Kodaikanal
Situated at an altitude of 2133 meters on the Palani Hills of the Western Ghats, Kodaikanal is a charming hill station and easily motorable. In fact, a favourite with holidayers and honeymooners, it is a trekker's delight too!
Kodaikanal centres around its star- shaped lake. Located amidst thick greenery, it offers very enjoyable boating. The lake covers 60 acres and has a 5 km promenade around it. There are enchanting wooded slopes and paths with carpets of moss -- excellent for a leisurely stroll. Kodaikanal is also famous for the kurunji flower which blooms only once in 12 years. The Shenbaganur Museum is said to house one of the best orchid collections in India.
ACCESS
Nearest airport is Madurai (120 km). Nearest railhead is Kodai Road 80 km away on Madurai-Trichy-Chennai route. There are regular buses connecting Kodaikanal with other important cities around.
EXCURSIONS
Coaker's Walk -- situated on the southern face of Kodai Ridge it has Telescope House. Green Valley View is about 6 km away. Pillar Rocks -- full of caves and chasms for the adventure-lover. Silver Cascade -- 8 km away. Perumal Peak -- 11.3 km away. Berijam Lake, Kukkal Cave, Glen Falls, Fairy Falls.
ACCOMMODATION
The Carlton, Lake Road. Phone: 40056-71; Fax: 41170.
Kodai International, Laws Ghat Road. Phone: 40649/771; Fax: 40753.
Valley View Sterling Resorts Pallangi Road. Phones: 40635, 40637.
Lakeview Sterling Resorts, 44, Gymkhanna Road. Phones: 40313-6; Fax: 41065.
Tamil Nadu, Fern Hill Road. Phone: 41336; Fax: 41340.
Astoria, Anna Salai. Phone 40524-6.