Kodaikanal Hill Station
Here is a story Lieutenant Ward, an Englishman, who climbed up from the Kunnavan village of Vellagavi to Kodaikanal in 1821 to survey the area on the hilly ranges of Palani. In 1834, the Madurai collector climbed the hill from Devadanapatti and built a small bungalow at the head of Adukkam pass near Shenbaganur. In 1836, Dr.Wite visited Kodaikanal and recorded his observations, and these were very useful to botanists later. In 1845, American Missionaries built the first two bungalows “Sunnyside” and “Shelton”. Later, six American families came up the hill and stayed for the first time in Kodaikanal. Following this, the British also built houses here. The hill station Kodaikanal was created to serve the needs of the British and Europeans in India. The 20th century saw elite Indians enteri Kodaikanal to enjoy its charm and beauty and to harness its natural wealth for development.
Places of Interest
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 (1819-1885).He was previously the Collector of Madurai, who retired and settled in Kodai. 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 members of the club set sail. In 1910 a new boathouse was constructed. The boat service was opened to the public and tourist as well in 1932.
Bryant's park 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 shelters fine varieties of flowers can be seen here. The Flower Show conducted every year during May, as part of the Summer Festivals, should be seen by everyone.
Solar Physical Observatory It is situated 32 kms. from the lake. This observatory was founded in 1989, and it is located at an elevation of 2343 mtrs. This observatory is the highest point in Kodai. Visitors can observe the stars and the planets.
Coakers Walk Er.Coaker identified this hill-edged pathway in 1872. About a kilometre from the lake, Coaker's Walk runs along a steep slope on the southern side of Kodai. It offers some of the best views of the plains Entry fee is collected here.
Green valley View(Suicide point) is about 5.5 kms from the lake and very near the Golf Club. This point commands a beautiful view of the entire Vaigai Dam. As the valley here is very deep, dense and dangerous this place was once known as “Suicide point.”
Kodaikanal Hill Station, Hill Station in India
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