Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, often known as "Princes of Hill Stations", is one of the most beautiful and popular hill resorts of India. Kodaikanal is located on the southern tip of the Palani Hills, 120 km northwest of Madurai, in Tamil Nadu. It has a beautiful lake, several waterfalls and numerous scenic mountain views of the plains below.

Favourite among the Honeymooners, this charming place is one of the most visited tourist destination which offers its visitors boat rides, nature walks, hiking, trekking and rock-climbing.
The climate of Kodaikanal is pleasant throughout the year, but the best time to visit Kodaikanal is from April to June and from September to October. An average of 165 cms of rain falls every year, mostly during the north-east monsoon from June to September.

Fascinating facts about Kodaikanal:

· Kodaikanal was first spotted in 1821 by a British Lieutenant, Ward.
· Kodaikanal boasts of the 'Kurinji-flower', which blossoms once in 12 years.
· The name Kodaikanal means the "gift of the forest".

Some must-see places in Kodaikanal: Kodaikanal is a natural paradise, which is surrounded by lakes, waterfalls and beautiful parks that are sufficient to lure any tourist.

· Kodiakanal Lake: This outstanding man-made lake was created by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, a former District Collector of Madurai. The lake spreads out in a star shape over 60 acres and is surrounded by fine tarred road of 5 kms length. Boating on the lake and pony rides around it are some of the popular activities that attract the tourists.

· Shenbaganur Museum: Founded in 1895, this museum is an outstanding collection of more than 300 exotic orchid species, artifacts of the ancient Paliyans tribes and wide-ranging collection of birds.

· Berijam Lake: It is one of the beautiful picnic spots in Kodaikanal and is surrounded by pine forest. Rich in natural beauty, this 3 km long lake is located 21 kms away from the Kodaikanal bus stand.

· Bryant Park: This botanical garden is situated on the eastern side of the Berijam Lake and is known for flowers, hybrids and rafts. Here, the annual horticultural show is conducted every summer in the month of May.

· Telescope House: Located at Coaker's Walk, Kodaikanal, the Telescope House facilitates visitors to have a panoramic view of the valley and nearby towns. A fee is collected for viewing.