Madikere derives its name from king Madduraja who ruled the region in the 17th century. Known for its coffee plantations and orange orchids, Madikere is full of natural beauty. It is situated at an altitude of 1170 meters and is 120 km away from Mysore. One of the most popular shrines is the Sri Omkareshwara Temple. Apart from this there are temples in the neighboring areas as well.
Bhagamandala (35 km from Madikere): This is the holy Sangam of Cauvery and Kanaga rivers. Bhaganda Maharshi is said to have done penance and installed a Lingam at the confluence of the rivers. The Lord is known as Bhagandeswara after the sage.
It is customary for pilgrims to have a holy dip at the Sangam before proceeding to Thalakavery, the origin of Cauvery. Performing `Shraddh` is considered sacred by the devotees.
Thalakavery (44 km from Madikere): This charming village, nestling amidst thick forests of the Western Ghats, is the birthplace of Cauvery. Lakhs of devotees come here throughout the month of Thula (October-November) for a holy dip at this spot.
Cauvery originates in a mini tank which has a perennial spring below. Situated in front of this is a bigger tank in which pilgrims take the holy bath. Pujas are offered to the small tank and shrine.
Cauvery is the prime Goddess for the people of Kodagu. There is a small shrine with a Lingam. It is said to have been installed by sage Agastya. Goddess Parvati and Vinayaka are worshipped here.
According to Puranas, sage Cavera, who did penance on the hills and propitiated Brahma, was blessed with Lopamudra as his daughter. This divine girl was married to sage Agastya. River Cauvery is another divine aspect of Lopamudra who flowed as a river from the Kamandala of Agastya to enrich the southern region by the grace of the Almighty.
The hill, which is 1288 meters high, is known as Brahmagiri. `Sapta Rishis` were said to have performed penance here. 7 Homa Kundams, used by the rishis, can be seen on the hills even today.
