Kodaikanal Tours (Tamil Nadu)

If it wasn't for the scorching heat of the Madurai, Kodaikanal must have remained undiscovered yet. Set up in the year 1845 as a sanatorium by the American Madurai Mission, it is the only hill station in India which has been discovered and established by the Americans. Most of the sightseeing destinations in the town are located around the Starfish shaped lake, which forms Kodaikanal nucleus. Visitors take the customary boat ride, other than that horse an bicycle rides are quite popular among the kids. Although you can visit the place anytime throughout the year, but its better you plan out the vacations to Kodai after the monsoons.

Things to do and see :

The Nature Trail : Tourists can start their sightseeing tour to Kodaikanal from Bryant Park, the popular botanical garden set up by the British forest officer, than proceed to the Coaker's Walk a strip of paved road on the steep and emerald green wooden slope (entry fee Rs 5). Another major attraction -Pillar Rocks – a 400 ft. high verticle column of three rocks, is a must visit attraction. Around 2 kms from lake are the popular Bear Shola Falls, which was once the spot of bears to drink water. They are best watched during the rainy season. Apart from that you can also make a visit to the lesser known Bambar Glen and Fairy Falls.

Getting Higher :- Around three kilometers from the Kodai lake is the famous Kurinji Andavar Temple, dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya . From temple you get magnificent view of the plains and Vaigai Dam. Another attraction here is Perumal Peak which is around 12 kms from Kodai. It is the highest point in the Kodai Hills at the height of 7,874 ft. Not to miss is the Kodai Observatory, which is home to world's oldest extant telescopes, that are open to tourists all time during the season.

Lakeside Attractions :- Honeymooners can hire the boats available in pedal, row and shikara shapes at the Kodaikanal Boat and Rowing Club. You can also enjoy the pony rides varying from Rs 50 for the half round of the lake to rs 100 for the complete one round.

Where to Stay :- Kodaikanal offers wide range of accommodation facilities ranging from luxurious to budget hotels and resorts. Greenlands Youth Hostel, Hill Country Holiday, Hotel Garden Manor, Roseflower Resort are some of the best option in town.