With its rolling green hills and bright blue skies all year round, it’s no wonder Madikeri is often likened to the ‘Scotland of India’! This picturesque region is renowned for its exceptional coffee, but there are countless activities to indulge in while visiting Madikeri.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, a food aficionado, an adventure junkie, or a culture buff, Madikeri offers something for every type of traveler. Exploring Abbey Falls, browsing local markets, embarking on treks and camping adventures are just a few highlights of the Madikeri experience.
11 Captivating Activities in Madikeri
Madikeri is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty and a variety of exciting outdoor activities. Below, we have compiled a list of the most remarkable things to do in Madikeri. Make sure to partake in as many of these activities as possible to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Karnataka during your vacation.
– Abbey Falls: Capture Mesmerizing Photographs
– Camping: Unwind amidst the Serene Wilderness
– Jeep Safari: Embark on a Wild Exploration
– Madikeri Fort: Take a Heritage Tour
– Barapole: Experience Thrilling River Rafting
– Kaveri River: Enjoy Fishing Fun
– Food Tour: Indulge in Local Delicacies
– Elephant Camp: Interact with these Endearing Creatures
– Trekking: Venture into Tranquil Trails
– Hiking: Delight in the Verdant Surroundings
– Local Markets: Shop till You Drop
1. Abbey Falls: Capture Mesmerizing Photographs
Madikeri is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, and capturing it through photographs is one of the top things to do in Madikeri. Abbey Falls, a milky waterfall situated amidst picturesque coffee and spice plantations, offers a breathtaking view. This location provides the perfect backdrop for flawless Instagram-worthy pictures. So, if you’re wondering what to do in Madikeri, head straight to Abbey Falls and create beautiful memories with your loved ones. By clicking amazing pictures here, you can preserve the unforgettable moments of life.
Location: 8 kilometers from Madikeri
Average Cost: INR 15 per person
Ideal For: Couples, Friends, and Families
Must Read: 6 Magnificent Waterfalls In Mangalore Which Are The Hidden Treasures Of South!
2. Camping: Unwind amidst the Serene Wilderness
Image Courtesy: pxhere.com
Camping in Madikeri has gained immense popularity in recent years. There are numerous campsites to choose from, allowing you to find the perfect one for your needs. In fact, with a camping trip, you need not worry about what to do in Madikeri. We recommend booking your campsite in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. Once you arrive, you can enjoy the peacefulness of nature while sipping a cup of coffee during the day and stargazing at night. The experience of stargazing with your loved ones is truly enchanting and is one of the finest things to do in Madikeri at night. Give it a try and bask in its splendor.
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Location: Madikeri
Average Cost: Starting at INR 2000/- per person
Recommended for: Couples and friends.
3. Unleash Your Adventurous Side with a Jeep Safari
Ron Porter for Pixabay
Are you an avid nature lover? Then, immersing yourself in a thrilling Jeep Safari should be at the top of your list of things to do in Madikeri. With a variety of options to choose from, you can select the Jeep Safari that suits your preferences. The top-notch jeep safari experiences in Madikeri include Nishani Hills—an exhilarating off-road jeep drive, Kabbe Hills—providing breathtaking views of the landscape, and Mallalli Waterfalls—taking you to the cascading falls in Madikeri.
Location: Madikeri
Average Cost: Varies depending on the location.
Recommended for: Friends and family
Timings: 7:00 AM to 01:00 PM
4. Embark on a Heritage Tour of Madikeri Fort
Immerse yourself in the rich history by visiting Madikeri Fort, a captivating heritage structure dating back to the latter half of the 17th century. Inside the fort walls, you will find a magnificent palace, originally built by Mudduraja. Over time, the fort was reconstructed and refurbished by Tipu Sultan and the Bruisers. Presently, the fort boasts a museum, a clock tower, and a park within its premises, making it one of the top attractions in Madikeri. If you are planning a trip to Karnataka with your loved ones, exploring the fort is a must-do in Madikeri.
Location: Madikeri
Recommended for: Friends and family
Entry Fees: No entry fee
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM
5. Experience Thrilling River Rafting at Barapole
Barapole River offers an exhilarating whitewater rafting experience, often overlooked when it comes to things to do in Madikeri. The river has rapids ranging from Class I to V, providing an ultimate adventure for travelers visiting the region, especially during the monsoon season. To add an adventurous twist to your life, make sure to include Barapole River rafting in your list of exciting activities during your visit to Madikeri in August!
Geographical Location: Virajpet TalukAverage Expenditure: INR 1200 per individualRecommended for: Companions, Family, Lone explorersOptimal Time to Experience: Monsoon season, with a particular preference for the month of August
6. Kaveri River: Revel in an Exciting Fishing Expedition
Madikeri is celebrated for its pictorial allure, boasting numerous lakes and rivers in its vicinity. Surprisingly, River Kaveri takes its origin at Talacauvery near Madikeri, teeming with marine life and brimming with fishing opportunities. Spinning and fishing are highly sought-after engagements in Madikeri, Karnataka. During the monsoon season, when these rivers are laden with a wealth of sustenance for various fish varieties, fishing surfaces as one of the prime undertakings tourists indulge in, especially in the month of June.
