At 1452 metres above sea level, this hill station is the highest in the area. Green wooded slopes, vibrant landscapes, misty hills, cascading waterfalls, lush tropical forest, tea, coffee, and spice plantations made this a nature lover's delight. This alluringly scenic region is also known as the 'Scotland of India' and the 'Kashmir of the South.' Because there are so many things to do in and around Madikeri, we've put together a list of the top locations to go:
01. Abbey Falls
Abbey Falls, also known as Abbi Falls, is located 1 km from Madikeri. Abbey is blessed with beautiful grandeur and soothing peace, as it is nestled amongst the natural greenery of coffee farms and spice fields. The water flow is quite high during the monsoon season and very low during the dry season. There is a hanging bridge here that provides an excellent view of the waterfalls. Early January is the best time to explore Abbey Falls.
02. Dubare Elephant Camp
The Dubare Elephant Camp is situated on the banks of the River Kaveri in Karnataka's Coorg district. The camp is a prominent tourist destination that draws visitors worldwide, particularly wildlife enthusiasts. It allows visitors to get up close to elephants and participate in numerous elephant-related activities.
03. Omkareswara Temple
Built by Linga Rajendra in 1820, Omkareswara Temple is a prominent Siva temple in Madikeri. The temple, which is 1 km from Madikeri, is a work of architectural art. The temple is built in both Islamic and Gothic styles. The temple is surrounded by four minarets and has a dome in the centre. The Mandap is reached through a pathway. Omkareswara was the name given to the Sivalinga here.
04. Kotebetta Trek
One of Coorg's most popular attractions, Kotebetta is the region's third-highest peak, after Tadiyandamol and Brahmagiri. Kotebetta is located in Madapur, between the towns of Somwarpet and Madikeri, at a height of roughly 1620 metres above sea level. It is located on the boundary of the Dakshina Kannada and Coorg districts and is easily accessible. Kotebetta gets its name from the word Kote Betta, which meaning Fort Hill. This is due to the hill's look, which looks like a fort. At the top of the hill, there is also a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
05. Madikeri Fort
It is an important tourist attraction in Coorg that you should not miss. Madikeri Fort, which was established by Mudduraja in the last part of the 17th century, was later renovated with stones and bricks by Tipu Sultan, who renamed the fort Jaffarabad. The fort has a long and illustrious history, having witnessed numerous battles and conquests.
06. Mandalpatti Trek
Mandalpatti is situated 4 kilometres before Abbey Falls and is around 25- 30 kilometres from Madikeri town. The location is ideal for those who enjoy trekking, adventure, and the greatest of natural environments. Trekkers must obtain entrance tickets from the authorities at Mandalpatti's base to go trekking. The months of November to January are ideal for a visit.
07. Padi Iggutappa Temple
It is located at Kakkabe. It is one of the most ancient temples and utmost importance among Kodavas, built by Lingarajendra in 1810. The temple is 45 km from Madikeri city and towards Virajpet, it is located in the Igguthappadevara Betta in Aiyengeri forest. In Kodava culture and traditional rituals, the temple is very significant. The temple is also very important during the Puthari festival, which is a religious celebration.
08. Karada Village
This is the final destination on your Coorg tour. The settlement of Karada is located in the Kakkabe area. It is 18 kilometres from Virajpet and around 30 kilometres from Madikeri. Some of Coorg's most beautiful ancestral homes may be found here. Some of the ancestral homes are 200-300 years old, giving travellers a glimpse of heritage and living in the past. The area is also suitable for nature walks and offers great hiking opportunities.
Enjoy your Coorg exploration!!