It is estimated that about 3,000 - 4,000 tourists from Andhra Pradesh, Tamilnadu, Maharashtra and Kerala visit the district everyday. While about 2,245 tourists visited Kaveri Nisargadhama near here, a total of 786 tourists visited Dubare Elephant Camp on Saturday. This number is considered as highest when compared to the previous years.
Sources in the Tourism Department said that the number of tourists increases during week ends. Those tourists, who visit Talacauvery, Bhagamandala, Abbi falls and Madikeri, also reach Kaveri Nisargadhama, Dubare Elephant Camp, Jungle Loge and Resorts, Bailukuppe Tibetan Camp, Budha Shrine and Harangi reservoir. Tourists usually check-in lodges either in Madikeri or in Kushalnagar during their tour. During week ends, many tourists face difficulties as rooms in all lodges are occupied. They will have to reserve rooms in advance.
In the meantime, home stays, tourist villages and ‘Koorg halli mane’ offer comfortable stay with a flavour of Codava culture and heritage.
Infrastructure need to be improved as the district witnesses increase in the number of tourists every year. As most of the roads are in pathetic condition, development works should also be taken up immediately.
