Tag Archives: Napoklu

Wake Up In The Coffee Fields: The Charm Of Coorg’s Plantation Escapes

Plantation stays in Coorg offer immersive escapes set within working coffee estates. Blending heritage bungalows, villas and homely retreats, they invite travellers to slow down and experience life shaped by nature, mist, and coffee culture.

Shutterstock : Book a stay in the coffee and pepper plantations of Coorg

Coorg’s plantation stays sit within working coffee and spice estates, offering quiet retreats shaped by the landscape. From heritage bungalows to hillside cottages, each stay reflects a slower rhythm of life rooted in nature, local culture, and the everyday workings of the plantation.

Old Kent Estates & Spa, Madikeri

Old Kent Estates & Spa was established in 1864. Photo: oldkentestates/Instagram

Set within a 200-acre coffee and spice estate in Suntikoppa, Old Kent Estates & Spa offers a refined plantation retreat shaped by Coorg’s colonial past. Established in 1864 by British Lieutenant Colonel WR Wright, the property preserves the character of a historic planter’s residence while introducing contemporary comforts. Surrounded by coffee bushes, cardamom groves and towering teak trees, the estate remains deeply connected to the landscape that defines Kodagu.

Design & Spaces

  • The estate blends British colonial architecture with Tudor Revival influences, featuring deep verandahs, period detailing and heritage-inspired interiors.
  • The restored nineteenth-century bungalow, known as The Lodge, houses a library, games room, home theatre, and a formal dining space.
  • Walking trails designed by Italian mountaineer Lorenzo Gariano wind through coffee, cardamom and pepper plantations shaded by teak, rosewood, and mahogany trees.
  • Accommodation includes a mix of heritage lodge rooms and expansive English-style cottages set across the plantation. The cottages feature private gardens, spacious living areas, and large bathrooms equipped with jacuzzis, rain showers, and traditional bucket baths.

Amenities

  • Guests can explore guided plantation trails, birdwatching routes and nature walks across the estate’s 200 acres.
  • The property also offers a spa, movie room, library, outdoor games and telescope-assisted stargazing experiences.
  • Dining at The Perch and Gordon’s Saloon focuses on multi-cuisine fare alongside freshly ground estate coffee and locally sourced ingredients.

The Information

Address: Thaikappa Estate, Horoor Post, Old Kent Estate Rd, Suntikoppa, Kodagu, Karnataka 571237

Room Rates: Approximately INR 7,000–12,000 per night, depending on season, taxes and inclusions

Website: www.oldkentresorts.com

Evolve Back Coorg

Evolve Back Coorg offers a deeply immersive plantation stay – Photo: evolvebackcoorg/Instagram

Set within a 300-acre working coffee and spice estate near Virajpet, Evolve Back Coorg offers a deeply immersive plantation stay shaped by the landscape of Kodagu. Formerly known as Orange County, the resort combines eco-conscious luxury with traditional Kodava design design and a strong connection to plantation life. Surrounded by dense greenery, the property focuses on quiet, nature-led experiences rather than overt indulgence.

Design & Spaces

  • The resort draws inspiration from traditional Kodava architecture, with tiled roofs, carved wooden doors, rustic interiors and earthy textures that blend seamlessly into the surrounding plantations.
  • Accommodation includes Lily Pool Villas and Heritage Pool Villas, featuring private pools, spacious living areas, four-poster beds, red oxide flooring and plantation-facing sit-outs designed for privacy and quiet.
  • Guided plantation walks, coffeeology sessions and birdwatching trails allow guests to engage closely with the estate’s coffee and spice-growing landscape.

Amenities

  • Dining options include The Granary for multi-cuisine fare and Peppercorn, a speciality grill restaurant overlooking the plantation lake.
  • The property also features the Ayura Ayurvedic centre, infinity and family pools, a reading lounge and a Coffee and Culture Museum dedicated to Coorg’s plantation heritage.

