beauty.

Kodaikanal was established as a hill station by the British in the mid-19th century, and it has since become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over India and beyond. The town is situated at an altitude of 2,133 meters (6,998 feet) above sea level and is known for its cool and pleasant climate, which makes it an ideal summer retreat.
Kodaikanal offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy, including scenic walks, trekking, boating, and sightseeing. The town is surrounded by thick forests, cascading waterfalls, and rolling hills, and there are several viewpoints from which visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Kodaikanal include the Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park, Pillar Rocks, and the Berijam Lake. The town is also known for its homemade chocolates, eucalyptus oil, and herbal teas, which are popular souvenirs for visitors to take home.

Interesting Facts
Here are some interesting facts about Kodaikanal:
- Kodaikanal was established by the British in the mid-19th century as a summer retreat for the British officers and missionaries in India.
- The name “Kodaikanal” comes from the Tamil words “kodai” which means “gift” and “kanal” which means “forest”.
- Kodaikanal is home to the Kurinji flower, which blooms once in 12 years. The last time the flowers bloomed was in 2018, and the next bloom is expected in 2030.
- Kodaikanal Lake, which is a popular tourist attraction, was created by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the then Collector of Madurai, in 1863.
- Kodaikanal is home to several endangered and endemic species of flora and fauna, including the Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered species of mountain goat.
- The town is known for its homemade chocolates, which are made using locally sourced ingredients such as nuts, spices, and fruits.
- Kodaikanal is also known for its production of eucalyptus oil, which is extracted from the leaves of the eucalyptus trees that grow in the region.
- The highest peak in Kodaikanal is the Kodaikanal Peak, which stands at an elevation of 2,133 meters (6,998 feet) above sea level.
- The climate in Kodaikanal is mild and pleasant throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.
- Kodaikanal has been featured in several Indian movies, including the popular Bollywood movie “Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein”.

What makes it a Popular Tourist Destination
Kodaikanal is a popular tourist destination for several reasons. Here are a few factors that contribute to its popularity:
- Scenic Beauty: Kodaikanal is known for its picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, lush greenery, and waterfalls, which make it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
- Mild Climate: Kodaikanal’s mild and pleasant climate throughout the year makes it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the heat and humidity of the plains.
- Accessibility: Kodaikanal is well-connected by road and rail, making it easily accessible from major cities such as Chennai, Bangalore, and Coimbatore.
- Range of Activities: Kodaikanal offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including trekking, boating, cycling, camping, and sightseeing.
- Tourist Attractions: Kodaikanal has several tourist attractions such as Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park, Pillar Rocks, and the Berijam Lake that are popular among visitors.
- Cultural Diversity: Kodaikanal is home to a diverse population of people, including Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam speaking communities, which gives it a unique cultural character.
- Food and Souvenirs: Kodaikanal is known for its homemade chocolates, eucalyptus oil, and herbal teas, which are popular souvenirs for visitors to take home. Additionally, the town offers a range of local cuisine and international options to cater to different tastes.

Activities Enjoyed by Tourists
There are several activities that tourists can enjoy in Kodaikanal. Here are a few popular ones:
- Trekking: Kodaikanal offers several trekking trails that range from easy to challenging. Some popular trekking trails include Dolphin’s Nose, Green Valley View, and the Kodaikanal-Munnar Trek.
- Boating: Kodaikanal Lake is a popular spot for boating. Visitors can hire pedal boats, row boats, or motor boats and enjoy a leisurely ride on the lake while taking in the scenic views.
- Cycling: Cycling is a popular activity in Kodaikanal, and visitors can rent bicycles and explore the town at their own pace.
- Camping: Kodaikanal has several camping sites that offer a unique experience for visitors who enjoy being close to nature. Visitors can set up tents, build a campfire, and spend the night under the stars.
- Sightseeing: Kodaikanal has several tourist attractions, including Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park, Pillar Rocks, and the Berijam Lake, which are popular among visitors.
- Horse Riding: Horse riding is a popular activity in Kodaikanal, and visitors can rent horses and explore the town at a leisurely pace.
- Ayurvedic Massages: Kodaikanal has several spas and wellness centers that offer traditional Ayurvedic massages and treatments.

Top Attractions and Must Visit Places
Kodaikanal is home to several tourist attractions that offer visitors a unique experience. Here are some of the top attractions and must-visit places in and around Kodaikanal:
- Kodaikanal Lake: Kodaikanal Lake is a man-made lake that is spread over 60 acres. Visitors can enjoy boating, cycling, and horse riding around the lake, making it a popular spot for families.
- Coaker’s Walk: Coaker’s Walk is a scenic promenade that offers panoramic views of the valley below. It is a popular spot for nature walks and photography.
- Bryant Park: Bryant Park is a well-maintained botanical garden that houses a variety of plants and flowers. It is a popular spot for picnics and relaxing.
- Pillar Rocks: Pillar Rocks is a set of three rock formations that rise to a height of 400 feet. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and take photographs at this spot.
- Berijam Lake: Berijam Lake is a scenic freshwater lake that is surrounded by dense forests. It is a popular spot for trekking and camping.
- Silver Cascade Falls: Silver Cascade Falls is a picturesque waterfall that is located on the way to Kodaikanal from Madurai. Visitors can enjoy the views and take photographs at this spot.
- Dolphin’s Nose: Dolphin’s Nose is a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. It is a popular spot for trekking and nature walks.
- Guna Caves: Guna Caves are a set of caves that are believed to have been formed due to natural erosion. Visitors can explore the caves and enjoy the scenic views.
- Palani Temple: Palani Temple is a popular Hindu temple that is dedicated to Lord Murugan. It is located about 65 km from Kodaikanal and is a popular pilgrimage site.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kodaikanal is from October to June, which is the winter and spring season. During this time, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 20°C. The monsoon season in Kodaikanal lasts from July to September, and it is best to avoid visiting during this time as heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans and make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities. The summer season, from April to June, can also be a good time to visit for those who enjoy slightly warmer temperatures and want to escape the heat of the plains. Overall, the best time to visit Kodaikanal depends on your preferences and interests. If you want to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the town, the winter and spring season is the ideal time to visit.