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Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu
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Popularly known as Kodai, the idyllic retreat at Kodaikanal, nestles amongst the picturesque Pali Hills. If keen an adventure Kodaikanal is just the place for there are oppurtunities for boating, trekking and long walks in tree covered glades. Pleasant in summer it is slightly chilly in winters specially after sunset. Located at the southern tip of the upper Palanimalai hill, this beautiful hill station is quite famous. Kodaikanal has gathered much fame due to its world famous educational institutions.
It is situated at an altitude of about 2,133-m high and covers an area of 21.45-sq-km. The pride of Kodaikanal is the 'Kurinji-flower', which blossoms once in 12 years. The hill-plantain fruits and plums are known for their freshness and taste.
Climate : The temperatures in summer range from a maximum of 20°C to a minimum of 11°C, and in winter from 17°C to 8°C. Annual rainfall in the region is around 165 cms.
Places to see
A nature lover's paradise, the resort has a star shaped lake and a splendid Bryant Park. The park has many rare species of flowers, hybrids and graftings. Many Horticulture Shows are held here every year. The nation's only Solar Physical Laboratory is also located at Kodaikanal.
The Coaker's Walk offers some fantastic views of the surrounding plains
The amazing orchid collection at the Shenbaganur Museum, has granted Kodai international fame
En route: The widest falls, Thalaiyar Falls also called as Rat tail falls ranging from 13th kilometer on the ghat road from Kodai Road or Dindigul. It is one of the highest falls in India, with their 975ft sheer drop.
One can experience the glorious views of the surrounding plains on the Coaker's Walk.
The Kurinji Avatar temple offers a panoranic view of the scenic Pali hills. This temple is dedicated to the Lord Murugan.
Other popular picnic spots in Kodaikanal are Pillar Rocks, Green Valley view and Bear Shola falls. The flora and fauna of the area is magnificent. The Kurinji flower, which blossoms once every 12 years is found in Kodai. The Kurinji flowers will bloom next in 2018. Numerous birds can also be spotted here, making Kodai an ideal getaway for everybody.
Bicycles can be hired for per day basis and take a venture into the fascinating countryside. Horse riding is another option. There is a skating hall on the post office road.
One can purchase oil extracted from different spices like cloves, eucalyptus, garlic etc.
More places to see
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How to reach
By Air - The nearest airport is at Madurai (120 km from Kodaikanal).
By Train - The nearest railway stations are the Kodai Road Railway Station (80-km) and the Palani Railway Station (64-km)
By Road - Kodaikanal is connected by road with Chennai (520-km), Ooty (264-km), Trichy (197-km), Coimbatore (175-km), Kumili (160-km), and Madurai(120-km). Regular bus services are available from Madurai, Palani, Kodaikanal Road, Theni, Dindigul, Tiruchirapalli, Kumuli (Thekkady) and Coimbatore. Additional buses ply during the season. Local Transporation at Kodaikanal: Taxis and vans are available for local transportation. There are no auto-rickshaws in Kodaikanal.
Chennai - Kodaikanal Road drive
Route - NH 38
Distance - 519 kms
Time - 8.5 hrs
Tamil Nadu
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Capital city - Chennai
Ideal time to Visit - October to March.
A large part of the state being on the coastal edge of the country, the weather is tropical and sultry for most part of the year. The summer months of April, May, June are hottest where temperature ranges to 40 degrees.
December and January are the peak months for Chennai. The temp ranges from 20-22 degrees. To avoid peak rush October is better. The weather in these months is pleasant and easy to bear the humidity.
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