Are you looking for a serene and scenic getaway in the lap of nature? Do you want to experience the thrill of trekking and jeep riding on the misty hills of Coorg? If yes, then you should definitely visit Mandalpatti, one of the most beautiful and adventurous places in Coorg. Mandalpatti, also known as Muguli-Peth or Pushpagiri, is a hill station located at an altitude of 4050 feet above sea level. It offers a breathtaking view of the lush green valleys, forests, and coffee plantations of Coorg. It is also a popular spot for sunrise and sunset lovers, as the sky changes its colors and hues over the horizon.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Mandalpatti, such as how to reach, best time to visit, trek information, accommodation options, and other places to visit in Coorg. So, read on and discover the hidden gem of Coorg.
How to Reach Mandalpatti
Mandalpatti is situated about 25 km from Madikeri, the headquarters of Coorg district. You can reach Madikeri by road, rail, or air from Bangalore or other nearby cities. The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, which is about 140 km from Madikeri. The nearest railway station is Mysore Junction, which is about 120 km from Madikeri. From Madikeri, you can either take a bus, a taxi, or a private vehicle to reach Mandalpatti. The road to Mandalpatti is narrow, steep, and rough, so you need to be careful while driving.
Alternatively, you can also trek to Mandalpatti from Madikeri, which is a more adventurous and rewarding option. The trek distance is about 15 km, and it takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete. You can also hire a jeep from Madikeri to reach Mandalpatti, which is a fun and thrilling experience. The jeep ride costs about Rs. 1500 per vehicle, and it takes about an hour to reach the hilltop.
Best Time to Visit Mandalpatti
Mandalpatti is a year-round destination, as it has a pleasant and cool climate throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Mandalpatti is from October to February, when the weather is clear, dry, and sunny. This is the ideal time to enjoy the panoramic view of the surroundings, and to witness the spectacular sunrise and sunset. You can also see the blooming of the wildflowers and the coffee beans during this season.
The temperature during this time ranges from 15°C to 25°C, which is perfect for trekking and camping. However, you should also carry warm clothes, as it can get chilly at night. You should avoid visiting Mandalpatti during the monsoon season, from June to September, as the road becomes slippery, muddy, and dangerous. The trek also becomes difficult and risky, as there are chances of landslides, leeches, and snakes. The visibility also reduces due to the fog and mist, and you may not be able to see the view clearly. The temperature during this time ranges from 20°C to 30°C, which is humid and sultry.
Mandalpatti Trek Information
One of the main attractions of Mandalpatti is the trek to the hilltop, which is a must-do activity for adventure and nature lovers. The trek starts from the forest check post, which is about 8 km from Madikeri. You need to pay an entry fee of Rs. 25 per person, and Rs. 50 per vehicle at the check post. You also need to obtain a forest permit, which is valid for 3 hours.
You can either park your vehicle at the check post, or take a jeep ride to the base of the hill, which is about 4 km from the check post. The jeep ride is an exciting and bumpy ride, as you pass through the narrow and winding roads, surrounded by the dense forest and the coffee plantations. The jeep ride costs about Rs. 1000 per vehicle, and it takes about 20 minutes to reach the base.
From the base, you need to trek for about 3 km to reach the hilltop, which is the highest point of Mandalpatti. The trek is of moderate difficulty level, and it takes about an hour to complete. The trek is a scenic and exhilarating experience, as you walk through the green meadows, the rocky terrains, and the misty clouds. You can also spot some wildlife, such as deer, monkeys, and birds, along the way.
The view from the hilltop is stunning and mesmerizing, as you can see the entire Coorg valley, the Pushpagiri mountain range, and the Kumaradhara river. You can also enjoy the sunrise and sunset from the hilltop, which are magical and unforgettable. You can also camp at the hilltop, if you have prior permission from the forest department. The camping fee is Rs. 500 per person, and you need to carry your own tents, sleeping bags, and food. Camping at Mandalpatti is a wonderful and romantic experience, as you can sleep under the stars, and wake up to the sound of the birds.
Some of the tips and precautions for the Mandalpatti trek are:
- Carry enough water, snacks, and energy bars, as there are no shops or facilities on the way.
- Wear comfortable shoes, clothes, and accessories, such as trekking shoes, jackets, caps, sunglasses, and gloves.
- Apply sunscreen, insect repellent, and antiseptic cream, as there are chances of sunburn, insect bites, and cuts.
