Monsoons can also be experienced in the heart of Madikeri from the famous tourist attraction Raja’s Seat. The biting nip and intermittent rain does not stop families from packing in a picnic to this expansive viewpoint.
Vast lush green landscapes, cool breeze, foggy coffee estates, and monsoon rains. Coorg attracts hoards of nature lovers and adventurers . The Scotland of India is a haven for trekkers and bikers who love to show their daredevilry by soaking themselves in the rains that lash from side to side while nature lovers seek its tranquility.
Coorg’s best-kept secret is the charming Mandalpatti. Mandalpatti, also called Mugilpete translates to the Market of Clouds. It is around 20 km from Madikeri town, after Abbey Falls. Only a 4x4 (4-wheel drive) vehicle takes you to the peak of this mountain. Though, there are daredevil bikers who do climb. It’s a rough and scary terrain for an experienced driver. You can also trek to 5 km from base point, an exhilarating walk.
The wind on the mountain is a sheer force of Mother Nature. With rains lashing from all directions and the lofty wind, it is a sight to behold. Yet, when the cloud and fog clears, the magic unfolds. The lush green mountain range with cloud covered tops looks like a lanscape painting.
It goes without saying that the Abbey (also known as Abbi) Waterfalls attract tourists by the dozens. Abbey Falls is around 8 km from Madikeri. Steps lead to the waterfalls through coffee plantations the silver oak trees kissing the skies, soaked in fog and pitter patter transporting one into a dreamy landscape. The roar of the falls as the water gushes down from 70 feet high jagged rocks is intense. The stark contrast of the dark rocks and the white water surrounded lush green foliage is a photographer’s delight. One can spot mini waterfalls as the water cascades down.
The writer is nature photographer and founder of the Nature Photography. He is the author of six photography eBooks and a free eBook on tips to bird photography.
