Introduction

The Indian Institute of Astrophysics' Kodaikanal Observatory, located in the Palani hills, is devoted to the study of the solar physics. This observatory was set up in 1898, when the British administrators felt the need to move the erstwhile Madras Observatory to a better location. Kodaikanal was deemed to be the most appropriate due to it's location of the southern tip of the Palani Hills and dust free environment. At 2,343 meters (7,690 feet), the Observatory is at the highest point in the vicinity of Kodai.

Observations started from the year 1901 and its most significant achievement is the discovery of the Evershed Effect. The Observatory is dedicated almost exclusively to the study of solar phenomena and boasts of the oldest continuous solar records in India. In case you are wondering about the Evershed effect, it is the radial motion of sunspots as detected and explained by the Observatory’s Director John Evershed in 1909.

Run by a permanent staff of two scientists and nineteen technicians, the Observatory also houses an Astronomical Science Museum that organizes public tours and night sky observation events. However, you must check the Observatory’s own schedule for such tours. Science enthusiasts can also stop by and admire the many models and pictures in the gallery. A live solar image and the Fraunhofer spectrum can also be observed. The institute also manages a library that boasts of immense archival astronomical literature.

But the highlight for any visitor is the Kodaikanal Terrestrial Telescope, which offers striking views of the surrounding areas. Some sights that can be seen from the bird's eye location of the telescope are Sothupparai Dam, Vaigai Dam, Periyakulam and Varaha river.

Special Attributes

Great place for scientific study of the Sun

Nuisance

Large crowds

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Taxis

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

Minimal exposure to the sun, as you will be mostly indoors.

Avoidable Season

Avoid morning, school rush

Facilities

All facilities available in proximity.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

The library at the Observatory has the most amazing collection of Astronomical material, do check it out

Type of site

Scientific