Lost in the Green: My Adventure on Kote Betta

Without any doubt, Kote Betta is Karnataka's most captivating and offbeat trekking destination in India. Situated within the rolling green hilly region of Coorg, the hill lies at a height of approximately 5,400 feet (1,646 meters) above sea level. Punctuated by beautiful landscapes of rolling hills, forests, and coffee plantations, the hill is ideal for nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts. Although overshadowed to a great extent by other tourist trekking spots in Coorg like Brahmagiri and Tadiandamol, Kote Betta is slowly becoming a treasure trove of attraction for tourists seeking a tranquil blend of adventure. Trekking is blended with photo points, diversification, and cool respite from urban mayhem.

Historical and Mythological Significance

Kote Betta, Coorg district's third highest mountain in Karnataka, stands at an altitude of around 5,400 feet mean sea level. It is a dream for any trekker and great in itself, considering its past as well as mythological history. "Kote Betta" means literally "Fort Hill" in Kannada, and it cannot be but intriguing to the possibilities of old fortifications or military incursions in its past. Perhaps the most fascinating fact surrounding Kote Betta is the existence of ties to Hindu legend. It was a traditional account that the Pandavas from the Mahabharata had part of their exile in the forest surrounding the summit. There are rock outcrops and caves within the district that bear weight to such accounts as the fact that multiple locals attest they were used as a refuge for the Pandavas. The second common myth is about Lord Shiva. 

The very name Kote Betta makes one think of a fort. "Kote" in Kannada means "fort," and one cannot help but wonder if ever there had been a fort here. Though no large forts exist today, the terrain and hillocks strewn with boulders provide a feeling of something that would have been of strategic value at some time or other in history. Kote Betta is situated in the picturesque Coorg (alternately spelt Kodagu) district of Karnataka, roughly 22 kilometres short of the town of Madikeri. Coorg has been labelled the "Scotland of India" because of its resplendent scenery, mist-clad hill country, rolling coffee plantations, and teak forests. Coorg has a very balmy climate throughout the year and therefore it is much sought after both by nature enthusiasts and sporting activity enthusiasts. The Western Ghats, being world heritage themselves, surround the hill with their exquisite biodiversity. The area is inhabited by diverse species of flora and fauna, and some of the endemic and rare species also call the area home. Trekking to Kote Betta provides a glimpse into experiencing this biodiversity in person in the form of bird, butterfly, and sometimes animal views such as deer and pigs. Tourists have a journey through the foot of the hills to the destination over the serpentine roads interspersed by coffee and spice plantations along the way thus already conjuring up an old-world Coorg atmosphere before the trekking itself starts. 

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (March to May)

  Summer temperature can be 20°C to 35°C. Low temperatures are warm, and high temperatures are mild. At times it is warm, but the region looks stunning with the cover of trees and rivers. Trekking and sightseeing tours in the early mornings are a perfect schedule for this season before the heat picks up momentum in the afternoons.

• Monsoon (June to September)

  Heavy monsoon rain is because the region receives heavy showers in the form of rain since it is situated near the Western Ghats or other mountain ranges. Rain refreshes the landscape, and forests are turned into a lush paradise. The rivers get swollen, waterfalls are almost forcible in the jet, and the whole place is bristling with fresh greens. Though trekking becomes challenging with rain-soaked tracks, monsoon lovers are lured by the season due to misty mountains and enchanting rain-kissed scenery.

• Winter (October to February)

  Winter would be the ideal season most likely, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The weather is perfect and cool, so the ideal time to visit the area. Mild temperatures, sunny sky, fresh air, and pleasant weather turn outdoor activities such as trekking, wildlife safari, and plantation walks into the most enjoyable ones. It is a cool night and a honeymoon and a nature lover's paradise too.

Availability of Campsites around Kote Betta

Camping around Kote Betta is a thrill, with the perfect dose of natural beauty, calmness, and adventure. The location is dotted with picturesque campsites that give a decent break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Some of the best campsites around Kote Betta are:

• Base of Kote Betta: It is a very favourite place for the campers. It offers an excellent view of the hills and valleys. It is good weather and there is a cool wind, thus an apt place to camp.

• Around Harangi Backwaters: It is located a few kilometres away from Kote Betta, and this is the best place for water sports campers. The quiet backwaters add beauty to camping.

• Within Coffee Estates: Some private coffee plantations are located near Kote Betta where a camping facility is provided. The plantations provide luxury as well as wilderness, and thus camping there is a great experience.

• Riverbank CampSites: Some of the camps are riverbank campsites, where one can enjoy the soothing sound of running water while spending a night out under the stars. All these camps are organized by adventure groups or local operators, and they offer basic camping equipment, meals, and campfire facilities.

• Rock Climbing: Rock formations surrounding Kote Betta are perfect for rock climbing. As the surface for climbing is natural rocks, the sport is perfect for all adventure sports tourists seeking adventure.

