There are couple of places in South India that can let you have a blissful experience altogether, Kodaikanal is meant to be the “Gift of Forest” aka “Princess of Hill Station”
Located in the Dindigul district, state Tamil Nadu. The name Kodaikanal means “Gift of Forest” in the Native Tamil Language and was established in 1845 as a refuge from the tropical diseases and high temperatures of the plains. Most of the local economy is based on the hospitality industry serving tourism, where the population resides around 36,500 as of 2011.
Discovering Kodaikanal
How to Get There?
The nearest town to Kodaikanal is Palani (around 70-100kms), Coimbatore Airport & Railway Station is located around 180km from Kodaikanal. Traveling by road gives you immense sceneries filled with dense forest, though the road is good; its narrow and advised to maintain your speed while you climb the ghat with extreme care towards the hair-pins.
Staying in Kodaikanal
Exploring options using Airbnb would be worth, as there are many beautiful houses available for rent with caretakers. If you are planning to go with your family, let’s say more than 3-4 people, booking a villa using Airbnb can cut down your cost and also let you have a pleasant stay.
Spending more than 2 days would be ideal in Kodaikanal, the best time to visit Kodaikanal is during summer. However, the place has its own beauty and attraction during winter too.
Places to visit in Kodaikanal
Many known travelers would find Pillar Rocks, Kodai Lake, Golf Club, Bryant Part and Guna caves as a regular place to visit in Kodaikanal. However, there are few more places in Kodaikanal which could be new for many.
- Pillar Rocks.
- Pine Forest.
- Chocolate Shops.
- Restaurant & Café around Kodai Lake.
- Colonial era churches.
Trekking in Kodaikanal
If you like trekking, there are couple of resorts who provide their own guide to show you best places for trekking. Vattakanal trek is largely unexplored and an exciting activity for those who like to trek and discover spectacular cliffs and dense forest. The place is an attraction for those who like to have a break from their same enduring schedule and unwind the essence of nature for some while. If you happen to explore such places in group or arrange an event for trekking, you can manage rugged devices that help you understand your colleague’s location while trekking in Kodaikanal.
Also Read: Best places for Trekking in India
Covering up Vattakanal trekking
Dolphin’s Nose is the most popular attraction in Vattakanal, it appears that the rock bulges out from the cliff above the valley below which gives you an inconceivable view & feel when you stand on the edge of the cliff. While you keep walking, you’d discover Vattakanal Waterfalls. The waterfall is at it’s best during monsoon, flowing in an enthralling manner you just can’t get your eyes off it.
It would be recommended that you explore this place in group or opt for an agency who can take care of the trekking part entirely. Since the path is covered with dense forest, beware of leeches and do carry essential kit.
Anju Veedu Waterfalls aka Elephant Valley Falls
Anju Veedu Waterfalls which is popularly known as Elephant Valley Falls, Palar Falls. Well what Anju Veedu Waterfalls means is ‘5 House Falls’ Situated in the Palar Valley, Anju Veedu Falls is found on the Vilpatti range of mountains, amidst the Palani Hills Anju Veedu waterfall drops down from the Elephant Corridor, which gave the name Elephant Valley Falls. It’s originating from the Kodaikanal Lake and the waterfall is at a distance of about 6.5km from Palar Reservoir.
Perumal Peak – Known for the Highest Peak in Kodai
Permal Peak is situated 18km from Kodaikanal & 55km from Palani, Perumal Peak is situated near Perumalmalai village close to Palani Road. It’s the part of greater Western hat mountain range in Tamil Nadu and is known for the highest peak in Kodaikanal. This spot is mostly on the list of people who plan for trekking, considering one of the popular places for trekking in Kodaikanal, the places also enlists in most of the Kodaikanal tour package.
The trekking starts from the lowest point which is close to Perumal Malai Village (11km away from Kodaikanal) having said that, Perumal Malai Village can also be reached by private vehicles. Which makes total distance for trekking to around 7km & should take 3-4 hours one way. You may experience moderate difficulty while some of the parts are steep. The package includes overnight camping while most of the trekkers visit the peak and return on the same day.
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All you need to do is research well before you plan your next trip to Kodaikanal, the trekking activity may vary according to the climate and the forest department. However, you can manage to do many more things that can make your stay in Kodaikanal pleasant as well as irresistible with its beauty to remain unexplored.
