
The journey from Mangalore to Madikeri is not just a drive — it’s an experience filled with lush greenery, misty ghats, coffee estates, and cultural landmarks. Covering a distance of about 140 km, this scenic route through the Western Ghats offers travelers countless opportunities to explore nature, heritage, and local life along the way. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or embarking on a solo trip, the Mangalore to Madikeri road trip promises memories that linger long after the journey ends.
If you’re planning a comfortable and enjoyable trip, booking a Mangalore to Madikeri cab service from Brahmari Travels allows you to stop wherever you wish, take pictures, and soak in the charm of Coorg’s countryside. Let’s explore the best places to visit on the way from Mangalore to Madikeri that make your road trip truly unforgettable.
Netravati River Bridge – The Journey Begins
As you leave Mangalore city and drive toward Puttur, the first highlight you’ll cross is the Netravati River Bridge. This beautiful bridge offers a serene view of the flowing river surrounded by green landscapes. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo stop before you begin your ascent into the Western Ghats.
- Distance from Mangalore: 10 km
- Ideal for: Photography, scenic views, and short breaks
Kudupu Anantha Padmanabha Temple
Located just a few kilometers outside Mangalore, the Kudupu Temple is dedicated to Lord Anantha Padmanabha (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu). This temple is known for its architecture, calm surroundings, and the presence of sacred ponds filled with tortoises. Devotees and travelers often stop here to seek blessings before heading into the hills.
- Best time to visit: Early morning
- Highlight: Peaceful ambiance and local temple architecture
Pilikula Nisargadhama – A Blend of Nature and Culture
Located around 12 km from Mangalore, Pilikula Nisargadhama is an integrated nature park that combines ecology, heritage, and recreation. The park houses a biological reserve, a botanical garden, a heritage village, and even a small zoo. If you’re traveling with kids or have time for a leisurely start, this is a must-visit stop.
- Attractions: Boating, heritage village, biological park
- Time required: 1–2 hours
Sampaje Ghat – The Gateway to Coorg
As you start climbing the Sampaje Ghat section, the scenery dramatically changes. The winding roads, dense forests, mist-covered hills, and occasional waterfalls make this stretch one of the most picturesque drives in Karnataka. During the monsoon, the entire route turns into a green paradise with countless streams flowing by the roadside.
- Tip: Drive slowly and enjoy the viewpoints; the ghats can be steep and curvy.
- Best season: Monsoon and winter
Subramanya – Spiritual Stop Amidst the Hills
If you don’t mind a slight detour, head toward Kukke Subramanya Temple, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites in South India. Surrounded by the Kumaradhara River and forested hills, this temple town offers both spiritual peace and scenic charm.
- Distance from the main route: Around 25 km from the NH75 highway
- Attraction: Lord Subramanya Temple, Kumaradhara River
Jodupala Falls – Hidden Beauty in the Ghats
Before reaching Madikeri, make sure to stop by Jodupala Falls, a lesser-known but stunning waterfall located near Sampaje. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests and is best visited during or after the monsoon season. The spot is ideal for photography and a peaceful nature break.
- Best time: July to December
- Tip: Be cautious during rains; roads can be slippery
Kushalnagar – First Gateway to Coorg
As you approach Coorg, Kushalnagar is the first major town you’ll encounter. It’s a perfect place to stretch your legs, grab a bite, and explore a few famous attractions before you continue your journey to Madikeri. Kushalnagar is surrounded by coffee plantations and several family-friendly tourist spots.
Here are the must-visit places in and around Kushalnagar:
a) Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple)
A peaceful Tibetan settlement with a stunning golden temple, colorful murals, and giant Buddha statues. It’s one of the most visited places in Coorg and offers a unique cultural experience.
b) Cauvery Nisargadhama
A river island surrounded by lush bamboo groves. It features hanging bridges, deer parks, boating facilities, and picnic spots—ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.
c) Dubare Elephant Camp
Located on the banks of River Cauvery, Dubare is famous for elephant interaction programs. Visitors can feed, bathe, and learn about elephants in their natural environment.
- Distance from Madikeri: 30 km
- Time needed: 2–3 hours for all three attractions combined
Abbey Falls – A Must-Visit Near Madikeri
Just before you reach Madikeri town, make a detour to visit Abbey Falls, one of Coorg’s most iconic spots. The sound of cascading water surrounded by thick coffee and spice plantations creates an unforgettable experience. A hanging bridge offers a fantastic view of the falls, especially during the rainy season.
- Distance from Madikeri: 8 km
- Best time: July to December
- Photography tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds
Raja’s Seat – The Perfect End to Your Journey
Once you reach Madikeri, your trip culminates beautifully at Raja’s Seat, a historic viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the rolling valleys and misty hills. Legend says the Kodagu kings used to relax here and watch sunsets with their queens. Today, it’s one of the most loved tourist attractions in Madikeri.
- Attraction: Sunset views, musical fountain, garden walks
- Best time: Evening
Optional Add-Ons – Explore Beyond Madikeri
If you have more time after reaching Madikeri, explore nearby gems like:
- Talacauvery: The origin of the River Cauvery, located around 45 km from Madikeri.
- Bhagamandala Temple: A confluence of three rivers, known for its spiritual significance.
- Coffee Estates: Take a guided tour to learn about coffee cultivation and enjoy fresh brews.
Tips for a Memorable Mangalore to Madikeri Road Trip
- Start early: Begin your journey around 6–7 AM to enjoy the ghats in daylight.
- Take breaks: The journey has many photo-worthy viewpoints; plan short stops to enjoy them.
- Fuel up in advance: Fuel stations are sparse in ghat regions, so refuel before Sampaje.
- Carry essentials: Water, snacks, motion-sickness tablets (if needed), and rain gear during monsoon.
- Book a reliable cab: Choosing a trusted Mangalore to Coorg cab service ensures a comfortable and safe journey with flexible stops along the way.
Why Choose Brahmari Travels for Your Trip?
When you book your Mangalore to Madikeri cab with Brahmari Travels, you don’t just get a ride—you get a personalized travel experience. Our professional drivers ensure a smooth and safe journey through the scenic ghats, while you sit back and enjoy every view. Whether you want to stop for a photo, visit a temple, or explore a waterfall, our flexible cab services make your road trip stress-free and memorable.
Conclusion
The road from Mangalore to Madikeri is one of the most scenic drives in South India. From temple visits and serene river bridges to lush ghats and waterfalls, every stretch has something beautiful to offer. So, the next time you plan your trip to Coorg, don’t rush the journey—embrace it. Take your time to explore these amazing places to visit on the way from Mangalore to Madikeri and turn your drive into an unforgettable travel experience.
Book your Mangalore to Madikeri cab service with Brahmari Travels and enjoy a comfortable, flexible, and scenic ride to Coorg’s heartland.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most commonly recommended route is Mangalore → Puttur → Sullia → Madikeri via NH 75 (or connecting state roads). This route passes through the Western Ghats and offers scenic views and stopover options.
Another popular route is via Sampaje Ghat, which many travelers use to experience the ghats and forested stretches.
On average, the trip takes 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, and how many stops you make along the way.
It’s ambitious to cover all the stops in one day, especially considering travel time, traffic, and time spent at each attraction.
If you limit to 4–5 stops, start early (around 6 AM), and prioritize attractions closer to your route, you can make a satisfying day trip.
The best time to travel is post-monsoon to winter (October to February), when the weather is pleasant, misty hills look scenic, and roads are relatively safer.
Avoid heavy monsoon months (especially June–August) due to rainfall, slippery roads, and occasional landslides.