Like the other hill stations the main emphasis is on relaxation and light physical activities like walking, riding and boating. Boats are available for hire at the Boat Club on the lake. Some of the pleasantest walks include visits to Pillar Rocks (about seven km), Green Valley View (six km), Silver Cascade (eight km), Perumal Peak (20 km) and Bear Shola Falls (1.5 km).
The Flora and Fauna Museum, which is part of the Sacred Heart College atShembaganur near the town, is well worth a visit as is the orchidorium, also situated here. There is also an observatory which is open to the public daily during the months of March, April and June between 10 am and 12.30 pm and 7 to 9 pm. During the rest of the year it is open only on Fridays between 10 am and 12 noon.
The Palani hills are at eastern offshoot of the Western ghats covering an area of 2400 Sq. Kms, and the town of Kodaikanal is centrally located. There are 2 main divisions of Palani - the Upper Palani (1800 - 2500 m)and the Lower Palani (800 - 1500 M). The Palani is the main watershed for the Vaigai (South) and Amaravathi (Cauvery) (North) Basins. The climate of the Palani varies with altitude from the typical climate of the Tamil Nad. The average rainfall in Palani is 1600 mm. The major contribution being from the North East monsoon though there is some rainfall during the South West monsoon period. The Palani is a source of unique genetic diversity as well as of water for the thirsty plains below.
Three granite boulders each vertically measuring a height of 400 feet stand shoulder to shoulder. It is located 8 Kms from the lake tower over the panoramic view. In the shadows of the pillars are shady woods that invite picnickers. The chamber between the two pillars is called Devil's kitchen. |
