Nestled on the slopes of the Western Ghats, Coorg (also called Kodagu) woos you with its undulating hills, lush green forests and a spectacular landscape dotted with coffee plantations and orange groves. Coorg is the land of coffee, cardamom, colonels, and the Cauvery. Aptly dubbed as ‘the Scotland of India’, Coorg offers a spellbinding visual treat with its cloud-capped peaks, chirpy birds and sparkling streams, not to mention the unique, mouth-watering flavours of Kodagu cuisine.
Adventure/Activities
Tadiandamol (45 km): The highest peak in the Coorg region - Scotland of India, and the second highest in Karnataka, Tadiyendamol is a trekker’s paradise. Located at an elevation of 1,748 m, the gentle slopes and grassy terrain lures you with their scenic charm and serene ambience. A major attraction here is the Padi Igguthappa Temple. Igguthappa is the main deity of the native Kodavas and here the deity is worshipped as the ‘Giver of Grain’.
Nishani Betta Trek: Nishani Betta is a beautiful peak near Talakaveri. Trek to this peak gives an amazing 360 degree view of the Brahmagiri hill range.
Hike up the hill behind Talakaveri: Climb 400+ steps up the Brahmagiri hill from Talakaveri temple for a panoramic view of evergreen forests. During monsoon months/early morning hours, white mist and clouds will engulf the hill and offer a pleasant atmosphere and view.
Kunda Betta trek/sunset view: Popular trekking destination 50 km from Madikeri, Kunda Betta offers amazing sunset views.
Rafting in Dubare: Water Rafting is a popular adventure sports to try in Dubare.
Tourist Attractions
Madikeri :Madikeri : A quaint hill town with sprawling coffee plantations, lush forests and mist-laden hills,Madikeri epitomizes Coorg’s bounteous natural charm as well as the rich history of the region. The capital from which Kodagu kings ruled, Madikeri is known for its majestic Fort, renovated and strengthened by various kings, including Tipu Sultan, before becoming a British bastion. Other major attractions include a museum highlighting Kodava history, Rajas’ Seat which offers a breathtaking view of the sun setting on the distant hills, the Omkareshwar Temple and the Gaddige, the royal tombs with ornate domes, minarets. By the way, do not miss the 18-hole golf course, yet another highlight of this beautiful town.
A quaint hill town with sprawling coffee plantations, lush forests and mist-laden hills,Madikeri epitomizes Coorg’s bounteous natural charm as well as the rich history of the region. The capital from which Kodagu kings ruled, Madikeri is known for its majestic Fort, renovated and strengthened by various kings, including Tipu Sultan, before becoming a British bastion. Other major attractions include a museum highlighting Kodava history, Rajas’ Seat which offers a breathtaking view of the sun setting on the distant hills, the Omkareshwar Temple and the Gaddige, the royal tombs with ornate domes, minarets. By the way, do not miss the 18-hole golf course, yet another highlight of this beautiful town.
Virajpet (36 km) :Virajpet, the second biggest town in Coorg, is acclaimed as the largest producer of honey in Asia. The Sri Rameshwara Temple, located here, is believed to have been dedicated to Lord Shiva by Lord Rama himself. A prominent pilgrim destination, Virajpet is a favourite haunt of picnickers and pilgrims, especially during the Shivaratri festival. Virajpet taluk has the highest concentration of sacred groves/ temple forests (Devarakadu).
Bylekuppe (40 km): One of the largest Tibetan settlements in South India, it is known for its monasteries, handicrafts, carpet factories, and incense factory. The landscape is dotted with several monasteries; the main ones amongst these are the Great Gompa of Sera Jey and Sera Mey. The Mahayana Buddhist University is located here. It also has an enormous prayer hall. The other important monastery in the neighbouring settlement of Bylekuppe is Tashi Lhumpo, renowned as the seat of the Panchen Lama.