Kodaikanal: Steal Some Moments In The Princess Of Hills In Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal is located in the Dindigul district. It is situated in the district of Tamil Nadu. The average temperature during summer is 19.8 degrees Celsius and in the winter, the temperature is 8.3 degrees Celsius. The nearest city is Dindigul. And the nearest town is Palani. It is time to explore the emerald-green forests of Tamil Nadu with your loved ones. Not only these but there are also several churches to visit and admire the views. This place came into existence in the year 1845 under the refuge from the high temperatures along with the tropical diseases of the plains.
Kodaikanal Hill Station: An Overview About The Place
Kodaikanal hill station Kodaikanal Tamil Nadu is famous because it is known as the Princess of Hills. The cool and misty weather of the place offers the scenic beauty of the rolling hills. Heading to the Kodaikanal hill station for a dose of picturesque lush green forests along with memorable views.
Kodaikanal is situated at a distance of 118 KM from Madurai. It is the closest Airport to the Hill station which will connect by road with the nearest cities. The beautiful scenic atmosphere creates a unique feeling including the pedal and rowing boats.
The wooded forests of the Kodaikanal and the surroundings mesmerize visitors throughout the year. The language of Tamil is popularly practiced here. Kodaikanal means ‘The Gift of the Forest’. It is powered by lush greenery. Incredible lakes and tranquil lakes with all stunning features.
Kodaikanal is also known for its region. It is famous for the Kurinji flower that blooms once in 12 years. It covers the whole valley into the blue sea. The nearest airport to the Hill station is Madurai. The highest waterfall of Kodaikanal Hill Station is the Thalaiyar falls which has a height of almost 980 feet.
The rare Kurinji flowers blossom almost every 12 years in Kodaikanal. It also produces divine eucalyptus oil. Moreover, the temperature ranges between 37 degrees Celsius. The temperature can go as low as 9 degrees in the winter. The Kodai Lake is one of the best places of attractions which owes itself to the presence of the lush green Palani Hill Range.
Top 10 places Travelers Cannot Miss Out On In Tamil Nadu
Kodai Lake:
This was built by Sir Vere Henry Levinge in 1863. He was the collector of Madurai at the time. It was star-shaped and is one of the biggest draws in the biggest hill town. This lake is spread over 60 acres. It is the perfect spot for tourists to enjoy a picnic with some simple downtime. Make it a point to trek to the upper lake viewpoint so that you can have an unfettered view of the city along with the hills.
Coaker’s Walk:
The Walk on Coaker’s Walk to catch a superb and stunning glimpse of the valley that bathes in the most dreamy clouds on the sunniest morning along with the best time to explore the area. This can also make the most out of the excellent sunrise point and also the biking zone. The verdant green valleys have the right beholding beauty.
Pine Forest:
The pine forest of Kodaikanal falls en route to Guna Caves. It is quite popular among the filmmakers of this region for apparent reasons. A majestic pine tree is a perfect backdrop for the image. If you want to take complete enjoyment of being in the hill station, you must not miss out on ordering piping hot Maggi from one of the local vendors. The forest has a wide spectrum of wild species of animals and birds in the pine forest.
Bryant Park:
Bryant Park is worth visiting as it is one of the popular botanical gardens which hosts almost 325 different species of flowers. While the flowers are blooming, the place looks like a rainbow all over again. Bryant Park is a perfect place to visit with your friends and families. Here you will get to see the Eucalyptus Tree. This tree is nearly 160 years old and thus offers attractive views of the surroundings. In addition to this, there is a greenhouse inside the park with nicely organized pots of different varieties.
Fairy Fall:
Fairy Fall is one of the top tourist places that are located in the area of Pambarpuram. The natural beauty of the fall is breathtaking. The most important part is that the delightful water cascade drops down at great speed. It is one of the major attractions of Kodaikanal hill station Kodaikanal Tamil Nadu. This place is popular for swimming. Moreover the serenity of natural beauty, the place happens to be a worthy visit. The evenings are the best time to explore the natural beauty of the place when the mystic clouds slowly cover by white carpet.
Dolphin’s Nose:
Dolphin’s Nose is a trek about a kilometre from a small hamlet called Vattakanal. Dolphin’s Nose is named after its resemblance to the shape of a dolphin’s nose. Offering multiple viewpoints, the place is also a hit along with a set local booking which will help you a lot. People love to gather here in this spot and have the best moments of their life. You can also view different varieties of birds flying here in this place.
