The Palani Hills are an eastern offshoot of the Western Ghats covering an area of 2400 Sq. Kms, and the town of Kodaikanal is centrally located. There are 2 main divisions of the palani - the Upper Palani (1800 - 2500 m)and the Lower Palani (800 - 1500 M). The Palani are the main watershed forthe Vaigai (South) and Amaravathi (Cauvery) (North) Basins. The climate of the Palani varies with altitude from the typical climate of the Tamil Nadu plan in the foot hills to the quasi temperate climate of Kodaikanal Town and the rest of the Upper palani. The average rainfall of the Palani is 1600 mm. The major contribution being from the North East monsoon though there is some rainfall during the South West monsoon period. The Palani are a source of unique genetic diversity as well as of water for the thirsty planis below.

  Interesting Feature

One of the most interesting features of the Vegetation is the ever green shola forest (wet, temperate) from which originate many perennial streams. Sholas are probably one of the most valuable treasures of the hills as prime watershed and as shelter for wildlife, in addition to being the terminal refuge for endangered species of flora and fauna e.g. Loya, Orchids, Nilgiri tahr, Grizzled giant Squirrel etc.,

  Governing Authority

There are 15 revenue villages having a population of around 95000 including Kodaikanal Township (30000).Several organisations including the Palani Hills Conservation Council (PHCCfor short) have been seriously engaged in protecting the most fragile ecosystem of these hills.