For the admirers of nature and seekers of thrills, Coorg presents mist-covered hills, adventures in the greens, and several trails in the jungle. Whether it’s your love for coffee or the wish to wind down that brought you here, you will need this handy guide to Coorg to make the best of it. It includes the best spots you should cover, things that you must do, and things that make Coorg special. Read it, bookmark it, and live it. Now! 

Best time to visit Coorg

The best time to visit Coorg depends on the kind of experience you are looking for. November to February brings pleasant and dry weather in the region, offering easier outdoor activities. From March to May is the spring season in Coorg, which paints the landscape in shades of white with blooming coffee plants. Rain in Coorg brings the hills alive with lush greenery and waterfalls cascading in all their glory. 

A lush hill top in Coorg covered in mist

Places to visit in Coorg

Raja’s Seat

Raja’s Seat, a picturesque viewpoint overlooking Madikeri town, offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. With its lush gardens, historic pavilion, and serene ambience, it’s a popular spot for couples and families seeking a peaceful retreat.

Dubare Elephant Camp

Experience the majestic elephants up close and personal at this renowned camp, where you can interact with these gentle giants and enjoy thrilling elephant rides.

Namdroling Monastery

A serene Buddhist monastery that is one of the largest in the world, offering a glimpse into Tibetan culture and spirituality through its intricate architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Ornate facade & well-kept garden of Namdroling Monastery in Coorg

Iruppu Falls

A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a refreshing swim or a picnic amidst nature.

Tadiandamol Peak

The highest peak in Coorg offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and a challenging trek for adventure enthusiasts.

Madikeri Fort

A historic fort that showcases the rich heritage of Coorg, featuring ancient structures, museums, and beautiful gardens.

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

A pristine sanctuary teeming with diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and various bird species, offering opportunities for wildlife safaris and trekking.

Mallali Falls

A cascading waterfall surrounded by dense forests is ideal for a peaceful escape and enjoying the beauty of nature.

Abbey Falls

A fantastic sight post-monsoon, Abbey Falls, a cascading waterfall nestled amidst the lush greenery of Coorg, offers a mesmerising sight. Surrounded by coffee plantations and spice gardens, it’s a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Cascading Abbey Falls in the middle of wilderness

Gaddige Raja’s Tomb

A historical monument dedicated to the royal family of Coorg, featuring intricate carvings and a peaceful ambience.

Things to do in Coorg

White Water Rafting

If you’re looking to add a twist of adventure to your relaxing trip to Coorg, river rafting in Coorg is your choice. The Barapole River is covered by scenic landscape on both bangs and has fantastic rapids for rafting.

Duration: 90 minutes

Charges: ~1200 per person

Go for Plantation Walks

A leisurely stroll in any of the lush and aromatic plantations is among the best things to do in Coorg. 

Follow the Scenic Trails

Explore the natural beauty of Coorg by hiking or trekking along scenic trails, surrounded by lush forests, coffee plantations, and breathtaking landscapes.

Camp Under the Stars

Experience the tranquillity of Coorg's wilderness by camping under the starry sky, enjoying the peacefulness of nature and the breathtaking night views.

Try Kodavu Cuisine

Indulge in Coorg's flavorful and authentic cuisine, featuring traditional dishes like pandi curry, akki rotti, and kadambuttu, made with local ingredients and spices.

Coffee beans lying in a coffee plantation in Coorg

How to spend 48 hours in Coorg? 

Explore the property's natural beauty: Stroll through the thoughtfully landscaped grounds and spot lemon grass, exotic Thai ginger, kaffir lime trees, and Australian fig trees. Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse avian life.

Enjoy a serene coracle ride: Cruise down the Harangi River in a traditional coracle, a unique and eco-friendly experience facilitated by the resort. Support local fishermen by tipping the boatman.

Immerse yourself in Coorg's culture: Explore coffee plantations, try your hand at angling, or visit the vibrant Tibetan settlement of Bylakuppe. Meditate at the stunning Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple) and savour authentic Tibetan cuisine at Potala Kitchen & Cafe.

