Unveiling the Secrets of Manja Motte

Manja Motte, one of the few stunning hilltops, is a secret jewel in the beautiful landscapes of Coorg, Karnataka. "Manja Motte" means "Yellow Peak" in Kodava, referring to the yellowish colour of its grasslands in certain seasons. Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Western Ghats in the middle, this unspoiled land is surrounded by scenic views, and its bird's-eye view position makes it a nature lover's, adventure lover's, and photography enthusiast's paradise. Among other more tourist-like trekking areas of Coorg, Manja Motte remains unexplored and hence is not spoiled and still maintains its natural beauty instead of which it is the best destination for individuals who wish to keep themselves out of sight hidden in nature. 

It possesses varied flora and fauna in the area and the unusual avifauna, butterflies, and wild blooming and colourful flowers. It is not just the virgin natural scenery that it possesses because it is a world in itself of flora and fauna of the indigenous state and one of the reasons why Coorg is much more diverse biologically. Manja Motte is situated in the heart of Coorg, or Kodagu, a state district of Karnataka in southern India. Coorg well deserves the name of being the "Scotland of India" as it has rolling hills with fog, coffee plantations, and breathtaking scenery. The district is famous for its healthy climate and thus is the "favourite haunt of tourists from nearby cities like Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore." Located at a height of about 1,200 meters above mean sea level, Manja Motte offers a serene sight of the valleys and forests around it. A gently sloping hike takes one to the top of the hill that takes the tourists through the coffee estates, dense forest cover, and open grassy slopes.

History and Cultural Significance of Manja Motte

The etymology of the name "Manja Motte" is fascinating in Coorg's native geographies and linguistics, or Kodagu as the name is officially referred to. "Manja" is "yellow" in Kannada, the local language, and "Motte" is a name for "hillock" or "egg-shaped mound." "Manja Motte" hence would have referred to "Yellow Hill" or "Yellow Mound," and it was likely the yellow colour of the hill at certain seasons of the year. The yellowish colour of the grasslands, particularly during the summer and post-monsoon seasons, might have been the cause for the name. Or maybe the plethora of flowering trees and shrubs with flowers in yellow shades could be responsible for the nomenclature. Other than its literal interpretation, the name bears cultural as well as historical meanings. For others, the name was born out of the golden dawn that paints the hilltop oranges and yellows, offering natives and foreigners a stunning sight.

Some theorize that ancient customs or religious rituals associated with yellow turmeric, the colour of prosperity and purity to South Indians, might have been the origin of the name. Local Legends and Folklore Manja Motte is not just a beautiful viewpoint, but a venue where local legends and folklore myths were passed down through the ages. The most common legend that surrounds the site is of a very ancient tribal chieftain who ruled the area centuries ago. In local tradition, this chieftain was intimate with the nature gods of Coorg and would go to consult them from atop Manja Motte. He would offer oblations and offerings for rich harvests, safety from wild beasts, and the general well-being of his subjects.

Places of interest around Coorg

1. Tadiandamol Trek

   The tallest peak of Coorg and the second highest in Karnataka, Tadiandamol, is heaven for trekkers. Located at an elevation of 1,748 meters, the trek is a thrilling ride along dense shola forests, wide grasslands, and panoramic views of the Western Ghats. The medium-grade trek is perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers looking for a rejuvenating trek into the wild. The ideal time to visit is during winter and post-monsoon when the scenery is lush green and the climate is comfortable.

2. Pushpagiri Trek

   Pushpagiri or Kumara Parvatha is one of the most challenging but challenging treks of Karnataka. Within the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, the trek leads adventurers through thick forests, zigzagging paths, and rock roads to the summit. The trek's bird's-eye view of the Western Ghats and panoramic view of exotic flora and fauna. Being the reason why this trek is so demanding, that the most suitable class of people who can do it are experienced trekkers looking for a demanding one.

