About Gaddige
Opening hours- 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
Prime days and hours- Weekends, Mornings
Suggested Duration- 2-3 hours
Tickets- Available Offline
Nearest Railway Station- K G Koppal Railway Station, about 36 km away
Nearest Bus Stand- Madikeri Bus Stand, about 1.5 km away
Nearest Airport- Mysore Airport, about 50 km away
Gaddige, popularly known as Raja’s Tomb, is a 19th-century heritage monument located in Madikeri, the charming hill town that serves as the headquarters of Coorg district in Karnataka. This peaceful site is one of the best places in Coorg to explore the rich history and culture of the Kodava clan, the original inhabitants of the region.
The tombs are built in the Indo-Saracenic style, featuring a beautiful blend of Islamic domes, turrets, and traditional Hindu elements like carvings and sacred symbols. The complex houses three tombs, each with its own historical significance. The central tomb belongs to King Doddaveerarajendra and his wife Mahadeviamma, and contains a Shiva Linga inside.
To the right lies the tomb of King Lingarajendra, built by his son Chikkaveerarajendra, marked by a statue of Nandi at each corner. The left tomb is dedicated to Rudrappa, the royal priest of King Veerarajendra. Surrounded by scenic views, Gaddige is a peaceful spot that connects visitors to Coorg’s royal legacy.
Gaddige Highlights
• Visit the Gaddige in Coorg, a peaceful royal tomb built in 1809, where King Veerajendra, his queen, and his brother were laid to rest.
• Admire the unique blend of Indo-Saracenic and Islamic architecture, with elegant central domes and turrets at the angles, adding to the grandeur.
• Spot the Shiva lingam placed inside the main tomb, along with the nearby tombs of the King’s priest and two royal commanders.
How To Reach Gaddige
By foot- You can reach Gaddige from Madikeri town centre, which is a 1 km walk taking about 12 mins via the Ganpatathi St Rd.
By car- You can reach Gaddige Tomb from Madikeri town centre, which is about 1.2 km away, taking approximately 5 minutes to reach via Madikeri Rd.
Best Time To Visit Gaddige
Peak Season (November to February)
Weather Insights: Pleasant weather, moderate climate, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 32°C.
Things to Do: Stroll through the peaceful surroundings, and enjoy the scenic views of Coorg’s hills from this elevated site.
Moderate Season (March to May)
Weather Insights: Hot and humid climate with temperatures ranging from 29°C to 35°C.
Things to do: Explore the tomb complex early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat
Low Season (June to September)
Weather Insights: Temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C with heavy rainfall and high humidity.
Things to do: Enjoy your exploration amidst fewer crowds.
Gaddige Other Essential Information
Know before you go-
- It is advised to carry some essentials, such as water bottles and snacks, as there might be fewer facilities available.
- Be cautious and do not dispose of any waste or litter in the monument.
- Wear respectful and traditional attire as the monument holds cultural importance to the locals.
- Be mindful of any religious or cultural significance and avoid disrespectful behaviour.
Marvel at the Architecture
Step into the historic Gaddige complex and admire its unique Indo-Saracenic architecture, where Islamic domes meet Hindu elements. As you walk around the peaceful grounds, notice the central tomb with a sacred Shiva Linga and the symmetrical turrets at each corner. It’s a beautiful reflection of the era’s craftsmanship and a rare blend of cultures carved into stone.
Learn about Royal history
Gaddige isn’t just a monument, it’s a gateway to Coorg’s royal past. It narrates the story of the mighty Kodava kings who ruled the region and their trusted spiritual guides. These tombs stand as a symbol of their power, devotion, and legacy. Visiting Gaddige offers a glimpse into the traditions, pride, and cultural roots of the Kodava community that shaped Coorg’s identity.
Explore Nearby Attractions
While visiting Gaddige, take time to explore nearby historic gems like the burial site of Biddanda Bopu and his son, brave warriors who fought Tipu Sultan. Within a short distance, you can also visit popular Coorg spots like Raja’s Seat, Madikeri Fort, Omkareshwara Temple, and Abbey Falls, which is listed as one of the best waterfalls in Coorg. Each of these attractions offers scenic views, cultural stories, and moments of peaceful reflection.
Tourism Board Alliances
Gaddige FAQs
Who built the Gaddige?
Gaddige was built by King Doddaveerarajendra in 1809 to honour Mahadeviamma, who was his second wife. He had named the area Mahadevpet and planned a grand tomb for his deceased wife. The concept was inspired by the renowned Taj Mahal of Agra, built by Shah Jahan. After his death, he was laid to rest in the largest tomb alongside his wife Mahadeviamma, and construction work was completed by his brother Lingarajendra.
Is photography allowed inside Gaddige?
Yes, photography is allowed inside Gaddige, but one should respect the significance of the place and avoid disturbing the visitors. The tomb and its surrounding gardens offer scenic views and architectural features ideal for photography. Additionally, parks in Gaddige are also good locations for photography, allowing you to capture the natural beauty of the area.
What is the best time to visit Gaddige?
The best time to visit Gaddige is either morning or evening, when the weather is pleasant and cool. One can also enjoy the misty views of the surrounding hills and the panoramic views of the town from the monument. Make sure to visit 1-2 hours prior so that you can explore the attraction before it closes.
