15 Best Places To Visit Near Virajpet On Your Next Exotic Vacation

An image of Permadbudi Lake near Virajpet for every traveller to visit and explore.

Virajpet is located in the Coorg (Kodagu) district of Karnataka. It is endowed with plush greenery and beautiful coffee plantations to visit around the area. It is known for its cool climate and is a peaceful retreat away from city life. Places to visit near Virajpet have something for everyone including historical attractions, trekking waterfalls and explorations within nature. From trekking up Tadiandamol Peak to visiting majestic waterfalls like Chelavara and Iruppu, and exploring historic sites like Nalknad Palace, Virajpet provides a perfect blend of beauty, tranquillity, and exploration for all kinds of visitors.

Top 15 Places To Visit Near Virajpet Karnataka

Each place to visit near Virajpet is unique in itself and promises a diverse experience. Here’s a list of places which are worth exploring.

1. Tadiandamol Peak

A landscape image of Tadiandamol Peak, a place to visit near Virajpet for every traveller.

Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons

Tadiandamol Peak is the highest peak in Coorg and stands tall at 1748 meters. It offers trekkers a challenging and yet rewarding experience with a view of the whole city below. It is surrounded by the rolling hills of the Western Ghats and offers a fantastic view of dense forests, waterfalls and peaks. The cool breeze and the peaceful environment make one of the best tourist attractions near Virajpet. This place is Ideal for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts, Tadiandamol is a perfect spot to connect with nature, offering breathtaking panoramic views at the summit that make the hike worthwhile.

Major Attractions: Trekking through lush forests, panoramic views from the summit, vibrant wildflowers, bird watching, and nearby Nalknad Palace
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 days (including trekking and exploring nearby attractions)
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (about 85 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (about 115 km)

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Coorg

2. Chelavara Falls

The magnificent Chelavara Falls, a place to visit near Virajpet for every traveller.

Photo: Siddarth.P.Raj / Wikimedia Commons

Chelavara Falls is located about 18 km from Virajpet and is one of the must-visits. The cascading falls offer beautiful scenery where one can just sit back and relax or enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool. The falls are locally called “Embepare” (Tortoise Rock) due to the shape of the rock at the base. The peaceful, less-crowded environment makes it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude in nature. Visitors can relax by the gushing waters or enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool below. The falls are best visited during the monsoon when they’re in full flow.

Major Attractions: Scenic waterfall, coffee plantations, nature walks, and the nearby Kabbe Hills
Best Time To Visit: July to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (about 80 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (about 115 km)

3. Nalknad Palace

Nalknad Palace, place to visit near Virajpet, has exquisite interiors for all to explore.

Photo: Phototraveller1 / Wikimedia Commons

Nalknad Palace is a must-visit for all history buffs. It was built in 1792 by the then King of Coorg Dodda Vira Rajendra. This is situated just below the Tadiandamol Peak. It served as the King’s retreat and refuge during wartimes. The structure showcases traditional Coorgi architecture, with intricate wood carvings, beautiful murals, and a peaceful courtyard. Though small, the palace has immense historical value, symbolising the resilience of Coorg’s royalty. For history enthusiasts, Nalknad Palace offers a glimpse into the region’s royal past, making it an interesting stop for visitors exploring the culture and heritage of Coorg.

Major Attractions: Historical palace with intricate carvings, traditional Coorgi architecture, and proximity to Tadiandamol Peak for trekking
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (about 85 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (about 115 km)

Suggested Read: Discover The Top Places To Visit Near Mysore Palace In The Western Ghats

4. Raja’s Seat

Raja’s Seat, a place to visit near Virajpet, is a famous monument for every traveller.

Photo: Demure Storyteller / Unsplash

Raja’s Seat is a popular viewpoint in Madikeri. It offers stunning vistas of the surrounding valleys and hills. It has a well-maintained garden and was historically the favourite spot of the kings of Coorg, who would relax and admire the sunset from this vantage point. Today, it’s a peaceful place for visitors to unwind amidst vibrant flower beds and enjoy panoramic views of the misty landscape. The site is particularly popular during sunrise and sunset, when the golden hues illuminate the valley, creating a magical atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for photography and quiet reflection.

Major Attractions: Scenic garden, panoramic views of valleys, beautiful sunsets, and a nearby toy train ride
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (about 90 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (about 120 km)

5. Iruppu Falls

The cascading Water at Iruppu Falls, a place to visit near Virajpet for travellers.

Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons

Iruppu Falls is located about 38 km from Virajpet and is one of Coorg’s most enchanting waterfalls. It is set amidst the lush Brahmagiri Hills. This 170-foot waterfall is not only a visual treat but also holds religious significance, as it is believed to have been created by Lord Rama during his search for Sita. The sound of cascading water and the surrounding greenery offer a peaceful experience for visitors. It is a popular pilgrimage site during Shivaratri, it also attracts nature lovers and trekkers, as the path leading to the falls is filled with scenic beauty, adding to its charm and allure.

