Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
கொடைக்கானல் சூரிய ஆய்வகம்
A solar observatory established in 1899, where the 'Evershed Effect' was discovered, with a small astronomy museum on site.
The observatory stands on a hilltop about 4 km west of town at an elevation of roughly 2,343 meters. Founded in 1899 by the British Indian government, it is where astronomer John Evershed discovered the 'Evershed Effect' in 1909, the radial flow of material in sunspots. It is now run by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. On ordinary days visitors can only tour the small museum and view the telescopes from outside. Opening hours are limited, often to afternoons, so check before setting out.
Opening hours
Limited hours, usually 10:00–12:30, 14:00–17:00; please confirm
Nearby sights
- Fairy Falls
- Bear Shola Falls
- Pine Forest
- Kodaikanal Lake
- Guna Caves (Devil's Kitchen)
- Pillar Rocks
- Green Valley View
- Moir Point