Shembaganur Museum of Natural History in Kodaikanal was started in 1895 and is affiliated with Loyola college, Chennai. It is now preserved by the Sacred Heart College. This is also known The Anglade Institute Of Natural History. A Spanish Father, E.Ugarthe managed the museum from 1951. He created an inventory of all the collections and published “’A Museum of the Palanis” document.
The whole museum is categorized into Anthropology, Flora, Fauna, and Handicrafts.
The Anthropology section is full of taxidermy collection.
There are more than 500 species of mammals, birds, butterflies, moths, snakes, and insects.
The museum is also home to artifacts of the ancient Palaiyar tribes. The descendants of the tribe still live up the hills.
Shells and conch like the rare Valampuri conch are displayed.
Rare and old coins also find a place in this collection.
Skeletons of mammals, whales, turtles, snakes are also preserved here.
Preserved snakes and human embryos in bottles are exhibited. Kurinji plants and pressed Kurinji flowers, which bloom once in 12 years are preserved and displayed here.
Children can learn much with a visit to this place. The entire Palani hill range with geological features and economic development is made out of Papier Mache is on display.
Place statistics:
Type of place: Museum of natural history
Situated: Sacred Heart College, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Distance: Law’s Ghat Road, 6 Km from Kodaikanal bus-stand
Transport: Well connected by road
Facilities: Rest room available
Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.; 03:00 p.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Closed: Tuesday
