   | Located not far from the center of Kodaikanal is Coaker’s Walk. A simple attraction, this paved pathway rests on the side of a tall hill, affording anyone who cares to pay the ten rupees entrance fee a startling view of the valley below. Unfortunately, the day I went most of the view was obscured by mist, but the few glances I got of the land below was enchanting. Rolling forests, whitewashed resorts nestled among the greenery, grand houses and vegetation for days. Even with the November mist, it was worth every single rupee. Testifying to the beauty of the valley are two telescope viewpoints. For another five rupees, visitors can step inside and take a closer peak at the scene below. There is not just one but two places where you can check things out, at either end of the walk. If it’s clear when you visit, I highly doubt you’ll be able to resist the temptation to see what’s going on down below in greater detail. The tourist presence can be felt keenly along the walk. Stalls selling handmade silk string earrings, knockoff sunglasses and umbrellas (but, oddly, no chai) nestle against the inner side of the walk. One can even find, bizarrely, small statuettes of Native American styling. I’m not sure how or why this is a thing here, but I’ll let you make of that what you will. The walk itself is not terribly long, but affords plenty to look at along the way. In addition to the valley views, I found the Van Allen Maternity hospital, snuggled up next to a café serving hot drinks and delicious lunches. The hospital itself is a sweet little number made of rough stone, with touches of old English masonry. Coaker’s Walk is the perfect place to take your sweetheart on a morning stroll, after getting breakfast at one of the nearby eateries on the lower end. Or, if you’re traveling with family, kids will surely get a kick out of the telescopes, andthe bright trinkets for sale. A must see for any visitors of Kodaikanal. |
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