Kotebetta

The word Kote Betta means Fort Hill. It has been named because of its appearance which resembles a fort. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva at the peak of the hill. Kotebetta is the third highest peak in Coorg, and measures around 5400 ft. The scenic beauty that the trail showcases adds to the allure. It is a 16 Kms trek, and the guided experience is for 2 days and 1 night. It is a popular tourist spot in Coorg. Apart from trekking and sightseeing, the region of Coorg offers it tourists various other kinds of options as well including waterfalls, museums, forts, lakes, wildlife sanctuaries, etc.

 

Location of Kotebetta

Located in Madapur which come in between the towns of Somwarpet and Madikeri, Kotebetta is at a height of approximately 1620 m above the sea level. At a distance of 22 km from Madikeri, the Kotebetta is the third highest peak in Coorg region after Tadiyandamol and Brahmagiri. At the border between the Dakshina Kannada and Coorg districts, one can easily reach Kotebetta Trek. At a distance of 10km from Hattihole, the peak is perfect place for trekking. Once at the peak, you are offered with breath taking view of the area around. The trek starts from the Hattihole and ends at the peak. Coffee estates on the route make your trekking all the more enjoyable.

An awesome place for trekking, Kotebetta Trek is best for the activity during the months of October to March. Although, one doesn’t require any permission from the authorities to trek the hill, it is better to have one guide to help you throughout the trekking. Make sure you are equipped with all kinds of necessary things for the trek such as torch; wear proper shoes, insect repellents along with a first aid kit.

 

How to reach Kotebetta Trek Starting Location:

The location is 282 Km from Bangalore, and the nearest railway station is Mysore Railway Station which is 129 km from Madikeri, one can easily reach by public and private transport.

Leave from Bangalore for an overnight journey at 11 pm. Reach Madikeri early morning, freshen up nd have breakfast in a local hotel. Take a bus to Hattihole and commence the trek to Kotebetta once you are here at 9 AM. Beginning on an asphalted road, you gradually enter the thick forest which leads to the summit. En route, visit the Shiva temple, take a breather for some time, and indulge in lunch.

Reach Kotebetta Peak and pitch tents. Unwind for a bit and witness the mesmerizing sunset. Arrange for a campfire and spend some fetching moments. Sleep in a tent with a company of stars. Wake up to a beautiful sunrise. Freshen up, have packed breakfast and start descending from the peak at around 9 am. Reach Hattihole and take a bus back to Madikeri. Have lunch at Madikeri and leave to Namma Bengaluru to reach night. Difficulty Level of Trek is moderate, therefore an individual above 12 years can book this package.

 

Activities to do at Kotebetta

 

Trekking:

One of the ultimate trekking destinations, Kote Betta promises an amazing experience to hard-core outdoor enthusiasts and trekkers. A physically challenging expedition that rewards its participants with mental stimulation beyond expectations. 

 

Located between the towns of Somwarpet and Madikeri, Kotebetta is the third highest peak in the Coorg region. With an elevation of approximately 1620 m above sea level, it lies at the border between the Dakshina Kannada and Coorg districts.

Distance from:	Madikeri	Hattihole
Approximate Distance:	22 km	10 km

The trek to Kotebetta starts from Hattihole and ends at the peak. The coffee estates en route make your trekking experience even more enjoyable.

 

Best Time for Trekking: October to March

Kotebetta Trek is best for trekking during the months of October to March. No permission is required from the authorities, but it's advisable to have a local guide for assistance throughout your trek.

 

Why Choose Kote Betta for Trekking?

Physically Challenging	The expedition is a physically challenging one that tests the limits of the participants.
Mentally Stimulating	However, the rewards go beyond just physical exertion. Kote Betta offers mental stimulation beyond expectations.

Photography:

Photographers and Scenic Lovers will have a tough time to decide what not to, as against what to shoot, as the place is a nature’s paradise. Amateurs or professionals, one cannot restrain the urge to capture the beautiful landscapes and carry them as souvenirs.

 

What You Can Expect to Shoot?

Category	Description
Landscapes	Majestic mountains, serene lakes, rolling hills, and verdant valleys.
Flora	Exotic plants, vibrant flowers, and towering trees.
Fauna	Wildlife such as birds, animals, and insects in their natural habitat.

Cherish the natural beauty:

Located in Coorg, which is fondly referred to as “the Scotland of India”, the Kote Betta abounds in natural beauty with lush green forests and the imperial Western Ghats. The trail is dotted with villages, gardens of Orange, Passion fruit and Pomelo and small streams and falls. 

Hattihole Bridge:

Hattihole bridge situated on the Hatti River is a few paces from the junction from where trekkers start their journey. The initial trial, which the visitors take for trekking is adjacent to the river on the left-hand side. 2.5 km into the travel, a hanging bridge over the river greets the travelers. 

Distance from Starting Point:	Few paces
Initial Trial:	Adjacent to the river on the left-hand side

Eco Valley:

Eco Valley falls between the trekking base and Shiva Temple on the Kote Betta peak. It is a deep gorge surrounded by hills that reflect the sound.

Shiva Temple:

The ancient Shiva Temple is located atop the Kote Betta Hill. Visitors can also see the omnipresent Nandi in front of the Shiva shrine. A careful exploration of the rocks around the temple reveal a distinctive sound that suggests a hidden cave beneath the surfaces. A few feet from the temple and behind a whitewashed structure are two ponds. One of the ponds is used by the natives for performing rites during festivities and is suitable for drinking, while the other is left for animals to slake their thirst.

Location:	Atop Kote Betta Hill
Features:	Home to Shiva shrine Nandi statue in front of the shrine Hidden cave suggested by distinctive rock sounds
Additional Information:	Two ponds nearby One potable for natives and suitable for rites Another for animals to drink

Camping:

Camping at height of 1620 m above sea level amidst picturesque settings is both fun and adventurous. The body and mind poisoned by the noise, effusions, and effluents of city life finally find a resort to heal naturally at these serene surroundings. 

 

Places to visit nearby Kotebetta Peak:

One can visit Abbey Falls which is at a distance of 36 KM. At a distance of around 38 km there is Mallalli Waterfalls. About 39 KM away one will find Honnamana kere.