Major Attractions: 170-foot waterfall, nearby Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, pilgrimage site during Shivaratri
Best Time To Visit: August to January
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (about 100 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (about 120 km)

Suggested Read: Hill Stations Near Coorg That You Should Explore For A Serene Getaway

6. Dubare Elephant Camp

 Elephant RIde at Dubare Elephant Camp, a place to visit near Virajpet for all.

Photo: Daniel Gynn / Unsplash

Dubare Elephant Camp is about 45 km from Virajpet. It is a unique wildlife experience on the banks of the River Kaveri. Visitors can interact closely with elephants, watching them bathe, feeding them, and learning about their training and care. The camp was once used to train elephants for the Mysore Dussehra, but today it serves as an ecotourism destination. Apart from elephants, the camp offers river rafting and bird-watching activities, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Major Attractions: Elephant interaction (bathing, feeding), river rafting on the Kaveri, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (about 95 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (about 105 km)

7. Talakaveri

 Temple at a hill in Talakaveri for every traveller to visit and explore in the day.

Photo: Shanmugamp7 / Wikimedia Commons

Talakaveri, situated about 60 km from Virajpet, is a sacred site and the source of the river Kaveri, one of the most revered rivers in southern India. Located on the Brahmagiri Hills, this pilgrimage spot is home to a temple dedicated to Goddess Kaveri and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The temple is visited by devotees throughout the year, especially during Tula Sankramana, when the spring is believed to rise miraculously. The area around Talakaveri is serene, with cool breezes and misty peaks, making it a peaceful spot for reflection and spirituality.

Major Attractions: Sacred river Kaveri’s origin, Talakaveri Temple, stunning hilltop views, and Tula Sankramana festival
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (about 140 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (about 135 km)

Suggested Read: Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary

8. Bhagamandala

 An aerial view of Bhagamandala near Virajpet for every traveller to visit and explore.

Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons

Bhagamandala, located around 55 km from Virajpet, is a sacred site at the confluence of three rivers—Kaveri, Kannike, and the mythical Sujyoti. Known as the “Triveni Sangama,” this place is of great religious significance to Hindus. Pilgrims often take a holy dip in the waters before offering prayers at the nearby Bhagandeshwara Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple’s architecture reflects the traditional South Indian style, with intricate carvings and peaceful surroundings. Bhagamandala is an ideal spot for those seeking spiritual solace and a deeper connection with the religious traditions of Coorg.

Major Attractions: Triveni Sangama (confluence of rivers), Bhagandeshwara Temple, and Talakaveri nearby
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (about 140 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (about 135 km)

9. Abbey Falls

Abbey Falls has a heavy cascading water flow for travellers to visit and explore.

Photo: Shaangce / Wikimedia Commons

Abbey Falls, located amidst dense coffee plantations and spice estates, is one of Coorg’s most captivating waterfalls. Cascading down rocky cliffs, the waterfall is particularly impressive during the monsoon season when it’s at its peak. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk through the surrounding greenery, crossing a hanging bridge that offers excellent views of the falls. The sound of the gushing water and the lush surroundings make it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers. Abbey Falls is one of the best places to see near Virajpat, offering a peaceful retreat amid Coorg’s natural beauty.

Major Attractions: A stunning waterfall nestled amidst coffee plantations, a picturesque hanging bridge, and lush greenery surrounding the falls
Best Time To Visit: August to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (about 95 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (about 120 km)

Suggested Read: Apsarakonda Waterfalls

10. Nisargadhama

Heritage instruments at Nisargadhama near Virajpet for every traveller to visit.

Photo: Athulvis / Wikimedia Commons

Nisargadhama is an island formed by the River Kaveri, known for its scenic beauty and bamboo groves. This eco-tourism spot is ideal for families and nature enthusiasts, offering activities like boating, picnicking, and exploring the small wildlife park. Visitors can walk across a hanging bridge to reach the island and enjoy serene surroundings, spotting deer and rabbits or taking an elephant ride. With its peaceful environment, Nisargadhama provides a refreshing escape from city life, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing day out in nature amidst the picturesque landscapes of Coorg.

Major Attractions: An island on the River Kaveri, bamboo groves, deer park, elephant rides, boating, and scenic picnic spots
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (about 95 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (about 100 km)

11. Perumbadi Lake

Picturesque view of Perumbadi Lake with lush greenery surrounded near the body of water

Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons

Perumbadi Lake rests as a serene water reservoir close to the Kerala border in Kodagu. The sole lake in its area attracts wild elephants from the Nagarhole Reserve Forest that come down to feed and drink in this region. The lake sits in a forested environment providing visitors with the ideal location for relaxing and enjoying picnics. The location serves as an excellent spot for people who want to experience tranquility within natural surroundings.

