Madikeri | Weekend Getaway Break from Bangalore

Madikeri | Weekend Getaway Break from Bangalore

Madikeri, hill station in the western ghats of Karnataka, is often referred as ‘Scotland of India’ because of the exceptional natural beauty and soothing environment. Madikeri or Mercara is also popularly called as the ‘Kashmir of the South India’ because of the same reason depicting its mesmerising natural settings.

The hill station has wooded slopes, eccentric villages, colourful scenery, acres of tea and coffee plantation an orange groves and breath taking landscape, making itself one of the most popular weekend destinations amongst tourists. Not just nature lovers but also those seeking a relaxing break from day to day lifestyle and for those looking for seclusion away from the city life.

The place is named after Muddu Raja, the prince of the Haleri dynasty who founded it in the year 1681. It is an added advantage if one visits the hill station during festive season. The colours of these festivals make the place even more attractive. Some of the popular festivals here are Kailpodhu, Kaveri Sankramana, Puttari and Dasara. Karaga festival also starts during the time of Navarathri. Madikeri Dasara procession is especially very lively and colourful.

Along with scenic beauty, the place offers amazing opportunities for activities like trekking. It is one of the best places to go for trekking in Karnataka. Thandiyandamole and Pushpagiri are two of the highest peaks in Madikeri and rises to a height of 5729 feet and 5626 feet respectively.

Some of the major attractions of the place are:

Madikeri Fort:Built by Mudduraja in the last quarter of the 17th century, Madikeri Fort was first a mud fort which was later rebuilt in granite in Tipu Sultan who named the site as Jaffarabad. The fort makes for an interesting visit. Visitors can have panoramic view of the city from the walls of the fort. It is also presents tourist with an architectural excellence to look at and has the prison, a temple, a chapel, a small museum, and assorted government offices.

Omkareshwara Temple:Built by Lingarajendra in 1820, Omkareshwara temple is situated very neat to the heart of Madikeri. What makes this temple special is the fact that it has both Islamic and Gothic style of architecture.

The legend behind the temple is that it was built by Lingarajendra who had to bring a Shivalinga from Kashi and instal it in order to get rid of "Brahmarakshasa". Brahmarakshasa was an honest and pious Brahmin who was killed by Lingarajendra to fulfil his political ambitions. The Shivalinga was named as "Omkareshwara" on which the temple is named.

Raja’s Seat:At the western end of Madikeri, Raja’s Seat is located. It literally means Seat of the King and is a well maintained beautiful garden presenting amazing view of the valley. It also has a pavilion. The sunset here is something not be missed by visitors.

Abbey Falls:Located near to Madikeri, abbey fall is one of the major tourist attractions it has breath taking scenic beauty and is quite captivating where the Kaveri river cascades down a rockface from a height of 70 feet. A hanging bridge has been built too across adding on to its charm.

Some other popular sites are Chettalli, Bhagamandala, Talacauvery, etc.