Get the taste of Coorg, Dubbed as the Scotland of India
252 kms from Bangalore and 1525 m above sea level lies Madikeri, the district headquarters of Kodagu. Coorg or Kodagu(originally called Kodaimalenadu) means 'dense forest on steep hill'. Dubbed as the Scotland of India, this town
has a lot to offer to the tourist. Misty hills, lush forest, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views are what make Madikeri an unforgettable holiday destination.It is about 40kms away from Madikeri, the principal town of Kodagu. It is a tank on a hilltop where water springs out from fractured rocks, trickles down the hill-slope and flows through the valley to the plains. The view of the streams a they flow down the hilltop is a feast for the eyes but it forced me to recall the nasty political battle between the two neighbou-ring states over this water.
There are many places to enjoy a spectacular view of the valley from the hilltop but the place called Raja Seat is really splendid for one can see the verdant valley amazingly change into so many shades of green. Here Nature has opened up its entire beauty. The next place worth visiting is Abbey Falls, close to the town and it also has a trekking route. Though the height of the falls is not spectacular but its lends an exotic touch to the surroundings.
The People
The Kodagu people have a unique identity of their own – that of a brave, handsome, hospitable Coorg / Kodagu / Madikeri, Karnataka community. With their origins unknown even today, visitors are overwhelmed with their customs, especially their respect for ancestors and a love of their land. A distinguished martial tradition has given the Indian Army several Generals and Brigadiers. Kodagus or Coorgis have their own dialect & follow customs & rituals which are unlike any other people. Kodagu women have their own special variant of draping the saree. With pleats behind and the pallu in front, they draw attention to their beautiful good looks as well.
Local Sights
Madikeri Fort
This 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, the kings of Kodagu spent their evenings here. But what's unforgettable about Raja's seat is the spectacular sunset that one can enjoy from here.
Abbey Falls
A big attraction for tourists and filmdom alike is the Abbey Falls, 8 kms from Madikeri. Even during the summer there is plenty of water in these falls. The roar of the falls can be heard from the main road, from where a path goes through lovely coffee and cardamom plantations right up to them. The chirping of innumerable birds which are easier heard then seen, fill the air with sweet music. Do remember to take your binoculars and camera when you go there.
Nagarhole National Park
The place derives its name from the winding river - Nagarhole meaning "snake river" - which flows through the park. The 640 sq km of gently undulating terrain at the foothills of the Brahmagiri hills is covered with thick tropical forest, grassy swamps and numerous rivers and streams. The park and animal life is part of the country's first "bio-sphere reserve".
The Forest Department conducts tours along well-defined routes for tourists, in the early mornings and evenings. One can be sure of seeing the bison, elephant, spotted deer, sambhar, barking deer, wild boar, mongoose, peakcock, jungle fowl and many other birds and animals.
Lucky people may see a tiger or panther or even a King cobra. Both trekking and going by private vehicles is allowed, though permission has to be taken first. Huts have been built for those who wish to stay in the wilds.
Shopping:
Coffee, honey, cardamom, pepper and oranges ( season).
Local Food Specialities:
Pandhi, Koli and bembla curry, kadumbuttu, noolputu, voti and excellent coffee.
Climate:
Pleasant all year round. The monsoon is from June to September.
Tourist Information
1. Tourist Bureau, PWD Travellers Bungalow, Madikeri-571 201.
2. Karnataka Tourism, Old Exhibition, Mysore-570 021.
3. Assistant Conservator of forests, Wildlife division, Arnaya Bhavan, Ashokpuram, Mysore.
4. Karnataka Tourism, 64 St Marks road, Bangalore - 560001.
5. Chief Wildlife Warden, Aranya Bhawan, 18th cross, Malleshwaram, Bangalore.
Kodagu Valley can be visited by road from Mysore (115kms), Bangalore (260 kms), Mangalore (140 kms). Summer is pleasant (minimum 22°C), monsoon is cool (minimum 15°C) and winter is quite cold (minimum 10°C).
posted by Rishil Babu @ 9:35 AM,
