Madikeri
Madikeri, also known as Mercara, is a picturesque hill station located in the Kodagu (Coorg) district of Karnataka, India. Nestled in the lush greenery of the Western Ghats at an elevation of about 1,150 meters, Madikeri is renowned for its misty hills, sprawling coffee plantations, and serene landscapes. The town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, with attractions such as Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Madikeri Fort, and the Omkareshwara Temple. Its pleasant climate throughout the year, especially during the cooler months from October to March, makes it a favored getaway for nature lovers and peace seekers. Rich in Kodava traditions and cuisine, Madikeri is not only a visual treat but also a cultural experience, drawing visitors from all over the country and beyond.
The origin of the word “travel” is most likely lost to history. The term “travel” may originate from the Old French word travail, which means ‘work’. According to the Merriam Webster dictionary, the first known use of the word travel was in the 14th century.
Highlights
- Trek to the world-famous Everest Base Camp
- Enjoy the amazing view of the Himalayas from Kala Patthar
- Travel through the Sherpa villages of Namche, Khumjung, Khunde, and Dingboche
- Visit Tengboche the biggest and oldest monastery n the region.
Itinerary
The General Thimmaiah Memorial Museum in Madikeri, Kodagu, is dedicated to General K.S. Thimmaiah, one of India’s most respected military leaders. Housed in his ancestral home, the museum showcases his life, military achievements, and a collection of war memorabilia, including weapons, uniforms, a battle tank, and a MiG-21 fighter jet. It serves as a tribute to his legacy and India’s military history.
Abbey Falls, located about 8‑10 km from Madikeri in the Kodagu district of Karnataka, is one of the region’s most picturesque waterfalls. The River Kaveri cascades about 70 feet down a rocky cliff, surrounded by dense forests, coffee plantations, and spice estates. A hanging footbridge opposite the falls offers a dramatic view of the cascade and the misty spray. The best time to visit is during or just after the monsoon, when the water flow is strong and the greenery around is lush.
Bhagamandala is a sacred pilgrimage site located around 39 kilometers from Madikeri in the Kodagu district of Karnataka. It is known for the Triveni Sangama, the confluence of three rivers — the Kaveri, Kannike, and the mythical Sujyoti. At this holy spot stands the Bhagandeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and built in traditional Kerala-style architecture with tiered roofs. Bhagamandala is a significant site for rituals, especially for offering prayers to ancestors. Many pilgrims take a holy dip at the Sangama before heading to Talakaveri, the origin of the River Kaveri. Surrounded by forested hills and coffee plantations, the area offers both spiritual solace and natural beauty.
The glass bridge—often referred to as a glass skywalk—is a daring attraction built near Madikeri on the road toward Abbey Falls and Bhagamandala. It offers visitors the sensation of walking above a valley on transparent tempered glass panels, providing panoramic views of the lush Western Ghats beneath. The structure is about 78 feet tall, roughly 32 meters in length, and around 2 meters wide, capable of supporting multiple visitors at once.
Madikeri Fort, also known as Mercara Fort, is a historic landmark situated in the heart of Madikeri, the district headquarters of Kodagu (Coorg), Karnataka. Originally constructed in the 17th century by Mudduraja, the fort was later rebuilt in granite by Tipu Sultan in the 18th century and named Jaffarabad. The fort has witnessed various architectural additions over the years, including renovations by Linga Rajendra II in the early 19th century and modifications by the British in 1834.
The Golden Temple, officially known as Namdroling Monastery, is a renowned Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Bylakuppe, about 35 kilometers from Madikeri in Kodagu. Established in 1963, it is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India and houses around 600 monks. The temple is famous for its stunning golden statues of Lord Buddha and intricate Tibetan architecture featuring colorful murals and prayer wheels. Visitors can experience spiritual rituals, meditation, and the serene ambiance of this peaceful monastery. The Golden Temple is a popular cultural and spiritual destination, attracting tourists and devotees alike who seek tranquility and a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
Mandalpatti is a beautiful viewpoint located about 25 to 30 kilometers from Madikeri, nestled within the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary in Coorg. Accessible by a scenic 3-kilometer trek or a jeep ride through rugged terrain, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of rolling hills, valleys, and mist-covered landscapes. The best time to visit is between October and February when the weather is clear and pleasant. Visitors are advised to carry essentials and wear comfortable shoes, as the trek can be moderately challenging. Mandalpatti is a favorite spot for nature lovers and photographers looking to capture the serene beauty of Coorg’s Western Ghats.