The Information

Address: Chikkana Halli Estate, Karadigodu Post, Siddapur, Virajpet, Kodagu, Karnataka 571253
Room Rates: Rates generally start from approximately INR 29,750–35,000 per night per couple, including accommodation, breakfast, dinner and taxes. Seasonal offers for longer stays may include resort credits and discounted pricing.
Website: www.evolveback.com/coorg/

The Tamara Coorg

The resort combines eco-conscious luxury with a strong sense of place / Photo: thetamaracoorg/Instagram

Perched more than 3,500 feet above sea level in the Western Ghats, The Tamara Coorg offers an immersive plantation retreat within a 180-acre coffee, cardamom and pepper estate. The resort combines eco-conscious luxury with a strong sense of place, allowing guests to experience the rhythms of estate life while surrounded by dense forest and rolling hills. With sustainability at its core, the property focuses on quiet, nature-led hospitality shaped by the landscape of Coorg.

Design & Spaces

The resort features 56 cottages built on timber stilts to preserve the natural terrain, with architecture inspired by traditional Kerala design and crafted largely from Canadian spruce wood.

Accommodation ranges from Luxury Cottages to spacious suites with private Jacuzzis, all featuring large sundecks overlooking forest canopies, hillsides and seasonal waterfalls.

Plantation walks, coffee-tasting sessions and the signature Blossom to Brew experience introduce guests to the estate’s coffee-growing heritage, while The Verandah — a restored nineteenth-century workers’ residence — now serves as a library and tasting space.

Amenities

Guided treks, birdwatching trails, forest therapy walks and seasonal waterfall explorations form a key part of the experience at the resort.

Dining focuses on fresh, estate-grown ingredients and regional Kodava cuisine, alongside a range of Indian and international dishes.

Sustainability initiatives include organic farming, waste management systems and a no-plastic philosophy integrated across the property.

The Information

Address: The Tamara Coorg, Kabbinakad Estate, Yevakapadi, Napoklu, Madikeri, Karnataka 571212
Room Rates: Rates generally start from approximately INR 25,245 per night for two adults, with pricing varying by cottage category and season.
Website: www.thetamara.com/coorg-resort/

Amni Estate

Amni Estates offers a deeply secluded stay centred on simplicity, nature and slow living / Photo: amni.coorg/Instagram

Hidden within a coffee plantation in the hills of Coorg, Amni Estate offers a deeply secluded stay centred on simplicity, nature and slow living. Family-run and entirely off-grid, the property trades conventional luxury for silence, rugged beauty and an intimate connection with the surrounding landscape. With its antique-filled interiors and misty plantation setting, the estate feels closer to a private countryside retreat than a typical homestay.

Design & Spaces

The property features stone cottages built across grassy slopes in the Balyaatra range, designed to blend naturally into the plantation landscape.

Interiors are layered with antiques collected over decades, including Victorian lamp posts, cast iron fountains and reclaimed railway sleepers that give the estate its old-world character.

Accommodation is centred around a two-bedroom cottage suited to small groups, with quiet corners, hammocks and open spaces that encourage guests to slow down and settle into estate life.

Amenities

  • Guided walks through the coffee and spice plantations offer a closer look at the estate’s flora, seasonal produce and surrounding forests.
  • Guests can spend their time fishing in the pond, gathering around bonfires or simply exploring the grounds alongside Zeiss, the estate’s well-known resident dog.
  • Meals are home-cooked and rooted in traditional Kodava cuisine, with family recipes and locally sourced ingredients forming the heart of the dining experience.

The Information

Address: Guyya (near Galibeedu), Madikeri, Kodagu, Karnataka
Room Rates: Rates are generally around INR 12,000+ per night for two, inclusive of meals and curated activities, depending on season and group size.
Website / Instagram: @amni.coorg

Silver Brook Estate

Silver Brook Estate is a quiet homestay shaped by forested greens, silver oaks and a stream / Photo: silverbrook.homestay/Instagram

Tucked into a 6-acre coffee plantation in Kadagadal, near Madikeri, Silver Brook Estate is a quiet homestay shaped by forested greens, silver oaks and a stream that runs through the property. The setting feels intimate and unhurried, with bird calls, plantation paths and open sit-outs defining the rhythm of the stay. It is designed for travellers looking for a simple, nature-led break close to town.

Design & Spaces

  • The estate is spread across coffee plantations shaded by silver oak, pepper vines and fruit trees, with a natural brook running through the grounds.
  • Accommodation is set within a main bungalow and select rooms, designed for small groups, couples and families seeking a homely plantation setting.
  • Common areas include a library, hammocks and open garden spaces that encourage slow, outdoor living within the estate.

