Kotebetta

Kotebetta is a prominent trekking peak near Somwarpet in Kodagu district, Karnataka, standing at about 1,620 metres above sea level. Located in the Western Ghats between Somwarpet and Hattihole, it is the third highest peak in Kodagu after Tadiandamol and Pushpagiri. Known for its fort-like appearance, the hill offers panoramic views of surrounding valleys, coffee plantations and forested slopes and is popular for day treks and nature visits.

Visitors can expect a moderate day trek through coffee estates, forested trails and grassy slopes leading to a rocky summit. The trail starts near Hattihole village and involves a steady ascent with uneven and rocky sections. At the top, there is an open hilltop with 360-degree views of the Western Ghats, valleys and plantations. There are no built structures at the summit; the experience is primarily natural scenery, photography and nature observation.

The name Kotebetta translates to Fort Hill in Kannada due to the hill's fort-like appearance when viewed from a distance. Local tradition associates the hill with a former fort-like outpost in the Kodagu region.

The peak is valued as a natural landmark in Kodagu's coffee-growing region and is part of the local trekking and nature tourism circuit that reflects the district's agrarian and Western Ghats landscape culture.