Destination of the Month: Coorg

Picture rugged mountain landscapes, aromatic cardamom valleys, lush paddy fields, and sprawling coffee plantations—Kodagu is truly one of South India’s most picturesque destinations. 

Nestled 100 km west of Mysore in the Western Ghats, the hill region of Coorg is the birthplace of the majestic River Kaveri and home to the martial hill tribe, Kodavas, a unique community distinguished by their customs, language, and appearance. With mist-covered hills, breathtaking nature trails, and adrenaline-pumping activities, Coorg is a paradise for wilderness lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

In this blog post, we’ll share our top tips for exploring this beautiful region, including the best time to visit, where to stay, and must-see attractions.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Coorg is during the winter months from November to February. With temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and leisurely strolls through nature. Some places worth visiting in Coorg in winter are Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Dubare Elephant Camp and Nisargadhama Forest. The misty mornings and cool evenings add to the charm of this beautiful hill station. This season is also the perfect time to explore the coffee plantations, embark on scenic hikes and witness the beauty of waterfalls like Abbey, Iruppu Falls and Chelavara which are in their full glory.

Also, don’t miss Puthari, the grand harvest festival of the Kodagu district, celebrated in November or early December, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Where to Stay

Where to Eat

Coorg, renowned for its traditional Kadavan cuisine, offers a delightful selection of dishes and exceptional coffee experiences that are a must-try during your stay. Traditional Kadavan delicacies, use local ingredients like forest produce, meat and rice. Here are some specialties and where you can best enjoy them:

Pandi curry (or Coorgi Pork Curry) at Coorg Cuisine

Pandi Curry, a signature dish in Coorg, is traditionally prepared using pork marinated with a blend of aromatic spices and cooked slowly to enhance its flavours. Coorg Cuisine in Madikeri is highly recommended for this traditional delicacy. The hearty and spicy nature of the curry makes it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. 

Coffee at Beas N Brews 

If you’re a coffee aficionado, Beans N Brews is a must-visit cafe in Coorg. Known for its speciality coffees and artisanal blends, this cafe takes coffee brewing to a whole new level. Indulge in handcrafted brews, paired with a selection of light bites and pastries.

Must-See Sights

These must-see sights in Coorg promise a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and thrill-seeking adventure.

• Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple): Visit one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in India, adorned with intricate golden statues and vibrant murals.
• Dubare Elephant Camp: Located on the river bank, get up close and feed and bathe the elephants at this stunning nature reserve.
• Abbey Falls: Nestled among private coffee plantations, marvel at the beauty of this spectacular attraction for Instagram-worthy views of Coorg.
• Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in Mandalpatti, the reserve houses rare species of plants, animals, and bird species that are found only in this region, such as Spotted Deer, Wild Pig, and Asian Elephants. 
• Madikeri Fort: Explore the historical Madikeri Fort, built in the 17th century.
• Talakaveri: Visit the source of the River Kaveri at Talakaveri, located in the Brahmagiri Hills, offering stunning views and a serene temple dedicated to Goddess Kaveri.
• Coffee Plantations: Discover Coorg’s famous coffee plantations, where you can learn about coffee cultivation and processing.