Wild Karnataka: In and around Coorg (Kodagu)

Coorg is the anglicised form of Kodagu. Kodagu is derived from the Kannada word "Kudu" which means steep or hilly & the people of this area are a handsome, martial race which have a long & distinguished tradition of joining the armed forces. Two well known generals of the Indian Army are Gen. Thimmiah & the 2nd Field Marshall of India - Field Marshall Cariappa. This charming Hill Station in southern Karnataka is nestled in the Western ghats and is also know as the land of coffee and spices. I had seen a much more lush green Coorg in my childhood days & am re-visiting the place after decades. Back then, the district headquarters, Mercara (Medikeri) was a quiet, peaceful and pristine place now replaced by a burgeoning population & lots of construction going on everywhere. Nevertheless, the area around Medikeri full of coffee & spice plantations and the commercial centres are testimony to this large trade. So is the honey from this area which is light in colour and little less sweet than what is normally found elsewhere.
Medikeri is 120 kms from Mysore & 136 kms from Mangalore. The city has plenty to explore & the first day after our arrival in the evening we are guided by our smiling hosts - Suresh & Simi to take a short walk to Raja's Seat. It is a nice garden which is the hub for the local residents and tourists alike. Here are some photos of Coorg.