1. Visit the Namdroling Monastery

The Namdroling Monastery, also called the Golden Temple, is locating near Madikeri in Karnataka. It is the largest Buddhist teaching centre of the Nyingmapa lineage of Buddhism in the world. It was established by His Holiness Pema Norbu Rinpoche, who came to India on exile from Tibet. It was consecrated and named Namdroling Monastery by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The monastery was built on the land that was donated by the Indian government to settle the Tibetan refugees from Tibet. Once here, you will literally feel like you are in Tibet, as there is a huge population of Tibetans living here, and also there is a mall nearby selling Tibetan knick-knacks.

The monastery has three exquisite golden statues of Buddha, Padmasambhava and Amitayus. The temple has beautiful designs and its walls are decorated with intricate paintings, which depict stories of Gods and demons from the Tibetan Buddhist mythology. The altar of this temple is filled with lovely flowers, candles, and incense sticks.

Namdroling Monastery

Address: Arlikumari, P.O. Bylakuppe, Mysore, Karnataka 571104, India

Website: Namdroling Monastery

2. Gaddige Raja's Tomb

The Raja’s Tomb, also called Gaddige, is located in Madikeri in Coorg, Karnataka. The monument consists of the mortal remains of the Kodavas rulers of that time. It depicts the prevailing building style of those times; Indo-Sarcenic.

Gaddige consists of the tombs at the center part of the structure, and the turrets at the corners. It has Nandi figures carved on top of the corners, and the entrance of the tombs also has carvings. The statue of Lord Shiva is placed and also worshiped inside the tomb, as it represents a Hindu God. This is fascinating as most of the tombs belong to the Muslim kings and dynasties.

Gaddige Raja's Tomb

Website: Gaddige Raja’s Tomb

3. See the famous Raja's Seat

Raja’s Seat or the King’s Seat is a very popular sunset point in Madikeri. It is the place from where the kings of Kodagu used to enjoy the glorious sunset view. That is how it got its name, Raja’s Seat, as it was a favorite recreational spot for the kings. Today, thousands of tourists visit this destination every year to catch a glimpse of the sunset from the very point from where kings and queens used to see it.

Raja's Seat

Website: Raja’s Seat

4. Visit the Omkareshwara Temple

The legendary Omkareshwara Temple, located in Madikeri, was built by King Lingarajendra II in the year 1820 in the Islamic style of architecture, which is famous for a dome in the center, and has four turrets at all four corners. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva and was built in the 19th-century.

The temple has a pool in front, that has a lot of fresh water fish in it, proving a major attraction for the visiting kids. The king wrote the history of this temple on a copper plate fixed near the entrance door frame of the temple. Thousands of visitors come here every year to see this temple and the history behind it.

Omkareshwara Temple

Address: SH 88, Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Karnataka 571201, India

Website: Omkareshwara Temple

5. The thunderous Abbey Falls

Abbey Falls is situated in Madikeri town and cascades over the rocks into calm pools of water. There is a path there through coffee and cardamom plantations, lying just off the main road, which adds to the attraction of the Abbey Falls. Visitors here enjoy the gushing and roaring waterfall but have to exercise caution when taking a dip in the waters.

This place is situated amid nature and reaching it is also a jolly ride in the lap of mother nature, with lots of turns and twists. There is also a hanging bridge built across the gorge, which gives a good view of the waterfall.

Abbey Falls

Address: Madikeri, Hebbettageri, Karnataka 571201, India

6. Chelavara Falls

Chelavara Falls is a picturesque waterfall near Madikeri. It is a natural waterfall which is formed by a small stream off of Kaveri River. The waterfall is a really wonderful place, as the water flows from the rocks in the midst of the green coffee plantations.

This place is full of natural beauty and is very peaceful, attracting hordes of tourists around the year. During the rainy season especially it is a wonderful place to be, but one has to be careful while entering the water as it is very dangerous, and tourists are advised not to do so.

Chelavara Falls

Address: Chelavara, Karnataka 571212, India

7. Enjoy the greenery and serene surroundings of Mandalpatti

Mandalpatti is a well-known tourist spot in Madikeri. It is located on the way to Abbey Falls and one will need to go there by private cab, as bus facilities are not available.

Tourists will need to buy entry tickets at the base of Mandalpatti before starting the trek up the hills. They also need to carry their own water and food, as there are no shops around. When you reach the top of the hills, you can view the serene beauty of Mandalpatti. The lush green mountains and cool breeze will make you feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

8. Trek through the Kotebetta Hills

Kotebetta in Madikeri is the 3rd highest peak after Tadiyandamol and Brahmagiri. It is a good spot for trekking and there is a Hindu God Shiva temple situated on the peak of the hill. It is an awesome place for trekking and the best time to do so is between the months of October and March. The services of a local guide will come in handy during the trek.

The charm of Madikeri

Madikeri is home to hills and waterfalls, that are a huge draw for crowds of tourists every year. It houses the world famous Tibetan Namdroling Monastery also, attracting Buddhist people as well as people of all faiths. Become one of those people and start planning your Madikeri trip of a lifetime now.