Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, Kodaikanal - Timings, Best time to Visit

At a distance of 4 Km from Kodaikanal Bus Stand, the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is a solar observatory owned and operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. Situated on the southern tip of the Palani Hills, it is one of the best places to visit as part of the Kodaikanal family packages.

The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, established in 1899, is managed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. Its inception can be traced back to the severe Great Drought that impacted the Madras Presidency from 1875 to 1877. In response to this crisis, the establishment of a solar observatory was proposed to investigate the relationship between solar phenomena and monsoon patterns. Kodaikanal was selected as the site due to its advantageous location near the equator and its high-altitude, dust-free environment.

This observatory has contributed significantly to solar research, including the first identification of the Evershed Effect in 1909. It is recognized for maintaining the oldest continuous record of solar data in India. Regular activities at the observatory include ionospheric soundings, vertical drafts, and surface observations. Currently, it operates with a team of two scientists and several technicians, utilizing advanced equiPMent such as a broadband seismograph, a Watson magnetometer, and a solar tunnel telescope, among other instruments.

Additionally, the observatory features a well-regarded Astronomy Museum that attracts numerous visitors. The exhibits primarily consist of pictorial displays, complemented by models and historical instruments, including a transit instrument, a live solar image, and the Fraunhofer spectrum. Furthermore, the observatory's library is a valuable asset, housing a collection of astronomical literature of significant archival importance.

Timings: 10 AM - 12 PM & 2 PM - 4 PM, Closed on Sundays & on Public Holidays.

Entry: Free