Raja's Seat, which in the local dialect means 'Seat of the Kings', is considered one of the most scenic locations in Madikeri. The spot got its name because kings used to love visiting and watching the mesmerising views of sunrise and sunset from up here. It is now a popular tourist destination where tourists can stand and take in the entirety of the lush green valleys, misty mountains, and colourful flower gardens. This is another one of the best places to visit in Madikeri.
Known for its intriguing history and beautiful architecture, Omkareshwara Temple is visited by tourists and believers alike. One of Madikeri's famous places, the temple is dedicated to Shiva and was built in the 19th century with a mix of Gothic and Islamic styles. It has a dome in the centre and four minarets in the corners. There is a pool in front of the temple with lots of fresh fish. The Shivalinga installed in the temple was named Omkareshwara, and eventually, the temple got its name from there.
Earlier known as Jessie Falls during the colonial era, Abbey Falls is a cascading waterfall with a height of 70 feet that joins the Kaveri River. It is situated between coffee plantations and spice estates and provides a picturesque view. You can hear the dramatic gush of the waterfall from the main road. A hanging bridge has been built to make the most of this incredible view and is undoubtedly one of the best places to see in Madikeri.
Bylakuppe is a residing place for thousands of Tibetan refugees living in exile for decades. The temple was built over 80 sq. ft. with the aid of The government of India. The major attraction of the temple is the 40 ft high golden statues of Buddha, Padmasambhava, and Amitayus. Additionally, you can see many other things that highlight the modern Tibetan culture, and it is one of the top places to visit near Madikeri.
The reservoir is formed behind a dam by a tributary of the River Cauvery. Surrounded by the Dubare Forest Reserve, the scenic, secluded surroundings are ideal for picnics and family outings. Views of sunsets from here are spectacular and photographers will be delighted. Guests may also visit the forest reserve here that is rich in flora and fauna. For visitors with a penchant for outdoor activities, the area around the reservoir offers many trails that are ideal for short treks and nature walks.
Mandalpatti is a hill that is part of the Pushpagiri Reserve Forest near the town of Madikeri. In the vernacular, Mandalpatti is also known as ‘Mugilu-Peth’ or ‘Mugilu-Pete’ which means ‘Market of Cloud’.
Mandalpatti is popular with off roading visitors who relish the challenge of driving uphill in four-by-four wheel jeeps. There are two routes to Mandalpatti: one, via Abbi Falls, on which the ride is little bumpier but the distance is shorter. Traversing the other, via Makkanduru, one drives through coffee estates and there are a lot of small scenic waterfalls and streams en-route. Over the final 3 Km stretch, due to entry restrictions enforced by the forest department, vehicles are parked near a checkpoint and one can walk to the summit or board a jeep offered by the forest department.
The area around the dam’s reservoir is lush undulating countryside and is a popular picnic spot amongst visitors, ideal for family and group outings. Guest could also opt to go for nature walks in the scenic surroundings.
The Mallali Falls spectacularly drop down from a height of about 200ft at the foot of the Pushpagiri hills where the Kumaradhara River nears the plains journeying from its source on Pushpagiri Peak. Numerous pathways cut through the scenic forests and hills that surround the falls and are ideal for short treks. The best time in the year to visit the falls is during the south west monsoon, between the months of July to December.
Dubare Elephant Camp is located at the edge of the Dubare, one of the protected forests in Coorg. This is an initiative taken by the forest department and Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd. Wildlife lovers can spend hours observing elephants trained by naturalists. They can also participate in activities like bathing and feeding them. Alongside, there are several activities like horse and elephant rides, boating, fishing, trekking, etc., that tourists can enjoy.