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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.

The Kodaikanal Essentials

Kodaikanal is a place that can take you back to different eras in time. It will take an entire day to just walk through all the places of historical significance. Coaker’s Walk, Solar Observatory and the Kurinji Andavar Temple, are only three of many such places in Kodaikanal.

Coaker's Walk

Coaker's Walk is a place of historical significance in Kodaikanal. In 1872 CE, Lt. Coaker made a kilometre-long path through the steep ridge, overlooking the plains below. You can check out the view using a telescope at the View-Point House. If you are lucky and the weather is on your side, you might be able to see your shadow with a rainbow halo, when the sun is behind you and misty clouds are in front of you. This interesting phenomenon is called the Brachem Spectre.

Solar Observatory

The Solar Observatory in Kodaikanal is worth a visit. It was built in 1899 CE, and is at the highest point of Kodai hills, at about 7700 ft. The need to study the sun's impact on weather patterns and nature was felt strongly, after Tamil Nadu suffered a severe famine and drought. The telescope quickly produced fascinating results, most notably the discovery of the Evershed Effect in 1909 CE. Astronomer John Evershed, one of the directors of the observatory, first noticed this phenomenon of gas moving radially across the sun’s penumbra here.

Kurinji Andavar Temple

The Kurinji Andavar temple is dedicated to Lord Muruga or Karthikeya. Interestingly, this temple was built by a European lady in 1936, who, while visiting Ceylon, converted to Hinduism. This temple is surrounded by the rare Kurinji flower which is known to blossom only once in 12 years.

Sterling Kodai would be happy to facilitate these sightseeing experiences for you.

 

Good to Know :

Coaker’s Walk: 3.2 km from Sterling Kodai - Lake, 5.6 km from Sterling Kodai - Valley.

Solar Observatory: 5 km from Sterling Kodai - Lake, 7.2 km from Sterling Kodai - Valley.

Kurinji Andavar Temple: 4.7 km from Sterling Kodai - Lake, 4.3 km from Sterling Kodai - Valley.

Follow the guidelines for photography. Keep children safe.

Other Attractions

Mannavanur Lake : Picnic by the Lake

Mannavanur Lake : Picnic by the Lake

7.5hrs

Clouds float languidly on a lake and birds swoop into its still blue waters. This one is a must visit.
Vilpatti Hill: A Vista of Valleys

Vilpatti Hill: A Vista of Valleys

3hrs

Vilpatti is a trekker's delight offering various trails and vantage points.
Pillar Rocks: Guardians of a Forest

Pillar Rocks: Guardians of a Forest

3hrs

Pillar Rocks are an interesting natural phenomenon in Kodaikanal.
Kodai Lake: A Man-Made Marvel

Kodai Lake: A Man-Made Marvel

3hrs

Visit this beautiful, star-shaped lake which is part of the quintessential Kodai experience.
Bear Shola Falls : At the Edge of the Shola Forests

Bear Shola Falls : At the Edge of the Shola Forests

8hrs

Bear Shola Falls: When the monsoons add to the symphony of Kodaikanal.
Vattakanal: A Backpacker's Pit Stop

Vattakanal: A Backpacker's Pit Stop

3hrs

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.
Shembaganur Museum: The Natural History of Kodaikanal

Shembaganur Museum: The Natural History of Kodaikanal

3hrs

Shembaganur museum is believed to have one of the best orchid collections in the country. Visiting this orchidarium is a pleasant experience.