Take in breathtaking views: Ascend to Raja's Seat in Madikeri for panoramic vistas of Coorg's lush landscapes. Indulge in a delicious pineapple chaat from a local vendor before relaxing on a hammock by the river.

Coorg’s love for coffee (that you can try too)

Beyond the standard drip, pour-over, and cold brew, there's a world of unique coffee experiences waiting to be discovered. As International Coffee Day approaches, explore these exceptional coffee adventures from across India.

Kerehaklu, Aldur

Immerse Yourself in Coffee Country: Nestled within a 270-acre coffee plantation, this sustainably designed log cabin offers an authentic Coorgi experience. Join Ajoy and Pranoy on guided tours to learn about the coffee-making process firsthand. Savour traditional Malnad cuisine, including neer dosas, thatte idli, and akki roti, served in a cosy dining room. Disconnect from the digital world and embrace a simple, peaceful lifestyle.

Old Kent Estates & Spa, Coorg

Discover a Colonial Heritage: Step back in time at this 200-acre heritage resort, once a British army officer's holiday home. Explore coffee, cardamom, and pepper plantations, and relax in quaint cottages with sky-roofed bathrooms and private gardens. Enjoy in-house amenities like a library, spa, children's room, and family lounge. Indulge in Coorgi and Anglo-Indian cuisine, along with freshly brewed speciality coffee.

The Tamara Coorg

Unwind with Coffee Therapy: Experience the tranquillity of the hills, lush greenery, and cosy cottages at The Tamara Coorg. But it's the on-site spa that sets it apart. Indulge in their signature coffee therapy, a unique journey from blossom to brew that revitalises your skin and body.

What do they eat in Coorg?

Kadambattu: Steamed rice balls with cardamom and coconut. Best served with pickle and pandi curry.

Pandi Curry: Coorgi pork curry made with Kachumpuli, spices, and fenugreek.

Koli Curry: Spicy chicken curry with cumin, red chilli powder, cloves, and cinnamon.

Baimbalé Curry: Bamboo shoot curry with curry leaves, red chillies, and coconut. Requires 72-hour soaking.

Noolputtu: Rice noodle cakes, a breakfast staple.

Kuleputtu: Street food made with ripe jackfruit, rice, jaggery, salt, and cardamom.

Kootu Curry: Vegetable stew with roasted spices, coconut, and tamarind.

Thalia Puttu: Flatbread made from rice, urad dal, fenugreek, and coconut milk. Requires fermentation.

Ellu Pajji: Breakfast chutney made from sesame seeds, coconut, onions, jaggery, green chillies, tamarind, and salt.

Akki Roti: Flatbread made from rice and rice flour.

Akkit Tary Payasa: Pudding made from rava, milk, coconut paste, jaggery, and cardamom.

Baale Nuruk: Banana fritters with jaggery, coconut, cardamom powder, sesame seeds, and rice flour.

Kombu Barthad: Mushroom curry with red and green chillies, cumin, curry leaves, and coconut vinegar.

Your stay in Coorg

Zostel Coorg (Madikeri)

Nestled amidst lush greenery, Zostel Coorg offers a tranquil escape in Madikeri. Enjoy the soothing ambience of the verandah, stunning views from the rooms, and communal spaces for socialising. We cater to various preferences with three accommodation options: lively dorms, cosy private rooms, and luxurious independent villas. During your stay, immerse yourself in the simple pleasures of nature. Take leisurely walks through the village, witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from our machan, and unwind in the comfortable hammock. Experience the true essence of slowing down and reconnecting with nature at Zostel Coorg. Check it out here. 

A mixed dorm, private room, and balcony of Zostel Coorg (Madikeri)

Zostel Coorg (Madikeri)'s facade, watch tower, and coffee plantation

That’s all for our guide to Coorg folks! Happy exploring :)