Cauvery Nisargadhama
Nisargadhama is a breathtakingingly beautiful island off the state highway, two km from Kushalanagar town and 28 km from Madikeri.
The 64-acre island, surrounded by the Cauvery river, can be accessed by walking across a hanging bridge. Established in 1989, the picturesque picnic spot with lush foliage of thick bamboo groves, sandalwood and teak trees has lovely river-side cottages. A deluxe cottage on stilts with the Cauvery flowing around it, can accommodate five persons. Elephant rides and boating are some of the other attractions. There is a deer park, children's park and orchidarium in the resort. Medicinal plants are also grown. Tourists are allowed to get into water at a few shallow and safe points along the river. The tariff for the cottages range from Rs 600 to Rs 1,000. For reservations, contact the office of the conservator of forests, Kodagu circle, Madikeri. The telephone numbers are 08272-225708 and telefax: 08272-228439. Or contact for reservation, the office of the deputy conservator of forests, Madikeri division, telephone number 08272-228305 and telefax: 08272-228439.
Bylekuppe: Bylekuppe near Kushalanagar is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in south India. The settlement, set up in 1960, is dotted with several monasteries and the prominent among these are the Great Gompa of Sera Je and Sera Mey and the Namdroling monastery. The Mahayana Buddhist University is at Sera. Another important monastery is the Tashi Lhumpo monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama. The gold-coated Buddhist statues in the monastery are imposing and unique, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Tibetans. The statues are of Guru Padmasambhava, Buddha Shakyamuni and Amitayus. The settlement is home to over 16,000 refugees from Tibet who fled their country after its invasion by the Chinese. There are nearly 7,000 monks and nuns. Agriculture is the main occupation of the refugees. Besides, they make handicrafts, carpets and incense. Tourists can shop for sweaters, dress material and other accessories.
Valnur Fishing Camp: Valnur fishing camp is located near Kushalanagar on the banks of the Cauvery. Fishing enthusiasts can indulge in angling for the majestic Mahseer after obtaining fishing permits from the Coorg Wildlife Society. In 1985, a coffee plant C.S. Ponnappa caught a Mahseer weighing 40 kg near Siddapur in Coorg. Valnur is also a bird-watchers' paradise.
Dubare Forest: This is another scenic spot located 15 km from Kushalanagar famous for its elephant training camp. It is also an ideal place for angling in the swirling waters of the Cauvery.
Harangi dam: The Harangi dam near Kushalanagar has a beautiful reservoir, ideal for a week-end stay.
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