Kodaikanal is also known as Princess of Hill Station.In a state where scenery and terrain is perhaps more varied than in any other part of the country, where the forested slopes of the majestic hills of the western ghats vie with the magnificent beaches of the Coromandel coast, it is indeed difficult to decide which is the best feature of multi-faceted Tamil Nadu. 

Located 120 kms away from Madurai, Kodaikkanal is a beautiful hill station and is at an altitude of 2133m on the southern tip of the upper Palani hills in the Western ghats. Kodaikkanal has a bracing climate where temperature do not vary much from summer to winter. Fruits like plums and plantains grow abundantly on the wooded slopes apart from a wide variety of flowers, among which is the famous Kurinji flower which blooms once in twelve years. 

Kodai's most enchanting sights include the star shaped lake, spread over an area of 24 hectares where fishing allowed and boating facilities are available; one of the world's oldest Solar Observatories that was built in 1899; and the Orchidorium at the Sacred Heart College where about 300 species of orchids can be seen. There are also a number of picturesque walks like Coaker's Walk and Priest's Walk. Kodai's best view points are Pillar Rocks, and Green Valley View. Bear Shola Falls, Silver Cascade, Fairy Falls and Glen Falls are popular with picnickers while the Perumal Peak is a favourite with trekkers. The Kurinji Andavar temple 3.2 kms away is dedicated to Lord Subramanya.

Palani (62kms)

The temple at Palani is one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya. Dedicated to 
Sri Dandayuthapani, the temple is built atop a 140m high hill and can be reached either using the steps or the electrically operated winch. During the festivals of Panguni Utthiram ( March-April) and Adi Krithikai (July-August) Kavadi dancers dance and walk their way from far and near as they flock to the temple in hundreds, often in a state of trance.

Summer Festival : Celebrated in May every year.
Boat race and flower show are also held on the occasion. It is a major tourist attraction.

Kodaikkanal is well connected by road and there are frequent buses from Chennai, Madurai, Palani, Coimbatore, Dindugal and Tiruchi. The nearest railway station is Kodaikkanal Road on the Chennai-Madurai broad guage line. The nearest airport is Madurai.