Kodaikanal

Kodai kanal perches on the top of the Palani Range in Western Ghats. Also known as, Kodai, this quaint hill station is a popular haunt amongst the travelers. Kodai kanal offers breathtaking views of the misty mountains, gurgling waterfalls and flower-filled gardens. Kodai's most enthralling sights include star shaped Kodai Lake, Orchidorium which houses about 300 rare species of orchids. Kodaikkanal is a walker’s paradise offering some amazing short treks. Fairy Falls and Glen falls and Perumal Peak remain the favorite spots amongst the avid trekkers and nature lovers.

Places of Interest

Berijam Lake
Berijam Lake is 30 kms from Kodaikanal. The lush green pine trees that surrounds the lake adds to the beauty of this popular picnic spot. You can enjoy a relaxing boat ride in the serene waters of the Berijam Lake. The area around the lake is perfect for trekking and camping.
Shenbaganur Museum
About five kilometers from the Berijam Lake is the famous shenbaganur Museum, which is considered one of the best orchidoriums in India. Shenbaganur Museum is located in the premises of the Sacred Heart College and is the home to more than 300 species of orchids and rare birds.

Kodai Kanal Lake
The sparkling Kodai Kanal Lake rests in the heart of Kodai kanal. It is an artificial star shaped lake spread across sixty acres and is surrounded by beautiful lush green pine trees.
Kurinji Andavar Temple
Kurinji Andavar Temple (meaning god of hills in Tamil) is dedicated to lord Murugan. The temple affords spectacular views of Kodai Kanal and the verdant Palani hills.

Coaker’s Walk
Coaker’s Walk is named after Lt Coaker who constructed this verdant mountain lane in 1872 along the sharp slopes on the southern side of the Kodai road. The Coaker’s Walk offers magnificent views of the valley.

Accommodation in Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal has many expensive hotels, resorts heritage properties and mid range hotels located in the serene environs of Nilgiris. During April and May, the prices of all the hotels are doubled. You may have to search out for the budget class hotels offering good accommodation with basic facilities.

Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October

How to Reach Kodaikanal
By Air
The nearest airport is in Madurai that is 120 k ms from Kodaikanal. Jet Airways operates regular flights to Madurai from Delhi.

By Rail
The nearest railways stations are Palani (80 km) and Kodai Road Station (64 kms).

By Road
There are regular bus services from Chennai, Tirchy, Kumili, Madurai , Theni, Dindigul and Coimbatore to Kodaikanal.