3. Mandalpatti Trek

   Mandalpatti means "market of clouds." It is a scenic trekking location in Pushpagiri Forest Reserve. It is less demanding and ideal for novices if they want to experience the mystic beauty of a hill covered with an ocean of white clouds. Trekkers also enjoy the advantage of a jeep ride to the summit, giving the option to those who don't wish to endure an exhausting one. Mandalpatti sunrise and sunset are magical, and a photographer and nature lover's paradise as well.

4. Brahmagiri Trek

   Brahmagiri Hills along the Kerala-Karnataka border is yet another excellent trekking spot in Coorg. The trek involves walking through dense forests, grassy meadows of multi-hues, and rocks, and an elevation of 1,608 meters. The trek passes through the Iruppu Falls, a beautiful falls and a holy place in Hindu mythology. It is said that Lord Rama and Lakshmana have already been here when they were searching for Sita. The trek can be attempted by both novices and experts.

5. Kote betta Trek

   The Kotebetta, or "Fort Hill," is the third highest peak of Coorg and offers a spine-tingling trek that spans back and forth through history, adventure, and finally, breathtaking views. The trekking begins at Hattihole and proceeds through evergreen wood forests, coffee plantations, and grasslands to finally reach the summit. A temple at the top of the summit in honour of Lord Shiva provides a religious flavour to the trek. Kotebetta is a secure option for tourists who love discovering off-the-beaten-path treks, far from the spotlight of regular tourists.

6. Abbey Falls

   Abbey Falls is the most visited of all the Coorg waterfalls and is situated among coffee estates and spice plantations. The falls are about 70 feet in height and create an interesting topography, particularly during monsoon. A hanging bridge before the falls is a good photo shoot. The sound of water and the peace surrounding it make it the ideal place to unwind.

7. Raja's Seat

   Raja's Seat, or the "Seat of the King," is a picturesque garden and viewpoint that was the favourite site of the Kodagu kings. It has a bird's eye view of the valley, green pastures, and rolling hills. It can be viewed in its best colour during sunrise and sunset when the sky glows in a picturesque orange and pink colour. There is an evening musical fountain show in the garden that adds to its attractiveness.

8. Nagarhole National Park

   Nature lovers' paradise, Nagarhole National Park is inhabited by tigers, leopards, elephants, and birds. The park falls under the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and provides exciting jeep safaris and boat cruises on the Kabini River. Ideal destination for those who want to witness the unspoiled beauty of nature and catch a glimpse of wildlife in their natural surroundings.

9. Mandalpatti Viewpoint

   Apart from being an excellent trekking location, Mandalpatti is also popular for its viewpoint. It is located at an elevation of approximately 1,600 meters and offers a view of the foggy valleys and hills that cannot be surpassed. Mandalpatti is highly recommended for view drives and serene views for people who love them.

10. Dubare Elephant Camp

    Dubare Elephant Camp is a destination where no family with kids or nature lover ever wants to miss. Dubare provides the tourists with the facility to play with elephants, bathe them, feed them, and even ride over them. Dubare lies on the banks of River Kaveri, and there the tourists even go for river rafting and coracle ride.

11. Madikeri Fort

    Madikeri Fort is an ancient monument built by Mudduraja in the 17th century and recast by Tipu Sultan. The fort features a palace, a museum, and two life-size elephant statues at the gate. The fort provides a view of the glorious history and colonial past of the area.

12. Omkareshwara Temple

    Omkareshwara Temple, the very name suggesting that the temple is one dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a combination of Islamic and Gothic style architecture. Built by King Lingarajendra II between 1820, this dome and minaret temple is thus one of the few but interesting monuments. The temple is enclosed by a water tank, which makes the temple even more peaceful.

13. Bhagamandala and Talacauvery

    Bhagamandala is a holy pilgrim destination where Kaveri River, Kannike River, and Sujyoti River confluence. It is the place where Bhagandeshwara Temple, temple of Lord Shiva, exists. There exists a road between Bhagamandala to Talacauvery where the start of the Kaveri River source lies. There exists a small temple and a holy tank where holy baths are taken by the pilgrims.

14. Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple)

    Namdroling Monastery in Bylakuppe, which is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India, is a peaceful and spiritual retreat. The Golden Temple of the monastery is surrounded by beautiful Tibetan architecture, beautiful paintings, and enormous gold Buddha statues. The monastery represents Tibetan culture and is a far-off retreat for peaceful meditation and tranquillity.

15. Gaddige (Raja's Tomb)

    Gaddige is the palace tomb enclosure containing the Kodava rulers' remains. Indo-Saracenic architecture set against the background landscape gives it cryptic historical monument status. The tombs are serene to see and also give a glimpse of the Coorg royalty. Coorg is a destination for every kind of traveller adventure, peace, history, or culture.

Trekking to Manja Motte: A Guide

Manja Motte, set in the heart of Karnataka's picturesque Western Ghats, is a relatively off-the-beaten-path yet magical trekking spot that guarantees adventure, nature, and peace. Manja Motte trekking passes through forests, grassland, and foggy mountains and is the ultimate paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature admirers alike. This is a comprehensive guide to Manja Motte trekking, giving you all the information you would be interested in, such as trekking trails, difficulty level, best time to go, what to look out for on the trek, and safety precautions to be observed.

How to Reach Manja Motte

Nearest Cities and Towns

• Madikeri (around 15-20 km) – District headquarters and also one of Coorg's principal tourist hubs.

• Virajpet (around 30 km) – Another principal town of Coorg, famous for coffee plantations.

• Kushalnagar (around 40 km) – A transit town of Coorg, well connected.

• Mysuru (Mysore) (about 120 km from here) – The closest major city with higher connectivity with the rest of India.

• Bengaluru (Bangalore) (about 260 km from here) – The capital city and the most suitable place to arrive as a tourist from other states or abroad.

By Road

• From Bengaluru: Travel on NH275 through Mysore, which is a smooth ride and will take approximately 5-6 hours to reach Madikeri.

•  From Mysore: By road via Hunsur and Kushalnagar on NH275, about 3 hours' journey.

• From Mangalore: Via NH275 through Sullia, 150 km and 4 hours' travel.

• From Kerala: From Wayanad or Kannur, if one is coming from there, the Virajpet road, a beautiful drive through coffee estates.

• Local Transport: In private car or taxi from Virajpet or Madikeri to the location where the trekking trail starts.

By Train

• Mangalore Railway Station (150 km from here) – Most convenient for tourists coming from Kerala, Mumbai, and Goa.

• Hassan Railway Station (140 km from here) – Another best option for tourists coming from central Karnataka.

The nearest airports to Manja Motte are:

• Kannur International Airport (Kerala) (110 km from here) – Nearest airport with good connectivity to domestic and international places.

• Mangalore International Airport (150 km from here) – Another international airport with connectivity from cities such as Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, and Dubai.

• Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (285 km from here) – Karnataka's busiest airport, with domestic and international flights.

Best Time to Visit Manja Motte

• Monsoon (June to September)

  The monsoon season turns Manja Motte into a magic wonderland. The entire region is filled with greenery, waterfalls flowing down and foggy hills providing a heavenly atmosphere. Trekking here can be exciting as well as exhausting because the trails are slippery and visibility can be hampered by thick fog. But for the monsoon enthusiasts, this time of the year is like having a wonderful experience with fresh cool air and a charged ecosystem. The monsoon weather temperatures are pleasant, i.e., 15°C to 25°C. 

• Winter (October to February)

  It is the best time to tour Manja Motte during the winter season as it is warm and cool weather that allows one to walk and move about at ease. The 10°C to 20°C temperature during these months is the best to travel around the ground without the agony of excessive heat or downpours. 

• Summer (March to May)

  Summer at Manja Motte ranges from 20°C to 30°C. Though the day temperature is warm, mornings and evenings are quite cool, and hence trekking can be a comfortable experience if planned early in the morning. The advantage of visiting during summer is that eyes are healthy and dry routes for trekking make it a matter of convenience to enter the area.