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About - Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is hailed as the princess of hill station. It is the best place to spend vacation or honeymoon. Take your family and loved ones to this lovely place and enjoy.

Located in the southern plains at the Dindigul district, Kodaikanal is the “Princess of hill stations” with bounded rocks, woods, serene lakes, calming air, splashing waterfalls, the misty clouds at the scenic spots, cycling around the lake, boating at the lake, trekking at the Perumalmalai, horse riding, balloon shooting, yoga center and for celebrating the wedding bliss “honeymoon”. The hill stands 7200 feet above sea level in the upper Palani Hills of the Western Ghats near Madurai in Tamil Nadu. Hill-plantain fruits and plums delight the tongue. The surroundings of the hills mesmerize the tourists throughout the year.

History & Culture

This hill station is developed by the Americans. While looking out for a place to find peace, Lieutenant B. S. Ward in 1821, a British surveyor and the foreign missionaries of Madurai found this place.

They travelled by horse, bullock cart and palanquin. Because of the climate and clean air, it became a popular site for them to relax and escape from summer. The Collector of Madurai during 1824 built a small bungalow at Kodaikanal and few churches and colonial structures also emerged in and around Kodaikanal. Union Church built in 1895, and a large number of private bungalows are the perfect examples of those structures. In 1863, Sir Vere Hendry Levinge, the Collector of Madurai, created the 60 acres Kodai Lake stocked with fish inside and the first boat from Tuticorin was brought which lead to the boat club. Church properties, summer holiday-homes, clubs, school and hotels, civic amenities were established. Now it has become a famous tourist spot.

1. Kodai Lake

  • Description: One of Kodaikanal’s most iconic landmarks, Kodai Lake is a man-made lake surrounded by lush forests. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the lake or take a leisure walk along the well-maintained pathways.

  • Activities: Boating, cycling around the lake, walking, and enjoying the views.

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening to enjoy the calm atmosphere.

2. Coaker's Walk

  • Description: A 1-kilometer long scenic walking path located on the southern side of Kodai Lake, Coaker’s Walk offers stunning views of the valleys, Plains of Tamil Nadu, and the Bristol Waterfalls.

  • Activities: Walking, photography, and enjoying the panoramic views.

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning for the best views.

3. Pillar Rocks

  • Description: Pillar Rocks is a famous natural rock formation, rising to a height of about 400 feet. The site offers dramatic views of the valley below and is an excellent spot for photography.

  • Activities: Photography and sightseeing.

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light.

4. Bryant Park

  • Description: A well-maintained botanical garden, Bryant Park is home to a wide variety of flowers, trees, and shrubs. It’s a perfect place for a peaceful stroll, with beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

  • Activities: Walking, photography, and relaxing in the garden.

  • Best Time to Visit: During the day when the park is fully open.

5. Silver Cascade Falls

  • Description: Located about 8 km from the town center, Silver Cascade Falls is a cascade waterfall that plunges from a height of around 180 feet. The surrounding greenery adds to the charm of the waterfall.

  • Activities: Photography, sightseeing, and picnics.

  • Best Time to Visit: After the monsoon season when the waterfall is at its full flow.

6. Guna Caves (Devil’s Kitchen)

  • Description: The Guna Caves, also known as Devil’s Kitchen, is a set of mysterious caves located between the Pillar Rocks and Batman Rocks. The area is surrounded by thick forests, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

  • Activities: Photography, hiking, and exploring.

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a peaceful experience.

7. Vattakanal

  • Description: Often referred to as “Little Kodaikanal”, Vattakanal is a serene village located a few kilometers away from the main town. It's known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and pleasant weather.

  • Activities: Nature walks, photography, and visiting Vattakanal Waterfalls.

  • Best Time to Visit: Anytime during the year, but especially during the monsoon for lush greenery.

8. Berijam Lake

  • Description: A serene lake located in the Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary, Berijam Lake is known for its picturesque surroundings and tranquility. Visitors must obtain prior permission from the forest department to visit this area.

  • Activities: Photography, wildlife sightings, and nature walks.

  • Best Time to Visit: During the day, especially in the early morning.

9. Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Description: The Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area that houses a variety of flora and fauna, including bison, deer, elephants, and various bird species. The sanctuary is perfect for nature walks and wildlife photography.

  • Activities: Trekking, nature walks, and wildlife sightings.

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for spotting wildlife.

10. Shenbaganur Museum

  • Description: The Shenbaganur Museum is dedicated to preserving the natural history of the region. The museum showcases a range of rare plants, flowers, and birds found in Kodaikanal.

  • Activities: Explore exhibits on the flora and fauna of Kodaikanal.

  • Best Time to Visit: During the day when the museum is open.

11. Kurinji Andavar Temple

  • Description: Dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Kurinji Andavar Temple is located in a picturesque setting. The temple is famous for the Kurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years and turns the entire landscape purple.

  • Activities: Temple visit, photography, and nature walk.

  • Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but especially during the blooming season of Kurinji flowers (every 12 years).

12. Dolphin’s Nose

  • Description: Dolphin’s Nose is a popular viewpoint located about 8 km from the town center. It offers a panoramic view of the valley and gorge below.

  • Activities: Photography and sightseeing.

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning for the best views and less crowd.

13. Moir Point

  • Description: Moir Point offers a splendid view of the surrounding valleys and hills. It’s a lesser-known spot, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to escape the crowds.

  • Activities: Photography and sightseeing.

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light.

14. Pine Forest

  • Description: The Pine Forest is a tranquil place surrounded by towering pine trees. It's a great spot for a nature walk, photography, or a relaxing time in the woods.

  • Activities: Walking, photography, and exploring.

  • Best Time to Visit: Anytime during the day, but it’s especially beautiful in the morning.

15. Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

  • Description: The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is one of the oldest solar observatories in India. It offers fascinating insights into solar activities and is a unique spot for those interested in astronomy.

  • Activities: Astronomy-related activities, learning about solar research.

  • Best Time to Visit: During daylight hours when the observatory is open to the public.

16. Silent Valley View

  • Description: This viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the Silent Valley, a vast stretch of natural beauty. The view of the surrounding hills and valleys is a perfect spot for peace and quiet.

  • Activities: Photography and enjoying the view.

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for better lighting.

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Kodaikanal is a beautiful blend of nature, adventure, and tranquility. Whether you are into sightseeing, photography, hiking, or just relaxing amidst nature, these places will surely make your visit unforgettable. Be sure to take your time exploring these stunning spots and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of this hill station.

About Municipality

   Kodaikanal, one of the famous hill resorts of Tamilnadu, is situated in Dindigul District, at about 120 km to the north west of Madurai City. It is located between latitude 10º7’ N – 10º20’ N and longitude 77º 16’ E – 77º 45’ E. It is also the head quarters for Kodaikanal Taluk. The Town is nearer to the important places like Dindigul, Madurai, Palani and Udumalpet. The municipality extends over an area of 21.45 Sq.km with a population of 36501 as per 2001 census. Kodaikanal has got the privilege of being called as “The Princess of Hill Stations” and “Switzerland of India”. Kodaikanal is also famous for its Kurinji flower which blooms in the area once in every 12 years.

In 1845, Kodaikanal was started as a hill station in the palani hills at 7375 ft. The Palani Hills were first surveyed by British Lieutenant P.S. Ward in 1821. Kodaikanal Township was constituted as Municipality in 1899 and it became a Grade Two municipality in 1960, upgraded to first grade in the year 1975 and Selection Grade in 1983. Now it is a Special Grade Municipality with effect from 31-5-1994. The Municipal Council has been formed with 24 wards representatives.

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