Best Tourist Places in Madikeri, Kodagu, Karnataka, India

Best Tourist Places in Madikeri, Kodagu, Karnataka, India

Madikeri is situated in Kodagu district in the Indian state of Karnataka which is a popular tourist destination in this part of the world. Madikeri has a literacy rate of 81% and Kannada, Tulu and Konkani are the most widely spoken languages by the locals living in this place. Madikeri is known for its sublime weather and is situated at an altitude of 3481 feet above sea level. Madikeri coordinates with 12.42’08” degree North Latitude and 75.73’97” degree East Longitude with Pin Code being 571201.

Meaning & History:

It is said that the word Madikeri derived from Muddha Raja Keri who was a Kodagu ruler who ruled this place from 1633 to 1687. Madikeri was ruled by Kadambas from 2^nd century A.D to 6^th century A.D. Later on Madikeri was ruled by Cholas in 11^th century as Ganga rulers were defeated in a war. Madikeri was also ruled by Hoysalas and Vijaynagar Kings until it came under the rule of the British in the year 1834 A.D.

Places to see in Madikeri:

Raja Seat:

This comprises of a square mantap supported by 4 pillars bound by beautiful and elegant arches. It is called as Raja Seat because the kings used to have a good recreation time watching the mountain cliffs and ridges from a high level. It is one of the popular tourist places in Madikeri.

Madikeri Fort:

This fort was built by King Mudduraja during 17^th century which was later renovated by Lingarajendra Wodeyar II in 1812 A.D. There is a temple of lord Ganesha within the premises of the fort having statues of life size elephants at the entrance of the fort.

Omkareshwara Temple:

This temple was built by king Lingarajendra II in 1820 and is dedicated to lord Omkareshwar who is also known as lord Shiva. The temple draws many devotees and tourists during Shivratri and other auspicious days of the year.

Dubare Elephant Sanctuary:

The Elephant Sanctuary is located near Madikeri which is inhabited by several species of wild elephants, Bison, Sambhar deer, Indian Gaur, Crocodiles and birds like peacocks, woodpeckers and partridges. Tourists can avail jungle safari which takes them around the dense jungle.

Abbey Falls:

Abbey Falls is located about 8 kms away from Madikeri where river Cauvery flows across mountain terrains, cliffs and ridges. There is a hanging bridge near the falls which provides a magnificent view of the falls to the visitors.

Cauvery Nisargadhama:

This place is an ideal picnic spot that is formed by cluster of tributaries of river Cauvery. Bound by groves, lush greenery, sandalwood and teak trees, this place offer the tourists a enchanting life time experience.

Chelavara Falls:

Chelavara Falls are located about 26 kms from Madikeri and approx 2 kms from Choma Kund hills. The falls provide a breathtaking view of the river plunging deep to a height of 395 feet, a popular tourist site near Madikeri.

Gaddige Tombs:

The tombs of built in memory of king Viraranjendra and Lingarajendra in year 1820 and is situated atop a hill from where the tourists can have a spectacular view of the town.

Coorg:

Coorg is famous for hill station, coffee plantations, waterfalls, forts and temples which is about 17 kms from Madikeri.

Mysore:

Mysore is approx 118 kms from Madikeri known for sarees, sandalwood, temples, zoo, gardens and palace.

Wayanad:

Wayanad is located 122 kms away from Madikeri well known for wildlife sanctuaries, hill station, honeymoon and dams.

Kabini:

Kabini is about 127 kms from Madikeri famous for rivers, camping, boating, bird sighting and wildlife sanctuaries.

Mangalore:

Mangalore is approx 143 kms from Madikeri well known for beaches, cuisines, temples, gardens and museums.

Chikmangalur:

Chikmangalur is about 162 kms from Madikeri well known for coffee estates, hill station, forts and wildlife.

Bandipur National Park:

Bandipur National Park is located at a distance of 171 kms from Madikeri famous for rivers, rich natural vegetation, wildlife sanctuaries and trekking.

Bangalore:

Bangalore is about 253 kms from Madikeri very well known for gardens, shopping, cosmopolitan outlook, temples and Amusement Parks.

Connectivity to Madikeri:

Madikeri is adequately connected by all means of transport such as roadways, railways and airways. State Highway 88 is at close vicinity from Madikeri. It is 120 kms from Mysore and 136 kms from Mangalore. Madikeri is approx 252 kms from Bangalore. Since Madikeri does not have its own railway station, the nearest railway station is Hassan Railway Station which is approx 115 kms. Mangalore Airport is about 140 kms from Madikeri is the nearest airport from this place.

Best Season to visit Madikeri:

Madikeri can be visited all round the year from summer, monsoon and winter. Many tourists visit Madikeri during summer because the place remains pleasant and moderately cool at this point of time. It can also be visited during rainy seasons, when the falls will be at their full glory and flow.

Hotels in Madikeri:

Madikeri being one of the top tourist destination in Karnataka, attracts lots of tourists all round the year. Hence the Govt. has built many hotels, resorts and guest houses to provide timely accommodation for the tourists visiting the place. List of some of the hotels situated in and near Madikeri are: