Madikeri: The Coronavirus scare which has badly affected tourism in Kodagu district, just like elsewhere, has taken a further hit with the Kodagu District Administration, following a Government directive, has ordered shut down of all major tourist destinations in the district for a week.

The Raja’s Seat, one of the prime attractions in Madikeri, was shut for visitors from Saturday itself. A notice board was put up in front of the gate saying it has been closed. 

This is perhaps the first time in many years that this prime tourist destination in Madikeri was closed for visitors.

The Raja’s Seat was not closed even during the 2018 and 2019 floods, although there were only a few visitors.

DFO Prabhakaran said that the Dubare Elephant camp and Kaveri Nisargadhama near Kushalnagar have been shut from Mar.13 itself due to Coronavirus scare. The two tourist spots will be closed until further orders, he pointed out.

Kodagu Tourism Assistant Director Raghavendra said that all major tourist spots in the district will remain closed for a week from Sunday (Mar.15). The decision will be reviewed based on the situation after one week, he added.

The other popular destinations in the district that are shut for a week from today, include Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, Mandalpatti, Chelavara Falls, Tadiandamol and Mallalli Falls.