Kodaikanal

Introduction and History: Kodaikanal called as ‘The Princess of Hill Stations’, is situated on the southern crest of the upper Palani Hills near Madurai(120 kilometers) in Tamil Nadu at an altitude of 2,133 meters (6,998 ft). Although it is not known who first used this name, it is commonly interpreted as The Forest of Creepers. The earliest specific references to Kodaikanal and the Palani Hills go back to Tamil sangam literature of the early Christian era. The beautiful blue Kurinji flower that a bloom only once in 12 years is unique to this place. Renowned for its educational institutions and appreciated for its serene beauty that includes pristine lakes, mighty rocks, well-maintained botanical gardens, giant eucalyptus trees and charming waterfalls, the hill station offers the complete romantic destination for honeymooners.

What to see and when to go: Bryant Park, Shenbaganur Museum of Natural History,
Kodaikanal Observatory, Astronomical Science museum, Astronomy library, Kurinji andavar murugan temple are some of the tourist attractions. The peak season is from April to June and from September to October. Short treks and striking views are plentiful in Kodaikanal. Kodaikanal Lake, Croaker’s Walk, Green Valley View, Pillar Rocks Guna Caves and Dolphin’s Nose are some of the other attractions of the place.

Accommodation: There are at least 50 hotels catering to all categories of tourists and over 30 south and north Indian, continental, western and Chinese restaurants. The TTDC run Hotel Tamil Nadu on Fern Hill Road is one example where comfortable accommodation is provided to tourists.

Mode of Transport: Kodaikanal is connected by road with Chennai (520 kilometers), Ooty (264 kilometers), Trichy (197 kilometers), Coimbatore (175 kilometers), Kumili (160 kilometers), and Madurai (120 kilometers). Regular bus services are available from Madurai, Palani, Kodaikanal Road, Theni, Dindigul, Tiruchirapalli, Kumuli (Thekkady) and Coimbatore. Taxis and vans are available for local transportation. There are no auto-rickshaws in Kodaikanal. The nearest airport is at Madurai (120 kilometers).The nearest railway stations are the Kodai Road Railway Station (80 kilometers) and the Palani Railway Station (64 kilometers).

Related links:
• Tourist information: www.kodaikanal.com

See also (nearby places): Silver Cascade, Berijam Lake, Ooty and Yercaud.