Kodaikanal is an elfin hill city in the state of Tamil Nadu. Being situated on a high altitude, it serves as an ideal hill station for the residents of the state as well as India. Due to the fact that it is not quite popular in other parts of the country, the innate beauty of the place is untouched and unexplored. The serene surroundings, balmy climate and heavenly solitude are all synonymous to the term Kodaikanal, which actually means 'Gift of the Forest'. The hill station is slowly emerging to be a potent travel and tourism destination, with more and more people being attracted towards its charm and serenity. Ideal for a vacation, Kodaikanal offers host of exotic places to be visited.

Tourist Attractions

The picturesque hill station of Kodaikanal offers some adorable tourist attractions. The Kodaikanal Lake is a star shaped artificial lake, situated in the heart of the city. Covering an area of about 60 acres, this lake is the hub of all activity in the city. The footpath along the edges of the lake, prove to be ideal for leisure walks. The popular activities at the lake site are horse riding, boating, etc. On the eastern side of the lake, Bryant Park is located. It is a botanical garden which was planned and landscaped by a British Army Officer, Glenn Brant.

Being a producer of diverse flower species like roses and lilies, it is a significant center of horticulture activity. The Flora Museum, located at the Sacred Heart College is also a must visit for the tourists. The 'Orchidarium' here has a collection of more than 300 species of orchids and other exotic plants that have been meticulously collected in and around Nilgiris. Besides, located at the highest point of Kodaikanal, Astrophysical Observatory is a research center in meteorology and solar physics.

Built in 1889, the observatory even houses a museum, which showcases models illustrating complex scientific phenomena. Kurinji Andavar Temple is one of the few temples found in the city. At a distance of 3 km from the lake, the temple has been built essentially in the Pallava style. It is a small shrine dedicated to Lord Muruga. It is also famous for Kuranjini flower, which blossoms once in twelve years. Around 7 km from the city center, Pillar Rocks are located. These are three stones, which uniquely jut into the sky up to a height of 400m.

Besides, Coaker's Walk is the best place for witnessing the breathtaking views of the valley. It is a one and a half km stretch, which runs parallel to the lake. The most fun-filled spot along this stroll is the Telescope House. It offers the spectacular panoramic view of the places around. Moreover, there are some worth visiting waterfalls in and around Kodaikanal, which serve as good picnic spots, providing the right setting for relaxing.

How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport from Kodaikanal lies at Madurai, which is around 120 km away. It is connected to all the major cities of the Peninsular India.

By Rail: The nearest railway stations to Kodaikanal are Palani and Kodai road railway stations. Both these stations are well connected to the major cities in the state, which are further are linked to the rest of the country.

By Road: Kodaikanal is well connected to the major cities of the state like Madurai, Chennai, Coimbatore, etc. via State Highways. Both TTDC and private bus services ply from here.