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Coorg, or Kodagu, is situated in the Western Ghats of Karnataka and is known as the Scotland of India. Its dark hills, lush greenery, coffee estates and rich culture make Coorg an ideal place for nature lovers and outdoor lovers. Drinking freshly brewed coffee, strolling along lush green paths, or just relaxing, Coorg provides a soothing alternative to the hectic city. From ancient ruins to waterfalls, this is your ultimate Coorg travel guide, with must-see attractions, places to eat, hotels, and travel ideas.
Coorg Location
Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons
Coorg is located in the southwestern Karnataka state, approximately 260 km from Bangalore and 120 km from Mysore. Located in the Western Ghats, the place is famous for its scenic countryside, coffee plantations and aromatic spice farms. It is 1,500 meters above sea level and has a temperate climate all year round. The district consists of various towns, such as Madikeri, Virajpet and Somwarpet, that have their distinctive charm in terms of culture and nature.
How To Reach Coorg
Photo: Premkudva / Wikimedia Commons
By Train: The nearest station is Mysore Junction, about 120 km from Coorg. Mysore is well-connected to major Indian cities, and buses or taxis are readily available from the station to Coorg.
By Air: The closest airport is Mangalore International Airport, around 160 km away. From here, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Coorg. Bangalore Airport, 270 km away, is another option with better connectivity.
By Road: Coorg is well-connected by road to major cities like Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore. Regular KSRTC buses and private cabs operate from these cities.
Places To Visit In And Around Coorg
Coorg boasts a diverse range of natural and cultural treasures, such as the serene Abbey Falls, the interactive Dubare Elephant Camp, the sacred Talacauvery and Raja’s Seat. Let’s explore these top places with your Coorg travel guide.
1. Abbey Falls
Photo: Santhoshkumar Sugumar / Wikimedia Commons
Abbey Falls, surrounded by coffee estates and thick forest, is one of Coorg’s most visited sites. The waterfall drops down 70 feet high and makes for an excellent vista, especially during the monsoon season when the flow is maximum. Even the short walk to the falls takes you through fragrant coffee fields and provides a much closer encounter with nature. A hanging bridge near the falls offers the best viewing spot for photographers. There is something savoury about the waterfall sound and the vegetation.
Location: 10 km from Madikeri
Best Time To Visit: November to March
2. Dubare Elephant Camp
Photo: Neharana.nsa / Wikimedia Commons
Dubare Elephant Camp is a special place where visitors meet elephants in their natural way of life. The camp along the Cauvery River is not only about seeing elephants; you get to feed, bathe and ride them under the supervision of mahouts. The surrounding woods are perfect for trekking and birding, and the river is suitable for water sports such as rafting. It’s a perfect location for children and wildlife enthusiasts. Going to Dubare is an experience both enjoyable and instructive, as guides give you insight into the habits of elephants and conservation.
Location: 30 km from Madikeri
Best Time To Visit: October to May
3. Talacauvery And Bhagamandala
Photo: Pranchiyettan / Wikimedia Commons
Talacauvery, a sacred pilgrimage place, is believed to be the origin of the Cauvery River. It is set in the Brahmagiri Hills and the temple complex provides spiritual comfort along with breathtaking views of the surrounding greenery. Just a few km away is Bhagamandala, a holy place where Cauvery, Kannike and Sujyothi collide. Visitors often bathe in these waters, which are said to cleanse them. The silence and spiritual value make Talacauvery and Bhagamandala ideal for both pilgrims and travellers seeking serenity. The green hills surrounding the site are a perfect spot for silent contemplation, so this is as rich in spirit as in taste.
Location: 48 km from Madikeri
Best Time To Visit: October to April
4. Raja’s Seat
Photo: Pawanrao / Wikimedia Commons
Raja’s Seat is a well-kept garden which provides excellent vistas of the valleys and hills. It was once a place where the Kodagu kings would rest and watch the sunset, and it is still one of the most romantic places in Coorg. The garden has different seasonal flowers and fountains, and a train ride is a family favourite. It is also best visited at sunrise or sunset when the sky becomes golden, which makes it more picturesque. It’s a quiet haven for those who want to enjoy the scenic surroundings of Coorg without going too far from the city.
