Madikeri

Madikeri, also known as Mercara, is a beautiful hill station in the Coorg district of Karnataka, India. It’s famous for its lush greenery, coffee plantations, and pleasant weather. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary for you and your companions to explore the best of Madikeri!

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Madikeri

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try some traditional Coorgi dishes like Akki Roti (rice roti) or Puttu (steamed rice cake).
• Visit Madikeri Fort: After breakfast, head to the Madikeri Fort. This historical site offers a glimpse into the region's past and has beautiful views of the town.

Afternoon:

• Raja’s Seat: Next, stroll over to Raja’s Seat, a lovely garden that offers stunning views of the sunset. It’s a perfect spot to relax and take some photos.
• Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant. Don’t miss trying the famous Coorgi pork curry!

Evening:

• Abbey Falls: After lunch, take a short drive to Abbey Falls. The cascading waterfall surrounded by coffee plantations is a sight to behold. You can take a short trek to get closer to the falls.
• Dinner: Head back to Madikeri town for dinner. Try a local eatery for some authentic Coorgi cuisine.

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Morning:

• Coffee Plantation Tour: Start your day with a visit to a coffee plantation. Many estates offer guided tours where you can learn about coffee cultivation and even sample some fresh brew.
• Breakfast at the Plantation: Enjoy breakfast at the plantation, often included in the tour.

Afternoon:

• Nagarhole National Park: After breakfast, take a trip to Nagarhole National Park (about an hour’s drive). You can opt for a safari to spot wildlife like elephants, deer, and various bird species.
• Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or enjoy a meal at a nearby resort.

Evening:

• Return to Madikeri: Head back to Madikeri in the evening. You can relax at your accommodation or explore the local market for some shopping.
• Dinner: Treat yourselves to a nice dinner at a restaurant that offers a cozy ambiance and local delicacies.

Day 3: Culture and Relaxation

Morning:

• Talacauvery: Start your day early and drive to Talacauvery, the birthplace of the River Cauvery. It’s about 30 km from Madikeri and offers serene views and a temple to explore.
• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at a local eatery near Talacauvery.

Afternoon:

• Bhagmandala: After visiting Talacauvery, head to Bhagmandala, where the Cauvery, Kanike, and Sujyoti rivers meet. It’s a peaceful spot with temples and beautiful landscapes.
• Lunch: Have lunch at a local restaurant or pack a meal to enjoy in the scenic surroundings.

Evening:

• Relax at a Homestay: Return to Madikeri and spend your evening at a homestay or resort. Enjoy the tranquility, perhaps take a nature walk, or just relax with a book.
• Farewell Dinner: For your last night, have a special farewell dinner at a nice restaurant. Savor the flavors of Coorg one last time!

Tips:

• Transportation: Renting a car or hiring a local driver can make it easier to explore the area.
• Weather: Carry light jackets or sweaters, as it can get chilly in the evenings.
• Local Delicacies: Don’t forget to try Coorgi coffee and homemade chocolates!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Madikeri! Enjoy the lush landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food! 🌿☕️