A beautiful village situated in the hills of Dindigul district in the state of Tamil Nadu – Thandikudi is a slice of heaven. Often referred to as “Aadha Kodai” or half Kodaikanal, it is also a trekker’s paradise at an altitude of 1500 metres above sea level. There are some lovely coffee and cardamom plantations, Pure Honey and deep forest trekking which one must do when in Thandikudi.

The Story behind the name – Thandikudi

Ancient stories say that the name comes from the belief of the locals that Lord Muruga jumped from this spot and over the hill to reach Palani. Thandi in Tamil means to jump and Kudi, is a clan based settlement.

There is another interesting theory on how the city got its name, based on the archaeological survey done by the Department of Epigraphy and Archaeology. It suggests that Thandikudi, about 47 km northeast of Vattalagundu in lower Palani hills, was associated with Sangam Age chieftains named “ Tondrikon and Kodaiporunan.”

The present name Thandikudi is derived from Tandrikudi. Archaelogical vestiges suggest that the sites lie in a perfect ecological background, which helped to occupy continuously for more than 3,500 years.”

Reach and Connectivity:

One may feel that since this is such a beautifully situated village, reaching here would be a problem. However, not so. It is just about 45 kms from Kodaikanal, which is a popular destination in Tamil Nadu. Easy connectivity via Kodaikanal through train or air can get you to Thandikudi.

Pick your point of origin:

Our suggestion is to pick your point of origin with care and plan your journey accordingly. A travel distance of roughly six to seven hours can be considered to reach Thandikudi from Chennai. Being located at Ananda Habitat in Oragadam, we get the superior convenience of reaching any destination quite easily and without having any transportation concerns at all. Your point of origin can be Oragadam and the preferred route to get to Thandikudi can be via Chennai Theni highway/ Trichy-Chennai highway and NH38.

Historic Beauty:

The village has quite a few interesting places to visit like the Murugan Temple, Kariyamal Temple, Sangu Parai view point, pre-Iron age burials, Ponnu – Mappillai Rock, Doll Man’s Cave, Echo Rock etc. One can also find abundant medicinal plants here.

Attractive Flora and Fauna:

Thandikudi is the place where Mother Nature paints a colourful picture and the beautiful hills tell many a hidden tales. It is huge and majestic and breathtakingly beautiful. The endless expanse of lofty mountains, thick dense forests and endless array of coffee plantations complete Thandikudi in all its glory.

This is one place a travel enthusiast shouldn’t miss exploring on. The sheer beauty and expanse of Nature will engulf you and transport you elsewhere.