5 FUN Facts about Madikeri, Karnataka

Madikeri, also known as Mercara, is a town and the headquarters of Kodagu district in Karnataka, India. It is a popular hill station and a tourist destination that offers scenic views, historical monuments, and cultural diversity.

Madikeri has a rich and varied history that dates back to the 17th century, when it was the capital of the independent Haleri kingdom. Madikeri has many attractions and places of interest that showcase its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance. Here are some interesting facts about Madikeri that you may not know:

Located in the Western Ghats, at an elevation of 3,800 feet

Madikeri is situated in the Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs along the western coast of India. The Western Ghats are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a biodiversity hotspot, with a high degree of endemism and diversity of flora and fauna. Madikeri lies at an elevation of 3,800 feet (1,160 metres) above sea level, which gives it a pleasant and cool climate throughout the year. The town enjoys an average annual rainfall of about 2,500 mm (98 inches), which makes it lush and green. The town also offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills, valleys, forests, and plantations.

Madikeri Is Founded by Mudduraja, a Haleri king, in 1681

Madikeri was originally known as Muddu Raja Keri, which means Mudduraja’s town. It was named after Mudduraja, the third king of the Haleri dynasty, who ruled Kodagu from 1633 to 1687. Mudduraja chose the central but not easily accessible site for his capital and built a mud fort there in 1681. He also built a palace inside the fort and a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The fort was later rebuilt and renovated by various rulers, including Tipu Sultan, Linga Rajendra Wodeyar II, and the British. The fort still stands today as a major attraction in Madikeri. It houses a museum, a prison, a church, and several government offices.

Has several religious and historical monuments

Madikeri is home to several religious and historical monuments that reflect its diverse influences and heritage. Some of the notable monuments are:

• Omkareshwara Temple: This is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built by Linga Rajendra Wodeyar II in 1820 in a mix of Islamic and Gothic               styles. The temple has a dome in the center and four turrets at the corners. It also has a pond with many fish in front of it.
• Raja’s Seat: This is a small garden that offers a spectacular view of the sunset and the valley below. It was once the favourite spot of the Haleri kings to enjoy the scenery and relax. It has a pavilion with pillars and arches, surrounded by flowers and fountains.
• Abbey Falls: This is a waterfall that cascades from a height of 70 meters (230 feet) into a pool. It is located about 8 km (5 miles) from Madikeri town. It is one of the most visited attractions in Madikeri and offers a refreshing sight and sound.
• Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery): This is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery that is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India. It was established by Pema Norbu Rinpoche in 1963. It has a stunning gold-plated statue of Buddha and other deities. It also has a library, a school, and a hospital.

Unique culture and cuisine that sets it apart from the rest of Karnataka

Madikeri has a unique culture and cuisine that sets it apart from the rest of Karnataka. The native people of Madikeri are called Kodavas, who have their own language, customs, traditions, and festivals. They are known for their martial prowess, hospitality, and bravery. They have a distinctive dress code, which consists of a long black coat called kuppia for men and a red-and-gold sari called vastra for women. They also wear a dagger called peechekathi as a symbol of honor.

Madikeri also has a rich culinary heritage that reflects its natural resources and diverse influences. The staple food of Madikeri is rice, which is grown in abundance in the paddy fields. The rice is cooked in various ways, such as noolputtu (rice noodles), kadambuttu (rice dumplings), otti (rice roti), and paputtu (rice cake). The cuisine also includes various dishes made from pork, chicken, fish, mutton, wild game, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, jackfruit, mangoes, bananas, oranges, and spices. Some of the popular dishes are pandi curry (pork curry), koli curry (chicken curry), yarchi pulao (mutton pulao), kembu curry (colocasia curry), kommu curry (mushroom curry), and nellikai pachadi (gooseberry chutney).

Madikeri is a fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for adventure, nature, culture, or relaxation, you will find it in Madikeri. Madikeri is a place where you can experience the beauty of nature, the warmth of hospitality, and the richness of history. Madikeri is a place where you can discover yourself.