Are you looking for a refreshing and relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life? Do you want to explore the rich history and culture of a quaint town in the heart of nature? If yes, then Virajpet is the perfect destination for you.
Virajpet is a charming and historic town in Coorg, Karnataka, India. It is known for its coffee and spice plantations, honey production, and natural beauty. It is also home to some of the most scenic and adventurous attractions and activities in the region. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adrenaline junkie, Virajpet has something for everyone.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Virajpet, such as its history and culture, weather and best time to visit, attractions and activities, travel packages and hotels, and how to reach and transport. We will also give you some tips and recommendations to make your trip more enjoyable and memorable. So, read on and discover why Virajpet is a hidden gem in Coorg that you must visit.
Virajpet History and Culture
Virajpet was founded in 1792 by Dodda Virarajendra, the king of Coorg, and named after him. It was the second capital of Coorg, after Madikeri, and played an important role in the region’s history and politics. It was also the birthplace of many prominent personalities, such as Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, and C.M. Poonacha, the former Chief Minister of Madras and Karnataka.
Virajpet is also rich in culture and heritage. It is famous for its festivals, such as Cauvery Sankramana, which celebrates the birth of the river Cauvery, and Puthari, which marks the harvest season. It is also known for its cuisine, which is influenced by the Kodava, Malayali, and Coorgi cultures. Some of the delicacies that you can try in Virajpet are pandi curry (pork curry), kadambuttu (rice dumplings), akki roti (rice flatbread), and koli curry (chicken curry).
Virajpet Weather and Best Time to Visit
Virajpet has a pleasant and moderate climate throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 15°C to 28°C, and the average rainfall is about 2500 mm. The seasons in Virajpet are divided into summer, monsoon, and winter.
The best time to visit Virajpet is from October to March, when the weather is cool and dry, and the landscape is lush and green. This is the ideal time for sightseeing, trekking, camping, and other outdoor activities. You can also witness some of the festivals and events that take place during this time, such as Diwali, Christmas, New Year, and Pongal.
The summer season in Virajpet is from April to June, when the temperature can rise up to 35°C, and the humidity can be high. This is the time when the coffee and spice plantations are in full bloom, and the aroma fills the air. You can also enjoy some of the water-based activities, such as rafting, kayaking, and fishing, during this time.
The monsoon season in Virajpet is from July to September, when the rainfall is heavy and frequent, and the temperature drops to 20°C. This is the time when the waterfalls and streams are at their best, and the scenery is breathtaking. You can also experience the thrill of the monsoon trekking, which is a unique and adventurous way to explore the region.
Virajpet Attractions and Activities
Virajpet is a paradise for travellers who love nature and adventure. It has some of the most beautiful and diverse attractions and activities in Coorg, such as:
Madikeri Fort:
A majestic and historic fort that dates back to the 17th century. It was built by Muddu Raja, the king of Coorg, and later renovated by Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore. It houses a museum, a temple, a church, and a prison, and offers a panoramic view of the town.
Omkareshwara Temple:
A sacred and ancient temple that was built in 1820 by Linga Rajendra II, the king of Coorg. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and has a unique architecture that combines the Islamic and Gothic styles. It also has a pond that is home to many fish, and a legend that is associated with the temple’s origin.
Malethirike Hill:
A scenic and serene hill that is located about 8 km from Virajpet. It is a popular spot for trekking, camping, and picnicking, and offers a stunning view of the sunset and the surrounding valleys.
Clock Tower:
A landmark and a symbol of Virajpet, that was built in 1914 by Rao Bahadur K.C. Appanna. It is a four-sided tower that has a clock on each side, and a dome on the top. It is located in the center of the town, and is a meeting point for the locals and tourists alike.
Chelavara Falls:
A spectacular and mesmerizing waterfall that is located about 26 km from Virajpet. It is formed by a tributary of the river Cauvery, and cascades down from a height of about 150 feet. It is surrounded by lush greenery, and is a great place to relax and rejuvenate.
Nalknad Palace:
A royal and elegant palace that was built in 1792 by Dodda Virarajendra, the king of Coorg. It was the last refuge of the king, before he surrendered to the British. It has a beautiful architecture, with intricate carvings, paintings, and murals. It also has a secret passage that leads to a hidden chamber.
Igguthappa Temple:
A holy and revered temple that was built in 1810 by Linga Rajendra II, the king of Coorg. It is dedicated to Lord Igguthappa, who is considered to be the rain god and the protector of the crops. It is also the venue for the Puthari festival, which is celebrated with great fervor and joy.
