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Places to See in kodaikanal

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Kodaikanal

About Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a city in the hills of the Dindigul district in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Its name in the Tamil language means "The Gift of the Forest". Kodaikanal is referred to as the "Princess of Hill stations" and has a long history as a retreat and popular tourist destination.

Kodaikanal was established in 1845 as a refuge from the high temperatures and tropical diseases of the plains. Much of the local economy is based on the hospitality industry serving tourism. As of 2011, the town had a population for 36,501.

History

The earliest residents of Kodaikanal were the Palaiyar tribal people. The earliest specific references to Kodaikanal and the Palani Hills are found in Tamil Sangam literature of the early Common era. Modern Kodaikanal was established by American Christian missionaries and British bureaucrats in 1845, as a refuge from the high temperatures andtropical diseases of the plains. In the 20th century a few elite Indians came to realise the value of this enchanting hill station and started relocating here. 

Tourism has been impacted by industrial pollution issues including the closure of a mercury factory owned by Unilever's Indian subsidiary Hindustan Unilever after evidence of widespread mercury pollution. To date no proper clean-up operation has been mounted. The issue gained prominence in early 2015 when "Kodaikanal Won't", a rap music about mercury pollution in the region went viral globally getting more than a million views in 4 days. 

Season

Off-Season

Peak Season

April–June

Low Season

Feb-March & July–September

Second Season

October–January

Kodaikanal Present Weather

Places to Visit

Berijam Lake

Berijam Lake

Berijam Lake is surrounded by a picturesque cover of greenery and is a home to a wide verity of flora and fauna and also serves as the source of drinking water to the nearby villages. A special permit from the forest department is needed to enter the place and only a certain number of vehicles are allowed. The fire tower, lake view and the medicine forest are the main attractions here. Entry to the area is restricted between 9.30 am to 3 pm as wild animals like panther, deer, snakes and bison are often spotted near the lake during these hours.

Coakers Walk

Coakers Walk

Coakers Walk is one place you must visit when in Kodaikanal. It is a 1 kilometre long pathway constructed on the slopes of a hillock and is one of the most serene places you will ever visit in India. The kilometre long walk provides the most picturesque views of the hills and a rare phenomenon where your shadow is cast on the clouds that envelop the area called ‘Brocken Spectre’ can be witnessed.

Kodaikanal Lake

Kodai Lake

Also known as the Kodaikanal Lake, this is a star shaped lake that is located amidst the most calm and serene environment. This lake is a home to various birds and the 5 kilometre long path that is near the shores of the lake is one of the favourite places where tourist come for a casual walk and enjoy the beauty of the nature. Pedal boats and Row boats can be availed by the tourists here along with horses and bicycles.

Kurunji Temple

Kurinjiandavar Temple

Kurinji Andavar Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan or Kartikeya and is home to the famous kurunji flower which blooms once in 12 years. The temple was established by the European lady in 1936 and after adopting Hinduism is known by the name ‘Lady Ramanathan’. The temple is a popular among the tourist due to the views of the surroundings and the famous spot of the flower.

Dolphine Nose

Dolphin’s Nose

A popular trekking spot in Kodaikanal, Dolphin’s Nose is rock which projects over a wide chasm which is approximately 2,000 meters deep. Its peculiar shape is the reason behind the name and one can witness the most breathtaking views of the Western Ghats from here. One can also access the amazing Pambar or the Liril Falls here which is an amazing hidden attraction.

Bryant Park

Bryant Park

A famous picnic spot, The Bryant Park is 20.5 acre botanical garden and is situated at the east end of the Kodaikanal Lake. The park is filled with a variety of flora which includes around 325 species of trees, cactus and shrubs and a massive 740 species of roses. The various horticulture and flower shows are organised every summer and is a popular place where you can relax and get lost in the lush green surroundings.

greenvalleyview

Green Valley View

The place was formerly known as suicide point but was later changed to Green Valley Point for obvious reasons. The place is known for its panoramic views of the mountains and has an approximate 5000 feet drop from the top. One can also view the amazing pillar rocks which were scaled and hoisted by an English adventurer.

pillarrock

Pillar Rocks

Pillar Rocks, 8 kilometres (5.0 mi) from the bus-stand, is a set of three giant rock pillars which stand 122 metres (400 ft) high.[46] Managed by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, The viewpoint can be crowded but is not commercialized. There is an excellent public garden adjacent to the viewpoint.