Gaddige or Raja’s Tomb, Coorg

Gaddige, also known as Raja’s tom,b is located in one of the beautiful hill stations of Karnataka, Madikeri, Coorg.

It was built by his son Chikkaveerarajendra in 1820. The simplest tomb on the left side belongs to Veerarajendra’s guru, the royal priest Rudrappa, built in the year 1834 A.D. He was one of the most revered Gurus of the Lingayat rulers.

Gaddige (Raja’s Tomb), Coorg – A Historic Gem in Madikeri

Gaddige, also known as Raja’s Tomb, is a historic monument nestled in the scenic hill station of Madikeri in Coorg (Kodagu), Karnataka, India. Built in the early 19th century, this mausoleum complex reflects the rich heritage of the Kodava rulers and stands out for its unique architectural blend and tranquil setting.

Historical & Architectural Significance

Gaddige was constructed as a memorial for the royal family of Kodagu. The central and largest tomb houses the remains of Doddaveerarajendra and his wife Mahadeviamma, while the neighbouring tombs were built later for Lingarajendra and his wife and the royal priest Rudrappa. The monument showcases Indo-Saracenic architecture — a style that combines Islamic motifs with local artistry, topped with domes and corner turrets. A distinctive feature is the presence of a Shiva Linga inside the tomb complex, symbolizing the unique fusion of cultural traditions.

Visiting Information

📍 Location:
Mahadevpet, near Madikeri town, Coorg, Karnataka, India — about 1.5–2 km from Madikeri bus stand.

🕘 Timings:
Generally open daily from ~8:30/9:30 AM to ~6:00/7:00 PM (timings may vary slightly by season).

🎟️ Entry Fee:
A nominal fee (around Rs. 2–10 per person).

⏱️ Recommended Visit Duration:
About 1–2 hours to explore the tombs, take in views of Madikeri, and enjoy photography.

🗺️ Best Time to Visit:
The winter months (November–February) offer pleasant weather for sightseeing.

How to Reach Gaddige

✈️ By Air:

Mysore Airport (IXE) – approx. 120 km from Madikeri.

Kannur International Airport – approx. 120 km.

Mangalore International Airport – approx. 135–137 km.
There is no airport within the Kodagu district; after landing, you can take a taxi or bus to Madikeri and then a short local ride to Gaddige.

🚆 By Train:
Kodagu has no railway station. Nearest larger stations include Mysore, Hassan, and Mangalore, from where buses or taxis can connect you to Madikeri.

🚗 By Road:
Gaddige is located on SH27 and is just about 2 km from the Madikeri bus stand, making it easily reachable from town by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or rented bike/car.

Staying Nearby

Madikeri offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets — from comfortable hotels to cosy homestays and boutique resorts. Options close to the town (and convenient for visiting Gaddige) include:

Hotels and guesthouses near Madikeri town centre – ideal for easy access to major sightseeing spots.

Homestays and cottages – for a more local and immersive experience.

Resorts with views of coffee plantations or hills – perfect for nature lovers willing to stay a bit outside the town core. (Note: specific names may vary by season and availability; pre-booking is recommended.)

Tips for Visitors

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the site spans a small hilltop area.

Carry water and sunscreen/hat during warmer months (summer can be hot).

Photography enthusiasts will enjoy panoramic views of Coorg’s rolling hills from the tomb complex.

• 📍 Official Kodagu District Tourism – Raja’s Tomb (Gaddige) (Government site): https://kodagu.nic.in/en/tourist-place/gaddige/

• 📍 Coorg Tourism – Gaddige (Visitor details including timings & entry fee): https://coorgtourism.co.in/gaddige-rajas-tomb-coorg