Kodaikanal: The Call of the Pine-Scented Hills
The misty town of Kodaikanal or Kodai, sits snugly in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu. Perched at an altitude of 2,133 m, the dense forests and the cool pine-scented air draws travellers who seek respite from the scorching heat of the plains. Meandering forest paths amidst tree covered slopes present ample options for those who love walking, hiking and trekking.
Endowed with a variety of flora, Kodai boasts of abundant cypress, eucalyptus and acacia trees, in addition to scenic waterfalls, lakes, old churches and colonial-era villas. Another speciality of Kodai is the Kurinji shrub, whose lilac-blue blossoms make an appearance every 12 years. (2018 was the latest year of bloom.)
Our Resort(s) at KODAIKANAL
Important Information
State: Tamil Nadu
Destination Type: Hill Station
Destinations Nearby: Madurai 115 km, Munnar 163 km, Coimbatore 180 km, Kochi 312 km
Nearest Sterling Resorts: Sterling Kodai- Valley, Sterling Kodai- Lake, Sterling Munnar
Languages: Tamil and English
Nearest Railway Station: Kodai Road
Nearest Airport: Madurai
Summer: March to May. Temperature ranges between 20°C and 34°C.
Monsoon: June to August. The region receives average rainfall and the weather remains very pleasant.
Winter: December to February. Temperature remains in the range of 8°C to 17°C.
1. Buy homemade chocolates, they are a delicacy.
2. Do carry an umbrella because rains can be unpredictable.
3. It’s better to pack warm clothes when visiting Kodaikanal.
4. Light woollens for summers and raincoats during monsoons.
5. Don’t forget to taste the delicious tea varieties available locally.
Gallery
Experiences
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Mannavanur Lake : Picnic by the Lake
Clouds float languidly on a lake and birds swoop into its still blue waters. This one is a must visit.
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The Kodaikanal Essentials
Walking the streets of Kodaikanal, one can see history come alive. Do not forget to visit the Kurinji Andavar Temple, Coaker’s Walk and Solar Observatory.
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Vilpatti Hill: A Vista of Valleys
Vilpatti is a trekker's delight offering various trails and vantage points.
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Pillar Rocks: Guardians of a Forest
Pillar Rocks are an interesting natural phenomenon in Kodaikanal.
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Kodai Lake: A Man-Made Marvel
Visit this beautiful, star-shaped lake which is part of the quintessential Kodai experience.
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Bear Shola Falls : At the Edge of the Shola Forests
Bear Shola Falls: When the monsoons add to the symphony of Kodaikanal.
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Vattakanal: A Backpacker's Pit Stop
Vattakanal is a cozy village tucked into the hills, about 10 km away from Kodaikanal Lake. Away from the hustle and bustle, it shows what being in the lap of nature truly means.
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Shembaganur Museum: The Natural History of Kodaikanal
Shembaganur museum is believed to have one of the best orchid collections in the country. Visiting this orchidarium is a pleasant experience.