Adventure Sports:
Virajpet is a hub for adventure sports, such as rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, quad biking, rappelling, etc. You can indulge in these activities at various locations, such as Barapole River, Kaveri Nisargadhama, Dubare Elephant Camp, etc. You can also enjoy the wildlife safari at Nagarhole National Park, which is home to many animals, such as tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, etc.
Virajpet Travel Packages and Hotels
Virajpet is a destination that caters to all kinds of travellers, whether they are looking for a budget, luxury, family, or honeymoon package. You can find various travel packages and hotel options for Virajpet and Coorg, that suit your preferences and needs. Some of the popular travel packages and hotel options are:
Budget Package: If you are looking for a budget-friendly and comfortable package, you can opt for a 2 nights and 3 days package, that includes accommodation, breakfast, sightseeing, and transport. You can stay at a homestay, a guesthouse, or a lodge, that offers basic amenities and services. The approximate cost of this package is Rs. 5000 per person.
Luxury Package: If you are looking for a lavish and extravagant package, you can opt for a 3 nights and 4 days package, that includes accommodation, breakfast, lunch, dinner, sightseeing, transport, and activities. You can stay at a resort, a villa, or a cottage, that offers premium amenities and services. The approximate cost of this package is Rs. 15000 per person.
Family Package: If you are looking for a fun and enjoyable package for your family, you can opt for a 4 nights and 5 days package, that includes accommodation, breakfast, sightseeing, transport, and activities. You can stay at a hotel, a bungalow, or a farmhouse, that offers spacious and cozy rooms, and facilities for kids. The approximate cost of this package is Rs. 10000 per person.
Honeymoon Package: If you are looking for a romantic and memorable package for your honeymoon, you can opt for a 5 nights and 6 days package, that includes accommodation, breakfast, candlelight dinner, sightseeing, transport, and activities. You can stay at a treehouse, a tent, or a cabin, that offers privacy and intimacy, and a view of the nature. The approximate cost of this package is Rs. 20000 per person.
Virajpet How to Reach and Transport
Virajpet is well-connected by different modes of transport, such as air, rail, road, bus, and taxi. You can choose the mode of transport that is convenient and affordable for you. Here are some of the details about how to reach and travel within Virajpet and Coorg:
Air:
The nearest airport to Virajpet is Mangalore International Airport, which is about 165 km away. You can take a flight from major cities, such as Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, etc., to Mangalore, and then take a taxi or a bus to Virajpet. The flight duration is about 1 hour, and the taxi or bus fare is about Rs. 2000 or Rs. 300 respectively.
Rail:
The nearest railway station to Virajpet is Kannur Railway Station or Thalassery Railway Station, which are about 60 km and 70 km away respectively. You can take a train from major cities, such as Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, etc., to Kannur or Thalassery, and then take a taxi or a bus to Virajpet. The train duration is about 10 hours, and the taxi or bus fare is about Rs. 1000 or Rs. 200 respectively.
Road:
Virajpet is well-connected by road to various cities and towns in Karnataka and Kerala, such as Mysore, Bangalore, Mangalore, Calicut, etc. You can drive your own vehicle or rent a car to reach Virajpet. The road condition is good, and the scenery is scenic. The driving distance and time vary depending on the route and traffic, but generally, it takes about 4 hours from Mysore, 6 hours from Bangalore, 5 hours from Mangalore, and 3 hours from Calicut.
Bus:
Virajpet has a bus stand that operates regular and frequent buses to and from various destinations in Karnataka and Kerala, such as Mysore, Bangalore, Mangalore, Calicut, etc. You can choose from different types of buses, such as deluxe, semi-deluxe, express, etc., depending on your budget and comfort. The bus fare ranges from Rs. 100 to Rs. 500, depending on the distance and type of bus.
Taxi:
Virajpet has many taxi operators and agencies that offer reliable and affordable services to and from various destinations in Karnataka and Kerala, such as Mysore, Bangalore, Mangalore, Calicut, etc. You can book a taxi online or offline, and choose from different types of vehicles, such as hatchback, sedan, SUV, etc., depending on your preference and requirement. The taxi fare ranges from Rs. 10 to Rs. 20 per km, depending on the distance and type of vehicle.
Virajpet is a hidden gem in Coorg that you must visit if you are looking for a refreshing and relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is a destination that offers you a blend of history, culture, nature, and adventure, and caters to all kinds of travellers. Whether you want to explore the historic forts and temples, enjoy the scenic waterfalls and hills, indulge in the aromatic coffee and spice plantations, or experience the thrill of the adventure sports, Virajpet has it all.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your Virajpet travel package and hotel today, and get ready to have a memorable and enjoyable trip. And don’t forget to share your Virajpet experience with us on Tripoto, the world’s largest travel community. Happy travelling!
