On the Road

 

Location	Karnataka
Situated	5,000 ft. above sea level
Attractions	Abbey Falls, Irupu Falls, Harangi
Best Time to Visit	October to April

The cool bracing wind whips the hair about your face as you ramble along streets that dip and rise delightfully. Breathtaking views surprise you unexpectedly. Beautiful women smile at you from pretty cottages as you sniff appreciatively the heady fragrance of coffee blossoms. You are in Madikeri. A picturesque, charming town situated at an elevation of over 5,000 ft. (1,525 m) above sea level. 

Madikeri is the headquarters of kodagu (formerly Coorg). Dubbed as the Scotland of India, Kodagu is home to the colourful, robust, martial race - the Kodavas. district Kodagu.

Said to be the descendents of the Greeks, the Kodavas are fiercely independent. They were never conquered by either Tipu Sultan or the British. And so to this day, all Kodavas retain the privilege of carrying firearms without a license. 

Kodagu is famous for the generals it has produced for the Indian Army. The women are known for their beauty But what the Kodavas are really famous for is their hospitality.

Madikeri is a great place to walk. Winding lanes meander off the main street. Mountain trails promise visual delights. And the Tadiyendamol, the tallest peak in the area, stands patiently, waiting to be climbed. 

Sightseeing

Madikeri Fort: In the centre of Madikeri, this 19th century fort was once the scene of many a fierce battle. Today, it houses a temple. a chapel, the prison, and a small museum. The fort also offers a panoramic view of Madikeri from its walls. 

Raja's Seat: According to legend, the kings of Kodagu spent their· evenings here. Enjoying the spectacular sunsets from the top of a hill. 

Omkareshwara Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva. this temple, built in 1820. is a mix of Islamic and Gothic styles of architecture. 

Around Madikeri 

Bhagamandala Temple (36 kms): Built in the Kerala style at the confluence of three rivers (the Cauvery. the Kanika and the Sujyothi), this temple houses a variety of smaller shrines dedicated to various gods. 

Talacauvery (44 kms): This is the source of the holy river Cauvery, captured in a small well less than a meter square. In October on Sankaramana day, thousands gather to see a miracle - the sudden bubbling and frothing of the small well, symbolising the appearance of the Goddess Cauvery.

Picnic Spots 

Abbey Falls: Just a few kilometres outside Madikeri, these falls cascade down in steps to flow as a small river. A great place for picnics. 

Irupu Falls: Another beautiful picnic spot, the Irupu Falls are on the way to Kutta from Gonikoppal. 

Harangi: A reservoir near Kushalnagar, this is a picturesque spot. 

Festivals

Kail Podu:This festival of arms is held in September. The Kodavas gather at the village green to test their marksmanship with guns and invoke the blessings of the gods upon their weapons. 

Huthri: The harvest festival is celebrated in November/December with 'parakali' or ceremonial stick fights and war-like dances. 

Madikeri Dasara: Held in October, this is mostly a procession of beautiful temple cars. Each one carrying a different idol. The best decorated temple wins a prize. 

Local Food Specialities

Pandhi Curry (Pork Curry), Kadumbuttu (Rice Dumplings). Koli Curry (Chicken Curry). Nool Puttu (Rice Noodles). Bembla Curry (Bamboo Shoot Curry) and Votti (Rice Roti). 

Climate

Madikeri is pleasant throughout the year. The monsoon is from June to September Madikeri is at its best between October and April when its clear, cool and crisp. 

Getting there

Regular buses operate between Madikeri and Bangalore. Mysore. Mangalore, Hassan, Arsikere, Belur Chikmagalur. Cannanore and Tellicherry. Or if you want a memorable ride, take a taxi. It will be worth it!

Stay

For reservations contact: 
Conservator of Forests
Kodagu Circle.Madikeri
08272-26308 

Shopping: The coffee estates here produce some of the worlds best coffee - so take home bags of coffee and relive your holiday with every cuppa!

You could also buy honey, cardamom, pepper and oranges (in season). 

Tourist Information

Tourist Bureau. PWD Travelers Bungalow. Madikeri-571 201. Ph: 0872-6580.