Kodaikanal, a hill town hideaway

Kodaikanal which means the ‘gift of the forest’ in Tamil is one of the most serene and beautiful hill stations in Southern India. Rightfully called the ‘Princess of Hill Stations’, Kodaikanal gives you a lot to do in this small place.

By the lake
The most popular place here is the lake. The boat ride gives one of the best views of the mountains.

Cycling
Best way to see the main town is to hire a cycle (costs only Rs 20 per hour). Take the route alongside the lake and ride as you enjoy the birds in the lake and picturesque locales. Stop wherever you like, to soak in the views and then get back on the cycle. Avoid the main market area which is flooded with tourist vehicles emitting fumes and go for the more remote areas.

Trekking to Dolphin’s Nose and Echo Point
The only way to get to certain viewpoints is a trek. One such route leads you down to some spectacular points from where you get a view of the serene valley. A half-an-hour-long not-so-treacherous trek downhill through trees and varieties of flowers, takes you to the top of the Dolphin’s nose. Get to the edge of the rock (shaped like a dolphin’s nose and you will find yourself looking down 6,000 feet. This is the most popular point at every hill station.

Bear Shola falls
This waterfall dries up during summer so the best time to visit is during the rainy season and winter. It’s not the hugest falls you may have seen, but is located right in the middle of the forests adding to its beauty. A quiet walk leads up to the fall and you can trek up to the top of the falls too.

Other sites
Amongst other interesting sites is Pillar rocks. Three pillars standing 400-feet-tall is a magnificent site. Guna caves — the dangerous bat infested caves (earlier called Devil’s Kitchen, was shut to tourists after the death of 12 youths). Sections can now be viewed from a distance. If you like exploring quaint temples, do make it a point to see the Kurinji Andavar Murugan temple. Built by a European in 1937, it is the temple of Lord Murugan and is famous for its Kurinji flower which blossoms every 12 years. Don’t forget to walk around the town post sunset. The quiet surroundings, cool breeze and fresh air of Kodaikanal will help you relax and rejuvenate.