- Carry a first-aid kit, a flashlight, a whistle, and a knife, as there are chances of emergency, injury, or danger.
- Do not litter, smoke, or drink, as it is harmful for the environment and the wildlife.
- Do not feed, tease, or disturb the animals, as they may attack or harm you.
- Do not wander off the trail, as you may get lost or encounter wild animals.
- Do not trek alone, as it is unsafe and risky.
- Do not trek during the night, as it is dark and dangerous.
- Do not trek during the rainy season, as it is slippery and hazardous.
Accommodation Options Near Mandalpatti
If you are planning to stay near Mandalpatti, you have plenty of options to choose from, depending on your budget, preference, and convenience. There are many hotels and resorts near Mandalpatti, that offer comfortable and cozy stay options for visitors. Some of the best hotels and resorts near Mandalpatti are:
Coorg Cliffs Resort: This is a luxury resort, located about 12 km from Mandalpatti. It offers spacious and elegant rooms, with balconies, bathtubs, and fireplaces. It also has a swimming pool, a spa, a gym, and a restaurant. The price per night is Rs. 8000, and the rating is 4.5 out of 5.
Woodstock Villas: This is a boutique hotel, located about 10 km from Mandalpatti. It offers stylish and modern villas, with private gardens, jacuzzis, and minibars. It also has a swimming pool, a bar, and a cafe. The price per night is Rs. 6000, and the rating is 4 out of 5.
Honey Valley Estate: This is a homestay, located about 8 km from Mandalpatti. It offers cozy and rustic cottages, with balconies, fireplaces, and hammocks. It also has a library, a garden, and a dining hall. The price per night is Rs. 4000, and the rating is 4 out of 5.
Misty Woods Resort: This is a budget resort, located about 6 km from Mandalpatti. It offers simple and comfortable rooms, with TVs, geysers, and kettles. It also has a playground, a bonfire, and a restaurant. The price per night is Rs. 2000, and the rating is 3.5 out of 5.
Other Places to Visit in Coorg
Mandalpatti is not the only attraction in Coorg, as there are many other places to visit in this beautiful hill station. Some of the other places to visit in Coorg are:
Abbey Falls:
This is a stunning waterfall, located about 10 km from Madikeri. It is a popular picnic spot, where you can enjoy the view of the cascading water, and the sound of the roaring stream. You can also walk on the hanging bridge, or take a dip in the pool below the falls. The entry fee is Rs. 15 per person, and the timing is from 9 am to 5 pm.
Namdroling Monastery:
This is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery, located about 35 km from Madikeri. It is the largest teaching center of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. It is also known as the Golden Temple, as it has three gold-plated statues of Buddha, Padmasambhava, and Amitayus. You can also see the colorful paintings, the prayer wheels, and the flags in the monastery. The entry is free, and the timing is from 7 am to 8 pm.
Raja’s Seat:
This is a scenic viewpoint, located about 1 km from Madikeri. It is a place where the kings of Coorg used to watch the sunset and the sunrise. It is also a place where you can see the panoramic view of the hills, the valleys, and the town. You can also enjoy the musical fountain, the flower garden, and the toy train at this place. The entry fee is Rs. 5 per person, and the timing is from 5:30 am to 8 pm.
Dubare Elephant Camp:
This is an elephant training camp, located about 40 km from Madikeri. It is a place where you can interact with the elephants, and learn about their behavior, ecology, and history. You can also feed, bathe, and ride the elephants, and watch them perform various tasks. You can also enjoy other activities, such as rafting, fishing, and birdwatching at this place. The entry fee is Rs. 20 per person, and the timing is from 9 am to 11 am, and from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm.
These are some of the other places to visit in Coorg, but there are many more, such as Talacauvery, Iruppu Falls, Nagarhole National Park, and Omkareshwara Temple. You can explore them at your own pace, and according to your interest and preference.
Mandalpatti is a hidden gem of Coorg, that offers a serene and scenic getaway for nature and adventure lovers. It is a place where you can enjoy the view, the trek, and the jeep ride, and experience the beauty and thrill of the hills. It is also a place where you can stay at some of the best hotels and resorts, and visit some of the other attractions in Coorg. Mandalpatti is a place that you should not miss, if you are looking for a memorable and exciting trip.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Mandalpatti today, and discover the hidden gem of Coorg. If you liked this article, please share it with your friends and family, and leave a comment below. Thank you for reading, and have a great day.