Nisargadhama is a beautiful river island and forest park located about 8 kilometers from Madikeri, Kodagu. Formed by a bend in the River Kaveri, this serene spot is surrounded by lush bamboo groves, sandalwood, and teak trees, making it an ideal place for nature lovers and families. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, a hanging rope bridge, deer and rabbit enclosures, and boating on the river. Nisargadhama offers a peaceful retreat into nature, perfect for picnics and relaxation amidst the scenic beauty of Coorg.
Raja’s Seat is a popular viewpoint and garden located in the heart of Madikeri, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys of Kodagu. Historically, it was a favorite leisure spot for the kings of Kodagu, who enjoyed watching sunsets from this elevated terrace. The beautifully landscaped gardens, colorful flowerbeds, and musical fountain add to the charm of the place. Raja’s Seat is especially enchanting during evenings when the sky lights up with vibrant hues, making it a must-visit spot for tourists and locals alike seeking tranquility and breathtaking vistas.
Talakaveri is the sacred origin of the River Kaveri, located in the Brahmagiri hills of Kodagu, about 48 kilometers from Madikeri. It is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, marked by a temple dedicated to Goddess Kaveriamma. The spot features a natural spring believed to be the source of the mighty river, surrounded by lush greenery and misty hills. Pilgrims visit Talakaveri especially during the festival of Tula Sankramana to take holy dips in the spring. Its serene atmosphere and spiritual significance make Talakaveri a revered and scenic destination in Coorg.
Dubare Elephant Camp is a popular wildlife attraction located on the banks of the River Kaveri, about 30 kilometers from Madikeri in Coorg. Managed by the Karnataka Forest Department, the camp is known for its close-up elephant experiences, where visitors can watch elephants being bathed, fed, and trained. It was once a training camp for Mysore Dasara elephants and now serves as a conservation and eco-tourism center. Visitors can also enjoy river rafting, boating, and nature walks in the surrounding forest. Dubare offers a rare opportunity to interact with elephants in a natural setting, making it a must-visit for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Pick-up or Drop-off service from and to Airport(in our own vehicle)
- Transportation to and from!!
- Food all along the trip(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and a cup of coffee or tea) and accommodations during the trip in hotels with family environment
- Transportation, food, accommodation and insurance of Guide during the trip
- Down jacket, all-season sleeping bag, duffel bag and trekking map(in case if you don’t have your own. Down jacket, sleeping bag and duffel bag must be returned after completion of the trip)
- First Aid Medical Kit(Your guide will carry the Medical Kit but we also advise to bring yourself for your own use, as far as possible)
- All the required permits and paperwork
The Cost Excludes
- International Airfare
- Visa Charges
- Hotel Expenses(In Kathmandu, some packages do include hotel expenses)
- Your travel and medical insurance
- Personal Expenses such as shopping, bar bills, hot shower, telephone, laundry, titbits etc
- Food and accommodations in Kathmandu
- Services not mentioned or not promised by the agent/agency
- Emergency expenses such as expenses on chartered helicopter.
FAQs
Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will too, you can.
On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.
The highest altitude reached is 4190m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will climb in this trek.
Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay a certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, a hot water facility could be free at a lower elevation.
No. There are no ATMs on this trek route. You will have to draw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu. There are a number of ATMs in these cities. Everything is paid in Nepali rupees. So money should be exchanged before the start of the trek.
Yes. The Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. The Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.
Not really. It depends on you. If you want, ABC trekking can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during the offseason.
It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.
For the Annapurna region, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.