Amenities

  • Home-style Kodava meals are a highlight, with traditional dishes such as pandi curry and pepper chicken served by the hosts.
  • The property supports relaxed activities like estate walks, birdwatching and bonfire evenings in the open courtyard.
  • Its location makes it convenient for day trips to nearby attractions such as Abbey Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp and Nagarhole National Park.

The Information

Address: Kadagadal, near Madikeri, Kodagu, Karnataka

Room Rates: Typically range between INR 5,800–7,400 per night for double occupancy, often including breakfast (season and room type dependent).

Website: www.silverbrookestate.in/home

FAQs

What is a plantation stay in Coorg?
A stay set within working coffee or spice estates, offering quiet surroundings, nature views and a slower pace compared to typical resorts.

Best time to visit?
October to March is ideal for pleasant weather. Monsoon (June to September) is lush but rain-heavy.

How do you reach these stays?
Most require private taxis or self-drive vehicles, as they are located outside town areas and deep within estates.

What activities are offered?
Plantation walks, birdwatching, coffee tours, spa treatments, and nature experiences are most common.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season and weekends due to limited rooms.

What should I pack?
Comfortable walking shoes, light layers, insect repellent, and rain protection during monsoon.

source: http://www.outlooktraveller.com / Outlook Traveller / Home> Story / by OT Staff / curated by Anuradha Sengupta / May 18th, 2026

26th Kodava Family Hockey Festival: Kulletira trounces Cheppudira family to clinch Chenanda Cup

Madikeri:

Amid loud cheers from a packed crowd of over 25,000, the Kulletira family team clinched the ‘Chenanda Cup’ at the 26th Kodava Family Hockey Tournament defeating the Cheppudira family 3–1 yesterday.

The final of the month-long Kodava Family Hockey Festival was held yesterday at General Thimmaiah Stadium in Cheriyaparambu near Napoklu. With this win, Kulletira lifted their fourth title in the prestigious tournament.

The summit clash saw an evenly fought first half, with Cheppudira earning several penalty corners but failing to convert them. Both teams scored once in the third quarter to keep the contest open. However, Kulletira took control in the final quarter, striking twice to seal the victory.

Roshan Lokesh, Avaneesh Mandappa and Shubham Chettiyappa scored a goal each for Kulletira, while Vachan Chinnappa netted the lone goal for Cheppudira.

The winning Kulletira family team was awarded Rs. 3 lakh and a silver rolling trophy. Runners-up Cheppudira family received Rs. 2 lakh and a trophy, while Paradanda family, who finished third, received Rs. 1 lakh.

The festival concluded with the ceremonial handover of the flag to the Ajjikuttira family, who will host the 27th edition in 2027. The Chenanda family, organisers of this year’s event, handed over the flag.

Mandaviya assures support

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, who was the chief guest, assured financial support to promote sports, stating that such assistance is the Government’s responsibility and not charity.

He said he had long heard about the Kodava community’s passion for hockey and was glad to witness it first hand. Referring to the International Olympic Committee’s vision of sports as a unifying force, he noted that the Kodava community had upheld this spirit  for generations.

“This land has produced 18 Olympians. It is the duty of both the Centre and the State to              nurture Kodagu’s sporting talent,” he said. He added that sports should remain free from politics and promised to promote shooting in the region by identifying and training young talent.

Mysuru-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar said the festival reflects the growing sporting culture in the country. Highlighting Kodagu’s contribution to Indian sports, he said the family hockey tradition inspires youth, encourages women’s participation and strengthens national unity.

He urged the Centre to set up a shooting academy in Kodagu under the Khelo India scheme.

Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna termed the festival a model initiative for the district. He said work on an 11-acre sports training centre at V. Badaga village in Virajpet has already begun with State support and appealed to the Centre for assistance in building a stadium.

Kodagu Hockey Academy, President Pandanda K. Bopanna, retired Justice Ajjikuttira S. Bopanna, SLN Coffee CEO Saheed Singh, Dr. Santosh Uthappa of Narayana Hospital, Sports Authority of Karnataka Vice-Chairman Cheppudira Arun Machaiah and others   were present.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / May 03rd, 2026

Kodagu youth scales Thadiyandamol 100 times

Madikeri:

While trekking up mountains is a passion for many, a youth from Kodagu has taken that passion to an extraordinary level by climbing the district’s highest peak a hundred times.

