Dubare Elephant Camp

Dubare is one of the places of interest and importance due to its history and beauty. It is in the Coorg district or Kodagu of Karnataka. The area has been rich in wildlife, lush greenery, and ancient history. Thus, it has become a popular tourist destination among nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure-seekers. Dubare resort is on the bank of River Cauvery and falls under the large region of Coorg. Varying shades of coffee plantations, vibrant scenery, and a rich cultural heritage constitute it. It elaborates on the history of Dubare, ten places of interest, and how to reach this beautiful destination. Dubare has an extremely close tie-up with the indigenous tribe of this place, referred to as Kodavas. Kodavas belong to the ethnic group natively existing in the region of Coorg; their culture, traditions, and language have shaped this region since time immemorial. Known for their warrior culture, many members of this tribe are soldiers in the Indian army and are outstanding in martial arts, horsemanship, and archery. 

The word "Dubare" is an adaptation from the indigenous tongue of the Kodavas and was originally identified as "the place of elephants." Since ancient times, this region has always been associated with the elephant in both wild and tame living forms and as a deity figure in their rituals and religious traditions. The colonial period began centuries ago when the British discovered the importance of Dubare. This place proved to be strategically important because it lay on the bank of the River Cauvery. Moreover, the forest area was used for extracting timber, and in no time, the region became an administrative centre of the Coorg administration. Among the important attractions strewn together by the Karnataka Forest Department since the 1980s is Dubare Elephant Camp. This camp was initiated to conserve and protect the elephants spread throughout the region. Here, the elephants are trained for purposes ranging from rituals for the temples to patrolling forests and, ironically enough, logging operations. The camp is also a centre for the education of persons on how to conserve the elephants. One can get near the elephants, how they are cared for and trained, and even feed and bathe them. The population of elephants has now become a major attraction for any tourist touring the globe. 

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS:

Many not-so-far historic and scenic places surround Dubare. Hence , this can be considered one of the excellent bases for an exciting exploration of the region. Here are ten interesting sites that you can visit when in Dubare: 

1. Nisargadhama: A few kilometres from Dubare, Nisargadhama is an island formed by the River Cauvery. It is also one of the best tourist destinations for those seeking beauty and wildlife. Bamboo groves, teak trees, and sandalwood grow on the island, creating an idyllic ambience. Some tourist activities include boating, elephant rides, and nature walks. 

2. Raja's Seat: Raja's Seat-It is a viewpoint located in Madikeri, 30 km from Dubare. It is a well-known place to gaze at the panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys that can be enjoyed, especially during the sunset. The name of the place has been given by the kings of Coorg, who are said to have relished the view from this place. Beautifully maintained gardens beautify the place. 

3. Abbey Falls: Abbey Falls is approximately 25 km from Dubare. It is one of the waterfalls most visited; the surroundings are all coffee estates and the area is thickly covered with forest. The falls cascade for 70 feet, and the water level is highest in case one visits during the monsoons. It can be trekked into the forest to get a closer view of the falls. 

4. Talakaveri: This is Talakaveri, 48 km from Dubare: here lies the birth of one of South India's most sacred rivers. The river flows through Brahmagiri hills and stands majestically tall against the vista. A temple here is dedicated to Goddess Kaveriamma, a destination for the people of this region. 

5. Bhagamandala: Located approximately 30 km from Dubare, Bhagamandala is a sacred town where three rivers flow together: Cauvery, Kannike and Sujyothi. The location has ancient temples , such as the Bhagandeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also one of the significant pilgrimage centres among Hindus and offers solitude for meditation and contemplation. 

6. Omkareshwara Temple: The Omkareshwara Temple is one of the oldest temples of Lord Shiva, located in Madikeri. Construction dates back to the 18th century and is a very good combination of Islamic and Hindu architecture. The central dome and four temple corners are built in the traditional Kerala style. The temple adjoins a pond and is thus a peaceful and spiritually prosperous place to visit. 

7. Iruppu Falls: Iruppu Falls is one of the glorious waterfalls in Coorg. It is approximately 80 kilometres from Dubare and lies in the Brahmagiri Range, surrounded by lush forests. It is an excellent trekking and other nature walk spot, and it is also highly sacred as a place connected with the Ramayana epic. 

8. Coffee Estates: Coorg is famous for its coffee plantations. Dubare needs to catch up on this aspect, too. Coffee plantations permit visiting and tasting some of them. Visit the coffee plantations, learn about the preparation of coffee, and taste some of the finest coffee brewed in this world. The fragrance of freshly brewed coffee within the fascinating ambience makes it an experience. 

9. Madikeri Fort: This place is located in the main city of Madikeri, 30 km from Dubare. It dates back to the 17th century and acts like a storehouse of ancient history, with a museum consisting of historical artefacts forming the context of Coorg's history and culture. It is a must-visit for those interested in history, and the view from the top is panoramic. 

10. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary: It is 70 km from Dubare. Pushpagiri is a nature and wildlife lovers' paradise. Flora and fauna of this place are diverse, and some of the endangered species, like Malabar Trogon and Nilgiri Langur, have habitats here. Different treks and facilities in the sanctuary attract adventure lovers and bird watchers. 

HOW TO REACH DUBARE:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Dubare is the Mangalore International Airport (IXE), about 160 km away. The Kempegowda International Bangalore Airport is about 260 km away and is highly connected with nearly all cities in India and many abroad. One can get here by road from Bangalore. 

• By Train: The nearest railway station to Dubare is Madikeri Railway Station, but there is no  halt. The major railway stations near the destination are Mysore and Mangalore, which are 120 km in distance and 160 km in distance. A taxi or bus can be arranged from either of these places to reach the destination. 

• By Road: Dubare is pretty well connected on the roads with most of the major cities of Karnataka and  the adjacent states. It is about 30 km from the district headquarters, Madikeri, and can be reached easily by taxis and buses . The roads are in excellent condition, with wonderful scenery of coffee plantations and forested areas. 

• Public Transport: Buses regularly travel to Madikeri from the major towns and cities of Karnataka, including Mysore, Mangalore, and Bangalore. From Madikeri, it is a local taxi or bus to Dubare.