By JAGAT [25/June/25] Mysore is known for its stunning architecture, detailed carvings, ancient temples, and grand palaces. The city is rich in cultural heritage and artistry. But it’s not just about monuments - Mysore also offers beautiful weekend escapes. One such place is Nagarahole, a spot filled with lush gardens, green mountains, and dense forests. It’s perfect for a day trip, whether you're heading from Mysore to Madikeri or planning a jungle safari in Nagarahole. Coorg, also called Kodagu or Madikeri, is a dream destination in the Western Ghats. It's famous for its misty hills, coffee plantations, waterfalls, and thick green forests. The natural beauty here is breathtaking. Coorg is also a haven for wildlife lovers. It has three wildlife sanctuaries and one national park. Nagarahole National Park, in particular, is a favourite among eco-tourists. It’s well known for its large elephant and bison population and offers a thrilling experience for nature enthusiasts.
Start early from your hotel or resort in Mysore. It takes roughly 3 hours to reach Madikeri. The prime attractions here that you should not miss are the Madikeri Fort and Raja’s Seat Garden. Plan to start the journey by 6 am, so that you can reach by 9:30 am. Have your breakfast once you reach and then head towards Madikeri Fort. Spend around 2 hours and then visit the Raja’s Seat. It is a beautiful garden and is only 1 km away from Madikeri Fort. spend about 30-40 minutes and proceed to the next destination, that is, Nagarahole National Park. You can have your lunch on the way to the national park.
• Madikeri Fort - Madikeri Fort, originally built by Mudduraja in the 17th century, was later rebuilt by Tipu Sultan and renamed Jaffarabad. It has witnessed many battles and holds rich historical value. Visitors can see mortar elephant statues and explore a museum, once a church, showcasing Coorg’s heritage. The museum is currently managed by the state archaeology department.
• Raja’s Seat - Raja’s Seat, located in Madikeri, is a scenic viewpoint once favored by Coorg’s kings. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and lush greenery, it offers stunning sunrise and sunset views. The spot is ideal for relaxation and photography, with golden sunlight and peaceful surroundings creating a perfect escape into nature’s beauty.
It will take a couple of hours to reach Nagarahole National Park. It is better if you have already done your Nagarahole safari booking online. It will save you time, and you will be able to choose your preferred time slot for the safari. The evening safari slots are scheduled from 2:15 pm - 4:15 pm and 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm. While conducting the online booking, choose the last safari slot so that you have ample time to explore Madikeri and reach Nagarahole without any rush. Simply make sure to reach the national park at least 30 minutes before the scheduled safari. Since you will be coming from Madikeri, the Nanachi Gate will be the nearest one. Both bus and jeep safaris are available from Nanachi Gate. Depending on your budget and interests, you can select from these options. After completing the safari, you can head back to Mysore, for which you have to travel about 95 km. Before embarking on the return journey, spare some time to visit the Iruppu Falls, near Nagarhole National Park. Alternatively, you can choose to book your stay at any resort or forest lodge near the national park, to experience the wilderness closely.