Areyada Girish Thimmaiah from Paadi village near Napoklu has achieved the rare feat of scaling Thadiyandamol, the tallest mountain in Kodagu, 100 times.

Rising to a height of 1,748 metres above sea level in the Western Ghats, Thadiyandamol is considered one of the most challenging treks in the region. Climbing it even once requires endurance and determination. Doing it a hundred times is a remarkable accomplishment.

Girish’s fascination with the mountain dates back to the early 1990s. Around 1994, when foreign tourists frequently visited Kodagu to trek to Thadiyandamol, their enthusiasm inspired him to take up the challenge. What began as curiosity soon turned into a lifelong passion.

However, the journey was not without setbacks. A few years ago, Girish had to stop trekking altogether after undergoing spinal surgery.

“Climbing up is easier, but descending is far more difficult. Perhaps the strain during the descent worsened my back pain,” he recalled.

The trek to Thadiyandamol is also known for its wildlife encounters. Trekkers often come across herds of elephants, darting deer, tiger tracks and droppings, and the forest’s sharp scent.

“To keep wild animals away, we shout, clap and make noise while trekking. At times, it feels like life itself is at risk, but that is what makes the experience so thrilling,” Girish said.

Girish is the son of Areyada Ponnappa Ganapathi and Lakshmi Subbavva. He completed his education at Maharaja’s Junior College under the University of Mysore.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News / April 03rd, 2026

Karnataka SHRC wants Kodagu DC to prevent river pollution

At the same time, the Central Pollution Control Board conducted an inspection and collected water samples from ten distinct locations along the River Cauvery.

The Save Cauvery organization emphasized that untreated waste and sewage effluent from various towns and villages in the district were being discharged into the river, leading to massive contamination. Photo | Express

Madikeri :

The State Human Rights Commission has sought a comprehensive report from the Kodagu deputy commissioner detailing the initiatives undertaken to mitigate pollution in Cauvery and Lakshmana Theertha rivers. This directive follows a complaint lodged with the commission by members of the Save Cauvery River organisation.

The Save Cauvery organization stressed that untreated waste and sewage effluent from various towns and villages in the district were being discharged into the river, resulting in massive contamination. This complaint was later forwarded to the additional chief secretary overseeing the forest department, who instructed an inquiry and requested a detailed report.

At the same time, the Central Pollution Control Board conducted an inspection and collected water samples from ten distinct locations along the River Cauvery.

Laboratory analyses of these samples confirmed the presence of pollutants, including sewage and untreated waste, particularly from the regions of Bhagamandala, Napoklu, Murnad, Kondangeri, Siddapura and Kudige.

The DC has been urged to implement stringent measures to prevent the inflow of waste and sewage into the rivers. The commission also sought a compliance report from the district administration by April 27, 2026.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Karnataka / by Express News Service / November 10th, 2025

CM announces Rs. 1 crore grant for Chenanda Cup Hockey-2026

Madikeri:

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday announced a financial grant of Rs. 1 crore for Chenanda Cup Hockey Festival to be held in 2026 in Kodagu district.

Unveiling the Hockey Festival’s logo at his home Office ‘Krishna’ in Bengaluru, the CM praised Kodava community’s deep-rooted association with the sport. 

The 26th Chenanda Cup Hockey will be held at Napoklu from Apr. 5 to May 2, 2026.

“Kodavas mean hockey and hockey means Kodavas,” he remarked, highlighting the region’s legacy of producing national and international-level players, including Asian Games.

Siddaramaiah lauded the Kodava community for preserving its cultural identity while excelling in sports. “Kodava culture has retained its distinctiveness and continues to thrive. It is a matter of pride for our heritage. Their talent and dedication have brought immense honour to the nation,” he said. Pledging Government support, he added, “We will provide Rs. 1 crore for Chenanda Cup Hockey-2026. I will also attend the matches.”

The event was attended by office-bearers of Chenanda Cup, Virajpet MLA and CM’s Legal Advisor Ajjikuttira S. Ponnanna, Kodagu District Minister N.S. Boseraju, Ministers Byrathi Suresh and Shivaraj Thangadgi.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / November 04th, 2025

Chasing Gold through Snow. Kodagu’s Thekkada Bhavani becomes the first Indian woman to win international skiing medals

Kodagu’s Thekkada Bhavani becomes the first Indian woman to win international skiing medals

While many youngsters influenced by Bollywood dream of entering the world of glamour and fame, here is a girl who chose a very different path — the icy slopes of the mountains. Inspired by adventure and driven by determination, she turned her passion for mountaineering into a historic achievement, becoming the first Indian woman to win medals at an international-level cross-country skiing championship.

