KODAIKANAL
Ensconced in the hilly environ of Western Ghat ranges, Kodaikanal is the most charming hill resort in south India. The Kodai Lake covering an area of 28 hectare with a landscaped garden is the prime attraction. Boating in the clear water of the lake amid the serenity of the pristine forest is perhaps the most soothing way to revitalize the weary mind and distressed soul. Spending two to three days in a place like this is highly recommended.
HOW TO REACH
Rail: Kodai Road and Palani, from Chennai.
Road: Major Distances:
Kodai Road–85 km
Palani–65 km
Madurai–120 km
BEST TIME TO VISIT
October to March
ACCOMMODATION
Hotel Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation
Tel: (04542) 241336
Rent: Double bedroom AC costs Rs. 650/-; deluxe cottage costs Rs. 750/-; ‘Kurunji’ cottage costs Rs. 1,050 /-; suite is priced at Rs. 850/-.
International Tourist Lodge
Tel: (04542) 240542
Rent: Rs. 300–500/-
Hotel Palace
Tel: (04542) 240411
Rent: Rs. 300–500/-
Astoria
Tel: (04542) 240524
Rent: Rs. 550–650/-
Kodai Resort
Tel: (04542) 240632
Rent: Rs. 550–650/-
Vila Treat
Tel: (04542) 240940
Rent: Rs. 550–650/-
Valley View
Tel: (04542) 240940
Rent: Rs. 550–650/-
Snooze Inn
Tel: (04542) 240837
Rent: Rs. 550–600/-
Bala
Tel: (04542) 241214
Rent: Rs. 550–850/-
Joyraj
Tel: (04542) 240179
Rent: Rs. 350–950/-
Strawberry Park
Tel: (04542) 242340
Rent: Rs. 550–750/-
Anjoy
Tel: (04542) 241089
Rent: Rs. 360–900/-
Jase Heritage
Tel: (04542) 241323
Rent: Rs. 650–1,400/-
Kodai International
Tel: (04542) 245190
Rent: Rs. 1,500–4,500/-
Mount View
Tel: (04542) 241978
Rent: Rs. 1,200–3,600/-
GETTING AROUND
Brayant’s Park
The park lies at the outskirt of the town on the eastern bank of the Lake. Various breeds of flowers are nurtured inside the Glasshouse of the Park. A flower show is held in the month of May every year.
Coaker's Walk
Just 1 km away from the Park. The winding trail along the southern bank of the Lake moving up the hill offers a spectacular view of the surrounding. Entry fee applies. Around 3 km away is a unique flowing plant ‘Kurunji’ (Strobilanthus Kunthanus), which blooms every 12 years. It last blossomed in 2004. On the slope of the hill stands the temple of god Muruga. A splendid view of the Palani Hill and the Vaigai Dam can be captured from the temple premise.
Enthusiasts can relish the beautiful surrounding through the telescope placed at Coaker's Walk view point at a cost.
Green Valley View Point
Often known as Suicide Point, the Green Valley View Point is 5 km from the town. From here a scenic view of the Vaigai Dam can be captured.
Pillar Rocks
About 7.5 km away, the uniqueness of this place lies in the peculiarity of its landscape. Nature, in her utter whims, has placed three huge boulders in a distinctive manner to form an exclusive work of art. Centering the stone made structure is a garden adorned with plethora of bright-colored flowers.
Solar Physical Observatory
32 km away from the Lake at a height of 2,343 meters stands the Solar Physical Observatory. This is the highest point in Kodai from where visitors can observe the celestial objects.
Fairy Falls
At a distance of5 km from the Lake is a pleasant picnic spot by the side of Fairy Falls. Cascade Falls is at a distance of 8 km from the Lake.
TRAVEL TIPS Absence of rickshaws gives taxi drivers the benefit of settling the rates.
Bicycles are available on hire.
During the tourist season different tour operators arrange for conducted tour in and around Kodaikanal at a cost of Rs. 80–100/- per person.