Based on my visit to Coorg Tourist Places in December 2022
Known as the “Scotland of India,” Coorg, or Kodagu, is a lush, picturesque district nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. Famous for its scenic landscapes, coffee plantations, mist-covered hills, and tranquil atmosphere, Coorg is a favorite destination for travelers seeking nature’s embrace. It offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and history, making it a paradise for backpackers, families, and nature enthusiasts alike. This article of mine, captures the essence of this place by exploring the 10 most fascinating Coorg Tourist places and hidden gems.
Day 1: Arriving in Coorg – The Perfect Beginning
1. Madikeri Fort – A Gateway to Coorg’s History
My first day in Coorg started with a visit to the historic Madikeri Fort. This ancient fort, built by Mudduraja in the 17th century and later revamped by Tipu Sultan, stands in the heart of Madikeri. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and scenic views of the hills, it offers a glimpse into the rich past of Coorg. Inside, the fort houses a museum that preserves relics, portraits of kings, and old weaponry. The fort also features a quaint church, which adds a charming colonial touch to the structure and makes it one of the top Coorg tourist places on everyone’s list.
Walking along the fort’s ramparts, I could see the rolling hills of Coorg, and it became clear why this region was cherished by rulers over centuries. The serene environment and the historical significance set the tone for the days ahead.
2. Raja’s Seat – A Royal Viewpoint
As the day progressed, I made my way to Raja’s Seat, one of Coorg’s most famous sunset viewpoints. Located in Madikeri, this garden was once a favorite spot for the kings of Coorg, who would sit here to enjoy the breathtaking view of the surrounding valleys. Today, it offers visitors the same regal experience and hence the name Raja’s seat (translated to King’s seat).
The garden is immaculately maintained, filled with colorful flowers and fountains. But it is the view that steals the show – the sight of the sun dipping below the mist-covered hills and valleys is absolutely mesmerizing. The cool breeze, the sound of chirping birds, and the sight of nature stretching out before me made this a perfect end to the first day.
Day 2: The Call of Nature – Waterfalls and Forest Trails
3. Abbey Falls – A Misty Wonderland
The second day of my Coorg adventure began with a visit to Abbey Falls, a short drive from Madikeri. Tucked away amidst coffee plantations and spice estates, this waterfall is one of the most popular Coorg tourist places on this list. As I walked through a narrow trail surrounded by lush greenery, the sound of the waterfall grew louder, heightening my anticipation.
Upon reaching the falls, I was greeted by a stunning sight – water gushing down from a height of about 70 feet into a pool below, enveloped by a misty spray. The hanging bridge across the falls offers a perfect vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty. The surrounding coffee estates and pepper vines add to the scenic charm, making Abbey Falls a must-visit for nature lovers. According to me this is the second best of the Coorg tourist places on this list.
4. Iruppu Falls – A Sacred Cascade- one of the best Coorg Tourist Places
In the afternoon, I ventured toward the Iruppu Falls, located on the border between Coorg and Kerala. These falls, nestled within the Brahmagiri Hills, are not only a natural marvel but also a site of spiritual significance. According to legend, this is where Lord Rama’s brother Lakshmana shot an arrow to bring water to quench Rama’s thirst, leading to the birth of the Lakshmana Tirtha River, which feeds the falls.
The cascading water, surrounded by dense forests, created a peaceful atmosphere. The trek up to the falls was moderately challenging, but the cool waters and the serene surroundings made it worthwhile. Many visitors also come here for a dip, believing the waters to have purifying qualities.
Day 3: Exploring the Coffee Culture and Mountain Peaks
5. Coffee Plantations – The Heart of Coorg
Coorg is synonymous with coffee, and no visit is complete without experiencing the region’s renowned coffee plantations. I dedicated my third day to exploring one of Coorg’s sprawling coffee estates. There are several estates including by Nescafe, but I chose an estate owned by one of the locals. I was charged Rs. 200 for the entry fee (per person fee), that also included a cup of freshly brewed arabica coffee at the end of the tour.
The aroma of fresh coffee beans filled the air as I strolled through rows of coffee bushes shaded by towering trees. My guide explained the process of coffee cultivation, harvesting, and roasting, and how the unique geography of Coorg contributes to its distinct coffee flavor. Both Arabica & Robusta varieties are grown here, with the Robusta being more abundant & easy to grow.
After the tour, I sat down for a cup of freshly brewed coffee, and it was an unforgettable experience. Sipping coffee while surrounded by the very plants that produced it felt special. Visiting a coffee plantation is not just about learning the process – it’s about experiencing the soul of Coorg.
6. Mandalpatti – A View From the Clouds
Later in the day, I embarked on an adventure to Mandalpatti, one of Coorg’s most scenic spots, located about 30 kilometers from Madikeri. Accessible only by jeep due to the rough terrain, the journey to Mandalpatti was an adventure in itself. The jeep ride took me through rugged paths and misty hills, building excitement for what lay ahead.
Upon reaching the top, I was greeted by a panoramic view of the Western Ghats. The hills stretched endlessly, and the clouds felt so close I could almost touch them. The tranquility of the place, combined with the thrill of the jeep ride, made Mandalpatti a highlight of my trip and easily the best of all Coorg tourist places according to me. For those seeking adventure and an escape into nature, Mandalpatti is a must-visit destination.
Please check out my post on Mandalpatti Trek for more details.
Day 4: Spiritual and Cultural Exploration
7. Talacauvery – The Birthplace of River Cauvery
On my fourth day in Coorg, I set out to visit Talacauvery, the origin of the sacred River Cauvery, located about 48 kilometers from Madikeri. Perched at an altitude of 1,276 meters on the Brahmagiri Hill, Talacauvery is not only a place of worship but also a stunning natural spot.
The temple complex at Talacauvery is serene, and the holy tank where the river is believed to originate is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. From here, a short trek up the Brahmagiri peak offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and valleys. The cool breeze and the panoramic vista made it a perfect spot for quiet reflection and admiration of nature’s beauty.
8. Bhagamandala – A Sacred Confluence
A short drive from Talacauvery brought me to Bhagamandala, another significant religious site in Coorg. Here, the sacred River Cauvery meets the Kannike and Sujyoti rivers, creating a holy confluence. The temple at Bhagamandala is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an important pilgrimage site during the festival of Tula Sankramana.
Visiting both Talacauvery and Bhagamandala offered me a deeper understanding of the spiritual connection between the people of Coorg and the River Cauvery. These spots, steeped in legend and natural beauty, provided a serene conclusion to my journey of exploration in Coorg.
Day 5: Wildlife and Adventure
9. Dubare Elephant Camp – A Wild Encounter
My final day in Coorg was dedicated to wildlife and adventure, starting with a visit to the Dubare Elephant Camp. Located along the banks of the River Cauvery, this camp offers visitors a chance to interact with elephants in their natural habitat. At the camp, I learned about the history of the elephants, how they are trained, and the conservation efforts being made.
I even got the opportunity to help bathe the elephants and feed them, which was an unforgettable experience. The joy of being up close to these gentle giants, watching them play in the water, and understanding their behaviors was both educational and thrilling. A visit to this camp will take you back to your childhood days and enthusiasm. If you want to learn more about entry charges, accommodation options etc check out this link.
10. Nagarhole National Park – A Safari Adventure
To wrap up my Coorg adventure, I headed to Nagarhole National Park, located on the southern border of Coorg. Known for its diverse wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and various bird species, Nagarhole offers an exciting safari experience. The jungle safari took me deep into the park, where I spotted deer, langurs, and elephants, with the occasional glimpse of more elusive wildlife.
The lush greenery and the thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural environment provided a fitting finale to my Coorg adventure. The peaceful yet wild nature of Coorg’s forests gave me a sense of the region’s vast natural beauty.
Conclusion: The Timeless Charm of Coorg
Coorg is not just a place to visit – it’s a place to experience. From its misty hills and roaring waterfalls to its coffee plantations and wildlife sanctuaries, Coorg has something to offer every traveler. Whether you seek adventure, spirituality, or just a peaceful retreat into nature, Coorg’s diverse landscapes and rich culture provide an unforgettable journey. As I left the Western Ghats behind, I carried with me not just memories of beautiful landscapes, but the warmth and charm of the people and the soul of Coorg, a place I would return to in a heartbeat.
My Other Posts
If you are looking for options in Kashmir, check out my posts on Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Snowfall in Kashmir, and Best Time to Visit Kashmir. If you are looking for options in Ladakh, check out Ladakh Weather, Nubra Valley, 5 Days Kashmir Itinerary, Best Packing tips for Ladakh & best tourist places in Ladakh.
If you are looking for something in Sikkim, check Tsomgo Lake and Batasia Loop. If you are looking for some jungle safari read Gir Safari, or Bandipur Safari, feel blessed at Sri Venugopala Swamy Temple in Mysore.
If you are looking for places to visit in the Andaman Islands, please check my posts on Radhanagar Beach & Ross Island.
If you are looking for other options, check my posts on Murud Janjira, Kashid, Pirwadi Beach and Kihim Beach in Maharashtra or Malshej Ghat, Matheran Resorts, Kailash Temple Ellora, Vandri Lake, Kelwa Beach in Palghar & Mahabaleshwar.
Alternatively, if you are interested in some Religious tourism, please check my posts on Golden Temple, Kamakhya, Trimbakeshwar, Somnath Temple and Kashi Vishwanath. If you are looking for North East Adventure tours, check my posts on Shillong, Meghalaya, Dawki, Double Decker Living Root Trek, and 7-Day North East Itinerary.
For some adventure tours in the south check out Mandalpatti Trek.
If you are looking for some spirituality, you can check out Ganga Aarti in Dashashwamedh Ghat or Ghats in Varanasi.
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