Kodachadri
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Kodachadri is a mountain peak (altitude - 1343 m above sea level) in the Western Ghats in South India (Karnataka State). The name comes from native word "Kodacha" or "Kodashi" which means hill and "Adri" a Sanskrit word, both combined together coined the word Kodachadri. It is also called "Kutachadri" and "Kodashi Parvatha". Kodachadri forms a picturesque background to the famous temple of Mookambika in Kollur. Situated in the middle of the Mookambika National Park, it is home to several endemic and endangered species of flora and fauna. The rain forests loom in a perpetual layer of mist around the peak. Around the peak, the shola forest is also there.
There is a temple where 'Shankaracharya' did meditation. You will find an ancient Sarvajna Peetha, (built out of rock) at the top.
Moola Mookambika temple at Kodachadri village is believed to be the moola sthana (the origin) of Sri Mookambika Devi.
It is also an excellent locale for trekkers and backpackers.
It is around a five hour trek from Nagodi village, near Kollur. Another easier trekking route on the jeep road is also there, which starts from Sampekatte village (Hosanagara Taluk). The trekking route is a very beautiful experience. At the top, there is a permanent settlement of one Bhat, whose main business is serving the trekkers and devotees with food and shelter - of course, a small amount is charged. Much preparation is not required in respect of food and shelter.
Alternative means to reach the peak of Kodachadri is to board a jeep at Kollur - the return fare from Kollur is Rs. 175/- (Dec 2008) per person or Rs. 1400/- per jeep, which will be useful for those who cannot walk (eg. old people, children, women). It is really worth visiting the peak.
The sunset watched from Kodachadri peak on a clear day is an enchanting experience. The sunrise is also seen from another hillock behind the Tourist Bungalow and the hillock is called Venkatarayana Durga, with some remote connection to some Palegara Kings.
The Karnataka government has plans to black top the road right up to Shankarapeedom (Sarvajna Peetha). However, environmentalists allege that this would destroy the peace and tranquility as well as the natural habitat of many species in the region.
