Gaddige, also known as Raja’s Tomb, is a 19th-century monument located in Mahadevpet near Madikeri, the headquarters of Coorg district in Karnataka. It is a major tourist attraction that showcases the history and culture of the Kodava clan, the native inhabitants of Coorg. The monument is built in an Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, with domes, turrets and carvings inspired by both Islamic and Hindu traditions. Visit during Coorg One day Tour By cab
Location of Gaddige (Raja’s Tomb)
Gaddige is situated about 1.5 km from the Madikeri bus stand, on a hilltop that offers a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding hills. It is easily accessible by road via SH27, which connects Madikeri to other towns in Coorg and nearby districts.
Timing/Entry Fees Gaddige (Raja’s Tomb)
Gaddige is open to visitors from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm on all days of the week. The entry fee is Rs. 2 per person.
How to Reach Gaddige (Raja’s Tomb)
There are various modes of transport available to reach Gaddige from different parts of Karnataka and India.
- By air: The nearest airports are Mysore (120 km), Mangalore (135 km) and Bangalore (260 km). From there, one can take a taxi or a bus to Madikeri and then hire an autorickshaw to Gaddige.
- By train: The nearest railway stations are Mysore (115 km), Hassan (105 km) and Mangalore (135 km). From there, one can take a bus or a taxi to Madikeri and then hire an autorickshaw to Gaddige.
- By road: Coorg is well connected by road with other cities and towns in Karnataka and neighboring states. There are regular government and private buses that ply to Madikeri from various places. One can also drive to Madikeri by car or bike and then hire an autorickshaw to Gaddige.
Things to Do/Must See Gaddige (Raja’s Tomb)
Gaddige is a place of historical and cultural significance that offers a glimpse into the lives and times of the Kodava kings and their royal priests. There are three tombs in the complex, each with its own story and features.
- The central tomb is the largest and the most ornate one. It belongs to King Doddaveerarajendra and his second wife Mahadeviamma, who died in 1809. The king was so fond of his wife that he named the area Mahadevpet after her and built a grand mausoleum for her, inspired by the Taj Mahal of Agra. He also wished to be buried next to her, which was fulfilled in the same year when he died due to ill health. The tomb has a Shiva Linga inside, as the king was a devout Hindu.
- The right tomb belongs to King Lingarajendra, who was Doddaveerarajendra’s brother and successor. He died in 1820 and his son Chikkaveerarajendra built the tomb for him and his wife. The tomb has a Nandi statue on top of each corner, as the king was a follower of Lord Shiva.
- The left tomb belongs to Rudrappa, who was the royal priest of King Veerarajendra, who was Chikkaveerarajendra’s brother and successor. He died in 1834 and the king built the tomb for him as a mark of respect. The tomb is simpler than the other two, but has carvings of Hindu gods and sages on its entrance.
The tombs are built in an Islamic style of architecture, with domes, minarets and bronze windows. They are decorated with carvings of mythical creatures, floral motifs and geometric patterns. They are set amidst lush green gardens that add to their beauty and serenity.
One can also visit the nearby burial place of Biddanda Bopu and his son Biddanda Somaiah, who were two brave royal officials who fought against Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore who invaded Coorg several times.
Nearby Tourist Attractions Gaddige (Raja’s Tomb)
There are many other tourist attractions near Gaddige that one can explore while visiting Coorg. Some of them are:
- Raja’s Seat: A scenic spot that offers a stunning view of the sunset and the valley below. It was once a favorite place of the Kodava kings to relax and enjoy nature.
- Madikeri Fort: A historic fort that dates back to the 17th century. It was rebuilt by Tipu Sultan and later by the British. It houses a museum, a temple, a church and a prison.
- Omkareshwara Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, built in 1820 by King Lingarajendra. It has a mix of Islamic and Gothic styles of architecture, with a dome, four minarets and a pond in the center.
- Abbey Falls: A spectacular waterfall that cascades from a height of 70 feet into a pool. It is surrounded by coffee and spice plantations and offers a refreshing experience.
- Mandalpatti: A hill station that offers a breathtaking view of the misty mountains and green valleys. It is ideal for trekking, camping and photography.
Significance of Gaddige (Raja’s Tomb)
Gaddige is a monument that reflects the rich history and culture of Coorg and its people. It showcases the legacy of the Kodava kings and their royal priests, who ruled over Coorg for more than two centuries. It also displays the influence of Islamic and Hindu styles of architecture, which blend harmoniously in the structure. It is a place of reverence for the Kodavas, who consider it as a symbol of their pride and identity.
FAQ’s
Q: What is the best time to visit Gaddige?
A: The best time to visit Gaddige is between November and February, when the weather is pleasant and cool. One can also enjoy the misty views of the hills and the town from the monument.
Q: How long does it take to explore Gaddige?
A: It takes about an hour to explore Gaddige and its surroundings. One can also spend some more time relaxing in the gardens or enjoying the views.
Q: Is photography allowed inside Gaddige?
A: Yes, photography is allowed inside Gaddige, but one should respect the sanctity of the place and avoid disturbing the visitors.
Conclusion
Gaddige is a must-visit place for anyone who wants to experience the history and culture of Coorg. It is a monument that showcases the glory and grace of the Kodava kings and their royal priests, who left behind a lasting impression on the land and its people. It is also a place that offers a serene and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life.
