Madikeri is located in the state of
Karnataka. It is 252 kms from
Bangalore and 1525 m above sea level. It is the district headquarters of Kodagu or
Coorg. Kodagu is the home of colorful, robust, martial race - the Kodavas, Madikeri is also known as the
Scotland of India. Madikeri is a great get-away, winding lanes meander off the main street, mountain trails offers picturesque sight. The
Tadiyandamol, is the tallest peak in the area. Madikeri is covered with lush green forests, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantations and orange groves. Madikeri offers some breath taking views.
Madikeri Fort and Raja’s seat are places to visit here. In the center of Madikeri, this 19th century fort houses a temple, a chapel, the prison and a small museum. The fort also offers a panaromic view of Madikeri. Raja's Seat is located at the Western End of Madikeri, Raja's Seat is a small pavilion with a garden surrounding it; offering a view of the beautiful green valley below.
Omkareshwara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva it was built in 1820. It is a mix of Islamic and Gothic styles of architecture. Abbey Falls is a very popular picnic spot. It is located 10 kms from Madikeri. It is a breathtaking waterfall where the
Kaveri river cascades down a rockface. A hanging bridge has now been built across the gorge here offering a good view of the falls. Cars can reach the entrance of these falls from where a downhill walk of 500 metres (on slightly paved steps) takes one to the waterfalls. Irupu Falls is another beautiful picnic spot, is on the way to
Kutta from
Gonikoppal. Harangi is a reservoir near
Kushalnagar, it is a picturesque spot. Though it is pleasant throughout the year but best time to visit is from October to April.