Kodaikanal Lake History, Hidden Gems, Best Time to Visit and Photography
Located at
Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal Lake is a scenic, star-shaped lake located in the hill station of Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu, India. It is a popular destination known for its serene beauty and tranquil environment. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, making it a picturesque spot for relaxation and leisure activities.
The lake spans approximately 60 acres and is a man-made creation, originally designed by the British in the 19th century. It is a popular spot for boating, with options for both rowboats and pedal boats. The surrounding area is well-maintained, with a walking path that encircles the lake, allowing visitors to enjoy the views and the cool climate.
The area around Kodaikanal Lake is also home to several attractions, including the Bryant Park and the Coakers Walk, which offer stunning panoramic views of the valley. The lake is often visited by tourists looking to escape the heat of the plains and enjoy the natural beauty and cool climate of the Western Ghats.
Kodaikanal Lake was constructed in 1863 by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the then Collector of Madurai, who envisioned it as a recreational spot for the British. The lake was created by damming a small stream, and its star-shaped design was intended to enhance the scenic beauty of the area and provide a pleasant retreat from the heat of the plains.
The construction of the lake was part of a broader effort by the British to develop hill stations in India, which served as cool retreats during the colonial period. Kodaikanal was one such hill station, chosen for its temperate climate and lush surroundings.
Over time, the lake and its surroundings have become a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. The area has maintained its charm and remains a significant attraction in Kodaikanal, reflecting the historical influence of British planning and design in creating recreational spaces in India.
Best Time to Visit
Kodaikanal is best visited during the following periods:
- Summer (March to June): This is the peak tourist season, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The cool climate provides a welcome escape from the heat of the plains.
- Winter (October to February): Another great time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 20°C (46°F to 68°F). The weather is cool and comfortable, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Things to Do
- Boating on Kodaikanal Lake: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake, with options for pedal boats and rowboats.
- Coaker Walk: A scenic walkway that offers stunning views of the valley and plains below. Ideal for a leisurely stroll.
- Bryant Park: A well-maintained botanical garden located near the lake, featuring a variety of flowering plants and trees.
- Pillar Rocks: A set of three towering rock formations that provide excellent photo opportunities and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Devil Kitchen: A dramatic and rugged area with deep ravines and rock formations, known for its unique geological features.
- Berijam Lake: A serene lake located about 23 km from Kodaikanal, known for its natural beauty and bird-watching opportunities. Entry requires prior permission.
Attractions
- Kodai Hill Station: Explore the charming town with its colonial architecture, quaint streets, and local markets.
- Silver Cascade Falls: A picturesque waterfall located on the way to Kodaikanal, offering a refreshing stop.
- Chettiar Park: A serene park with well-maintained gardens and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
- Kodaikanal Solar Observatory: One of the oldest solar observatories in India, offering insights into solar physics and the history of astronomy.
- Guna Caves (Devil Kitchen): Explore these mysterious and fascinating caves, known for their intriguing rock formations.
Whether you are interested in outdoor activities, scenic views, or just relaxing in a cool climate, Kodaikanal offers a range of experiences to suit various interests.
Adventures
- Boating: Pedal boats, rowboats, and shikaras (traditional Kashmiri-style boats) are available for hire. It is the most popular activity at Kodaikanal Lake.
- Cycling: Rent bicycles to ride around the 5 km perimeter of the lake. The scenic route is a peaceful way to explore the area.
- Horse Riding: Available near the lake, ideal for both children and adults.
- Trekking & Hiking: Surrounding hills offer easy trekking paths, including the Coakers Walk and Pillar Rocks, which provide panoramic views.
- Fishing: With a permit, you can indulge in fishing at the lake.
- Photography: The lakes serene beauty and natural surroundings make it a fantastic spot for photography, especially during the early morning and evening.
Budget
- Boating: ?100-?200 per person for 30 minutes, depending on the type of boat.
- Cycling: ?50-?100 per hour.
- Horse Riding: ?100-?200 for short rides.
- Entry Fee to the Lake Area: Free.
- Total Estimated Budget: ?500-?1,500 per day (depending on activities and food choices).
Packing Items
- Essentials:
- Light jacket or sweater (as the weather in Kodaikanal is cool year-round).
- Comfortable walking shoes or trekking boots.
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
- Umbrella or raincoat (as it rains frequently in Kodaikanal).
- Water bottle, snacks, and power bank for gadgets.
- Extras: A good camera for photography, trekking poles if planning to hike, and insect repellent.
Hidden Gems
- Berijam Lake: A hidden and pristine lake, a little away from the main Kodaikanal Lake. You will need permission from the forest department to visit, but it is worth it for the solitude and beauty.
- Vattakanal Falls: Less crowded than other waterfalls, it is a serene spot for nature lovers.