Geographical Location: Kaveri RiverAverage Expenditure: INR 1500 onwardsRecommended for: Companions, Family, Lone explorersOptimal Time to Experience: Monsoon season, with a particular preference for the month of June
7. Gastronomic Trip: Savor Authentic Local Delights
Pixabay
Madikeri cuisine stands versatile and distinct from the culinary styles found in the rest of Karnataka. Predominantly non-vegetarian, it magnificently incorporates indigenous ingredients such as forest-derived meat, produce, rice, and its by-products. For a considerable number of visitors, indulging in pork or pandi curry stands as a mandatory culinary affair in Madikeri, Karnataka. While vegetarians have varied options at their disposal, nool puttu, akki rotti, and koovaleputtu present themselves as sumptuous dinner choices that visiting gastronomes can relish to the fullest.
Geographical Location: MadikeriAverage Expenditure: INR 1000 for 2 peopleRecommended for: Companions, Family, Lone explorers, and Couples
8. Elephant Camp: Revel in the Pleasure of Assisting These Adorable Beings
Have you ever witnessed majestic elephants up close and personal? If not, brace yourself for an exceptional opportunity to interact, play with, and nurture these gentle giants in their natural habitat. This enthralling encounter stands as one of the most delightful endeavors in Madikeri. The renowned Dubare Elephant Camp houses a sizeable herd of elephants, where visitors can indulge in the joy of bathing, feeding, and even taking a ride. Nestled on the riverbank, this sanctuary serves as the perfect retreat to beat the summer heat, particularly during the month of May.
Location: Kushalnagar, Nanjarayapatna
Average Price: Approximately INR 670 per individual
Recommended for: Solo travelers, friends, and families
Optimal Time to Visit: Summer season, particularly in May
9. Trailblazing: Embrace the Tranquil Paths
The verdant Western Ghats offer numerous opportunities for adventurous hiking and trekking. The region boasts a plethora of trekking options, allowing you to select the one that suits your preferences. Noteworthy treks include Kodachadri, Tadiandamol, Mullayanagiri, Kumara Parvatha, and Brahmagiri. Trekking is especially rewarding during the winter season, as the lush green forests undergo a transformation into a dry landscape. This is why it is considered one of the thrilling activities to engage in while visiting Madikeri in December.
Location: Western Ghats
Average Price: Varies depending on the chosen trek
Recommended for: Solo trekkers and groups of friends
Optimal Time to Visit: Winter season, especially in December
10. Rambling: Behold the Breathtaking Greenery
For nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, hiking is a must-do activity in Madikeri. Embark on a hike to Raja’s Seat during your trip to Madikeri and enjoy quality time with your loved ones while being captivated by the panoramic views that surround you. This spot is renowned for its stunning sunset vistas, but it is equally mesmerizing during the morning hours.
Location: Madikeri
Average Price: Only INR 5/-
Recommended for: Solo travelers, friends, and families
11. Local Bazaars: Indulge in Retail Therapy
Madikeri boasts several bustling local markets, with Kushal Nagar Market and Friday Market being the most prominent ones. If you have a penchant for shopping, these markets are a must-visit during your time in Madikeri. At Kushal Nagar Market, you can purchase Tibetan handicrafts, exquisite timber carvings, Sandalwood oil, and silk sarees. Friday Market is the perfect destination for traditional spice shopping, offering cinnamon, cumin seeds, and more. In essence, shopping ranks high among the top activities in Madikeri, ensuring a fulfilling vacation.
Further Reading: Delve into Fun-Filled Vacations at These 5 Amusement Parks in Mangalore and its Vicinity
Here are some fantastic options for activities to enjoy in Madikeri. So, don’t delay! Prepare your bags and embark on a delightful and unforgettable vacation with your loved ones, making sure to incorporate the aforementioned activities into your itinerary. Your Karnataka trip will undoubtedly be an enriching experience if you partake in most of the activities available in the city of Madikeri.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Activities in Madikeri
Is Madikeri the same as Coorg?
Madikeri is a captivating hill station town situated within the Coorg district of Karnataka state. It is a haven of lush greenery nestled within the larger region of Coorg.
Can we visit Madikeri now?
Absolutely! You can plan a visit to Madikeri at any time of the year. However, the best time for your trip depends on your specific purpose of visit.
Is it safe to travel to Madikeri during the pandemic?
Rest assured, it is perfectly safe to visit Madikeri as the place has a relatively low number of COVID-19 cases. Nevertheless, we strongly advise you to stay updated with the latest travel advisories, COVID-19 protocols, and number of cases before your departure. It is crucial to have received both doses of the vaccination and undergo a COVID-19 test at least 48 hours prior to your journey. Additionally, follow all travel guidelines issued by the authorities.
What is Madikeri famous for?
Madikeri is a serene and enchanting town in Karnataka, located amidst the verdant Western Ghats. This picturesque town is renowned for its diverse wildlife, scenic trekking trails, idyllic camping sites, breathtaking coffee plantations, serene sights, the indigenous Kodavas community, and their distinct warrior culture.
When is the best time to visit Madikeri?
The ideal time to visit Madikeri is during the monsoon season, particularly from July to September. Winters can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C to a maximum of 29°C. Therefore, the best time to visit Madikeri is during the winter season, especially from December to February, when the weather is pleasant throughout the area.
What can you do in Madikeri?
There are a plethora of exciting activities to enjoy in Madikeri, including:
1. Engage in elephant bathing at Dubare Elephant Camp.
2. Take a leisurely stroll through a coffee plantation.
3. Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture at the Golden Temple.
4. Capture stunning photographs of Abbey Falls.
5. Experience the thrill of camping under the starlit sky.
6. Embark on invigorating treks through the hills and jungles.
7. Indulge in the delectable local dishes of “pandi curry” and “akki rotti.”
8. Go fishing in the rivers and lakes of Madikeri.
Remember to make the most of these activities to enhance your Madikeri experience!
