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.
Madikeri welcomes its every visitor with open arms into the land full of fantasies. With undulating topography covered in different shades of green, dotted with exquisite coffee plantations, and atmosphere heavy with mist, Madikeri is a picture of magnificence. Madikeri town is full of trekking options with some of the most picturesque trek routes in Karnataka a perfect gateway for a leisure holiday.
The traditional Saree is worn here in reverse, and you can still see older women wearing it in the traditional Kodagu's style.
Since most of the tourist spots around Madikeri are over distances averaging 25-30 kms, the best mode of travel is to engage a Taxi service Local transportation like bus is not available. Raja's Seat, Madikeri Fort, Omkareshwara Temple, Abbey Falls, Talakaveri, Bhagamandala Temple, Nisargadhama, Kushalnagar and Dubbare Elephant camp are major attractions.
How to get there
By Air: Madikeri does not have an airport. The nearest airports are Mangalore (136 km. away) and Calicut (180 km). Bangalore airport is an alternative. However, with the upgradation of the existing Mysore airport, that would be the nearest airport to Madikeri.
By Rail: Madikeri has no rail connection. So you have to take a train till Mysore, which is the closest railway station to Madikeri. It is at a distance of around 114 Km from here. Hassan, Cannanore, and Tellicherry are the alternatives that are equidistant from Madikeri.
Road: The Mysore - Mangalore highway (NH48) passes through Kodagu. The district headquarters Madikeri (Mercara), is 260 km from Bangalore and 120 km from Mysore. The distance from Mangalore is 136 km and from Cannanore and Tellicherry, it is about 115 km. There are regular buses plying from these places to Madikeri.