- Poombarai Village Viewpoint: Offers stunning views of terraced farms and valleys.
- Shembaganur Museum of Natural History: A lesser-known museum showcasing flora and fauna of the region.
Photography
Kodaikanal offers numerous opportunities for photography:
- Kodaikanal Lake: Great for capturing reflections, scenic boat rides, and the surrounding greenery.
- Coaker Walk: Ideal for panoramic landscape shots, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Pillar Rocks: Perfect for capturing dramatic rock formations and valley views.
- Bryant Park: Excellent for botanical photography with its diverse range of flowers and plants.
Safety Rules
- Boating: Always wear a life jacket and follow the safety instructions provided by the boat operators.
- Hiking: Stick to marked trails, and avoid venturing off-path, especially in the areas around Pillar Rocks and Guna Caves.
- Weather: Carry appropriate clothing for changing weather conditions, as temperatures can vary significantly.
- Wildlife: Be cautious around wildlife and avoid feeding or disturbing animals.
Entry Fees
- Kodaikanal Lake: No specific entry fee, but boating charges vary. Expect to pay around ?150-?250 for a boat ride.
- Bryant Park: Entry fee is approximately ?30 per person.
- Coaker Walk: Entry fee is about ?30 per person.
- Pillar Rocks: There is a nominal entry fee of around ?10-?20 per person.
- Guna Caves: Entry requires prior permission from the forest department, and there may be a small fee.
Famous Food
- Kodaikanal Potatoes: Known for their unique taste, often served as part of various local dishes.
- Homemade Chocolates: The town is famous for its delicious homemade chocolates and confectioneries.
- Corn on the Cob: Roasted corn sold by street vendors is a popular snack.
- Tea and Coffee: Enjoy locally grown and freshly brewed tea and coffee.
Restaurants (Vegan, Vegetarian & Non-Vegetarian Options)
- Vegan-Friendly:
- Tava Vegetarian Restaurant: Serves delicious vegan options alongside their vegetarian meals.
- Eco Café: Known for serving vegan-friendly snacks and healthy options.
- Vegetarian:
- Astoria Veg Restaurant: Famous for South Indian vegetarian meals.
- Royal Tibet: While not entirely vegetarian, it has great vegetarian momos and thukpas.
- Non-Vegetarian:
- Ten Degrees: A multi-cuisine restaurant serving excellent continental and Indian dishes, including non-veg options.
- Cloud Street Café: Offers wood-fired pizzas, burgers, and more, with plenty of non-veg options.
- Desserts:
- Pastry Corner: Popular for its homemade cakes and bakery items.
- Muncheez: A cozy spot for snacks and desserts.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Madurai (approximately 120 km away), with domestic flights connecting major Indian cities. From Madurai, you can take a taxi or bus to Kodaikanal.
- By Train: The nearest major railway station is in Kodai Road (80 km away), which is well-connected to cities like Chennai and Bangalore. From Kodai Road, you can take a taxi or bus to Kodaikanal.
- By Bus: There are regular bus services from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Madurai to Kodaikanal. Private and government buses operate on these routes.
- By Car: Driving to Kodaikanal is an option if you prefer a road trip. The hill station is accessible via well-maintained roads from nearby cities, though the ascent can be winding.
Kodaikanal accessibility and charming landscape make it a great destination for a relaxing getaway.
Hotels (Luxury and Affordable)
- Luxury Hotels:
- The Carlton Kodaikanal: A five-star hotel with luxury amenities and a great view of the lake. Approx. ?10,000-?15,000 per night.
- Kodai Resort Hotel: Offers luxury cottages surrounded by lush greenery, about ?8,000-?10,000 per night.
- Affordable Hotels:
- JC Residency: Comfortable accommodation with good facilities. Approx. ?3,000-?5,000 per night.
- Villa Retreat: Budget-friendly rooms with excellent views of the valley. Approx. ?2,500-?4,000 per night.
- Hotel Kodai International: Affordable stay with modern amenities, Approx. ?2,000-?3,500 per night.
ATMs
- Nearby ATMs: Major banks such as SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Axis Bank have ATMs in Kodaikanal town, a short distance from the lake area.
Medical Facilities
- Van Allen Hospital: One of the main hospitals in Kodaikanal, offering decent healthcare services.
- Kodaikanal Government Hospital: Provides primary healthcare, and there are several private clinics and pharmacies around the town for basic needs.
Parking
- Designated Parking: Paid parking is available near the lake area. Charges vary depending on vehicle type, usually ?20-?50 for two-wheelers and ?50-?100 for cars.
- Street Parking: In some areas around the lake, street parking is available but limited. It is recommended to use designated parking lots to avoid fines.
|