Major Attractions: Scenic lake, wildlife sightings, peaceful surroundings
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (86 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (117 km)

Suggested Read: Explore The Largest Lake In Karnataka

12. The Irupu Falls

Image of Waterfalls in the Brahmagiri mountain range of Western Ghats - places to visit near Virajpet

Photo: Samson Joseph / Wikimedia Commons

About 40 kilometers outside of Virajpet stands Irupu Falls as a beautiful waterfall which exists within the Brahmagiri Range. The waterfall drops from a height reaching 170 feet to form a beautiful scene during monsoon months. The site serves as a religious place with Ramayana heritage that brings pilgrims who visit Rameshwara Temple nearby. Trekking enthusiasts along with nature enthusiasts visit this site which rests amidst forest landscapes and verdant forests.

Major Attractions: 170 ft waterfall, forest trek, Rameshwara Temple
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (106 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (114 km)

13. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

Image of tents in Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary with stunning view of hills covered in lush greenery

Photo: psubhashish / Wikimedia Commons

Located about 60 km from Virajpet, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary attracts nature enthusiasts who come to witness its rich biodiversity together with its trekkers and wildlife admirers. The Western Ghats mountain range with the elevated Pushpagiri Peak forms part of the sanctuary area. Visitors can discover tranquility between dense forest areas and swimming streams by hiking the beautiful trails that run through this natural environment.

Major Attractions: Pushpagiri Peak, birdwatching, forest trails
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day to full-day
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (122 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (138 km)

Suggested Read: Wildlife Sanctuaries In Karnataka To Explore Exotic Wildlife

14. Omkareshwara Temple

Image of Omkareshwara Temple - one of the best places to visit near virajpet

Photo: ritesh-the creatographer / Wikimedia Commons

Omkareshwara Temple in Madikeri is an ancient Hindu temple built in 1820 by King Lingarajendra II. It features a unique mix of Gothic and Islamic architecture, with a central dome and a water tank housing freshwater fish. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple has a serene ambiance and a spiritual vibe that draws visitors year-round. It’s around 32 km from Virajpet and makes for a peaceful stop when exploring the historical and cultural side of Coorg.

Major Attractions: Unique Indo-Islamic architecture, temple tank, Shiva shrine
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (93 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (118 km)

15. Mandalpatti Viewpoint

Image of a hill view point where people are strolling around some went some trekking

Photo: iMahesh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Travelers who visit Mandalpatti Viewpoint can see stunning sights of the Western Ghats from its elevation of approximately 1,600 meters. The remote destination requires visitors to use jeeps on rough paths to reach it from Madikeri. Mandalpatti Viewpoint gains its popularity for early morning and evening views because misty valley and hill scenery creates enchanting moments. The journey from Virajpet to this nature reserve takes approximately 1.5 hours and presents an opportunity to see unadulterated wilderness.

Major Attractions: Sunrise/sunset views, Western Ghats panorama, jeep ride
Best Time To Visit: November to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours
Nearest Airport: Kannur International Airport (95 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (120 km)

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Madikeri For Breathtaking Landscapes

Attractions near Virajpet, with its breathtaking landscapes, serene waterfalls, adventurous treks, and rich cultural heritage, offers a perfect blend of nature and a sense of peace. Whether you’re exploring the lush hills of Tadiandamol, enjoying the peaceful ambience of Nisargadhama, or witnessing the beauty of Abbey Falls, Virajpet has something for every traveller. To make the most of your trip, plan your visit with TripXL, where you can find customised itineraries.

Cover Photo: RAKESH B M / Shutterstock

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Virajpet is between October and April when the weather is cool and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing.
Virajpet is well connected to major Coorg attractions. It's around 25 km from Tadiandamol Peak, 30 km from Madikeri (where Raja’s Seat is), and about 45 km from Dubare Elephant Camp.
In Virajpet, visitors can enjoy nature treks, visit waterfalls, explore coffee plantations, and experience local Coorgi culture. It’s also a great place for peaceful retreats and photography amidst the scenic beauty.
In Virajpet, you can enjoy traditional Coorgi cuisine, known for its flavorful pork dishes like Pandi Curry, bamboo shoot preparations, and rice-based meals. Many local eateries also serve South Indian staples like dosa, idli, and sambhar.
Yes, visitors can experience Coorg's rich culture through its festivals, traditional dances, and local markets. You can also explore Coorgi architecture in places like Nalknad Palace and interact with local coffee and spice farmers to learn about their way of life.
Raja’s Seat Garden is around 32 km from Virajpet and takes about an hour to reach by car.
Yes, trekking in Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and jeep rides to Mandalpatti Viewpoint offer adventure amidst nature.
Public transport is limited. Hiring a cab or using your own vehicle is the most convenient option to explore these spots.

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