Things You Didn't Know About Kodaikanal Lake

Situated in the heart of Kodaikanal city is the Kodaikanal Lake, covering an expanse of around 60 acres. The name Kodaikanal is derived from two words 'Kodai' which means forest and 'kanal' which means 'gift.' True to its name, Kodaikanal is indeed a gift of the forest.

Following are five must know facts about the Kodaikanal Lake if you are planning a trip here with your family.

The Kodaikanal lake is a manmade lake
Yes, you heard that right. It was built in 1863 by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, a collector of Madurai, which means the lake is more than 150 years old! He had a vision of promoting the place as a tourism spot and hence constructed the lake at his own expense.

The lake was once three streams of water
Sir Vere Henry Levinge converted the marshy land by constructing a strong bund across the three streams of water. A 4-point star shaped reservoir was then created to enhance the beauty of the lake. The lake was also stocked with fish.

The first boat was brought from Tuticorin
Sir Vere Henry Levinge brought in the first boat from Tuticorin, a city in the Coromandel Coast off Bay of Bengal. Tuticorin manufactured fine boats at the time, which were very different from the usual ones seen today.

The lake was even used for swimming long ago
Today, the Kodaikanal Lake is used for commercial purposes. However, earlier people used to swim in the crystal waters of the lake. Later, fat-bottom boats known as punts were also used as a means of entertainment.

If you have a Club Mahindra Membership, you may experience the best of Kodaikanal's beauty and uniqueness. You may leave all your troubles behind, and lose yourself in a world of sparkling lakes, murmuring streams and gushing waterfalls. Club Mahindra's Kodaikanal resort is just a stone's throw away from the lake and is nestled inside a sprawling five acres of greenery. If you are not convinced, you may read Club Mahindra resort reviews by delighted customers before embarking on your trip.