Feel like a king for a moment at the Raja’s Seat. For people growing up in cities watching concrete everywhere, this is the right spot. A must visit for any visitor in Coorg, this small pavilion at the western end of Madikeri lets you have breathtaking views of the valley through which the road descends to Mangalore. Raja’s seat is a small park which gives a majestic view of Coorg. It was the royal family’s favorite place. The view from the Raja's seat is mesmerizing! The lush green view soothes your eyes. It is more spectacular in the rainy season when the fog adds to the beauty. It is what a walk in the clouds would feel like. Eternally covered in clouds, it offers a stunning view of the valley. The view of the beautiful, mist covered mountains leaves one speechless. When the mist lifts, one can see the layers of the mountain range.

The literal meaning of Raja’s Seat is ‘Seat of the Kings’. Raja’s Seat is a small square mandapa made of brick and mortar on four pillars bridged by arches. It is located on an elevated ground. This spot was a favorite place of recreation for the kings of Kodagu, a popular destination to enjoy the exquisite sunset. No wonder, the Rajas chose this place during the summers.

It is usually known as the sunset point where people can sit on flight of stairs and see the sun go down the landscape. A small 200m trek down from the park leads one to a cliff where the view gets way more interesting. The agricultural fields over the valley and a few roads running across with hills and mist backdrop remind of scenery which we drew while we were kids. The view from the top is mind blowing and there are seats where you can sit and enjoy the nature at its helm.

Brief History

In 1681, Madikeri was established by the then ruling King Muddu Raja of Haleri Dynasty. ‘Muddu Rajakeri' of those years is today's Madikeri. Raja’s Seat was built by the Kings of Kodagu. Once upon a time, this was where the erstwhile kings of Kodagu (Coorg) spent a lot of time enjoying nature and watching the emerald mountains and blue skies.

Location

It is located at the Stuart hilltop and just near to main market of Madikeri in Coorg in Karnataka. The shape of this particular area of hill looks like a throne. It is at a distance of 270 km from Bangalore.

Attractions

There is a toy train here called ‘Baba Saheb Express’ for both children as well as adults, riding through which you can enjoy the beautiful view of the mountains and of the Raja’s Seat. The train moves around a children’s park.

The garden has the musical fountain show in the evening.

It is a really good spot for excellent snaps. The ramp at the Raja’s Seat offers picturesque view of the mountains.

Just next to the Raja’s Seat is an ancient temple called "Chouti Mariyamma". Very near to it is the "Gandhi Mantap" with the statue of Mahatma Gandhi built in memory of the Father of Nation.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is early morning and in the evening at the time of sunset. Musical fountains are lit up in the evening.

Things to do Around Raja’s Seat

This place has a good view of Nilgiri hills, hence good for photography. Tourists can indulge in rock climbing at Honnamana Kere, Hiking at Pushpagiri, trekking at Thandiyendamol, rafting at Barapole Rafting, boating and fishing in Honnamana Kere Lake.

One can also enjoy shopping as Feng-shui artifacts to Tibetian handicrafts are available at a reasonable price here.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

Omkareshwar Temple, Chouti Mariamma Temple, Kanchi Kamakshi Temple, Anjaneya Gudi Temple, Madikeri Fort, Madikeri Museum, Shri Shri Kote Ganapati Temple, Muneeshwara Temple, Couvery Mahal Theatre, Brahmagiri Hill, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Abbey Falls, Bhagamandala Temple, Dubare Elephant Camp, Talacauvery, Golden Temple, Harangi Dam, Irpu Falls, Mallali Falls, Nagarhole National Park.

Accommodation

There are more than 100 hotels around the Raja’s Seat.

Timings

5:30 am to 8 pm

Musical Fountain Timings

7 pm on weekdays, 6.45 pm to 7.20 pm on weekends

Entrance Fee

A minimal entry fee is charged.

How to Reach

Subrahmanya Road Railway Station is at a distance of 40 km from Raja’s Seat. Another railway station is Payyanur Train station Junction which is 67 km away from Raja's Seat. Mysore Railway Station is at a distance of 114 km. Madikeri has no rail connection. But it is well connected by KSRTC buses of Kerala and Karnataka.

The nearest airport to Raja's Seat is Mysore Airport, Mysore which is 100 km away.

Madikeri lies on Karnataka State Highway 88. Once you reach Madikeri, Raja’s Seat is just 1 km from Madikeri private bus stand and there are good numbers of taxis and autos to reach Raja's seat. Buses are also available to reach here.