Pine Forest

The Pine Forest, located near the Madikeri in Coorg, or Kodagu, is one of the region's most fascinating and peaceful places. Famous for its tall pine trees, calm atmosphere, and unbeatable sceneries, the place is much sought after by nature lovers, photographers, adventure seekers, and anybody who needs a peaceful getaway from the skirmishes of the mundane world. In the mighty world of Coorg, Pine Forest is an experience in itself and a symbol in themselves of the beauty and serenity of the area. What  makes the Pine Forest different from all other destinations of nature in Coorg is its signage: pine trees. This place is very dense, with tall, towering trees, all unique, slender, and straight features. The tall, erect trunks create a canopy in the form of their needles. That makes it a cool, shady place under the canopy created by straight and tall trunks. In addition, the soft whispering of the wind in the pine needles adds mystery to the aura of the place, estranging it from the din and bustle of life. 

It's one of the most still woods; from the rustling leaves alone, any sounds heard are accompanied, at times, by chirping birds. The air is crispy with refreshing surroundings. It is a highly sought destination for solitude, rest, or inner peace. Whether you are a nature lover, a photography enthusiast who captures nature's beauty, or a seeker who seeks quiet meditation, the Pine Forest is an idyllic setting. One of the best places around  Coorg for nature walks is the Pine Forest. Several trails weave through the trees in the forest, allowing the visitor to submerge into the greenery and enjoy the area's natural beauty. The trails are not too challenging, so people of all ages can walk along them. A walk in the forest will allow one to see many species of flora and fauna and rejuvenation  in this quiet  environment. This is a paradise for photographers. The play of light through the pine needles gives some unique lighting conditions, mainly when shot in the early morning or late afternoon. Mist in the area will add mystique to this location in the early morning hours, and it would indeed be every photographer's dream. Whether it is the shooting of the grandeur of the heights of towering trees, the interplay of light and shadow or the tranquil beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys, Pine Forest has much to offer through photography. 

Pine Forest is the most beautiful place to have a light-hearted picnic. It is such a tranquil and natural place; in such a situation, a picnic can become a very calm time spent outside in nature while enjoying food. The tourists can spread their blankets under tall pine trees and enjoy the fresh air and the sounds of nature to have a picnic. The forest is relatively secluded, which ensures it is quiet, making it an excellent destination for families, friends, or lone travellers looking to get away for some time. Where pine trees form the Pine Forest at Coorg, there are a good many other species that exist in an area as moist and with a cool climate. The forest floor  had  been carpeted by fallen needles and underfoot, with all the soft feel of an unfilled sponge. The undergrowth was full of ferns, bushes, and wildflowers, making the   forest lively. The forest, for instance, is a rewarding place for birdwatchers who have a variety of birds ranging from woodpeckers to bulbuls and various species of parrots. This dense-canopy habitat makes it ideal and more likely that visitors will frequently view it while walking on trails. 

Besides the many birds,  several other small creatures live there: squirrels, rabbits, and even mice in the forest. The secondary areas to the side offer a chance to  view  larger animals , such as deer and, on occasion, elephants, if one is willing to venture further into the outer reaches of the more extensive forest. The best time  to visit the Pine Forest is in the winter, from October to February. From a climatic point of view, it is pleasing with its cool temperatures and clear sky, apt for nature walks and photography in the open. Misty mornings add mystery to the forest, while the evenings become perfect for viewing the sunset over the hills. 

NEARBY LOCATION:  

1. Raja's Seat: One of the finest viewpoints in the Madikeri, situated as close as 6 km to the Pine Forest. The sun sets here in the most fantastic scenery of the luscious green valleys, coffee plantations, and misty hills. It is a pretty excellent place for marvellous sunsets; it is a historical place because it is believed that the kings of Coorg used to sit there and enjoy the view. 

2. Abbey Falls: Abbey Falls is nearly 10 km  from the Pine Forest and one of the most beautiful waterfalls of Coorg. Water cascades from a height of around 70 feet, and it creates a breathtaking view amidst the coffee plantations and forests. A scenic trek to Abbey Falls, and one can enjoy its view from a hanging bridge. 

3. Omkareshwara Temple: Around 6 km from here is Omkareshwara Temple in Madikeri,  an ancient Shiva temple built by King Linga Rajendra II in 1820.  Historians say  its architecture is Islamic-Hindu style with minarets, beautifully carved carvings, and a central dome. This beautiful temple is situated amidst relatively peaceful surroundings and water. Beautiful ponds add a spiritual experience to it. 

4. Dubare Elephant Camp: Dubare Elephant Camp: 30 km from the Pine Forest, through a beautiful sight and experience of being close to an elephant. This camp stretches along the Kaveri River and accommodates some elephants trained to be engaged in wildlife and forest patrolling. One can go there and feed the animals, bathe or be informed about their lives and training procedures. 

5. Talakaveri: It is one of the sources of the most important rivers in South India-Cauvery. Talakaveri is about 45 km from the Pine Forest. It is a notable place  for Hindus since it has the temple of Lord Agastheeshwara. It is situated near Brahmagiri Hill. One can trek to the hilltop to enjoy the panoramic view of the hills and valleys. 

6. Iruppu Falls: Another beautiful waterfall in Coorg, about 50 km from Pine Forest, is Iruppu Falls, located in the Brahmagiri Hills. This waterfall, cascading down to 170 feet, is surrounded thickly by forests and is popular among trekkers. This scenic trek to beautiful Iruppu Falls passes through dense forests where visitors can see several wild and bird species. 

7. Madikeri Fort: This monument is about 7 km from the Pine Forest and was built by the Kodava rulers in the 17th century. The British have renovated it over the years, and a small museum inside houses artifacts of the history and culture of Coorg. 

8. Nisargadhama: Nisargadhama is an attractive nature park on an island in the Kaveri River, 25 km from the Pine Forest. Besides being a perfect spot for boating and nature walks, it is also famed for its grooves of bamboo and wild animals like deer and peacocks. It can be reached by crossing the hanging bridge to enter the park and take the various trails winding through the lush greenery. 

9. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary: It is about 40 km from Pine Forest and remains a haven for any wildlife enthusiast. It houses various species of animals and birds, ranging from Nilgiri Tahr, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, etc.  

10. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary: Brahma Giri Wildlife Sanctuary is located about 50 km away from Pine Forest in the Western Ghats. Many species , such as  elephants, leopards, wild boars, and  birds, dwell here. Various trekking trails are available, with steeper paths leading to the Brahmagiri Peak, giving a  brilliant  view of the surrounding landscape.  

HOW TO REACH: 

• By Bus: By bus, Coorg is well connected to neighbouring cities, and once you reach Madikeri, you can take an auto-rickshaw or local taxi to the forest. 

• By Air/Train: The nearest airport is Mangalore International Airport, which lies around 160 km away, and there are also Mysore and Mangalore Railway Stations. You can take a taxi or bus to reach Madikeri from there. 

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