The misty town of Kodaikanal or Kodai, sits snugly in the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu. Perched at an altitude of 2,133 m, the dense forests and the cool pine-scented air draws travellers who seek respite from the scorching heat of the plains. Meandering forest paths amidst tree covered slopes present ample options for those who love walking, hiking and trekking.
Endowed with a variety of flora, Kodai boasts of abundant cypress, eucalyptus and acacia trees, in addition to scenic waterfalls, lakes, old churches and colonial-era villas. Another speciality of Kodai is the Kurinji shrub, whose lilac-blue blossoms make an appearance every 12 years. (2018 was the latest year of bloom.)