Top 15 best beautiful places in  Coorg

 

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a picturesque hill station in Karnataka, India, renowned for its lush landscapes, coffee plantations, and serene ambiance. Here are the top 15 places to visit in Coorg, along with essential details to enhance your travel experience.

1. Abbey Falls

Abbey Falls is a mesmerizing waterfall nestled amidst coffee plantations and spice estates. The water falls from a height of about 70 bases, creating a spectacular sight, especially during the monsoon season.

Distance from Coorg: Approximately 10 kilometers from Madikeri town.

Best Time to Visit: Morning hours are ideal to enjoy the serene environment and avoid crowds.

Food Facilities: There are small eateries near the parking area offering snacks and beverages.

Accommodation: Madikeri town, located nearby, offers various accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts.

Bus or Train Facilities: The nearest railway station is in Mysore, about 120 kilometers away. From there, motorcars and cabs are accessible to reach Madikeri.

Time to Spend: 1 to 2 hours.

Shopping: Local shops near Madikeri offer spices, coffee, and handmade chocolates.

Stay Duration: A brief visit of 1 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore Abbey Falls.

2. Raja’s Seat

Raja’s Seat is a popular viewpoint in Madikeri, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Historically, it was the favorite spot of the Kodava kings to watch sunsets.

Distance from Coorg: Located in Madikeri town.

Best Time to Visit: Evening hours are perfect to witness the breathtaking sunset.

Food Facilities: Vendors around the area sell local snacks and refreshments.

Accommodation: Various hotels and guesthouses are available in Madikeri town.

Bus or Train Facilities: Madikeri is well-connected by bus services from major cities like Bangalore and Mysore.

Time to Spend: 1 to 2 hours.

Shopping: Nearby markets in Madikeri offer traditional Coorgi artifacts and souvenirs.

Stay Duration: A short visit of 1 to 2 hours is adequate to enjoy Raja’s Seat.

3. Dubare Elephant Camp

Dubare Elephant Camp is an elephant training camp situated on the banks of the River Cauvery. Visitors can interact with elephants, learn about their training, and even participate in activities like bathing them.

Distance from Coorg: Approximately 30 kilometers from Madikeri.

Best Time to Visit: Morning hours are recommended to engage in elephant interactions.

Food Facilities: A restaurant within the camp offers meals and refreshments.

Accommodation: Jungle lodges and resorts are available near the camp for an immersive experience.

Bus or Train Facilities: Buses and taxis from Madikeri can take you to Dubare.

Time to Spend: 2 to 3 hours.

Shopping: Local handicraft shops nearby offer souvenirs.

Stay Duration: A half-day visit is ideal to fully experience the camp’s offerings.

4. Talacauvery and Bhagamandala

Talacauvery is the source of the River Cauvery, situated on the Brahmagiri hills. Nearby, Bhagamandala is known for the confluence of three rivers and houses the Bhagandeshwara Temple.

Distance from Coorg: About 48 kilometers from Madikeri.

Best Time to Visit: Morning hours are serene and suitable for a spiritual experience.

Food Facilities: Local eateries offer South Indian vegetarian meals.

Accommodation: Guesthouses and homestays are available in Bhagamandala.

Bus or Train Facilities: Buses from Madikeri ply to Bhagamandala; from there, local transport can be hired to reach Talacauvery.

Time to Spend: 3 to 4 hours.

Shopping: Small shops sell religious items and local produce.

Stay Duration: A half-day trip is sufficient to explore both Talacauvery and Bhagam

5. Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple)

Namdroling Monastery, popularly known as the Golden Temple, is a significant center for Tibetan Buddhism in South India. The monastery is renowned for its golden Buddha statues and vibrant Tibetan architecture.

Distance from Coorg: Approximately 34 kilometers from Madikeri.

Best Time to Visit: Open throughout the day; however, mornings are peaceful for meditation and exploration.

Food Facilities: Cafeterias within the monastery complex offer Tibetan cuisine.

Accommodation: Guesthouses are available within the monastery premises for visitors.

Bus or Train Facilities: Buses from Madikeri to Kushalnagar, followed by local transport to Byl

6. Nisargadhama Forest Park

    

Nisargadhama is a beautiful island formed by the River Cauvery, accessible via a hanging bridge. It is a peaceful nature escape with bamboo groves, deer parks, and boating facilities.

Distance from Coorg: 28 km from Madikeri

Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening for a peaceful experience

Food Facilities: Local eateries near the entrance serve refreshments

Accommodation: Jungle lodges and guesthouses nearby

Bus or Train Facilities: Buses from Madikeri to Kushalnagar, followed by a short ride to Nisargadhama

Time to Spend: 2-3 hours

Shopping: Bamboo crafts and local produce available at nearby stalls

Stay Duration: Half-day visit to fully explore the area

             7. Iruppu Falls

Iruppu Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the Brahmagiri Hills, known for its natural beauty and mythological significance.

Distance from Coorg: 75 km from Madikeri

Best Time to Visit: Morning, especially during monsoon (June to September)

Food Facilities: Local vendors offer snacks at the base

Accommodation: Homestays and resorts nearby

Bus or Train Facilities: Buses from Madikeri to Kutta, followed by local transport

Time to Spend: 2-3 hours

Shopping: Local spices and coffee are available in nearby villages

Stay Duration: Half-day trip

8. Mandalpatti

    

Mandalpatti is a stunning hilltop viewpoint that provides panoramic views of the Western Ghats, perfect for adventure lovers.

