Tucked in the beautiful district of Coorg, Madikeri is a magical destination where mist meets mountains. From coffee-scented hills, ancient forts, to beautifully cascading waterfalls, the best places to visit in Madikeri are perfect for nature lovers. As the town is blessed with the presence of the Western Ghats, there are multiple ziplining zones for adventure enthusiasts.
Just when you wish for rejuvenating vibes, the divine places of worship in town wrap you in tranquillity. Trekking trails, coffee plantations, wine tasting and browsing through the local markets truly elevate your time. So, without thinking much, plan for an affordable getaway to Madikeri, where you see nature in its varied forms and colours!
10 Idyllic Places To Visit in Madikeri Are –
1. Rajas’s Seat Garden
Are you a wanderer looking for a blend of serenity, entertainment and adventure? If yes, Rajas’s Seat Garden is the destination for you! Being one of the best places to visit in Madikeri, this garden boasts of immense floral beauty. You can almost see a panoramic view of the lush green mountains from here. With quaint benches and well-manicured lanes, it is ideal for relaxing as well as walking.
What’s more? The garden has many gazebos and stunning viewpoints for clicking Instagram-worthy pictures. If you are a thrill seeker, it offers a ziplining adventure amidst the picturesque views. Moreover, it has a trampoline and hosts a light and sound fountain show after sunset. Visitors love to visit during sunrise and sunset to capture the idyllic views from here. There are numerous affordable hotels near Raja’s Seat, offering a comfortable stay.
- Entry Fee: INR 20
- Zipline Fee: INR 350
- Trampoline: INR 100
2. Abbey Waterfall
A breathtaking beauty of nature awaits your presence. We are talking about the famous Abbey Waterfall, known for its ease of accessibility. Unlike other waterfalls in India, this one is truly for every type of traveller. You need to climb a few steps downward to reach the main fall.
It is important to note that you can only see the waterfall from a distance, as swimming or touching the water is not possible. This spectacular waterfall can be reached via a jeep ride or by walking. While the jeep ride is super smooth, walking on a steep downward road can be troublesome for some.
On your way, you can also find one of the longest ziplines in the state. Right outside the entry point, you can find a few shops selling coconut water, corn and local delicacies. It is one of the best places to visit in Madikeri during the monsoon season, as the water flow is heavy. The availability of affordable Treebo hotels makes it easy to plan a getaway.
- Entry Fee: INR 10
- Zipline Fee: IN 450
3. Shri Omkareshwara Swamy Temple
In the serene surroundings of Madikeri resides a peaceful place wrapped in divinity. Shri Omkareshwara Swamy Temple is one of the sacred places to visit in Madikeri for the blessings of Lord Shiva. This holy temple is known for its awe-inspiring architecture and heavenly spiritual energies. You can see a massive pond at the entrance, adding to the temple’s charm.
Being one of the revered Shiva temples in India, the temple follows a strict dressing code. Shorts and sleeveless tops are strictly not allowed. Photography is also prohibited to maintain the divine aura of the place. It is also believed that the Shiva lingam here was brought from the spiritual land of Varanasi. Walk around, meditate and feel the powerful blessings of Lord Shiva.
4. Namdroling Monastery
The second-largest Buddhist monastery in India is here to awe you with its beauty. Namdroling Monastery is one of the top places to visit in Madikeri. As the name suggests, the holy place is a beautiful Tibetan Buddhist centre. As you enter the place, you can see stunning Buddhist architecture consisting of vibrant colours blending with the lustrous gold.
The main sanctum has grand statues of Buddha Shakyamuni, Guru Padmasambhava and Amitayus. The minute you look at them, you truly feel mesmerised by the jaw-dropping details. What’s more? The walls are adorned with vibrant murals showcasing Buddhist deities and scenes from Buddha’s life. Intricate Tibetan motifs certainly give this place a distinctive appeal.
It is worth noting that Namdroling Monastery is home to over 5,000 monks who study and practice Buddhism here. You will see monks all around the monastery complex, so be mindful not to disturb them. You can visit during noon to witness prayers and chanting. Prayer wheels surround the entire space, and they must only be moved clockwise. To truly enjoy the place, book pocket-friendly hotels near Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple for a convenient stay with loved ones.
5. Raja’s Tomb
Locally known as Gaddige, Raja’s Tomb is a historical monument preserving the heritage of the state. It is the final resting place of Kodagu’s Haleri kings and queens, as well as royal members of the family. Interestingly, King Dodda Vira Rajendra constructed the central tomb for himself and his wife. This place also has tombs of the king’s father and the royal priest.
What’s more? You can see all the dome structures crowned with minarets and sculptures of Nandi. This showcases the blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. A bit uncommon, however, these tombs also have a Shiva lingam inside each. You can also read inscriptions to discover more about history. You can easily find affordable hotels near Gaddige for a hassle-free stay.
6. Madikeri Fort
History buffs, assemble right here! Madikeri Fort has something interesting for you. It is one of the most fascinating ancient places to visit in Madikeri, where you can witness the city’s heritage. Did you know the fort has gone through multiple renovations? From Tipu Sultan to the British, each corner of the massive structure echoes stories of the bygone era.