Location: Madikeri
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or evening
5. Nagarhole National Park
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nagarhole National Park is a natural reserve in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The park hosts tigers, leopards, elephants and more than 250 species of birds. A safari through the dense forests provides an opportunity to view these creatures in the wild. Apart from sighting wildlife, the park’s beautiful rivers, waterfalls and forests make it a wildlife lover’s delight. The park is particularly active during the dry seasons when animals crowd in and around waterholes, making visits regular. A trip to Nagarhole is a real treat to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the Western Ghats.
Location: 90 km from Madikeri
Best Time To Visit: November to April
6. Coffee Plantations
Photo: RN Satyanarayana rao / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The name Coorg connotes coffee, and coffee plantations are must-visit spots for any visitor to Coorg. Some estates have tours that explain how coffee is grown, harvested and processed. These tours often involve tasting sessions where you can try freshly brewed coffee or even buy the best blends. Some plantations even serve as homestays, where you wake up to the aroma of coffee and spectacular views of the verdant estates. These excursions are a good way to grasp the Coorg coffee scene while admiring the beauty of the surroundings. For coffee connoisseurs, this is an act of pilgrimage.
Location: Throughout Coorg
Best Time To Visit: November to February
7. Iruppu Falls
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons / image For Representation Only
Iruppu Falls, situated in the Brahmagiri Hills, is a wonderful place to visit. The waterfall is located 170 feet above the ground amid a thicket of trees, which is a natural wonderland. The falls are both an aesthetic and religious attraction, with the nearby Rameshwara Temple visited by pilgrims during Shivaratri. Adventure lovers can take a hike up to the Brahmagiri Peak, which starts from the falls. The untouched beauty and peace of Iruppu Falls are an ideal destination for those seeking to unwind and relax in the wilderness.
Location: 80 km from Madikeri
Best Time To Visit: August to January
Where To Eat
Photo: MattiPaavola / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Coorg’s cuisine is a wonderful combination of flavour and history, with dishes that speak of its own culture. If you want to taste real Coorgi, you can visit Coorg Cuisine in Madikeri for dishes such as pandi curry (pork curry) and noolputtu (rice noodles). Raintree offers both continental and local food, so tourists like it best. On the hunt for a quick coffee break, Beans ‘n Brews and Coffee Blossom offer freshly brewed coffee and snacks. For street food, visit local stalls to enjoy the bamboo shoot curry and kachampuli treats. For vegetarians, Taste of Coorg offers mouthwatering local cuisines.
Where To Stay
Photo: Brandopedia / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Coorg is full of accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to cosy homestays. You can opt for the luxurious experience of Evolve Back Coorg, which offers both modern amenities and a natural ambience. Middle-class models such as Club Mahindra Madikeri offer luxury and beautiful views. Zostel Coorg is an affordable hostel for backpackers. One option for those who love coffee is plantation visits, such as Ama Plantation Trails, which will provide you with a full understanding of Coorg’s coffee culture. These stays are often accompanied by estate visits. Homestays such as Serene Woods provide an opportunity to enjoy Coorg’s warm hospitality in a peaceful setting.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Aneezone / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
- Bring comfortable clothing and footwear for trekking and exploring plantations.
- Always carry rain gear, as Coorg experiences unpredictable showers.
- Plan visits to waterfalls during the early monsoon or post-monsoon for the best views.
- Avoid visiting during heavy monsoons (June-August) to prevent travel disruptions.
Coorg, with its mesmerising landscape and diversity, is a place where there is something for everyone. With trails and waterfalls, culture and cuisine, Coorg is a perfect blend of tradition and adventure. Whether you’re on your own, with the family or in a relationship, this hill station promises to be an unforgettable experience. So don’t wait too long. Grab your things and embark on your journey to Coorg with TripXL now!
Cover Photo: Navi guy / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
