Kodaikanal is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India and is believed to be the only hill station largely developed by Americans. In 1821, Lieutenant B. S. Ward, a British surveyor, became the first European to visit this region. He was searching for a healthy and cool place for missionaries working in Madurai to escape the intense summer heat and diseases in the plains.

In the early days, travelers reached Kodaikanal by horse, bullock cart, or palanquin, passing through dense forests that were often home to wild animals and robbers. Despite these difficulties, the hill station soon became popular among elite families because of its pleasant climate and pure mountain air.

In 1834, the Collector of Madurai climbed the hills from Devadanapatti and built a small bungalow in Kodaikanal. During the second half of the 19th century, several churches, colonial buildings, and private bungalows were constructed. One notable structure is the Union Church, built in 1895.

A major milestone was in 1863, when Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the Collector of Madurai, created the famous 60-acre Kodaikanal Lake by damming three streams. He introduced fish into the lake and brought the first boat from Tuticorin. Later, in 1890, a boat club was established, and from 1929, tourists were allowed to use the boating facilities as temporary members.

Missionaries also built churches and schools, including the well-known Kodaikanal International School. Many royal families built summer residences here, while clubs, schools, hotels, and civic facilities gradually developed.

The extension of the Chennai–Tirunelveli railway line further increased the popularity of Kodaikanal. A railway station was built at Ammainayakkanur, later renamed Kodai Road. The first steam engine reached the station in 1875, making travel easier. The hill road construction was completed in 1914 and opened to the public in 1916, after which tourists began visiting Kodaikanal in large numbers.

Kodaikanal – General Information

• Area: 21.45 sq. km
• Population: 100,674 (2001 Census)
• Altitude: 2,133 meters above sea level
• Average Rainfall: 165 cm

Temperature:

• Summer: Max 29°C | Min 16°C
• Winter: Max 21.3°C | Min 9°C

Best Season to Visit: April – June and September – October (pleasant throughout the year)

Clothing: Light woollens during summer evenings, Heavy woollens during winter

Languages: Tamil, English
State: Tamil Nadu
District: Dindigul
ISD Code: +91
STD Code: 04542