Somwarpet is a beautiful town in the Kodagu district of Karnataka, surrounded by verdant hills and coffee plantations. The town is situated at 920 meters above sea level, offering a pleasant climate and breathtaking views. Somwarpet is a popular tourist destination for its natural beauty, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
One of the main attractions of Somwarpet is the Mallalli Falls, a majestic waterfall located amidst the lush green forests of the Western Ghats. The falls are about 26 km from Somwarpet and are a popular spot for trekking and picnicking. The Kotebetta trek is another popular activity in Somwarpet, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Somwarpet is also home to the Kukke Subramanya Temple, a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Subramanya. The temple is in a picturesque setting, surrounded by hills and forests, and attracts thousands of devotees yearly. Another popular temple in the area is the Kukke Linga, a Shiva temple known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
Nature lovers will also enjoy the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, about 40 km from Somwarpet. The sanctuary is home to various wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and leopards, and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and trekking.
Somwarpet is home to the ancient Haleri Kingdom, which ruled the region for over 200 years. The Haleri Dynasty's legacy can be seen in the numerous temples and palaces in the area, including the Doddamane Palace, a 300-year-old mansion that once served as the residence of the Haleri kings.
Located about 20 kilometers from Somwarpet, Abbey Falls is a picturesque waterfall nestled in the Western Ghats. The waterfall cascades down into a pool, surrounded by lush greenery, creating a stunning sight.
Situated approximately 25 kilometers from Somwarpet, Dubare Elephant Camp offers a unique experience to interact with elephants. You can participate in activities like elephant bathing, feeding, and even taking a short elephant ride.
Talacauvery and Bhagamandala:
These two sacred sites are located about 40 kilometers from Somwarpet. Talacauvery is considered the source of the River Cauvery, and Bhagamandala is known for its confluence of three rivers: Cauvery, Kannike, and Sujyoti.
Situated approximately 60 kilometers from Somwarpet, Nisargadhama is an island formed by the River Cauvery. It is a nature park with bamboo groves, a hanging bridge, and various wildlife attractions, including deer and rabbits.
Located about 30 kilometers from Somwarpet, Madikeri is the district headquarters of Kodagu. It offers several attractions such as Raja's Seat, Omkareshwara Temple, Madikeri Fort, and the scenic viewpoints of Mandalpatti and Raja's Tomb.
Chelavara Falls:
Situated approximately 40 kilometres from Somwarpet, Chelavara Falls is a mesmerizing waterfall surrounded by coffee and spice plantations. The falls drop from a height of about 150 feet, creating a captivating sight.
Somwarpet includes the Harangi Dam, the Dubare Elephant Camp, and the Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement, one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and wide range of activities and attractions, Somwarpet is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Karnataka.