Coorg or Kodagu is a district of Karnataka State in southern India. Incomparable scenic beauty, lush green valleys, coffee plantations, teak wood forests and majestic mountain ranges; add to that a strong, brave martial race of Coorgs (Kodavas) that reveres tradition, has a distinct culture and lives life to its fullest. For the adventurous at heart, it is an absolute treat. There are trekking, golfing and angling (Mahaseer too!) options available. Religious trips abound on Hindu and Buddhist circuits. One can also relax the body and mind with special Ayurvedic massages. Madikeri Fortthe 19th century fort, in the centre of Madikeri, houses a temple, a chapel, prison and a small museum. The fort offers a beautiful view of Madikeri. Raja’s Seat,according to legend, is the place where the kings of Kodagu spent their evenings. But what’s unforgettable about Raja’s seat is the spectacular sunset that one can enjoy from here. Omkareshwara templeis dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in Madikeri town. The temple has both Islamic and Gothic style of architecture. There is a tank in front of the temple with tons of fishes in it and a footpath leading to a small Mandap. River Kaveri originated at a place called Talakaveri (head of Cauvery) in the Brahmagiri hills, at about 4,500 ft above sea level. From Talakaveri, steps lead up to the nearby Brahmagiri peak, where the 7 great sages called the Sapta Maharishis had performed a special yagna. From the peak, as well as on the drive to Talakaveri, tourists can enjoy a good view of the misty blue Brahmagiri hills. IruppuFallsis the place is believed to possess the power to cleanse one’s sins and is visited by thousands of devotees from far and near on Shivaratri day. AbbeyFallsis in the midst of thick coffee bushes and tall trees entwined with pepper vines. One must walk on the hanging bridge to get a good view of the falls. Dubare is mainly an elephant capturing and training camp of the Forest Department. The three-hour elephant interaction is destined to be the most unforgettable experience at Dubare camp. One can also participate in feeding the elephants with ragi, jaggery, sugarcane, banana and coconuts. And finally, take a 45 minute elephant ride into the jungle. Nagarhole National Park is also known as ‘Rajiv Gandhi National Park’. The park has rich forest cover, small streams, valleys, and waterfalls. Valanoor 30 kms. from Mercara, the back waters of river Cauvery, is one of the most beautiful Angling sites. Nisargadhama is an ideal picnic spot. It is an island in the middle of the river connected by a rope bridge. When the river Cauvery flows downhill, it is joined by two more tributaries – Kanake and Sujyoti. The spot where all three converte (the Cauvery, the Kanika and the Sujyothi) is called Bhagamandala. The temple here, built in Kerala style, has smaller shrines dedicated to various gods. An ideal abode of peace and resplendence, the place harbours some of the major tourist spots of the country.
Happy Holidays – COORG