What’s more? You get to see a fusion of European and traditional architectural styles. Do not forget to witness the two massive elephants right at the entrance. You can take a walk from the fort for a picturesque view of the town. So, make sure to book affordable Treebo hotels nearby for a pleasant stay.
7. Mandalpatti Peak
How about an adrenaline rush on your trip to Madikeri? Mandalpatti Peak is one of the adventurous places to visit in Madikeri. Also known as the Market of Clouds, Mandalpatti is home to the eye-appealing Western Ghats. You get to be a part of a stimulating jeep ride taking you through the bumpy roads of the peak.
After reaching the jeep parking point, you need to hike for a few minutes to reach the top. Being one of the most unexplored trek routes in India, some enthusiasts skip the jeep and explore the bumpy roads on foot instead. The panoramic views of the ghats, topped with clouds, create a soothing backdrop for pictures. Note that plastic bottles are not allowed in the mountain region.
- Entry Fee: INR 25
- Jeep Fee: INR 1500 – 2500 Per Jeep (may vary)
8. Coffee Plantations
Walking through scenic coffee plantations in India has to be on your list. Madikeri is home to a plethora of coffee plantations offering fantastic tours and informative sessions. Visiting a coffee plantation takes you through the deepest forests of this area. Most coffee tours introduce you to Arabica and Robusta coffee and cocoa.
You might get to see other trees, including pepper, rubber, jackfruit and more. Moreover, these tours often end with a coffee tasting session. Even coffee is made with a special formula of jaggery and lemon. While some coffee estates offer wine tasting, others may have shops to buy the best souvenirs from India. Booking affordable Treebo hotels makes it convenient to plan a vacation.
9. Government Museum
You cannot miss seeing old-age artefacts at the Government Museum. It is one of the interesting places to visit in Madikeri to witness the preserved treasures. Did you know it was St. Mark’s Church in the early days? Later, it was converted into a museum by the archaeology department.
In today’s time, the museum is home to many bronze and stone sculptures. You can also see statues of the Jain tirthankaras, ancient Kodava-style clothing, old coins, weapons, and inscriptions. Stained glass interiors truly give it a divine appearance. Even though it is small, it is definitely worth a visit!
10. Nisargadhama
Imagine entering a forest where you see, hear and smell nature. Nisargadhama is just 50 minutes from Madikeri town and clearly is a favourite of travel enthusiasts! It is a forest reserve built to promote harmony between humans and nature. Surrounded by bamboo, oak and teak trees, you can sit on the banks of the Cauvery River.
What’s exciting? A rustic bridge connects the buzzing town with the forest, making it a thrilling place to be. The forest features boat and elephant rides. It also has serene pathways for photography and shade for people to relax. Don’t be scared if a few deer say hi to you on the way.
As you move ahead, you can see multiple statues showcasing the culture of the town. It is home to multiple birds and monkeys. What’s more? The forest reserve houses an orchidarium and a rabbit park, adding to the wonderful time. The availability of affordable hotels near Nisargadhama Forest makes it convenient to enjoy the vacation.
Best Time To Visit Madikeri
While Madikeri is pleasant throughout the year, it is important to understand the climate and temperature ranges. Considering different seasons, you can select the one that best suits your travel preferences.
Winter (October to February)
Winter is indeed the best time to visit Madikeri, all thanks to the cold climate. The temperature ranges from 14°C to 25°C, great for travellers who love the chilly nights. As the weather is crisp, you can enjoy sightseeing with your friends and family.
Even the skies are clear and free from fog, making it ideal for photography. It is important to know that winter is the peak tourist season for Madikeri. Hence, it is advisable to book affordable hotels in Coorg, Madikeri well in advance to avoid paying high prices.
Summer (March to April)
The summer season offers a soothing escape from the intense heat. While it is not extremely cold, you get relief from warmer areas of the state. The temperature is between 20°C and 30°C. Summertime is ideal for trekking trails, river rafting and other outdoor activities. As it is the holiday season for most parts of the country, you can find a moderate number of tourists in the town. It is easy to find cheap deals and discounts on hotels during this time.
Monsoon (June to September)
If you love adventure, the monsoon is the best time to visit Madikeri. The place turns all green, and you can literally smell the aroma of wet mud. As therapeutic as it sounds, the place becomes a paradise with heavy waterfalls and hills covered in fog. The temperature is between 18°C and 28°C. Monsoon season is not for every traveller; it is especially for those who love to witness the untouched beauty of Madikeri. While sightseeing might be limited, witnessing the panoramic views while sitting on a park bench with an umbrella is certainly heart-warming!
The Green Town of Madikeri Awaits Your Presence!
The best places to visit in Madikeri bring you closer to natural wonder, spirituality and Kodagu culture. Wrapped in mist and greenery, the timeless beauty inspires every traveller to visit again. Now that you have the list of places and affordable Treebo hotels, planning a vacation in the Southern land is a walk in the park! Go ahead, pose with the misty backdrops and let the serenity settle in your heart.