A native of Napoklu in Kodagu district, Thekkada Bhavani Nanjunda defied all odds to make not just her hometown, but the entire State and Nation proud. She clinched bronze medals in the 5 km distance race and 1.3 km sprint at the South American Cross-Country Skiing FIS Competition held at Corralco, Chile, in September this year.

Bhavani has represented India at several prestigious international events, including the Nordic World Championships and the Asian Winter Games. A multiple medal winner at the Khelo India Games and the National Skiing Championship, she is now rigorously training to qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy.

Daughter of Thekkada Nanjunda (Shambu) and Parvathi (Divya) of Perur village near Napoklu, Bhavani draws her strength from her roots and family support. Her younger sister, Thekkada Seethamma, works for a private firm in Bengaluru.

Star of Mysore caught up with the trailblazing athlete to learn more about her journey, challenges and preparations for the upcoming Olympics. Excerpts…

Bhavani (second from right) seen with her father Thekkada Nanjunda (Shambu), mother Parvathi (Divya) and younger sister Thekkada Seethamma.

Star of Mysore (SOM): How did your journey in cross-country skiing begin?

Bhavani: It all started after I watched the movie ‘Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani’. That’s when I first learned about the majestic Himalayan mountain range, which inspired me to join the NCC Air Wing during my college days.

In 2014, I attended a mountaineering camp in Manali — that was my first encounter with snow, something we never see back home in Kodagu. The experience changed my life completely. I wanted to explore the mountains more deeply and decided to take up skiing so I could glide down the peaks I climbed. Over time, I discovered cross-country skiing and fell in love with it for the endurance, precision, and mental strength it demands.

SOM: What inspired you to pursue adventure sports, and cross-country skiing in particular?

Bhavani: I’ve always been drawn to the outdoors and adventure. But my biggest inspiration came from Marit Bjørgen of Norway — one of the greatest cross-country skiers in history. Her strength, determination, and consistency truly motivated me. Watching her made me want to follow that path and represent India in a sport that very few from our country have even attempted.

SOM: Cross-country skiing is known for its toughness. How did you master such a demanding sport?

Bhavani: It’s been a long and challenging journey. I had no background in snow sports and limited access to proper facilities in the beginning. But I stayed consistent — training first in India, then in New Zealand, and later in Europe. Each season taught me something new — from refining my technique to building endurance and mental resilience. It’s a constant process of learning, and even today, every single day on the snow feels like an opportunity to improve.

SOM: How does it feel to be the only Indian woman to win cross-country skiing medals at an international event?

Bhavani: It’s an incredibly proud and emotional feeling. Standing on the podium with the Indian flag was one of the most special moments of my life. But beyond the medals, it’s about proving that Indian athletes can compete in winter sports at the highest level. I hope my journey inspires more youngsters, especially girls, to explore lesser-known sports and believe that nothing is impossible.

SOM: How have your parents supported you throughout your journey?

Bhavani: My parents have been my biggest strength. Even though they didn’t fully understand the sport initially, they always believed in me and supported my dreams. Their encouragement gave me the courage to pursue such an unconventional path. Every achievement of mine belongs to them as much as it does to me.

SOM: Now that you have reached the international stage, what is your next goal?

Bhavani: My primary focus is the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. I want to qualify and represent India with strong performances on the world stage. At the same time, I hope to raise awareness about winter sports and help build better infrastructure in India, so the next generation has opportunities I didn’t have.

SOM: What advice would you give to youngsters wanting to take up cross-country skiing?

Bhavani: I would say, just start. Don’t wait for perfect conditions or ideal facilities. Passion and perseverance can take you a long way. Cross-country skiing challenges you physically and mentally, but it also teaches resilience, patience, and self-belief. If I could do it, coming from a small town in South India, anyone can.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home > Feature Articles / October 19th, 2025

Medal winner in Master’s Badminton Championships

Madikeri (Kodagu):

Maleyanda Arun Poovaiah, a former International Badminton player, has won Men’s Singles title, Mixed Doubles Trophy and emerged Runners-up in Men’s Doubles Category at the PAN India Golden Master’s Badminton Championships held at Vardhan’s Vision Sports Club in R.R. Nagar Bengaluru recently.

