town, southwestern Tamil Nadu (Tamil Nādu) state, southeastern India. It is situated at an elevation of 7,300 feet (2,225 metres) in the Palni Hills. Created in 1845 by U.S. missionaries and British civil servants as a hill station to which administrative offices were moved during the summer, it is a popular resort known for its scenery, 75-acre (30-hectare) artificial lake, and recreational facilities. It also contains a meteorological observatory that engages in astrophysical research. The town serves as a collection and distribution centre for fruits and vegetables, especially potatoes and pears, which are sent to neighbouring cities on the plains. It has schools for foreign and Indian students and a Jesuit seminary. Pop. (2001) 32,969.