Kavalande Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Kavalande, Karnataka with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Kavalande

Located in the Cauvery Basin of Mysore district, Karnataka, Kavalande is a hidden gem in South India that boasts of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by lush green forests, rolling hills, and riverside landscapes. Kavalande is a perfect retreat for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience the serene countryside. In this travel guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, things to do, and useful tips for planning your trip to Kavalande.

List of Places to Visit in Kavalande

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kavalande Fort
  • Sri Cheluva Narayana Swamy Temple
  • Kaveri Nisargadhama

Kavalande Fort is a prominent landmark that dates back to the 18th century. The fort provides a glimpse of the town’s history and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Sri Cheluva Narayana Swamy Temple is one of the oldest temples in Karnataka and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple’s architecture is a blend of Dravidian and Hoysala style. Kaveri Nisargadhama is a scenic island surrounded by the Kaveri River. The island is home to a deer park, a rabbit park, and an aviary. Visitors can take a boat ride and explore the island’s natural beauty.

Natural Attractions of Kavalande: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Abbey Falls
  • Dubare Elephant Camp
  • Iruppu Falls

Abbey Falls is a beautiful cascade that descends from a height of 70 feet. The waterfall is surrounded by coffee and spice plantations and is a popular picnic spot. Dubare Elephant Camp is situated on the banks of the Kaveri River and is known for its elephant training and bathing activities. Visitors can observe the elephants and interact with them. Iruppu Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Brahmagiri Hills. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and is a great spot for trekking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kavalande

  • Nishani Motte Trek
  • Mandalpatti Trek
  • Brahmagiri Trek

Nishani Motte Trek is a relatively easy trek that takes visitors through coffee and pepper plantations. The trek offers stunning views of the hills and valleys. Mandalpatti Trek takes visitors to the highest point in Coorg and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Brahmagiri Trek is a challenging trek that takes visitors through thick forests and grasslands. The trek provides a chance to spot wildlife such as tigers, elephants, and deer.

Best Things to Do in Kavalande: Activities and Tours

  • River Rafting on the Kaveri River
  • Spice Plantation Tour
  • Coffee Tasting Tour

River Rafting on the Kaveri River is an exhilarating experience that takes visitors through rapids and turbulent waters. Spice Plantation Tour takes visitors through the fragrant plantations of cinnamon, cardamom, and pepper, where they can learn about the processes of harvesting and processing spices. Coffee Tasting Tour provides a chance to taste some of the best filter coffee in the world and learn about the coffee-making process.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kavalande

Day 1: Visit Kavalande Fort and Sri Cheluva Narayana Swamy Temple Day 2: Trek to Nishani Motte and enjoy a coffee tasting tour Day 3: Visit Dubare Elephant Camp and go river rafting on Kaveri River Day 4: Drive to Iruppu Falls and trek to Brahmagiri Hills Day 5: Visit Kaveri Nisargadhaama and enjoy a spice plantation tour Day 6: Trek to Mandalpatti and enjoy the scenic views Day 7: Relax and rejuvenate at a nearby spa or resort

Food and Drink Scene of Kavalande

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pandi Curry
  • Akki Roti
  • Coorgi Pork
  • Nool Puttu

Pandi Curry is a traditional Coorgi dish made with pork and flavorful spices. Akki Roti is a flatbread made with rice flour and served with coconut chutney. Coorgi Pork is a spicy and tangy dish made with marinated pork meat. Nool Puttu is a unique dish made with rice noodles and coconut milk.

Local Beverages

  • Filter Coffee
  • Kadumbuttu
  • Bamboo Shoot Juice

Filter Coffee is a must-try beverage in Kavalande. The town is famous for its aromatic filter coffee made with freshly roasted coffee beans. Kadumbuttu is a steamed rice dumpling served with spicy chicken or pork curry. Bamboo Shoot Juice is a refreshing drink made with bamboo shoots, jaggery, and lemon juice.

Where to Stay in Kavalande: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa
  • Coorg Cliffs Resort
  • Amanvana Spa Resort
  • Pepper Trail Homestay

Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa is a luxury resort that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The resort has a spa, an infinity pool, and premium dining options. Coorg Cliffs Resort is a mid-range resort that offers comfortable rooms and a serene atmosphere. Amanvana Spa Resort is a boutique resort that offers an array of wellness and spa treatments. Pepper Trail Homestay is a cozy homestay that provides a homely atmosphere and traditional Coorgi hospitality.

What to Buy in Kavalande: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Coorgi Coffee
  • Spices and Herbs
  • Bamboo Crafts
  • Traditional Coorgi Clothing

Coorgi Coffee is a must-buy item in Kavalande. Visitors can buy freshly roasted coffee beans or ground coffee to take home. Spices and Herbs such as cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon are also popular items to buy in Kavalande. Bamboo Crafts such as baskets, trays, and coasters are handmade by local artisans and make great souvenirs. Traditional Coorgi Clothing such as sarees and shawls are also popular among tourists.

Local Culture and Customs of Kavalande

Kavalande is home to the Kodava community, a martial tribe known for their unique culture and customs. Kodavas have their distinct cuisine, music, and dance forms. The traditional attire of Kodavas is a black coat, a white shirt, and a drape called ‘Kupya,’ which is similar to a lungi. Visitors are expected to respect the local customs and traditions of the Kodava community.

Best Time to Visit Kavalande

The best time to visit Kavalande is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall, and some of the outdoor activities may be closed.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kavalande

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Dress modestly while visiting temples and religious places
  • Try the local cuisine and coffee
  • Go on nature walks and treks with a licensed guide

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places
  • Pluck flowers or plants from parks and gardens
  • Wear revealing clothes while visiting religious places
  • Hike or trek without a licensed guide

Safety and Health

Safety in Kavalande

Kavalande is a relatively safe town. Visitors are advised to be cautious while trekking in thick forests and avoid venturing alone into unknown areas.

Health in Kavalande

Visitors are advised to carry necessary medication and consult a doctor before traveling. Mosquito nets and repellents are recommended to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Kavalande: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kavalande

The nearest airport to Kavalande is Mysuru Airport, located 76 km away. Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru is the nearest international airport, located 276 km away.

Bus Stations Near Kavalande

Kavalande is well-connected by road, and visitors can opt for bus services from Mysuru or Bangalore to reach the town.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a taxi or drive down to Kavalande from Mysuru or Bangalore.

How to Get Around in Kavalande

Visitors can hire a taxi or autorickshaw to get around within the town. Bicycles are also available on rent for exploring the nearby areas.

Where to Go Next from Kavalande: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Coorg
  • Bandipur National Park
  • Wayanad

Coorg is a popular hill station located just 45 km away from Kavalande, known for its coffee plantations and scenic views. Bandipur National Park is just 90 km away and offers a chance to spot tigers, elephants, and other wildlife. Wayanad is a scenic town located in Kerala, just 115 km away from Kavalande.

Conclusion

Kavalande is a hidden gem in Karnataka that offers a mix of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With its stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and unique Kodava culture, Kavalande is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for an offbeat experience. Plan your trip to Kavalande, and you will not be disappointed.

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