Along with trophies, cash prize was also awarded.

A native of Nelji, Napoklu in Kodagu, Arun is presently based in Bengaluru and is involved in coaching budding Badminton players.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Sports / August 25th, 2025

Spike in coffee prices in K’taka markets due to severe crop losses in Brazil, Vietnam: Expert

The sharp rise on February 11 was attributed to severe crop losses in Brazil and Vietnam — world’s leading coffee producers — due to adverse weather conditions.

The sharp rise on February 11 was attributed to severe crop losses in Brazil and Vietnam — world’s leading coffee producers — due to adverse weather conditions. (Shutterstock)

Bengaluru:

Coffee prices in Karnataka’s Kodagu and Chikkamagaluru markets that recently surged to historic levels was driven by a global supply crunch, according to officials familiar with the matter. Arabica Parchment, a premium coffee variety, soared to ₹29,600 per 50 kg bag in Chikkamagaluru, while Kodagu recorded an even higher price of ₹29,800, marking an unprecedented peak.

The sharp rise on February 11 was attributed to severe crop losses in Brazil and Vietnam — world’s leading coffee producers — due to adverse weather conditions. Experts predicted that recovery will take at least five to eight years, as new coffee plants require time to mature and yield produce.

“Coffee prices are heavily influenced by weather conditions, and it’s impossible to assume that current prices will remain steady,” Coffee Board president Dinesh Devavrinda told HT. He advised growers, particularly those with outstanding bank loans, to capitalise on the price surge by opting for the One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme, which covers the principal amount up to ₹5 lakh.

India produces approximately 365,000 tonnes of coffee annually, with 70% of the yield exported to European markets. Karnataka is the country’s largest coffee producer, accounting for 70% of national output, with Kodagu alone contributing 32%. The state has 246,000 hectares of coffee estates, yielding 220,000 tonnes annually, while Kodagu, spanning 4,102 square kilometers, produces around 120,000 tonnes from 110,000 hectares of estates.

At the beginning of the year, coffee prices were volatile, but a steep upward trend emerged over the past 10 days, with daily price hikes ranging between ₹500 and ₹1,000 per bag. On January 1, Arabica Parchment was priced at ₹17,000 per 50 kg bag but by the end of the month, it rose to ₹23,500. Other coffee varieties also saw significant increases: Robusta Parchment reached ₹24,500, Arabica Cherry was sold at ₹17,000, and Robusta Cherry hit ₹13,500 in Kodagu markets.

According to market analysts, the absence of buffer stock this year has further aggravated the supply shortage, pushing prices to record highs.

Rajiv Kushalappa, managing director of Leonflix Fintech Ventures Pvt Ltd, a Bengaluru-based coffee export firm, pointed to the impact of global shortages. “Thousands of coffee estates have been destroyed in Brazil and Vietnam, leading to a severe supply crunch in the international market. With no buffer stock available this year, prices have skyrocketed and are likely to remain high for some time,” he said.

For coffee growers, the soaring prices offer much-needed financial relief. “This is the first time I am getting such record prices. Growers have long struggled with high production costs, disease outbreaks, and labour shortages. Arabica coffee estates require significant manpower, and labor costs have risen due to shortages. These higher prices will help growers maintain their estates,” Sannuvanda Kaverappa, a grower from Napoklu in Madikeri, said.

Kodagu, nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, is India’s largest coffee-producing region, contributing nearly 32% of the country’s total output. The district, spanning 4,102 square kilometers, is home to vast coffee estates spread across 1.1 lakh hectares. Known for its rich biodiversity and hilly terrain, Kodagu primarily cultivates Arabica and Robusta coffee varieties. Coffee farming, introduced by British planters in the 19th century, remains the backbone of the local economy, with thousands of small and large growers dependent on it. The region’s coffee is highly sought after in international markets, with 70% of India’s coffee production being exported.

source: http://www.hindustantimes.com / Hindustan Times / Home / by Coovercolly Indresh / February 18th, 2025

Kodagu’s First Flyover Opens For Public Use

Now, travelling to holy places Talacauvery and Bhagamandala becomes hassle-free.

In what is considered a significant relief for travellers and residents, commuting to holy places like Talacauvery and Bhagamandala will now be hassle-free as the authorities have opened the Bhagamandala flyover — Kodagu’s first flyover project — for public use.

The State Government had allocated Rs. 28 crore for the project, which was executed by Cauvery Neeravari Nigam Limited (CNNL). With the completion of the flyover, villagers surrounding Bhagamandala and Talacauvery can now travel with ease, even during heavy rainfall, without fearing floods. However, there has been no official inauguration due to the Model Code of Conduct, which  remains in effect until June 4.

No fear of floods

During the rainy season, Brahmagiri Hills, Talacauvery, Korangala, Cherangala, Bhagamandala and surrounding areas experience heavy rainfall, leading to an overflow of water at Triveni Sangama, the confluence of the Cauvery, Kannike and Sujyothi rivers. 

This overflow often disrupts vehicular movement on Madikeri-Bhagamandala-Talacauvery and Bhagamandala-Ayyangeri-Napoklu roads. Additionally, heavy rains sometimes result in the isolation of Bhagamandala, effectively turning the town into an island for many days. 

The flooded roads render them impassable for vehicles, causing significant inconvenience for residents who struggle to access essential items and groceries. School children are unable to attend classes due to the flooded roads, exacerbating the situation. The completion of the flyover has alleviated these challenges, bringing much-needed relief to the residents of Bhagamandala and surrounding areas.

880 metres-long flyover

The newly-constructed flyover serves as a vital link between the Bhagamandala entrance gate and Talacauvery road, providing connectivity to Napoklu as well. Spanning 880 metres in length, it comprises 36 pillars and includes a 200-metre connecting road with underground drainage (UGD) facilities. 

Designed to accommodate vehicles weighing over 60 tonnes, the authorities have set a speed limit of 40 kmph. Streetlights have been installed along with rainwater drainage pipelines and the painting works have been completed.

Causes for delay

Despite receiving approval from the Siddaramaiah-led Government in 2018, the project faced delays due to challenges such as land acquisition, relocation of electric poles and tree removal by the Forest Department. The floods and COVID-19 lockdown further contributed to the sluggish progress of the project.

The flyover construction has been finished ahead of this rainy season. Vehicles of various types and sizes can now traverse the flyover smoothly, ensuring a hassle-free journey for those  heading towards Bhagamandala-Talacauvery and Bhagamandala-Napoklu, said Harinarayana, Flyover Project Director.

source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles> Top Stories / May 06th, 2024

Kodagu-origin woman Charishma Kaliyanda elected member of Australian parliament

Charishma Kaliyanda has been elected as parliament member for Liverpool.

Madikeri :

At a time when people of Indian origin are making a mark — right from the corporate head honchos to politicians — a young woman with roots in Kodagu has been elected to the Australian parliament. Charishma Kaliyanda has been elected as the Labor member of Parliament for Liverpool.

Charishma was dressed in traditional Kodava attire while taking oath of office, drawing praise. “So excited to officially be sworn in as part of the 58th Parliament with some amazing colleagues. I’m honoured to represent my amazing community of Liverpool, and can’t wait to raise our challenges and celebrate our wins in this Parliament! The colours I wear today represent the official colours of NSW and I wear a Mysore silk sari, made in Karnataka (where I was born). I wear my sari in the Kodava style to honour my family heritage. Can you spot the Waratah brooch?! ????”, she posted on Facebook.

ಆಸ್ಟ್ರೇಲಿಯಾ ಸಂಸದೆಯಾದ ಕೊಡಗಿನ ...

Charishma traces her roots to Napoklu in Madikeri taluk.

On her Linkedin profile, she has has described herself thus: “As a registered occupational therapist and elected representative, I am passionate about working with individuals and communities to fulfil their potential and engage in the activities they want. I have over 10 years of experience working with young people, particularly in the university sector. Currently, I work closely with students and staff to build capacity in mental health and wellbeing at UNSW, in order to help deliver their Mental Health Strategy 2025. I build relationships with various internal and external stakeholders to facilitate access to and awareness of help for students experiencing distress at UNSW”.

source: http://www.english.publictv.in / Public TV (English) / Home> Karnataka> Latest> Main Post> States / by admin / May 11th, 2023