Guna Caves:
Guna Caves is also known as Devil’s Kitchen. Situated at an altitude of 2200 m is one of the groups of caves. The area is exposed to tree roots and thus lends an eerie-like ambience to the area. It is time to watch the step as we explore the famous caves with bats and other nocturnal creatures. This cave is a picture-perfect location that can give you some lifelike experiences along with a beautiful backdrop.
Berijam Lake:
Berijam Lake is at a distance of 22 KM from the hill station Kodaikanal. The lake is located inside the forest where a permit is required to go in. Multiple types of mushrooms grow around the area. In addition to this, you will need a permit to enter Berijam Lake. It is a good place where you will need a permit to enter the lake for an unmatched experience.
Pillar Rocks:
Pillar Rocks is a must-visit location in Kodaikanal. These rocks are famous as they resemble tall pillars. Pillar Rocks are considered to be a top sightseeing spot in Kodaikanal. The scenery is fantastic to watch for all tourists. The height of pillar rocks can rise to a height of almost around 425 feet. The chambers between the two rocks are called Devil’s Kitchen.
Kurinji Andavar Temple:
Kurinji Andavar temple is another place of major tourist attraction. Kurinji means hill region. It is a temple which is located at a distance of 3 KM away from the beautiful and pristine Kodaikanal Lake. This temple is highly respected and is a reputed sanctified place in the Kodai region. This shrine is dedicated to Lord Muruga. Muruga is the Lord of the Hills. The Kurinji flower blooms once every 12 years.
How did Kodaikanal get its name?
Kodaikanal got its name from the Kurinji flower. This flower blooms once every 12 years. It covers the whole valley into the blue sea. Kodaikanal also offers breathtaking water that offers the main attraction of the hill station and is also well connected to the road with the nearest cities. Kodaikanal offers a breathtaking waterfall, a major attraction of the place. It is due to the serene natural beauty of the hill station here that
What Are The Other Places Of Attractions In Tamil Nadu?
Another lake that needs special mention is Kodai Berijam Lake which is located at a distance of 21 KMs from the Hill station. Other places of special attractions are Chettiar Park, Bryant Park, Guna Cave, Churchs, Chocolate Factory, Perumal Peak, Kurinji Andavar Temple, Pillar Road, Suicide Point, Devil’s Kitchen, Dolphin Noise, Waterfalls, Bear Shola falls, Silver cascade, Kodaikanal Solar Observatory Park. etc is the major attraction of Kodaikanal.
How to Reach Kodaikanal hill station Kodaikanal Tamil Nadu?
Perched at almost a height of around 7420 feet, Kodaikanal hill station Kodaikanal Tamil Nadu is a popularly known hill station in the Southern part of India. The atmosphere of Tamil Nadu is always serene, cool, and misty. The area is covered by rolling hills, green valleys, and wooded forests.
There are three ways of transportation to reach Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu.
By Rail: Kodai Road is situated at a distance of almost 100 KM away from the main town of Kodaikanal. And Kodai Road is the nearest railway station. The trains from Madurai and Trichy are available to run from Kodai Road. The nearest railway station withstands the arrival and departure of all major trains connecting all other important Indian cities.
By Road: Kodaikanal is connected by road to important towns like Palani, Theni, Madurai, Dindigul, Kumuli, and Chennai. Moreover, state and private buses operate at almost frequent intervals. These are connected from multiple cities far and near for an alternative road trip to Kodai lake and its surrounding regions that are mainly meant for tourist attractions.
By Air: One can reach Kodaikanal by air. It is located around 120 KM away. Madurai Airport is the nearest airport. There are daily flights that allow people to reach Kodaikanal after they board the flights from Chennai, Trichy, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other places. There are flights that are available to Trichy and Coimbatore.
Detailed Information About Kodaikanal Tamil Nadu
Madurai Airport is located at a distance of about 122 KM from Kodaikanal. The nearest airport to the city is Kodaikanal. Coimbatore is another major airport that is situated at a distance of about 172 KM from the beautiful place.
People can find regular flights to Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi Pune, and all other cities from any of these airports. Coimbatore Junction is another major railway station in Kodaikanal. After you reach the Coimbatore railway station, you can then book a taxi or a rickshaw from Kodaikanal to reach these places.
