Quad biking catches up

In Kodagu

Kodagu welcomes travellers with its lush green coffee estates, with the smell of fresh berries wafting in the air, often bewitches visitors with its serene beauty.

Water gushes out here and there, sometimes  a small stream, sometimes a flow that can severe ties of a particular civilisation with rest of the world.

Now, the district can boast of becoming a paradise for adventure enthusiasts as an entrepreneur has introduced quad biking in the natural terrains of coffee estates.

The quad bikes are vehicles with four wheels and powered by a 250cc engine. Adventure enthusiasts can take a ride at Juegos, located near Kedakal village in Suntikoppa on the Mysore-Madikeri state highway.

Speaking to Deccan Herald, Juegos proprietor Cariappa K C said enthusiasts can ride the quad bikes on a two-and-half kilometre natural terrain inside their estate, where they grow coffee, pepper, areca and ginger.

Having introduced quad biking about a year back, Cariappa said the game has slowly gained popularity among the people. “With a huge young crowd frequently visiting Kodagu, quad biking has gained popularity among them.

It’s not only people from other places, but even youth from Madikeri are trying the game,” adds Pooja, Cariappa’s wife.

While the game can be tried out in any season, Cariappa feels maximum fun would be during monsoon when the terrain gets slushy and gives the riders the best thrill. While guides are available for helping newbies get familiar with the quad bike, Pooja said that they wouldn’t interfere with the ride. Mentioning that he started the game only out of passion, Cariappa said, “We haven’t altered the terrain inside the estate. People trying the bike can also have a look at a variety of crops grown at the estate.”

“We have also planned to start fishing at the estate. Visitors will be provided with fishing rods and other necessary equipment,” says Pooja. She said they aim to introduce outdoor activities in the region through their venture.