Often referred as ‘Princess of Hill stations’, Kodaikanal is a charming hill station located in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu. Situated at an altitude of about 7000 feet (2133 m), it is one of the popular honeymoon destinations in India. Kodaikanal is not extensively commercialized like Ooty and it offers a pleasant experience to tourists with relatively less crowd.
Nestled amidst towering granite cliffs, Kodai is known for its verdant valleys, pleasant weather, and cascading waterfalls. Besides, the tranquil lakes are the most visited attractions in Kodai as part of Taminadu Tour Packages.
Here is the list of some stunning lakes in Kodaikanal.
Kodaikanal Lake
Kodaikanal Lake is a picturesque star-shaped artificial lake located in the Kodaikanal town. Situated at an elevation of 2285 m, it is among the must include places in Kodaikanal tour packages. The lake was created by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the then Collector of Madurai in 1863. Spread across an area of 60 acres, the outflow from the Kodai Lake has given birth to a 180-feet tall waterfall called Silver Cascade, one of the top places to visit in Kodaikanal. One can hire rowboats and pedal boats at the Boat club and enjoy boating in the calm waters of the lake. Along, one can also hire bicycles beside the lake for short periods, which is a favorite activity for kids and adults as well. There are several shops around the lake that sell woolen cloths, toys, eateries etc.
Also Read : Top Hill Stations in Tamilnadu
Berijam Lake
Berijam Lake is a quaint reservoir located near Kodaikanal town. Covering an area of 59 acres, Berijam Lake was formed as the result of the construction of a dam with sluice outlets and is part of a micro-watershed development project. The calm waters of the lake are so pure that it serves as the main source of potable water for Periyakulam town which lies below Kodaikanal, among the most popular hill stations in South India. Surrounded by the lush green pine plantations, the lake not only offers amazing refreshing scenic beauty for nature lovers but at the same time it also serves as a home to numerous other wildlife creatures. Tourists who love to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city mostly visit this lake.
Must Read : Top Hill Stations in South India
Mannavanur Lake
Situated in Mannavanur village near Kodaikanal, Mannavanur Lake is one of the most serene places and among the offbeat tourist places to visit in Kodaikanal. Blessed with rich avian fauna, Mannavanur is an ideal place for nature lovers that provides a chance to experience the farm life, especially spotting rabbits, sheeps and other animals. Amidst the captivating meadows with the majestic hills, the view of the lake is worth capturing that draws huge number of tourists as part of Kodaikanal Tour. Also, the drive to the lake is absolutely scenic as the road on both the side is lined up with eucalyptus and pine trees. Besides, one can also trek to this lake from the Poombarai village which takes about an hour and the path goes through reeds and marshes, past billowing meadows and thickets of pine. One can also go for coracle ride and horse ride offered by the Forest Department at a nominal fee. Apart, one can also visit the nearby places like Mahalakshmi Temple and the Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple.