Another hill retreat in the South, Kodaikanal is probably one of the beautiful and quieter hill stations. Located south of the Palani Hills, it is covered in thick forests and waterfalls. Its centrepoint of activity is the huge star shaped lake, which is thronged with tourists on boat ride. No matter when you travel here, sights of lush green landscape and mist covered hills greet you. Walk through old churches, stay at some of the finest hotels and savour some heavenly home-made chocolates! The charm of this tiny hill retreat would simply amaze you.

• Lakes: The most defining feature of this hill retreat is the star-shaped Kodai Lake situated amidst the emerald green wooded slopes. This lake is flanked by a black road. Another artificial lake in the upper regions of Palani Hills is the Berijam Lake. It is a beautiful picnic spot allowing you to catch some striking scenery.

• Coaker's Walk:Located a kilometer away from the lake, it derives its name from Lt. Coaker, who is credited with preparing the map of Kodai. Built along a steep, green slope, this walk offers you breathtaking views of the plains below.

• Parks:The Bryant Park is situated on the eastern side of the lake and is noted for its flowers, hybrids and grafts. A Flower Show is hosted every year in May as part of a summer festival. Another well-maintained park is the Chettiyar Park, which is located en route the Kurinji Andavar Temple.

• Green Valley View: Located close to the Golf Club, it offers a beautiful view of Vaigai Dam.

• Pillar Rocks: Located about 7 kms from the Lake, the name is derived from the three boulders that stand next to each other. It also houses a mini garden within it.

• Kurinji Andavar Temple: One of the well-known temples of the area, it is dedicated to Lord Muruga, Lord of the Hill. This temple also offers a view of the Palani and Vaigai Dam.

• Solar Physical Observatory: Its foundation was laid at the topmost point in Kodai. Prior appointment is needed to observe the planetary movements.

• Shenbaganur Museum: This museum houses the archeological remains and the flora/fauna of the hills. It also houses more than 300 species of orchids.

• Falls: Thalaiyar Falls is credited as being one of the highest waterfalls in India with a 975 feet drop. One of the more popular picnic spots is the Bear Shola Falls, which owes its name to the fact that bears once came to drink water. These falls are best visited in the rains. The Pambar Falls or Grand Cascade Falls, it is more of a criss-cross stream that flows over a series of rock formations and precipices.

• Palani: sLocated a little away from Kodaikanal, it is a popular pilgrim center and one of the six abodes of Lord Dhandayuthabani. Direct buses ply between Palani and Kodaikanal.

• Dolphin’s Nose: This is one of the most important locations in Kodai to explore the forest around. Make sure you don your most comfortable walking shoes. There are a number of small shops en route that sell snacks, tea and coffee. Catch breathtaking views of the landscape as you stand on the edge of the rock. The mountains around are covered with clouds most of the time, so it’s an enthralling experience indeed.

• Churches: The Lutheran Church, is situated close to the Kodai School and is a gothic-style stone building with stained glass windows and modern paintings that portray the life of Christ. Another famous church in the region is the Christ the King Church, another gothic and granite structure with stained glass windows.

Kodaikanal has a whole range of eateries to suit your taste buds. The market area has a wide assortment of bhajjis, parottas and South Indian cuisine. Try some amazing pastries at Fay’s Confectionery. Tibetan and Chinese cuisine is available at Tibetan Brothers in the Hospital Road. Silver Inn offers a super combination of western food. For organic food, you must try out the Eco-Nut. It offers a wholesome variety of fresh brown bread, muffins, peanut butter and a variety of chocolates along with other herbal foods.

Pick up some souvenirs from the main market area of Kodai. Embroidered items, home made chocolates, Kodai cheese and dried flowers are available in a wide range of prices. Eco-Nut offers a whole range of foods, brown bread, jams, peanut butter, cheese and muffins. Also check out the road leading to the south of the Lake, which often has Tibetans selling warm clothings.