🇮🇳 Coorg (Kodagu), Karnataka – Destination Guide

Coorg, officially known as Kodagu, is a lush green hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. Famous for its coffee plantations, mist-covered hills, dense forests, and Kodava culture, Coorg is often dubbed the “Scotland of India.” It’s the perfect retreat for nature lovers, honeymooners, and those seeking serenity away from city life.

🌿 Why Visit Coorg?

• Aromatic coffee estates and spice plantations

• Misty hills, waterfalls, and lush forest trails

• Unique Kodava hospitality and culture

• Wildlife, trekking, and river adventures

• Tranquil resorts and scenic homestays

📍 Location & How to Reach

• State: Karnataka

• Nearest City: Mysuru (~115 km), Bengaluru (~250 km)

• Nearest Railway Station: Mysuru Junction

• Nearest Airport: Kannur International (90 km), Mangalore (140 km), Bengaluru (250 km)

🌟 Top Attractions in Coorg

☕ Coffee Plantations

• Walk through fragrant estates in Madikeri or Virajpet

• Learn about coffee processing & taste local brews

🏞️ Abbey Falls

• Beautiful cascading waterfall near Madikeri

• Surrounded by coffee and spice estates

🌄 Raja’s Seat

• Garden with panoramic views of Coorg’s valleys and sunsets

• Once the leisure spot of Kodagu kings

🛕 Omkareshwara Temple

• Unique architecture blending Islamic & Gothic styles

• Dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Madikeri town

🏯 Madikeri Fort

• 17th-century fort with a museum and colonial-era charm

🐘 Dubare Elephant Camp

• Interact with elephants: feeding, bathing, and watching them in the wild

• Located on the banks of River Cauvery

🌊 Cauvery Nisargadhama

• Scenic river island with bamboo groves, deer park, boating & hanging bridge

🧗‍♂️ Tadiandamol Peak

• Highest peak in Coorg (1,748 m)

• Popular for trekking and breathtaking mountain views

🦌 Nagarhole National Park

• Wildlife sanctuary known for tigers, elephants, and birdwatching

• Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve

🧳 Activities in Coorg

• Plantation walks & jeep safaris

• White water rafting (monsoon season)

• Trekking & camping in Brahmagiri and Pushpagiri hills

• Try Kodava cuisine: Pandi curry (pork), Akki roti, and bamboo shoot curry

• Shop for coffee, honey, and handmade chocolates

📅 Best Time to Visit

• October to March: Cool, ideal for sightseeing and treks

• April to June: Slightly warm, good for coffee blooms

• July to September: Monsoon magic, great for waterfalls (but roads may be slippery)

🏨 Where to Stay

• Luxury resorts with plantation views

• Heritage homestays offering local hospitality

• Nature camps and eco-lodges for offbeat stays

📌 Local Culture

• Home to the Kodava people – known for their unique traditions, warrior history, and festivals

• Don’t miss Kailpodh and Puthari, traditional Coorgi celebrations

• Traditional attire and unique Kodava martial customs are still preserved

🛍️ What to Buy

• Fresh ground coffee, cardamom, and spices

• Organic honey and handcrafted soaps

• Homemade wines, chocolates, and tribal crafts