For those looking to escape the madding crowd, a visit to Coorg is definitely the right option. Situated amid ageless hills that dot the southernmost edge of Karnataka, the Coorg region has been blessed with stunning landscapes and plantations. Coorg is among the main hubs of coffee and spice production. The most rural region is also home to the Kodava community. They are reportedly the descendants of the migrating Kurds and Persians. This community may have also descended from the ancient Greeks that were left behind during Alexander the Great’s raids. The rough terrain and cool climate make Coorg the perfect places to unwind. For adventure enthusiasts, one can enjoy trekking, birdwatching or amble down virgin paths. Coorg was an independent state till 1956 when it formed part of Karnataka. The region’s main transport hub is Madikeri. For those looking for a truly authentic Coorg experience, a visit to the plantations will definitely yield the desired results. Avoid the weekends as they can get pretty crowded with people from the city. Take a trip to Bylakuppe to visit the Namdroling Monastery. It is here that the stunning Golden Temple is located. There is an 18m-high gold-plated Buddha that presides over the temple proceedings. When school is in session, the temple looks even more stunning. One can hear the sounds of gongs, drums as well as young students chanting. One can also sit and meditate amid the lush greenery. There will be small blue cushions that one can meditate on within the campus. The Zangdogpalri Temple is located nearby. A visit to Nalakunad temple is also a must for tourists. The temple is situated at the base of Coorg’s highest peak, Tadiyendamol. The temple is, in fact, a restored hunting lodge of the erstwhile king of Coorg that dates back to 1794. If one takes a walk around the area, stumbling upon a number of nearby camps will not be difficult. For those looking for a quiet place to sit, relax and soak in some history, a visit to Raja’s Tombs should definitely be on the travel itinerary. The tombs have been built in the Indo-Saracenic style. These domed structures are the resting place for Kodava royalty and dignitaries. The tombs are situated around 7 km away from the town. There is no perfect time to visit Coorg, as the hill station enjoys moderate and pleasant climate all round the year. The scenic surroundings will make one feel like they are on another isolated planet. When planning a trip to Coorg, choosing the right hotel is imperative. The accommodation one chooses should provide spectacular views of the surrounding areas. There are quite a few OYO hotels in and around the region. For those that do not want to stray far from the main centre, choosing an OYO hotel near KSRTC bus station is a good option. There are quite a few hotels proximate to Madikeri Town Hall and Madikeri Fort. Another good place to book an OYO room is near Dechoor.