Kodachadri, a Natural Heritage Site, is a portion of the Western Ghats that forms a beautiful backdrop to the famous Kollur Mookambika Temple. Popular for its bright sunrises and sunsets, this mountain range is part of the Mookambika Temple Nature Reserve. It offers picturesque views, and its trek is a great place to start your trek journey. There are several things to do in Kodachadri. Trekking on Kodachadri Hill with your beloved friends or as a group of solo travellers can be an exciting and spiritual experience.
Top Things To Do In Kodachadri
Here are a few interesting things to do when visiting the town of Kodachadri in Karnataka for an enjoyable tourist experience.
Trekking
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Kodachadri provides an exciting trekking experience. The local stories and history of the various spots on the trek go back to as old as the 7th century AD. The most sought-after trekking route begins from Nagodi village, Nittur Village, and guides you through dense woods, meandering streams, and steep slopes.
The trail is moderately challenging and takes about 4 to 5 hours to reach the summit. Nevertheless, the views are completely worth the effort. On the Kodachadri hill, trekkers are welcomed to expansive and scenic views of the wide valleys, mighty waterfalls, and the Arabian Sea.
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Temples Near Kodachadri
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At the top of Kodachadri hill, you can spot a small temple dedicated to Goddess Mookambika. This temple is known to be about thousands of years old. The ancient temple has pilgrims and devotees flock in great numbers to seek blessings from the deity, Mookambika. The temple walls are carved with elaborate carvings and sculptures.
Camping is another popular activity in Kodachadri. There are designated camping sites where you can pitch your tents and spend a night under the starry sky. The cool breeze, the crackling bonfire, and the sounds of nature create a magical ambience for a memorable camping experience. Kodachadri is classified as a National heritage location, so the forest is an attraction there. Mookambika can be said to be a crowded place since a lot of believers and disciples come from across the nation and wide to visit this holy temple and also the Sarvajna Peetha. The most happening places are the Trek and the Jeep Safari, which includes a visit to Hudluman Falls and Arasinagundi Falls.
Nature Spa
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Kodachadri’s unspoiled beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and awe-inspiring landscapes make it a destination in Karnataka. Whether seeking tranquillity, spiritual solace, or an adrenaline rush, Kodachadri offers an unforgettable experience that enchants and rejuvenates.
Kodachadri is its dense forests, home to various flora and fauna. The mountain is part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Kodachadri forest has diverse species of plants like rare orchids, medicinal herbs like Sanjivani and Bilva, towering trees like teak, rosewood, and sandalwood, as well as a wide variety of different species of snakes that are both poisonous and non-poisonous. One of the main reasons why Kodachadri is famous is because it is termed the Sarvajna Peetha. According to legends and the cultural history of the place, the great philosopher Adi Shankaracharya performed his penances and meditation in a cave over there.
Suggested Read: Historical Places In Karnataka
Learn About The Local History
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The name “Kodachadri” is derived from two words: “Koda,” which means “umbrella” in the local language, and “Chadri,” which means “hill” or “peak.” This name is fitting because the mountain is often covered in mist and clouds, resembling an umbrella-shaped peak.
The region is also associated with mythological stories and is believed to be the abode of Goddess Mookambika, a form of the Hindu goddess Parvati.
Interesting Places To Visit Near Kodachadri
Here are a few famous tourist places to visit in Kodachadri with your loved ones.
1. Nagara Fort
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Nagara is a village of historic importance in the Shivamogga district. It is popular for its fort, built by Shivappa Nayak of Keladi Kingdom. Veerabhadra Nayaka of the Keladi dynasty built the Nagara fort in 1640, after Ikkeri, Keladi’s original capital, was lost to the Sultans of Bijapur. Currently known as the Nagara Fort, the majestic Bidanur Fort or Shivappa Nayaka Fort has survived the test of time and is an important part of the history of Karnataka. The Nagara fort is a perfect spot for history buffs. Covered in greenery, the fort looks its best during the monsoon season. You can also get some amazing views of the Western Ghats from the top of this fort.
Distance from Kodachadri: 21.3 km
Best Time to Visit: Monsoon Season, Between July and September
Suggested Read: Devaragundi Falls
2. Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary
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Named after Goddess Mookambika, the presiding deity of the famous Mookambika Temple at Kollur, in Udupi district, Coastal Karnataka, located at the heart of the Sanctuary. Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary spans over 370.37 sq km and is thick with evergreen, semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forests of the Western Ghats and small patches of teak plantations. The Wildlife Sanctuary forms a vital connecting link between Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, located on the southern side, and Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary on the northern side.
Distance from Kodachadri: 51.3 km
Best Time to Visit: November to March
3. Maranakatte
Maranakatte is 16 km from Kundapura on the way to Kollur, and the village is also called Kanchinakodlu. There is a Brahmalingeshwara Temple on the banks of the river Brahmakund on the north side, which then takes a steep turn towards the east, increasing the beauty of the spot. The legend goes that Goddess Mookambika performed the Marana Hamam after killing Mookasura. The temple houses the idols of Vata Yaksi and Malayali Yaksi as dwarpalaks. The famous chariot festival attracts many to the doorsteps of this temple.
Distance from Kodachadri: 45.8 km
Best Time to Visit: Monsoon season, between July and September
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4. Maravanthe Beach
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Maravanthe wears the look of a fairyland, with the picturesque Kodachadri Hills forming a backdrop to the Souparnika River on one side and miles of unspoilt white sand on the other. This unique combination of sea and river on each side of a highway is hard to find elsewhere and is said to be the only one in India. The golden sand, clear blue sky, swaying palm trees, and endless shore make Maravanthe an undoubtedly attractive tourist destination.
Distance from Kodachadri: 68.9 km
Best Time to Visit: Between September and March
Further Read: Places To Visit In Shimoga Within 50 Kms
Now that you know everything to do in Kodachadri, the next step in your planning is to land at your desired destination. Book your tickets for a fantastic trip to Karnataka. These places will surely give you breathtaking views that you can cherish forever. So don’t wait for so long and get your booking done today.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Kodachadri
What is the best time to go trekking in Kodachadri?
The ideal time to hike in Kodachadri is between September and February. The trail is approximately 15km long. From September to January, the weather will be cooler, with fewer clouds and more sunlight.
What is the usual weather in Kodachadri?
The temperature ranges between 10°C and 35 °C from October to March, making it comfortable for trekking. The post-monsoon season ensures that the trails are lush green and the waterfalls are in full flow, adding to the scenic beauty of the trek.
What essentials should be carried along while travelling to Karnataka?
Make sure to carry sunglasses or an umbrella depending on the weather, medicines, a rain jacket owing to the unpredictable Kodachadri weather, a cap for sun protection, some energy snacks, extra water (at least 2 litres per person), and a first-aid kit.
What are some local delicacies of Kodachadri, Karnataka?
A must-try is the Pandi Curry, a spicy pork dish cooked with a unique blend of local spices and Kodava khachapuri, a souring agent that gives it a distinctive taste. Seafood is another highlight of Kodachadri's cuisine, owing to its proximity to the coastal region of Karnataka. For vegetarians, neer dosa and Mysore pak are a must-have.
What are some safety precautions to be taken while visiting Karnataka?
Staying hydrated and carrying enough water and snacks is vital. Trekking with a group or a guide is also advisable, especially for first-time trekkers.
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