Into the Clouds: Trekking to Tadiandamol Summit

Coorg and Karnataka's third highest, the tallest among all, is the breathtaking trekkers' paradise at the Western Ghats' Tadiandamol. Reaching the height of roughly 1,748 meters (5,735 feet) or so over sea level, the lofty top remains in the range of Brahmagiri and offers a pure adrenaline rush to nature and adventure enthusiasts alike. 'Tadiandamol' is what the Kannada name signifies, i.e., 'the biggest hill,' an aptly regal moniker to place on its rising height. Situated between shola forest, rolling hills, and fog, Tadiandamol is a haven for trekkers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts to find solitude amidst nature. Untouched in its natural beauty when compared to other tourist-bitten trekking destinations, the peak has minimal disturbance from humans and enormous biodiversity. The trek features gentle slopes, rock tracks, and steep climbs, thus being equally fascinating for first-time trekkers and experienced ones. At the very beginning, the tourist is presented with a sight of the Western Ghats, clouds typically bubbling just below your feet, a fantasy-like, otherworldly experience. On a clear day, there is a sweeping panorama of coffee estates that stretch out as far as the eye can see, emerald rainforest, and surrounding hills providing an awe-inspiring view.

History of Tadiandamol Trek

Tadiandamol, the Coorg (Kodagu) mountain, is 1,748 meters (5,735 feet) in height and offers an excellent view of the Western Ghats. It is not only pretty scenery but also steeped in history and goes back to the era of the Haleri dynasty that ruled Kodagu. The Haleri dynasty that ruled Kodagu from the 17th to the 19th century was the hub of Kodagu's history. Tadiandamol has been addressed as the "Great Hill" in Kannada. Haleri kings took a strategic position in history at one time or another at Tadiandamol. Nalknad Palace built by King Dodda Virarajendra in 1792, close, was an asylum location during times of war. The king utilized the hilly, fog-covered landscape to escape from British forces and later formed an agreement with the British East India Company. The palace, near the base of the trek, is a relic of the past as a site of remembrance of what was. The Tadiandamol treacherous trails were crossed previously by ancient warlords and tribes. The warrior-like nature of native Kodava folks, with a unique culture themselves, always considered these hills sacred. To them, the verdant mountain cloth, meandering streams, and diverse fauna are good enough reasons to consider this land sacred and worth preserving. Even now, one can view characteristic Kodava villages and plantations along the route, gaining an insight into the rich culture of the region.

The British, during their colonization, made use of the geographical location of Coorg and extended the landmass for coffee plantations. The forests of Tadiandamol were also exposed to British expeditions as they ventured into the Ghats and discovered new trekking routes. The influence of the British started the coffee plantation, which remains a major part of the economy of Coorg even today. Tadiandamol, over the years, had evolved from a historically significant fort to a trekker's location. As eco-tourism picked up pace, the trek gained popularity among nature lovers and travel enthusiasts. While Tadiandamol is so famous today, it remains comparatively pollution-free because of the conservation measures implemented by greens and locals. Then, the trek to Tadiandamol is South India's best trekking holiday, a combination of heritage, history, and nature. From the royal footsteps of Nalknad Palace to untainted Western Ghats landscapes, ascending to the height of Coorgi summertime is a challenge to the body and walking down centuries.

Attractions & Activities around the location

• Nalknad Palace: This palace, situated close to the trekking starting point, is a representation of Coorg royalty. The palace was built in the 18th century with mixed architecture and paintings depicting the history of the region.

• Chelavara Falls: A beautiful 15 km distance from the trekking site, Chelavara Falls is an ideal spot to relax after an exhausting trek. Water falling on the huge rock structures is amazing.

• Dubare Elephant Camp: Dubare Elephant Camp by the Kaveri River is an opportunity to be among elephants, even bathe and feed them. River rafting and walking in the woods are also options at the camp.

• Abbey Falls: Abbey Falls is among the famous waterfalls of Coorg, and it occurs between coffee plantations and scenery. Thundering falls appear all the more magical in the monsoon season.

• Sightseeing in Madikeri: The capital town of Coorg, Madikeri, also has its credit sites such as Raja's Seat, Omkareshwara Temple, and Madikeri Fort. These are places with a mix of nature, history, and culture. It's a different experience visiting these nearby places and making it a complete nature and adventure vacation.

