The mist filled landscape of Coorg, in Karnataka, is a delightful place for the nature lovers. Lovingly called “Scotland of India”, Kodagu (that’s the official name of Coorg), is nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. Coorg tourism has a different charm to it. Though Coorg is primarily known for its coffee plantations, indigenous wine, spice gardens and lush greenery; yet the modern day travellers can soak in different experiences while visiting Coorg tourist places. We have curated a list of places and activities that would make your Coorg tour once in a lifetime experience.
How to reach Coorg?
You can reach Coorg by taking a private or KSRTC bus from Bangalore. The journey is of 7-8 hours and will drop you at the Coorg tourism hub of Madikeri.
Start at the Scenic Madikeri
Your Coorg tour will inevitably start at Madikeri. This scenic hill station has loads of things to see and do. From waterfalls to tombs with old architecture, this small town has a ton of assortments to keep you thrilled. The best part about Madikeri is: regardless of your interests this place will offer you a quality ordeal out and out, so it obliges distinctive individuals with varied interests.
Must visit Coorg tourist places
#1: Seek Peace at Namdroling Monastery
It is always good to seek some blessings at the start of your trip. And this peaceful Tibetan Monastery would be the best place to achieve that. As you venture inside the Namdroling Monastery you will come across specimens of exquisite Tibetan art and architecture. The temple tower and its outer walls are decorated with ornate murals. You cannot but witness the giant red entry doors with their golden knockers. Once you are inside the monastery you can feast your eyes at the three magnificent 40 feet high golden statues of Buddha Sakyamuni, Guru Padmasambhava and Amityaus. These statues are surrounded by beautiful paintings depicting scenes from Tibetan mythology.
- Timings: 7 AM – 8 PM
- Trivia: The initial structure of this Monastery was made of Bamboo, donated by the Indian government.
- Must see: The prayer rituals, performed at this monastery, are unique and must watch.
- Tip: If you happen to visit the Namdroling Monastery during mid-March do not miss out on the Tibetan New Year celebrations. You can see the marvellous Lama dance first hand.
#2: Relive History at Madikeri Fort
This is an ideal stopover to experience the past glory of Coorg. This majestic fort was initially made of mud by King Mudduraja, in the 17th century, and later rebuilt by Tipu Sultan. The Madikeri Fort premises has a church, a temple, prison cells and a museum. The tourists are welcomed to this imposing fort by two elephant sculptures! As you climb through a flight of stairs and reach the top of the fort, you can get a panoramic view of the city. Once you are done exploring the ramparts, it is time to head towards the museum. The exhibits at Madikeri Fort museum take the visitors on a time travel through the times of its great rulers (Muddaraja and Tipu Sultan namely). Weaponry and other items from those times are exhibited at the museum.
- Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
- Must see: The sunset view from the Madikeri Fort ramparts is a definite not to miss!
#3: Uncover the hidden treasure of Coorg at Chelavara Falls
A trip to the Chelavara Falls helps you fathom the meaning of “beauty lies in the journey”. A two wheeler or four wheeler ride from Madikeri town will be apt for a visit to the Chelavara Falls. You are welcomed with steep roads, unmatched beauty and greenery all around. Once you reach the actual waterfall trek down for another 15 minutes till you reach the base of this waterfall. While at the waterfalls, do care to dip your feet in the chilled water and feel the drops of water sprayed on your face by the gushing waterfall.
- Beware: Do wear sports shoes while visiting the Chelavara Falls, as the trekking route can get quite slippery.
- Tip: Wear raincoat if you are planning to go on a bike. As it might rain anytime along the way.
#4: Feast your eyes at Raja’s Seat
It is a seat that describes the royalty and depicts the beauty of the valley. You can see the entire valley, sun setting in the foggy hills and rainbow giving a salutation to the clouds. It is believed that the kings of Coorg would visit this site to spend some leisurely time. Apart from the Raja’s Seat viewpoint, the area also has a large garden. The garden is filled with attractive flowers and there are artificial fountains installed.
- Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
- Tip: Your kids would absolutely love this place, so keep ample time in hand.
- Shopping: Outside the Raja’s Seat, there are many local shops selling special wine, coffee and honey. Do care to buy some.
#5: Go on a Jeep ride at Mandalpatti
The road trip from Madikeri to Mandalpatti is a nature lover’s dream come true. It will also arouse the interests of any adventure seeking traveller. Mandalapatti viewpoint is 20 KM away from Madikeri. You can drive till Mandalpatti checkpoint in any car, but from thereon you have to hire a forest department Jeep. The jeep would take you through narrow roads, hairpin bends, coffee gardens and of course the Abbey Falls to a hill which is incredibly beautiful. When you reach the viewpoint, you would be welcomed by crazy winds and cotton clouds. The Mandalpatti viewpoint offers unobstructed views of the green surroundings.
- Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
- Entry fee: INR 25 per person
- Jeep hire charges: INR 1500 for 5-6 people.
- Tip: While travelling from Madikeri to Mandalpatti travel through the Abbey Falls junction and return back via Makkanduru. This route would give you the opportunity to explore the beauty of this place completely.
#6: Keep your date with the wild at Nagarhole National Park
Rajiv Gandhi National Park, which is locally known as Nagarhole National Park, is one of the most beautiful wildlife reserves in India. The reserve is covered with enormous sandalwood and teak trees with the Brahamagiri Mountains acting as a backdrop and the silent Kabini River flowing past the lush landscapes. The star attraction of Nagarhole National Park are the Tigers. Tigers and Elephants are easily sighted at this reserve. Apart from them you can also catch a glimpse of Indian Bison and various types of Deer.
- Timings: 6 AM – 6:30 PM
- Entry fee: INR 300 (for Indians), INR 1100 (for foreign nationals)
- Safari charges: INR 250 (for Indians) and INR 1500 (for foreign nationals)
Interested in visiting Coorg? Well, you do the planning and let RailYatri do the rest. You can book hotels in Coorg, hire cabs from Madikeri or book bus seats from Bangalore through RailYatri. Do check out our services.
