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Discovery of Kodaikanal
Here is a story Lieutenant Ward, an Englishman, who climbed up from the Kunnavan village of Vellagavi to Kodaikanal in 1821 to survey the area on the hilly ranges of Palani. In 1834, the Madurai collector climbed the hill from Devadanapatti and built a small bungalow at the head of Adukkam pass near Shenbaganur. In 1836, Dr.Wite visited Kodaikanal and recorded his observations and these were very useful to botanists later. In 1845, American Missionaries built the first two bungalows “Sunnyside” and “Shelton”. Later, six American families came up the hill and stayed for the first time in Kodaikanal. Following this, the British also built houses here. The hill station Kodaikanal was created to serve the needs of the British and Europeans in India. The 20th century saw elite Indians entering Kodaikanal to enjoy its charm and beauty and to harness its natural wealth for development.
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| Stages of development
In 1875, the Indian Railways extended its
line from Chennai to Tirunelveli and a station was created at Ammaianayakkanur and this was later renamed Kodai Road, to provide a gateway to Kodaikanal. Tourists started their journey at Ammaianayakkanur Railway Station upto Krishnamma Nayak Thope. This trek was undertaken to Kodaikanal, 18 kms distance away using horses and palanquins, with coolies for assistance.
Today, the charm of Kodaikanal lies in its wooded slopes and gigantic trees. The mighty rocks, bowers, creeks and slopes captivate the visitors. The meadows, the long stretches of forests, beautiful spots and the flocks of sheep grazing on green pastures are a source of joy, delight and thrill to onlookers. The climb to the various jutting rocks at Kodai is rewarding. The arduous climb to the Pillar rocks, to a height of 400 ft, is a must for every visitor to this hill resort.
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General Information |
Area |
21.45 sq. kms |
Population |
32,931(2001 Census) |
Altitude |
2133 mts. above sea level |
Climate |
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Max. |
Min. |
Summer: |
19.8ºC |
11.3ºC |
Winter: |
17.3ºC |
8.3ºC |
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Rainfall |
165 cm (average). Heavy rain occurs during Oct-Dec. |
Clothing |
Light Wollens in the evening during summer and heavy wollens during winter. |
Languages spoken |
Tamil and English |
Season |
April to June and September to October but can be visited throughout the year. |
STD |
04542 |
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Places of Interest
The Lake
The 24-hectare lake skirted by a 5 km long black tar road is the focal point in Kodai. This lake was created in 1863 by Sir Vere Hendry Levinge (1819-1885 ). He was previously the Collector of Madurai, who retired and settled in Kodai. He constructed the bund to form a lake and stocked the lake with fish. He brought the first boat from Tuticorin. In 1890, a boat club was formed and members of the club set sail. In 1910, a new boathouse was constructed. The boat service was opened to the public and tourist as well in 1932.
Bryant's park
This park is situated on the eastern side of the lake. It is noted for its flowers, both hybrids and grafts. Cut flowers are exported from here. A glass house which shelters fine varieties of flowers can be seen here. The Flower Show conducted every year during May, as part of the Summer Festivals, should be seen by everyone.
Solar Physical Observatory
It is situated 32 kms from the lake. This observatory was founded in 1989 and it is located at an elevation of 2343 mtrs. This observatory is the highest point in Kodai. Visitors can observe the stars and the planets.
Coakers Walk
Coaker identified this hill-edged pathway in 1872. About a kilometre from the lake, Coaker's Walk runs along a steep slope on the southern side of Kodai. It offers some of the best views of the plains. Entry fee is collected here.
Kurinji Andavar Temple
Situated 3 kms from the lake is a famous shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan. This temple is associated with the Kurinji flowers that bloom once in 12 years. Kurinji means the hill region in Tamil literature and And avar means god.
Therefore, Lord Murugan is referred to as the God of the Hill here. From this temple, one can have a view of Palani and Vaigai Dam.
Telescope House at Coakers Walk was constructed to enable visitors to have a panoramic view of the valley and nearby towns. A fee is collected to use the telescope.
Green valley View (Suicide point) is about 5.5 kms from the lake and very near the Golf Club. This point commands a beautiful view of the entire Vaigai Dam. As the valley here is very deep, dense and dangerous this place was once known as “Suicide point.”
The Pillar Rocks
Three boulders stand here, shoulder-to-shoulder, vertically measuring 122 mtrs, providing a majestic sight. Pillar rocks are located 7.4 kms from the lake. It has a garden with lovely flowers.
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