Kodaikanal is also known as princess of hill station. Kodaikanal is located in the hills of the Palani division of the Dindigul district in the state of Tamil Nadu. The meaning of Kodaikanal in Tamil is “The gift of the forest”. Kodaikanal has many places of interest. It is surrounded with enchanting waterfalls and scenic beauty. It has beautiful tourist attractions Kodaikanal Lake (star-shaped man-made lake), Bryant Park or the Botanical Garden, Coaker’s Walk, Bear Shola waterfall, Green valley view, Shembaganur museum and Guna caves are some of the other major attractions of Kodaikanal.
Kodaikanal- Princess of hill station
Tourist attractions in Kodaikonal:-
1.Kodaikanal Lake:-
Kodaikanal lake
The main attraction of the Kodaikanal hill station is the star shaped artificial lake. It is situated in the heart of the city. Kodaikanal Lake, it covers an area of about 60 acres. It is being surrounded by a wide footpath along its edges. The activities popular at the lake site are horse riding, boating, strolls etc.
2.Flora Museum:-
Flora Museum
Flora Museum is situated at the Sacred Heart College in Kodaikanal. It is a must visit spot for the tourists, especially for nature lovers. The ‘Orchidarium’ provides an opportunity to witness a collection of more than 300 species of orchids. Kodaikanal is rich in Flora and Fauna. It has a unique plant. The Kurinji, which blossoms once in 12 years, makes the hill slopes a “Blaze of Purple”.
3.Bryant Park:-
Bryant park
Bryant Park is a botanical park situated on the eastern side of the lake. It is noted for flowers, hybrids and grafts. It is being a producer of diverse flower species like roses and lilies, it is a significant center of horticulture activity. Cut flowers are exported from here. Every year Flower show is conducted during May, as a part of Summer Festival is to be seen by one and all.
4.Fairy Falls:-
Fairy falls
Fairy fall is a delightful picnic spot just 5 km Kodai Lake. There is a beautiful waterfall here.
5. Pillar Rocks:-
Pillar rocks
Pillar Rocks are located around 7 km from the center of the town. These are basically three stones, which uniquely jut into the sky up to a height of 400m. Holding a mini garden, it proves to be an ideal location for witnessing gleaming sunsets and view point for night view of the city.
Best time to visit:-
Best time to visit Kodaikanal is April to June, September to October.
How to reach Kodaikanal:-
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.
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 Bus:-
Tourist bus services are plenty to reach Kodaikanal from Madurai, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Kochi and Chennai.
