Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a region in the Western Ghats of southwestern Karnataka, India, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance. These historical places in Coorg/Kodagu provide insights into the region's rich past and cultural heritage while offering visitors an opportunity to explore its natural beauty.
RAJA'S SEAT
Raja's Seat is a scenic viewpoint in Madikeri, known for its breathtaking sunset views. It was a favorite spot of the Kodagu kings to watch the sunset and enjoy the panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Distance: 1 km from town centre
Timings: 5.30 AM to 8:00 PM
Musical Fountain Timings: 7:00 PM on weekdays, 6.45 PM to 7.20 PM on weekends
Entry fee: Rs. 5.00 for adults (prices may vary)
MADIKERI FORT
Madikeri Fort, located in the heart of Madikeri town, is a fascinating historic landmark in Coorg, Karnataka. The fort was initially constructed in the last quarter of the 17th century by Mudduraja. Later, Tipu Sultan rebuilt it using stone and bricks, naming it Jaffarabad.
In 1814, Lingarajendra Wodeyar II reconstructed the fort with mortar and bricks. The British also contributed to its renovation. Notable features include a clock tower, a portico for the commissioner’s car, and life-sized elephant sculptures made of mortar. Inside the fort, there was once a temple dedicated to Virabhadra, which was replaced by an Anglican Church in 1855. The church, now converted into a museum, houses various antiques related to Coorg’s history.
- Other Buildings Inside the Fort:
- Mahatma Gandhi Public Library
- Kote Maha Ganapathi Temple (participates in the Madikeri Dasara festival)
- District Prison
Timings: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM; closed on Mondays
Entry fee: Free entry
GADDIGE, RAJA’S TOMB
Located approximately 1.5 km away from the Madikeri bus stand, the tombs of Veerajendra and their spouses are positioned side by side, boasting identical structures. Lingarajendra's tomb was constructed in 1809, while Veerarajendra's was completed in 1821. These tombs showcase central gilded domes in the Islamic architectural style, along with corner minaret-like turrets adorned with images of basavas (bulls), which prominently grace the skyline of Madikeri. Additionally, the windows are adorned with finely crafted bronze bars set within sculpted stone frames.
Distance: 1.5 km from town centre
Timings: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm
Entry fee: 2/-
NEHRU MANTAP, MADIKERI
The Nehru Mantap in Madikeri, Coorg, holds historical significance and offers a serene escape for visitors.
History:
- The Nehru Mantap was built in memory of former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who visited Kodagu (Coorg) in 1957.
- During his visit, Nehru witnessed the picturesque view of Madikeri from the point where the watching tower stands today.
- Impressed by the natural beauty and panoramic vistas, the mantap was aptly named after Nehru.
- Visitors can enjoy seclusion, privacy, and breathtaking views of both sunrise and sunset from this tranquil spot.
- To reach the Nehru Mantap, one needs to climb only 25-30 steps, making it accessible for all.
- Artists can find inspiration here amidst the peace and silence, surrounded by the beauty of nature
Location: Walkable from Raja’s Seat, Madikeri.
CLOCK TOWER, VIRAJPET
The Virajpet Clock Tower is a historic landmark located in the town of Virajpet, which is part of the Kodagu district in the Indian state of Karnataka. Here are some details about this fascinating clock tower:
History:
- The Virajpet Clock Tower was built to commemorate the coronation of King George V at the Delhi Durbar in 1911.
- It stands as a testament to that significant event and was inaugurated in January 1915.
- The piece of land for constructing the clock tower was generously donated by the Mukkatira family of Kodavas, who were residing in the village of Devanageri near Virajpet at that time.
- The foundation stone for the tower was laid by the then Chief Commissioner of Coorg, Sir Hugh Daly, on 5th February 1914.
- After 11 months of construction work, the clock tower was officially inaugurated by the District Magistrate R. K. Ellis in January 1915.
Design and Features:
- The Virajpet Clock Tower is a four-sided tower with a clock face on each side.
- It features an elegant dome at the top, adding to its architectural charm.
- The tower stands prominently in the center of the town and serves as a meeting point for both locals and tourists alike.
To mark its centenary, a philatelic cover was released by the Karnataka Postal Circle on 16th January 2015. This clock tower is not only a functional timepiece but also a historical and cultural symbol for the people of Virajpet.
Distance: 32 km from Madikeri
NALKNAD PALACE, KAKKABE
The Nalknad Palace, also known as Nalknad Aramane, is a historical gem located in the Coorg region of Karnataka, India. Let’s delve into the fascinating details:
- History and Origins:
- The Nalknad Palace was constructed in 1792 by King Dodda Virarajendra, a ruler from the Haleri dynasty.
- King Dodda Virarajendra built this palace after escaping from the troops of Tipu Sultan during the tumultuous times of Tipu’s invasion.
- The palace served as a hunting lodge for the Kodagu kings, providing them with a retreat amidst the dense forests.
- Interestingly, an underground tunnel connects the Nalknad Palace to Madikeri, allowing the king to escape swiftly if needed.
- Architectural Features:
- The Nalknad Palace stands as a two-story structure with a design typical of the Coorg region.
- Its walls and roof are adorned with ancient paintings and carvings, adding to its captivating allure.
- Within the palace, you’ll find a kalyana mandapa, a platform traditionally used for marriage ceremonies.
- Additionally, there’s a durbar, where the king held meetings and enjoyed entertainment performances.
- The basement of the palace houses two “dark rooms”, which served as hiding places for the king during times of danger.
- Location and Ownership:
- The Nalknad Palace is perched atop a hill, providing strategic advantages for defense.
- It is situated in a village called Yevakapadi, near the town of Kakkabe.
- The palace is approximately 45 kilometers away from Madikeri and can be reached via Napoklu in Kakkabe.
- Today, the Nalknad Palace is owned by the Archaeology Department, preserving its historical significance.