Distance from Coorg: 20 km from Madikeri

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late autumn for the stylish views

Food Facilities: No food stalls at the top, pack snacks

Accommodation: Resorts and homestays in Madikeri

Bus or Train Facilities: Private jeeps are required for the final stretch

Time to Spend: 3-4 hours

Shopping: No shopping facilities available

Stay Duration: Half-day visit

9. Coffee Plantations Tour

    

Experience guided tours through Coorg’s lush coffee plantations, learning about the coffee-making process.

Distance from Coorg: Spread across Madikeri and Kushalnagar

Best Time to Visit: Morning for plantation walks

Food Facilities: Plantation cafes serve fresh coffee and snacks

Accommodation: Plantation stays and luxury resorts

Bus or Train Facilities: Local transport from Madikeri

Time to Spend: 2-3 hours

Shopping: Buy fresh coffee and local spices

Stay Duration: 1-2 days for plantation stays

10. Tadiandamol Peak

     

Tadiandamol is the highest peak in Coorg, offering trekking experiences and breathtaking views.

Distance from Coorg: 35 km from Madikeri

Best Time to Visit: Early morning for trekking

Food Facilities: Pack your food; limited options at the base

Accommodation: Homestays near the trekking point

Bus or Train Facilities: Buses from Madikeri to Kakkabe, followed by a short trek

Time to Spend: 5-6 hours for the trek

Shopping: No shopping at the peak

Stay Duration: Full-day trek

11. Chelavara Falls

     

A beautiful waterfall near Cheyandane village, Chelavara Falls is a lesser-known gem for nature lovers.

Distance from Coorg: 43 km from Madikeri

Best Time to Visit: Monsoon season (June to August)

Food Facilities: Local stalls serve snacks nearby

Accommodation: Homestays and resorts nearby

Bus or Train Facilities: Buses from Madikeri to Virajpet, followed by local transport

Time to Spend: 1-2 hours

Shopping: Local handmade products available

Stay Duration: Half-day visit

12. Honnamana Kere Lake

     

This serene lake near Somwarpet is the largest in Coorg and offers boating and peaceful surroundings.

Distance from Coorg: 45 km from Madikeri

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening

Food Facilities: Eateries nearby serving traditional food

Accommodation: Resorts and homestays in Somwarpet

Bus or Train Facilities: Buses from Madikeri to Somwarpet

Time to Spend: 2 hours

Shopping: Local products available in Somwarpet

Stay Duration: Half-day trip

13. Nagarhole National Park

     

Famous for its wildlife safaris, Nagarhole National Park offers sightings of tigers, elephants, and more.

Distance from Coorg: 60 km from Madikeri

Best Time to Visit: Morning for safaris

Food Facilities: Limited; carry packed food

Accommodation: Forest lodges and nearby resorts

Bus or Train Facilities: Buses from Madikeri to Kutta

Time to Spend: 4-5 hours

Shopping: Local handicrafts at Kutta

Stay Duration: Full-day visit

14. Mallalli Falls

     

A hidden waterfall near Somwarpet, Mallalli Falls is perfect for adventure enthusiasts.

Distance from Coorg: 53 km from Madikeri

Best Time to Visit: Monsoon season (July to September)

Food Facilities: No food stalls nearby

Accommodation: Homestays in Somwarpet

Bus or Train Facilities: Buses to Somwarpet, followed by local transport

Time to Spend: 2-3 hours

Shopping: No shopping facilities available

Stay Duration: Half-day trip

15. Chiklihole Reservoir

     

Chiklihole Reservoir is a peaceful spot surrounded by dense forests, ideal for picnics and sunset views.

Distance from Coorg: 25 km from Madikeri

Best Time to Visit: Evening for sunset views

Food Facilities: No food stalls nearby

Accommodation: Lodges in Madikeri

Bus or Train Facilities: Buses from Madikeri

Time to Spend: 1-2 hours

Shopping: Not available

Stay Duration: Short visit

Conclusion
Coorg, often referred to as the “Scotland of India,” offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and thrilling adventures. From cascading waterfalls like Abbey Falls to serene temples and majestic viewpoints, each destination in Coorg holds its unique charm. Whether you’re trekking up Tadiandamol Peak or sipping fresh coffee on a plantation, Coorg provides unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Plan your trip to explore these incredible spots, indulge in local cuisine, and bring back souvenirs that reflect the rich traditions of this enchanting hill station.

 

Accommodation details in Coorg:

•  Luxury: Evolve Back Coorg
• Mid-Range: The Tamara Coorg
• Budget: Madikeri Heritage

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FAQs About Visiting Coorg

1. What is the best time to visit Coorg?
   The best time to visit Coorg is between October and March, as the weather is cool and pleasant. For those who enjoy monsoons and lush greenery, June to September is ideal.
2. How many days are enough to explore Coorg?
   A 3 to 5-day trip is perfect to cover the major attractions like Abbey Falls, Raja’s Seat, Dubare Elephant Camp, and Talacauvery, while also enjoying plantation tours and treks.
3. Is Coorg suitable for family vacations?
   Yes, Coorg is a family-friendly destination with activities suitable for all ages, including nature walks, wildlife safaris, and peaceful temple visits.
4. How do I reach Coorg from Bangalore?
   Coorg is approximately 250 km from Bangalore. You can reach Coorg by bus, car, or train. The nearest railway station is Mysore (120 km away), and from there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Coorg.
5. What local delicacies should I try in Coorg?
   Don’t miss trying traditional Kodava dishes like Pandi Curry (pork curry), Akki Roti (rice bread), and Coorg coffee. Local restaurants and homestays serve authentic Coorgi meals that are worth savoring.

Plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to be enchanted by the misty hills, vibrant wildlife, and cultural treasures of Coorg!