PRINCESS OF HILL STATIONS
In a state where scenery and terrain
is perhaps more varied than in any other part of the country,
where the forested slopes of the majestic hills of the
western ghats vie with the magnificent beaches of the
Coromandel coast, it is indeed difficult to decide which
is the best feature of multi-faceted Tamil Nadu.
Located 120 kms away from Madurai,
Kodaikkanal is a beautiful hill station and is at an altitude
of 2133m on the southern tip of the upper Palani hills
in the Western ghats. Kodaikkanal has a bracing climate
where temperature do not vary much from summer to winter.
Fruits like plums and plantains grow abundantly on the
wooded slopes apart from a wide variety of flowers, among
which is the famous Kurinji flower which blooms once in
twelve years.
Kodai's most enchanting sights include
the star shaped lake, spread over an area of 24 hectares
where fishing allowed and boating facilities are available;
one of the world's oldest Solar Observatories that was
built in 1899; and the Orchidorium at the Sacred Heart
College where about 300 species of orchids can be seen.
There are also a number of picturesque walks like Coaker's
Walk and Priest's Walk. Kodai's best view points are Pillar
Rocks, and Green Valley View. Bear Shola Falls, Silver
Cascade, Fairy Falls and Glen Falls are popular with picnickers
while the Perumal Peak is a favourite with trekkers. The
Kurinji Andavar temple 3.2 kms away is dedicated to Lord
Subramanya.
Located 120 Km/75 mile away
from Madurai, Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill station at
an altitude of about 2133 m on the southern
tip of upper Palani hills in Tamil Nadu in the Western
Ghats. A well known feature and the one that attracts
a lot of tourists is the blooming of the famous kurinji
flower, which blooms once in12 years.
