April 20th, 2018 by Lipika Sharma

Dubbed the ‘Scotland of India’, Coorg is where you wake up to the view of misty mountains and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Located in the Kodagu district, in the lap of the Western Ghats, Coorg remains lush green through the year.

Verdant landscapes, waterfalls, national parks and sprawling coffee plantations to explore – Coorg is a treat for the eyes, soul and the camera lens.

Best Time to Visit Coorg

Coorg is an evergreen summer destination. Although the climate here remains pleasant all around the year, October – March is considered the best time to plan a visit to this hill town. The temperature doesn’t go any higher than 28°C in summers and can fall to 3°C  in the winter, the year round average is around 15°C.

Places to Visit in Coorg

(i) Flowing in the middle of spice and coffee plantations, Abbey Falls make for a picturesque sight and popular weekend spot. You can either soak in its beauty from the hanging bridge opposite it or spend time frolicking in the water.

(ii) Brahmagiri Peak Trek will take you through forested woods, trickling streams and mist-topped hills. It also has a wildlife sanctuary where sightings of Lion-tailed Macaque, Jungle Cat, Spotted Deer and Giant Flying Squirrel are common.

(iii) Popularly known as the ‘Golden Temple’, visit the Namdroling Monastery to catch a glimpse of Tibetan architecture and artwork manifested in the elaborately decorated temple tower and ornate outer walls.

(iv) Dubare Elephant Camp is an elephant training camp where you can observe Asiatic elephants, ride and feed them. These activities are particularly appealing to children and families.

(v) Less crowded than the Abbey Falls, Iruppu Waterfall is one of the most popular tourist spots in Coorg. A tributary of Cauvery River, River Lakshmana Tirtha takes a 60 feet plunge amidst the green mountains to turn into these falls.

(vi) Nagarhole National Park is possibly one of the best-known wildlife reserves in India. Between the dense jungle, it has open sight-lines running along the river bank from where you can see Tigers, Leopards, Indian bison, Jackals and Asian elephants among other species atop a jeep.

(vii) Raja’s Seat is a garden with multitudes of flowering plants and musical fountains. Located in the town of Madikeri, this spot was a favourite of the Kings of Kodagu for the splendid sunset views that it offers.

(viii) Adventure seekers can go river rafting on the Barapole river, a famous river rafting destination in Coorg. The choppy waters of the river toss you about as the white frothy river surges through the dense forests of the Western Ghats.

Where to Eat in Coorg

(i) Malaya Restaurant in Bylakuppe has a decent range of Indian meals and Tibetan dishes at pretty reasonable prices.

(ii) Coorg Cuisine in Stuart Hill, Madikeri is the place for authentic Kodava food.

(iii) For mouth-watering vegetarian dishes, find a table at Atithi Restaurant on Mysore-Madikeri Main Road.

(iv) A high-end eatery, Raintree is famous for its multi-cuisine options.

Where to Shop in Coorg

(i) Signature spices like pepper, cardamom, cumin, mint, oregano and basil, as well as dry fruits and coffee are hot-sellers found opposite K.S.R.T.C Bus Stand in Madikeri.

(ii) Get your hands on unadulterated freshly-produced coffee varieties at Friday Market, 15 minutes away from the Coorg Railway Station.

(iii) Take bottles of honey back home from the busy Virajpet Market.

Considered the most affluent hill station in Karnataka, Coorg is well known for its coffee and people. Far removed from the clutches of urbanity, the best way to get around this hill station is to take a gentle stroll, enjoy the laid-back vibe, spot a bison or an elephant, and a Panther if you’re lucky.

Find Best Hotels In Coorg Here

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About Lipika Sharma

Fast learner, slow eater with an itch for travel and fashion. Always ready for long drives, offbeat destinations and cake. Often sarcastic, mostly joking. Still learning how to be a morning person.