Kodaikanal

Overview:

Stationed at an average elevation of 2100 meters above the sea level is the famous hill resort of Kodaikanal. The hill station retreat is set amidst sylvan splendor of the southern peaks of the upper regios of Palani hills in Tamil Nadu, India. Also called as the "Princess of Hill stations", Kodaikanal is sited in the ‘taluk’ division of the Dindigul district. Established in 1845 as a refuge from the high temperatures and tropical diseases of the plains, Kodaikanal has a long history as a retreat and popular tourist destination. The origins of Kodai’s name still remains unknown. However, according to the local mythology, the childless chief of the Veddas mountain tribe and his spouse prayed to the Mountain God for a child. Later, during a hunting expedition the chief finds an abandoned new-born girl child amidst creeper plants. Accordingly, they name her as Valli, meaning ‘creepers’. Valli eventually becomes the consort of Lord Murugan. The romantic liaisons between Murugan and Valli are documented in Sangam literature and are thus associated with the name Kodaikanal. Over the years Kodai has been referred by various names, such as "The Gift of the Forest", "The End of the Forest", "The Forest of Creepers" and "The Forest of the Summer". The hill station mesmerizes its visitors with woods, verdant slopes, rocks, beautiful lakes and its cool and refreshing air. Kodaikanal is generally referred by its abbreviated nick name – Kodai. It is a popular weekend getaway destination for holiday makers from Tamil Nadu and other neighboring cities and states. Since the hill station is located in the hot and humid tropical zone of southern India, its pleasant and cool climate of offers its visitors much needed respite from the sweltering heat experienced by the hot and humid plains of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and most parts of Karnataka. Surrounded by slopes canopied by lush verdant vegetation that are punctuated by waterfalls and cascades, Kodai proffers scenically panoramic views of the plains below. People visiting Bangalore often make a trip to Kodaikanal, to spend a few days amidst nature’s bounty. This beautiful hill station is at a distance of four hundred and sixty five kilometers from Bangalore. The drive from Bangalore to Kodaikanal is a solid nine hours of blissful driving. Usually people hire cabs from Bangalore to Kodaikanal for their entire journey. Bangalore taxis ensure a smooth, comfortable and resplendent journey at economical fares.

Places of interest:

One of the major tourist attractions in Kodaikanal is the Kokai Lake. It was built by a former District Collector of Madurai, Vera Levinge, after he settled in Kodaikanal post his retirement. The star shaped lake with sparkling water located amidst lush green slopes creates a sight to behold. It is spread over an area of 60 acres surrounded by a 5-kliometre tarred walkway. The excess water from the lake forms a waterfall around 8 kilometres from Kodaikanal, called the Silver Cascade Falls.

Bear Shola Falls in Kodaikanal is also a very famous tourist spot. It is so called because people believe that in olden days bears came and drank water from the falls.

Bison Well is known for its rich vegetation and wildlife. Common animal sightings here include that of monkeys, deer, bison, elephants, tigers and birds.

Other major sightseeing points in Koidalkanal include Pillar Rocks, Devil’s Kitchen, Byrant Park and Berijam Lake. Apart from these, the hill station even has a few trekking trails for adventure enthusiasts.

The hill station has a lot to explore, and hence tourists can retain their cab from Bangalore to Kodaikanal for the duration of their stay, so they have a cab of their own to go sightseeing.

Things to do:

Kodaikanal is all about the lush verdant nature that surrounds it. Almost everything revolves around it. Visitors can embark on an expedition to explore the surrounding hills on their own or preferentially book a guided trek.

Winding around the town is Coaker’s Walk. While walking on this path visitors are treated to breathtakingly arrestive sights of the surrounding countryside.

Boating on the lake is amongst the most pursued and relaxing pastime in Kodaikanal. Various boats can be hired at the Kodaikanal Boat Club. However, the club rents boats only to its members.

Another popular activity as is trekking is Golf. Golfing in the nearby hills and surroundings can prove to be quite an experience for amateurs and professionals alike.