Madikeri, also known earlier as Mercara, is the picturesque capital of Coorg, where time seems to have stopped for feasting the eyes of its honorable guests. Dubbed as the Scotland of India, this town has a lot to offer to the tourist. Misty hills, lush forest, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views are what make Madikeri an unforgettable holiday destination.
Madikeri is the land of the Kodavas. Kodavas have distinctive dresses, the men wearing wraparound robes called the Kupya and the women with a distinctive style of wearing the sari. They have many distinctive practices such as carrying ceremonial knives, and martial war dances. The culture also includes communal gatherings where drink, dance and special meat dishes seasoned with Garcinia are central attractions.
Dotted with a cluster of red-roofed dwellings and a bustling bazaar, the town situated at an elevation of 1525 m, has a charming old-world feel. Raja’s seat perched atop a hill is where the kings of yore spent many pleasant evenings watching the golden sunset.
In Madikeri the main festivals celebrated are Kailpodhu, Kaveri Sankramana, Puttari and Dasara. Karaga festival also starts during the time of Navarathri. Madikeri Dasara procession is a very beautiful procession of mantapas.
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.
