Go Kodai

Few things about Kodai

Kodaikanal is sometimes referred to as the "Princess of Hill stations" and is a popular tourist destination. Kodaikanal stands in a 2,195 m (7,202 ft) high basin at the southern edge of the central part of the Palani Hills in the Western Ghats. Kodaikanal is at the top of a steep 2,000 m escarpment which is dramatically visible from Pillar Rocks. Due to its high altitude, Kodaikanal has a temperate subtropical climate. Surface temperature varies from moderate to quite cool. Kodaikanal is a romantic hill station for the newlyweds to go for a honeymoon. An artificial star shaped 45 ha. (60 acres) lake built in 1863 is located close to the centre of town. Next to the lake is Bryant Park, a botanic garden. Rowing boats and pedalos and riding horses can be hired. A five-kilometer path that skirts this lovely lake is a favourite walk. Kodaikanal is near the center of the proposed 736.87 km² Palani Hills National Park. The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is at the highest location near Kodai. A former director John Evershed, discovered the phenomenon of radial motion in sunspots, now known as the Evershed effect. The kodaikanal Terrestrial Telescope can view the complete surroundings of the hills which covers sothupparai dam, Vaigai Dam, periyakulam, Varaha river etc. Green Valley View (previous name was changed for better appeal to tourists), Pillar Rocks, Silver Falls, Kodai Television tower and the Guna caves (made popular by the Tamil movie Guna) are popular places where many tourists visit. The Kurinji Andavar temple is famous for its Kurinji flower which blossoms only once every 12 years. The blums, Berikke, Kodai milagaay, Red carrot are the most common natural edibles available. Cauliflower, cabbage, chillies and onions are cultivated on the outskirts of Kodaikanal.