Moreover, there are regular buses that operate from Kodaikanal. And, the distances from all major cities to Kodaikanal are as follows:
- Madurai (122 KM).
- Palani (62 KM).
- Dindigul (70 KM).
- Bangalore (465 KM).
- Tiruchirapalli (198 KM).
- Coimbatore (177 KM).
What is the name of the Kodaikanal Railway Station?
The name of the Kodaikanal Railway Station is Kodai Road. The station code is KQN. This railway station lies between Dindigul and Madurai. Kodai Road was previously listed as Kodaikanal railway station. The peak time to visit Kodaikanal hill station is in the summer months which runs between March to June.
How many hills are there in Kodaikanal Hill Station?
There are 8 hill stations that together make Kodaikanal hill station a beautiful place to spell peace and thus is perfect. Kodaikanal is situated in the Western Ghats at a height of almost 2200 meters above sea level. This place experiences a serene, cool, and calm climate almost throughout the year. Thus it is said to be one of the top hill stations which are rightly marked as a romantic place for honeymoon goers.
Let us unwind with the top 8 names of the hill stations near Kodaikanal that are rightly known to offer a calm and serene stay for all tourists. So, here we set off so that travelers do not miss out on the dazzling breathtaking views.
- Vattakanal: Popular for clouds all over.
- Yelagiri Hills: A mesmerizing sunrise view.
- Kotagiri Hills: Beautiful scenery and breathtaking views.
- Valparai Hills: popular for coffee plantations.
- Ketti Valley: Offers a great relaxing spot among the valleys and the hills.
- Kolli Hills: Fun and hiking experience.
- Palani Hills: Beautiful surroundings.
- Topslip Hills: Great gigantic views of the hills & Adventure sports.
Other Places of Attraction Nearby Kodaikanal Tamil Nadu
- Akash Ganga Waterfalls.
- Selur Nadu Viewpoint.
- Nammu Aruvi Waterfalls.
- Botanical Gardens.
- Arapaleeswarar Temple.
- Maasila Waterfalls.
- Sim’s Park.
- Rose Garden.
- Ooty Hills.
- Mariamman Temple.
- Doddabetta Peak.
- Lamba’s Rock.
- Hidden Valley.
What is so special about Kotagiri Hills?
Kotagiri Hills offers scenic beauty that is still unexplored by many. The place is less crowded and is covered by tea valleys with misty mountains. Kotagiri is a perfect place for photography and can win anyone’s heart completely. The nearby attraction in Kotagiri Hills is- St Catherine falls, Kodanad viewpoint, Johnston Circle, and many more. The distance from Kodaikanal is 230 KM. The nearest railhead is almost at a distance of 21.7 KM.
Staying Options: Hanging Huts Resort, Silvertip cafe & Homestay, IVC Villa, Umber Tea Cottage. All these places are perfect for family stays. Food is fresh and delicate. The staff is also very friendly and thus travelers enjoy a cool and safe stay during their trip to Kodaikanal.
What is the History Behind Kodaikanal Hill Station?
Kodaikanal is a city and also a Taluk division of the Dindigul district in the state of Tamil Nadu. The earliest residents of Kodaikanal were known as Paliyan Tribes. These people and their tribal culture get their reference in the Tamil Sangam literature in the Christian era.
The most important fact is that the modern Kodaikanal was established as a hill station during the reign of the American missionaries in the year 1845. Later this place came to be known as the princess of Hill Station. In the 20th century, there were a few Indians of the elite section who came to visit this place and praised them for their culture, tradition, and many other aspects that won their hearts.
In addition to this, the Kodaikanal Gudalur Railway Line was put under the contemplation of the Government starting in 1889 when Madras and Travancore Governments signed an agreement regarding the waters of the Periyar River.
Which mountain is called the Mountain of Death?
Kolli Hills is called the Mountain Of Death. There are several hiking enthusiasts, members of trekking clubs, and other general appreciators of nature that are seen visiting the Kolli Hills. Here are some untrodden paths in these mountains which remain dark even during the daytime. It is the serene atmosphere and also the chirping of the birds that make this place one of the best and the ideal spot to enjoy.
Why is Valparai so popular?
At Valparai the area is famous for being the place for coffee plantations. The region is located at a distance of 1066.8 meters above sea level. There are man-made tea and coffee plantations that can co-exist with the dense forests in the Valparai Hills. In addition to this, there are different kinds of fauna in this place.