How to Reach Tadiandamol

Nearest Cities and Transport Options

• By Road: The most direct method of going to Tadiandamol is by road. Base trek village Kakkabe is a metalled road linked and can be reached by private vehicles, taxis, and buses from Mysore, Bangalore, and Coorg. KSRTC and private bus service regular supply exists and a facility is offered for local transport from Virajpet to reach Kakkabe.

• By Rail: The closest railway station to Tadiandamol is Mysore Railway Station (120 km). Taxis or buses can be hired from Mysore to Virajpet or Madikeri and further extended to Kakkabe.

• By Airport: The closest airport is Kannur International Airport (90 km) in Kerala, and the second closest airport is Mangalore International Airport (150 km). Taxis or buses can be hired from both airports to Coorg and further extended to Kakkabe.

Camping & Stay Options Near Tadiandamol

One of the most visited treks in Karnataka, Tadiandamol is filled with trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. While the trek is adventurous, it is never a bad idea to include a proper stay arrangement in it as well. Here is a comprehensive guide on camp and stay options around Tadiandamol.

Homestays and Resorts near the Trek

For a comforting night's rest after an exhausting trek, one has ample homestays and resorts near the foot of Tadiandamol within and around Kakkabe and Virajpet. They are a warm haven with Coorgi hospitality.

• Nalknad Palace Homestay: This is close to the trekking starting point, and this homestay is ideal for those who need an early morning head start. It provides Kodava cuisine and a serene atmosphere.

• Honey Valley Homestay: One of the best-liked eco-stays of Tadiandamol, Honey Valley is a collection of honey-hued-looking cottages under dense coffee plantation cover. This is ideal for those who need solitude in nature.

• Coorg Cliffs Resort: Luxury accommodation complex with viewpoints, ideal for adventure and recreational tourists.

• Kakkabe Estate Homestays: There are a few homestays in coffee plantations at Kakkabe which offer peaceful experiences with home food and plantation walks.

• Rainforest Retreat: Eco-lodge near Tadiandamol offering true experience in the rainforest with organic farming and nature trails. Homestays are the most appropriate way of experiencing the local lifestyle with comfort. They also cook home food, i.e., Coorgi food, and hence it becomes an even greater experience.

Homestays & Budget Resorts:

• Silver Brook Estate: Welcoming homestay surrounded by coffee plantations with average facilities and a rural setting.

• The Tamara Coorg: Serene combination of luxury and nature, the resort has wooden villas with valley views.

• Old Kent Estates: Colonial bungalow coffee plantation stay, heritage stay.

• Evolve Back (Orange County) Coorg: Best Coorg resort, villas, infinity pools, and spa stay.

• Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa: 5-star hill resort in Coorg with a panoramic view, luxury amenities, and best service.

• The IBNII Coorg: An environmentally friendly resort highly acclaimed for its green efforts and serene location amidst the green surroundings.

Best Time to Visit

• Post-Monsoon (September to November): This is the ideal time for trekking to Tadiandamol. The rain in the monsoon keeps the landscape green, lush, and colourful, so the trek is simply scenic. The waterfalls and streams on the trek are full-flowing, so the trek is even more scenic. The weather is temperate and pleasant, although the trek trail is a bit slippery as it has rained recently.

• Winter (November to February): Clear and cold winter months are the ideal time of year for panoramic vistas. Climate ranges from 10°C to 20°C, a very agreeable trekking experience. Early morning treks in misty trails offer a mystic experience for the trek. The forest is however comparatively dry in relation to the post-monsoon.

• Summer (March to May): Summer is not that great, but morning trekking is fine. But afterwards, the sun heats up, and the trek is tiresome. The flora dries up, and streams on the trek dehydrate, stripping the trek of its charm as such.

• Monsoon (June to August): Monsoon time makes Tadiandamol a whole different world. This makes the forest thicker and greener, but also hazardous to trek. Steep routes, leeches, and the resultant low visibility during fogs can disturb the trekking team. Having said this, if one loves monsoon treks and is well-dressed, then it can be highly thrilling.