Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is the most beautiful and popular hill station in Tamil Nadu. It is located in the famous Palani Hills in Western Ghats and is known as the Princess of hill stations. Kodaikanal is situated about 7,200 feet above the sea level. 

The word Kodaikanal means gift of the forest in local language. The dense forest with many varieties of trees, the huge rocks in the wilderness and the enchanting waterfalls, makes it a real gift for the tourists visiting this place. Kodaikanal is famous for eucalyptus oil, homemade chocolates, plums and pears. Kodaikanal is famous for the kurinji - flowers, which blossoms only once in twelve years.

Sightseeing in Kodaikanal -

The Bear Shola falls: it is called so, because in earlier days bears used to come and drink water from this fall. It is one of the most ideal picnic spots in Kodaikanal town and is at a distance of about 2km from the lake and about 1.5km from the bus stand. 

Silver Cascade Falls: This is the first attraction that unfolds in front of a tourist on the Madurai - Kodaikanal road. The excess water in the Kodai Lake comes down as a fall at about 8 kms from Kodaikanal. It is like a pit stop for vehicles and tourists as there are shops selling fruits and other forest products.

Berijam Lake: Berijam Lake is the most attractive picnic spot for any tourist in Kodaikanal which is situated about 23 km from the local bus stand.  Berijam Lake is a must see place as sighting of bison, leopard and other chirping birds are very common here. Berijam can only be visited with the permission from the District Forest Officer as it is not opened to general public.

Coakers Walk: Any tourist interested in morning walk will definitely have to visit Coaker's walk which is about 1 km from the lake and it provides very picturesque view of the plains as well as scenic valleys that is sure to bring a joy in the minds of the visitors. Coaker's walk is named after Lt. Coaker, who prepared the map of Kodaikanal. 

Green Valley View: Earlier known as Suicide point, now this area is known as Green Valley View and it provides a picturesque and panoramic view of the plains, valleys, hills and the Vaigai dam. The deep, dense and dangerous valley below this point is more than 5000 feet drop and to get a good view from this point, it is better to visit the place after 10 am and before 3 pm, as early mornings and evenings will have mist covering the valleys. 

Kodai Lake: One of the favorite spots of tourists visiting Kodaikanal is the Kodaikanal Lake that is popularly known as Kodai Lake. This is an artificial lake that takes the shape of a star and is spread over 60 acres with greenery all around it. 

Pillar Rocks: The Pillar rocks are three granite boulders which are seen standing vertically shoulder to shoulder and it is now a very famous tourist spot for many visitors. These rocks are measuring a height of about 400 feet from the ground and the chambers that are seen between the two pillars are known as Devil's Kitchen. 

The Silent Valley View: The Silent Valley view is another important and attractive place that should not be missed by any nature enthusiast. It is situated at a little distance from the Pillar Rock and is seen on the Berijam lake road and the breathtaking view of this valley will be soothing to the eyes. 

Subrahmanya Temple: It is one of the famous temples in South India and is located at an altitude of 135 meters. Pilgrims can climb the 659 steps or can use the winch facility to reach the sanctum sanctorum. Tai Pusam in January is one of the major festivals of this temple. The Panguni Uttaram is another festival conducted in April which draws many people from all over India and across the globe as well.

Bison Wells: Bison Wells is an area that is best known for its tremendous amount of wildlife, as well as for its beautiful vegetation. Wildlife commonly seen in the area include bison, birds, elephants, tigers, monkeys, and deer. Bison Wells got its name from the many bison that come to the natural wells to drink. 

How to reach Kodaikanal -

By Air: Nearest airport to Kodaikanal is Madurai airport which is at a distance of 120 km from Kodaikanal. Madurai is air connected to Chennai and Coimbatore. Coimbatore is the nearest major airport which is connected to many cities in India. Coimbatore is about 180 km from Kodaikanal. 

By Train: The nearest Railway station is Kodai road, which is about 80 km away from Kodaikanal. Coimbatore junction is the major rail head which is well connected to all cities in India.

By Road: The nearest Railway station is Kodai road, which is about 80 km away from Kodaikanal. Coimbatore junction is the major rail head which is well connected to all cities in India.