• Rappelling: Coming down along the slope rock face on ropes through rappelling, another sports adventure at the steep rock surfaces of the area, is done as another activity. Rappel for fun and safety guides are offered by most adventure providers.

• Zip Lining: A few of the adventure camps have installed zip lines close to Kote Betta so that tourists can ride in the air to enjoy the bird's eye view of the landscape.

• River Rafting: River rafting is possible in local rivers during the monsoon season, which gives water sports lovers an adrenaline-pumping experience.

• Mountain Cycling: The off-road routes in and around Kote Betta are ideal for mountain cycling. Mountain cyclists have the freedom to choose virgin trails and enjoy pedalling over hilltops and forest paths.

• Nature Walks and Jungle Safaris: For leisure seekers, jungle safaris and nature walks are an opportunity to explore the flora and fauna covering the place.

Places to visit around

Harangi Dam (18 km)

• A scenic reservoir was built across the Harangi River.

• Ideal for picnics, photography, and relaxation.

Madikeri (30 km)

• The capital of Coorg offers various attractions like:

Raja’s Seat

• A beautiful viewpoint for sunrise/sunset.

Madikeri Fort

• A historical fort with a museum.

Omkareshwara Temple

• A famous Shiva temple with unique architecture.

Abbey Falls (35 km)

• A stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

• Perfect for nature lovers and photography.

Dubare Elephant Camp (40 km)

• Offers a chance to interact with elephants, feed them, and enjoy river rafting.

• Located on the banks of the Cauvery River.

Nisargadhama (45 km)

• A beautiful river island with bamboo groves and hanging bridges.

• Offers activities like boating, deer park visits, and elephant rides.

Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery) (50 km)

• A major Tibetan monastery located in Bylakuppe.

• Known for its stunning golden statues and peaceful ambience

Mallalli Falls (55 km)

• One of Coorg’s most picturesque waterfalls.

• Best visited during monsoon for full water flow.

Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary (60 km)

• A paradise for trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts.

• Home to rare species of birds and animals.

Must-try Popular Kodava Cuisine

• Akki Roti – Rice flatbread that is fragrant in flavour, usually eaten with coconut chutney or hot curries.

• Kadambuttu – Steamed rice dumplings that pair exceptionally well with hot meat curries.

• Noolputtu – Also referred to as Coorgi string hoppers, it is a dish of rice flour with chicken or pork curry.

• Baimbale Curry – Bamboo shoot-based spicy curry, which is usually eaten during monsoon.

• Coorgi Style Chicken Curry – Rich and thick-tasting, a dish made with a combination of spices.

• Ellu Paaji – Sesame chutney, which pairs well with rice preparations quite well. Those with a sweet tooth would savour sweet food from Coorg such as Kajjaya (sweet fried crispy rice fritters) and Thambuttu (sweet made from ripe bananas, jaggery, and fried rice flour paste).

How to Reach Kote Betta

1. Madikeri (About 22 km): The Headquarters of the Coorg district, the city of Madikeri, is the closest city to Kote Betta. It is a tourist destination as well as a good base for trekking.

2. Kushalnagar (About 35 km): The town of Kushalnagar, the second largest around Kote Betta, is equally famous for connectivity and scenery.

3. Somwarpet (About 20 km): Somwarpet is another town that offers connectivity to the trekking headquarters.

4. Mysore (About 130 km): Mysore is a big city around Kote Betta and very well connected to the rest of Karnataka.

5. Bangalore (About 265 km): Bangalore, the state capital of Karnataka, is one of the best sources of Coorg tourists.

On road

• From Bangalore: By road, 5-6 hours from Bangalore to Madikeri on NH75. Passes through the landscape's scenery, coffee estates, and small villages and hence an awesome road trip.

• Mysore: From Mysore to Madikeri on NH275, 3-4 hours.

• Mangalore: 150 km from here to Mangalore, and we can drive down easily. It takes us about 4 hours.

• Madikeri to KoteBetta Base: Since you are already in Madikeri, a drive down the base of the KoteBetta trek i.e., 22 km is required. You may descend to the base by local bus or private taxi.

By Rail

• Mysore Railway Station (130 km) is the nearest railway station for tourists from all over Karnataka and other nearby states.

• Hassan Railway Station (120 km) is also a good alternative, particularly for Bangalore and Mangalore travellers.

• Mangalore Railway Station (150 km): Mangalore Junction is the best choice for seashore destination travel.

By Airport

• Kannur International Airport (120 km): Kerala state's Kannur Airport is closest to Kote Betta and comparatively well connected.

• Mangalore International Airport (150 km): Mangalore Airport is a large point of entry for other Indian state tourists.

• Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore (280 km): Although further in distance, Bangalore Airport is well connected domestically and internationally.