How to reach Valparai: The closest airport to Valparai is in Coimbatore which is at a distance of 120 KM. The nearest railway station is Pollachi which is at a distance of 64 KM. The distance of Kodaikanal is 182.5 KM.
Places to stay- ATS homestay, Green INN, Mani’s Homestay, Bison Valley, Malakkappara Dam Resort, Bala’s Misty Cottage, ABI Cottage, Backpackers Hostel, Romans Pod House, Rest houses. The best time to visit is between September to March. Staying amidst the green-spread mountains and the lush green forests all around gives a complete feel of being along the hill station that is put up with all kinds of perfection. Make sure you have prepared the right list of itineraries before you commence your trip.
Which animals can be seen in Kodaikanal Hill station?
Animals like gaur, elephant, panther, sloth, black-headed oriole and green pigeon are seen in Kodaikanal hill station. The best time to visit is September to March. It will be best if you enjoy an ideal trip duration of 2-3 days at a stretch. Not only animals but also birds are seen in abundance in this part of the region. Indeed tourists can spot the rarest type of birds, plants, and amphibians, as well as butterflies.
Which is the best time to visit Kodaikanal Hill Station?
The best time to visit Kodaikanal Hill station is during the winter months. These months run between October and March. Moreover, the summer months, as well as the rainy season, also make a comfortable tour of Kodaikanal. Months from April to June and between July and September also make for a good Kodaikanal trip. Monsoons are slightly delicate to visit for travelers as the rainfall is very heavy here.
- Low Season To Visit: Monsoon Months (June end to August mid).
- Peak Season To Visit: Winter Months ( November to February).
- Moderate Season to Visit: Summer Months (March to April).
Is Kodaikanal popular for shopping?
Kodaikanal Valley is popular for shopping purposes. It is a straddling destination for shopping as the city contains a variety of factories, homemade chocolates, assortment oils, cheese, spice corners, jewellery shops, pearls, herbal oils, ceramic objects, pottery, crockery, and artefacts. In addition to this, this place is a worthy junction for issuing Brooklyn Rewards.
Tourism in Kodaikanal Hill Station: A short overview
Tourism in Kodaikanal Hill Station needs special mention. For a very long time, Kodaikanal Hill Station has been a popularly known place. Kodaikanal is surrounded by lush greenery, meadows, and grasslands. It lies in the beautiful atmosphere almost along the tourist-targeted hill station. Kodaikanal Tourism is on the verge of developing far better than before.
Moreover, in the year 1875, the Indian railways decided to extend their lines to Coimbatore. Then from Chennai to Tirunelveli for the tourists. Thus the construction was done at Ammaianayakkanur then later it was renamed the Kodai Road to offer a getaway to Kodaikanal. Since this place is a hill city therefore it has an average moderate climate almost throughout the year. Thus it is very easy to plan a holiday trip to this place.
About Hotels & Resorts At Kodaikanal Hill Station
In this beautiful hill station, there are multiple options to stay which include hotels, resorts, cottages, Airbnb, OYO, and many other places. Most of the resting places lie between the wooded slopes and the gigantic trees. The tourists mainly prefer to stay near the hill station where they can explore the beautiful places without getting delayed.
A few hotels and resorts to name are Sterling Holiday Resorts, Hill Country Resorts, Kodaikanal Resorts, Hotel Villa Retreat, Le Poshe by Sparsa, Carlton, Hotel Villa Retreat, Royal Hotel, and many other homestays and OYO options.
Remember whenever you are planning to book your staying options in Kodaikanal, prefer booking the places through booking apps. It will help you a lot to save time and money at the same time. From Kodaikanal, you can also visit Bison Hills, Murugan temple, Varadhamanadhi Dam, and many other places.
Final Words
Are you planning to go on a relaxing vacation on the hilltop? Or are you thinking of a romantic date this Valentine’s day? Book a trip to Kodaikanal hill station Kodaikanal Tamil Nadu and cut your way towards the mesmerizing Kodaikanal, the princess of the hills.
Kodaikanal is sandwiched between the Parappar and Gundar and is largely covered with thick forests and lots of adventurous forests with ubiquitous grassland like that of the green carpet and lovely flowers.
Book your tickets today.