Kodagu (Coorg), the thickly wooded grandeur on the Western Ghats, is the most beautiful hill station of Karnataka. The rich heritage of the people of Kodagu, the land the culture and the abundant natural beauty beckons every visitor to conserve this tiny district. Misty hills, lush forest, acres and acres of coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views are what make Madikeri an unforgettable holiday destination.
Homestay at Coorg (Kodagu) is the best way to explore the natural charm of Kodagu. It lets you experience the rich Kodava culture and cuisine.
Food
Coorg cuisine is famous and unique, especially for non-vegetarians as it is based on game meats, pork and other delicious ingredients. Popular dishes are pandhi (pork), koli (chicken) and yarchi (mutton) spiced with pepper and kokum. The other dishes are bembla curry, kadumbuttu, noolputu, voti and excellent coffee.
Shopping : Some of the popular items to buy are coffee, honey, spices, cardamom, pepper
Local Sights
Madikeri Fort
This 19th century fort, in the centre of Madikeri, houses a temple, a chapel, and a prison. 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.
Iruppu Falls
There is a sacred spot called Iruppu in south Kodagu on the Brahmagiri range of hills. This 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. This place can be visited from Gonikopal on the way to Nagerhole by taking a detour after Srimangala, situated in the Kutta Road.
Abbey Falls
A big attraction for tourists is the Abbey Falls, 8 kms from Madikeri. Even during the summer there is plenty of water in these falls. The chirping of innumerable birds fill the air with sweet music. Do remember to take your binoculars and camera when you go there.
Dubare
This is mainly an elephant training camp of the Forest Department, at the edge of Dubare forest, on the bank of river Kaveri, on the Kushalnagar - Siddapur road.
Nagarhole National Park
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.
Valanoor
Valanoor, 30 kms.from Mercara,the back waters of river Cauvery is one of the most beautiful Angling sites in Karnataka. Types of fish include Golden-Masheer, Maral and Mapp. Licence / permit can be arranged by local tourist agents.
Nisargadhama
Cauvery Nisargadhama is situated about 36 kms from Madikeri. This is an ideal picnic spot. It is an island in the middle of the river connected by a rope bridge. You can do boating or go for elephant rides as well as visit the elephant training camp run by the Forest Department at Dubare (8 kms further).
Bhagamandala
When the river Cauvery flows downhill, the spot where all three tributaries converge (the Cauvery, the Kanika and the Sujyothi) is called Bhagamandala. The temple here, built in Kerala style, has smaller shrines dedicated to various gods. It is about 40 kms from Madikeri.
Harangi Dam
Harangi Dam is a great picnic spot 36 kms from Madikeri.