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Sights
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[1818-1885]
the then collector of Madurai, retired and settled in Kodaikanal. 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
boating was opened to public and tourists in 1932 only.
Bryant's Park:
Conceived and landscaped in 1980 by a British Army Officer, Glenn Bryant.
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 displays fine varieties of flowers, can be seen here.
Everyone should visit the Flower Show conducted every year during May, as
part of the Summer Festivals.
Solar Physical Observatory:
It is located at 3.2 Kms from the lake at an elevation of 2343 meters. This
observatory set up in 1899, is owned and operated by Indian Institute of
Astrophysics. This is the highest point at Kodaikanal. There is a popular
Astronomy museum on campus for the visitors.
Coakers Walk: Er.
Coaker identified this hill-edged pathway in 1872 a kilometer away from the
lake. Coaker’s walk runs along a steep slope on the southern side of
Kodaikanal. It offers some of the best views of plains. Entry fee is
collected here.
Kurinji Andavar Temple: The
temple is situated 3 Kms from the lake. It is a famous shrine dedicated to
Lord Murugan. The temple is associated with the Kurunji flowers that bloom
once in 12 years. Kurunji means the hill region in Tamil Literature and
andavar means God. Hence Lord Murugan is worshipped as the God of the Hill.
From this temple, one can have a view of Palani and Vaigi Dam.
Telescope House:
Old-fashioned Telescope house at Coakers Walk was constructed to enable
visitors to have a panoramic view of the valley and nearby towns.
Sothupparai Dam, Vaigai Dam, Periyakulam and more areas can be viewed from
this point. A nominal fee is collected to use the telescope.
The Pillar Rocks: These
stand at 122 meters high and are located at 7 Kms from Kodai lake.
Moir Point: Moir Point
provides a lovely view of the valley. It is just 3 Kms from the Pillar Rocks
/ Berijam Lake Road.
Silent Valley View: It
is a very silent zone, Just a little away from the pillar rocks and the
Berijam Lake Road, which provides a breathtaking view of Silent Valley. It
suits its name because it is a very silent zone. Elders should accompany
children only.
Shenbaganur Museum: It
was established In 1895, also known as Fauna Flora Museum, is 5 Kms from the
Lake. The Sacred Heart College maintains this museum. It was established to
preserve certain archaeological remains and the flora and fauna of the
hills. It houses one of the best Orchidarium in the country having over 300
species of exotic orchids on display. A Spaniard contributed many of his
private collections to this museum.
Silver Cascade Falls:
It is on the Madurai Kodaikanal Road at the 8th Km from Kodai lake. It is
the overflow from the Kodaikanal Lake that drops down as a 180-foot high
waterfall. Those interested can have a bath here.
La Saleth [sallette] Church:
This is a 150 years old heritage Church, Kodaikanal. Thanks, offering was
fulfilled in the year 1866. This is one of the Two Shrines, [the other one
being in France] dedicated to our lady of La Saleth. Annual festival’s
extraordinary celebration takes place at La Saleth church every year on the
14th and 15th of August as the conclusion of a Nine Day festival, which
attracts worshippers from entire South India irrespective of caste, color,
creed or faith. It is located near Coaker’s walk.
For More Information
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Plot No. 78, Sector - 44, Gurgaon-122002, Haryana India
Phone :0091-124-4932450 Fax :0091-124-4932499
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