Kakkabe

Kakkabe is a picturesque tiny hillstation in Karnataka State. It is situated at a distance of around 38 km from Madikeri, the headquarters of Coorg and 250km from Bangalore. The town is known as the largest producer of sweetest honey in South-east Asia. Located on the Karnataka's beautiful Western Ghats, this beautiful hill station lying under the silhouette of Thadiyendamol peak (the tallest peak in the region) in the midst of densely populated rain forest and coffee plantations. On a clear day, one can see the distant view of Arabian sea from Thadiyendamol.

The history of Kakkabe dates back to 9th century and the place was ruled by Gangas and Chola dynasty in the 11th century. The region is now inhabited by various communities, which include Brahmins, Christians, Gowdas and Jains. The main ethnic inhabitants are Kodavas, living with unperturbed culture and beliefs. The place is also famous for paintings, architecture and ancient arts.

Still mostly unspoiled and unexploited, the hills of Kakkabe is noted for its natural scenic beauty and this beauty is further enhanced as the place is enclosed by thick forest and coffee plantations, sprinkled hamlets and paddy cultivation lands all around. The place has amazingly pleasant climate throughout the year and the best time to visit Kakkabe is during the months of September and May. These months are also the best time for bird lovers to watch various species of birds.

One can spot some uncommon and extraordinary orchids and plants here. Pangolin, barking deer, various kinds of birds and flying squirrel are some of the wild life seen in the forest of Kakkabe. The region is also an ideal place for birdwatching.

A popular base for rain forest treks tourists can undertake some adventurous activities like trekking and rock climbing in Kakkabe. Kakkabe has number of treks small and medium and of varying grades that is apt for most visitors. The most popular trek of the region is the Thadiandamol trek and visiting the ruined structures of Nalakkanad palace is also a challenging and enjoyable. Thadiandamol windy peak offers panoramic view of mountain ranges and valleys of Coorg and beyond. The peak is situated at an altitude of 1,746 metres above sea level. Another popular trek is from Chelavara village that passes through Baliatra Falls and Emmepare Falls.

The best trekking time is from September through May and avoid during monsoon. Apart from treking, rock climbing is also famous at Kakkabe. Rock climbing in Thadiyendamol is usually arranged between the months of September to May.

Situated at the base of Thadiyandamol is Nalnad palace which was the hunting lodge of the Kodava kings. An architectural marvel, this was built in 1789 by Coorg king, Linga Raja. It is a double storied palace which has precious paintings and architecture. It has wood carvings throughout its structure.

Karada, an old ancestral home known as Iyne Mane. Along with the stay, guests are also offered traditional Kodava cuisine.

The most famous temple of the Kodavas, Padi Igguthappa temple, constructed by Lingarajendra during 1810 is the other main attraction here. Built in Kerala style and architecture, it is dedicated to Igguthappa, the other name of Lord Subramanya. Igguthappa is the main deity of the Kodavas and the Rain God. The famous Annual festival 'Kaliyarchi' conducted during the month of March. During this festival, the deity is taken out in a procession to reach the Mallama Betta Hil and reinstalled in the temple, followed by various ceremonial dances. The main offering at this place is Tulabhara that weighs against sugar, coconuts, fruits, rice and other items.

One can visit the world famous honey farms. Tourists can take home the locally produced honey from kakkabe. A small stream called Kadanga which is 16 km from Kakkabe is the ideal place for anglers.