Talakaveri

An important pilgrimage in Kodagu district (Coorg) of Karnataka state, Talakaveri is considered as the birth place of Cauvery (Kaveri) River. Also spelled as Talacauvery or Talakavery, it is nestled in the hills of Brahmagiri range near Bhagamandala at 1,276 meters (4,187 feet) above sea level. It is about 48 km drive from Madikeri.

Talacauvery, literally means head of Cauvery. It is believed that taking dip in Cauvery absolve one from all sins.

The temple complex houses shrines dedicated to Shiva and Ganesh, a large pond and steps leads to the top of the hill. Dedicated to Goddess Kaveri, this temple has been renovated by the state government recently. The place is beautiful and serene.

A small holy tank about 2 sq ft. known as Tirtha Kundike or Brahma Kundike has been built at the site. Pilgrims throw coins into this tank and make a wish. It is believed that Goddess Cauvery appears in the form of a sudden upsurge of water from this tank to give darshan to the large devotees gathered here. This event known as Theerthodbhava which falls on October 17th every year and is celebrated with much festivity in Kodagu. During this festival, the area becomes very attractive with thousands of lights lit in the temples. Though one cannot see any stream flowing out though it is believed the water from the pond goes underground and emerge above the ground after about one kilometer down the hill.

There is a bathing tank next to this. Rituals and pooja are held at this place. Further up, is the temple known as Talacauvery temple and it is dedicated to Lord Agastheeswarar. The legend says that Cauvery was held captive by sage Agasthya in a Kamandalu (a pot). When Sage Agasthya was meditating, Lord Ganesha took the form of a crow made the Kamndalu to topple at this hill.

The climbing around 300 steps on to the Brahmagiri peak offers a 360 degree view of the mountain range. At the top, there are small, sharp rocks, and since one can’t wear shoes/chappals inside the temple, it can be painful. Visitors are not allowed after 6pm. Free Entry and Parking.

There are many other temples and sight seeings near Talacauvery. Among the main is Bhagamandala, the confluence of three rivers Cauvery, Kanake and Sujyoti. Other temples nearby devoted to Lord Ganapathy, Subramanya and Vishnu. Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary which offers a glimpse of diverse flora and fauna of the tropical forest ranges of Western Ghats, Nisargadhama, Dubare Elephant Camp, Namdroling Monastary and Madikeri hillstation are the other popular attractions near Talacauvery.