A nature lover’s paradise, Madikeri’s Gandhi Mantap garden in Karnataka’s Kodagu offers dramatic views of the green mountains and rich valleys. The garden is 270 km away from Bangalore and houses the famous Raja Seat. The monsoon season with the pitter-patter of the rain makes this location even more picturesque! If you are planning to explore Kodagu, then you shouldn’t skip Raja Seat, a major tourist attraction. Here’s why it is so special.
Karnataka’s Raja Seat Is A Major Tourist Attraction
ಭೂಮಿ ತಬ್ಬಿದ್ ಮೋಡಿದ್ಹಂಗೆ
ಬೆಳ್ಳಿ ಬಳಿದ್ ರೋಡಿದ್ಹಂಗೆ
ಮಡಿಕೇರಿಲಿ ಮಂಜುRaja’s Seat, Madikeri, Kodagu, Karnataka pic.twitter.com/ZWZx4L0P68
— Shrikaanth K Murthy (@KShrikaanth) July 26, 2019
Raja Seat is in the middle of Kodagu’s Gandhi Mantap garden. It is located in Madikeri town and is now a hotspot for tourists. It became a wonderful getaway spot for Kings of Coorg. The last ruler of Kodagu, King Chikka Virarajendra and his wife enjoyed spectacular views and sunsets from here.
The usually crowded Raja Seat in Madikeri wears a deserted look.
(Photo: Chinnappa) pic.twitter.com/IzBa5cajjp
— Kodagu Connect (@KodaguConnect) September 4, 2018
But long before, the place served as a British colony during their rule. During this time, a four-arched grand pavilion was built. This pavilion is now called the Raja Seat. An aptly named structure which translates as the seat of the King. However, after independence, the coffins of deceased British natives were transferred and the site was under construction for a lovely garden, Gandhi Mantap.
Nowadays, every year on 30th January, Sarvodaya Diwas is celebrated at Raja Seat. This day Gandhiji was assassinated in 1948. Hence, events are planned to observe his death anniversary on this day.
Also Read: 7 Best Eco-Tourism Destinations In Karnataka With Breathtaking Beauty Of Forests, Mountains & More
Things To Do Here
Raja Seat – running houseful over the last one week. pic.twitter.com/dj8KsarBUf
— Kodagu Connect (@KodaguConnect) January 1, 2024
The Gandhi Mantap is beautifully constructed with a viewing deck! It overlooks the dense mountains and the valley. Nature lovers can explore paddy fields, and coffee and cardamom plantations nearby. Along with that, it is an ideal spot to catch Karnataka’s stunning sunsets.
You shouldn’t miss the light and sound show of the fountain in the evening. Lastly, if you’re travelling here with kids, the toy train ride is going to be their favourite. It goes around the Raja Seat and the garden. So witnessing those scenic landscapes from the window of a toy train while munching on snacks is quite amazing.
Plan a cute picnic day with your family and immerse in the enchanting views from the hilltop of Raja Seat.
Where: Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Karnataka
Timings: 5:30 AM – 8 PM
Cover Image Courtesy: Government of Karnataka/Website
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