Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is one of the most pleasant hill stations in southern India. It was founded in the mid 1840's by American missionaries, who built a school there. Later the British added stone cottages and manicured lawns. Kodaikanal sits on the shores of the artificial Kodaikanal Lake, that was constructed there in 1863. Small boats can be rented to go out on the lake. About 7 km (4 mi) from the lake are two 100 m (400 ft) tall rock formations known as Pillar Rocks. Another artificial lake named Berijam Lake is some 20 km from town. The city is surrounded by beautiful, forested hills, waterfalls and rocky outcrops. The most scenic waterfall is the 30 m (100 ft) high Silver Cascade Falls, 8 km (5 mi) from town, while Bear Shola Falls are only 3 km (2 mi) away.

There are many Hindu temples, mosques and churches, including Kuzhanthai Velappar temple, which is said to have been built around 1000 BC and Kurinji Andavar Temple that dates from 1924. Not far from Coaker's Walk is La Saleth Church.

Kodaikanal is on the southern crest of the Palani Hills and there are many walking trails through the area. At some places along the trails the views are absolutely magnificent. Coaker's Walk is a 1 km (0.6 mi) long walkway that was constructed by Lt. Coaker in 1872. It runs along the edge of the slopes on Kodaikanal's southern side and offers great views over the area. There is also a narrow path that leads to the viewpoint of Dolphin Nose for more panoramic views. Green valley view is 5 km (3 mi) from the Kodaikanal Lake and offers a view of the Vaigai Dam down below. To the southwest of Kodaikanal are beautiful pine forests.

The highest location near Kodaikanal is Kodaikanal Solar Observatory 6 km (4 mi) from town. Observations started there in 1901. There is a asronomy museum and night-time telescopic viewing is organized. Some 5 km (3 mi) from Kodaikanal is the Shenbaganur museum, which exhibits archaeological finds and has a beautiful orchidarium. On the outskirts of the city are the bat infested Guna caves.

There are several hotels and restaurants in town and the best time to visit is between April and June or from August to October. Kodaikanal is some 2000 km south of Delhi.