Coorg India’s Scotland alternative

Karnataka’s Coorg, aka Kodagu, district offers not only rain-forests but a diverse array of natural wonders, including grassy glades, paddy fields, roaring waterfalls, deep gorges and gushing rivers – Punita Malhotra The mention of Coorg (aka Kodagu) conjures up visions of thick, green rainforests shrouded in ethereal floating mist. But to truly appreciate the rich tapestry of its topography, visitors must venture deep into this hill district sited on the eastern edge of the Western Ghats in the southern state of Karnataka (pop.63 million). Spread over 4,000 sq. km, Coorg (pop.5.5 lakh) is often described as Scotland of India. It offers not only rainforests but a diverse array of natural wonders, including grassy glades, green paddy fields, roaring waterfalls, deep gorges and gushing rivers. Located at an altitude of 3,000-5,500 ft above sea level amidst cloud-soaked mountains, Coorg receives an average of 2,500 mm of rainfall every year. These cool weather conditions and hilly topography are perfect for coffee plantations. Coorg is the largest coffee-producing district of India and also hosts expansive tea gardens and orange groves. Moreover, as the adventure capital of Karnataka, it offers diverse adrenaline-pumping outdoor sports including quad biking and kayaking. Moreover, history buffs can dive deep into the rich cultural traditions and architectural heritage of the local Kodava community. Madikeri Madikeri, the administrative capital of Coorg district, is the ideal starting point to explore the district. Sight-seeing options abound in this small town (pop.33,381). The marketplace welcomes visitors with a charming row of shops that advertise endless varieties of homegrown produce such as coffee, local chocolate, spices and wine. Tibetan monks in dark red garments and traditional Kodava houses provide a fascinating first glimpse into the region’s culture. For heritage lovers, a guided walking tour of the town is a must on the wish-list. The most popular attraction is Raja’s Seat. Once a favourite hangout of the Kodagu royalty, this public garden attracts sizeable crowds keen on enjoying its 360-degree panoramic vistas and breathtaking sunsets and sunrises. Also check out the imposing Madikeri Fort & Palace. Originally built of mud during the 17th-century, it was rebuilt with granite during the reign of Tipu Sultan (1750-1799), ruler of the Mysore kingdom. The palace is a two-storied building constructed in European style with grand pillars and checkered floors. Other noteworthy pitstops in the complex are a Gothic-style church with stained glass windows, now a museum, the Kote Maha Ganapathi Temple, Mahatma Gandhi Public Library and District Prison. Young visitors will be delighted at the prospect of discovering the maze of secret passageways within the palace complex. Not far away, is the Omkareshwara Temple. Built by Linga Rajendra II in 1820, this revered Shiva temple is an interesting blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, featuring a dome-shaped structure in the middle of a pond with four Moorish turrets on all sides and tiled roofs. A short drive away is Talacauvery, the starting point of the much-revered River Cauvery. Talacauvery has a special significance for locals, as the…