Kodaikanal (also known as Kodai locally), situated at a distance of around 100 KM from Dindigul, is one of the most fascinating holiday destinations of South India. It is located in the upper Palani hills of the Western Ghats about 7000 feet from the sea level. Palaiyar tribal people were the earliest known residents in this hill. It was in the 19th century, when the modern Kodaikanal was established by British Christian missionaries. In the 20th century, a few elite Indians started relocating to this enchanting hill station and it started becoming popular among nature lovers then.
Unlike Ooty, this hill station is not that much commercialized as of now, which offers pleasant experience for the tourists. Though the sight seeing places of this hill is covered by a walk, the pleasing climate will surely make anyone take at least 2 nights of stay here. Spread across an area of 60 acres, the man made Kodaikanal lake was developed in 1863. Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the then Collector of Madurai, was the person behind the idea of making this lake. The lake is surrounded by beautiful valleys, boat clubs, and buildings of English style. The 5 KM walk lane around the lake is a favourite to spend the evenings. If not walking, people can make use of horse ridings and rental cycles available along the way. To spend time on the lake, there are rowboats and pedal boats that can be hired at the boat club.
There are several shops around the lake that sell woolen clothes, toys, eateries, etc. Similar to Kodaikanal lake, another artificial lake called Berijam lake was constructed at 15 KM from Kodaikanal centre. 3 years after the creation of Kodaikanal lake, this place was chosen by Colonel Hamilton, an officer of the British army for military cantonment purposes. Now, this lake meets the drinking water purposes for Periyakulam town, which is located on the base of this hill. Surrounded by lush green pine plantations, the lake acts as a major hotspot for both flora and fauna conservation. Though this lake is easily approachable by road, it needs special permission from the forest department for the tourist to visit. Similar to Kodaikanal lake, boating is also doable here.
In an area of around 20 acres, Bryant park was built in 1908 by HD Bryant, the then forest officer of Madurai. The park houses innumerable species of herbs, shrubs and plant species. It specially organizes horticulture exhibitions on the season times, containing hundreds of flower varieties. On the southern side of the town, near steep slopes, a 1 KM paved pedestrian walk was made in 1872 by Colonel Coaker and hence it is named after him as Coaker’s walk. If you are lucky and the sun makes its way to you, it is possible to witness the Dolphin nose, Pambar river, Palani hills and Madurai city on this walk. To get a chance for better views, it is advisable to take a walk at noon, as mists may form in the mornings and evenings.
Another major attraction is the Pillar rocks, a 3 giant rock portion that stands majestically on a cliff. With thick vegetation around and misty clouds over them all the time, they are wonderful for sight. But, we need to wait for sometime to get the glimpse of the whole picture as this area is mostly cloudy with unfazed rains. The Kurinji Andavar temple is a place of sanctity dedicated to lord Murugan. To amaze its origin, this temple was built by an European lady, who was influenced by Hinduism. Built in authentic South Indian architecture, this temple is situated near the chettiar park and is open on select timings. It is also famous for Kurinji flowers that bloom once in 12 years. The recent season for these flowers was in 2018. With a lot of stay options from homestays to resorts, a visit to this hill station will be a refreshment for the body and soul. The hill station can be visited throughout the year with the best experience on summer time (March to May).