Coorg, which is often called the Scotland of India, is nestled amid emerald hills that dot the southernmost tip of Karnataka. Lying serenely among high mountains, its landscape stays misty throughout the year. The aboriginals of the place are Kodavas. Apart from Kannada, the other two main languages of this hill station are Kodagu and Kodava. This is that kind of a place where you can pass hours staring at the magnificence of nature with a book in one hand and a luscious cup of coffee in the other. It is very rich in biodiversity which makes it a great place for naturalists. The best time to visit Coorg is between October to May and the peak season for this hill station is within February to May. A place with a rich history and beautiful scenery is always popular among tourists and Coorg is no exception. The hill station includes several attractions that captivate one’s eyes and heart. Situated in the heart of Karnataka, Coorg and the places near Coorg to visit are nothing short of 'Heaven on Earth'. This place is truly a traveler’s magnet for no one can resist the temptation of visiting the luscious spread of green landscapes, lip-smacking Kodagu cuisine and tempting, gorgeous trekking tracks here. Visit Coorg and get lost in the Scenic Beauty and Charm of Nature.
History of Coorg
Coorg or Kodagu as it is officially known now, is an astonishing land in the heart of the southern Indian peninsula. This unspoilt “country of million hills”, situated on the slopes of the Western Ghats, is India’s coffee bowl. The tiny district in the state of Karnataka is the biggest producer of coffee.
Madikeri or Mercara as it was known when it was once ruled by the British, is the district headquarters and situated at an elevation of 1,140m. Dotted with red-tiled bungalows, the town has an old world charm about it. The British who colonized Coorg and set up coffee plantations prior to Independence, compared Coorg to Scotland as both the places had grand and regal highlands with a sturdy mountain-dwelling race.
Best Time To Visit Coorg Hill Station
| Season | Temperature (°C) | Recommended Activities |
|---|---|---|
| December to February | Pleasant (25°) - Cool (below 10°) | Honeymoon Sightseeing Trekking Visiting Coffee Plantations |
| Summer (March to May) | Pleasant (25°) | Visiting Waterfalls Rafting and Kayaking Camping |
| Monsoon (June to August) | Humid, Wet, Cool | Avoid visiting |
Popular Tourist Attractions in Coorg
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Bhagamandala | A sacred place where the river Cauvery meets the Kaveri River. It is famous for its temple and hot water springs. |
| Talakaveri | The source of the River Cauvery. It is also home to Talakaveri Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. |
| Nisargadhama | An island formed by the Cauvery River with a deer park, butterfly park, and a spice garden. |
| Dubare | A scenic elephant camp and a popular destination for boating and birdwatching. |
| Abbey Falls | A breathtaking waterfall located near Madikeri, accessible via a short trek. |
| Iruppu Falls | Another beautiful waterfall situated on the Shantavana River in the Somwarpet Taluk. |
| The Raja’s Seat | A popular sunset point offering panoramic views of Madikeri and the surrounding hills. |
| Madikeri Fort | A historic fort built in 1681 by King Mudduraja II, showcasing rich history and architecture. |
| Tibetan Buddhist Golden Temple | Also known as Namdroling Monastery, famous for its gold work on every painting. |
| Nagarahole National Park | A protected area renowned for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and various bird species. |
How to Reach Coorg
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a beautiful hill station located in the state of Karnataka, India. It can be accessed only by road.
By Air:
| Nearest Airport: | Mangalore International Airport |
|---|---|
| Distance from Coorg: | 165 km |
- From the airport, you can hire a cab to reach Coorg.
By Road:
- Coorg is well-connected by road from the main cities of South India:
- You can catch deluxe KSRTC buses to Coorg from Mangalore, Bengaluru and Mysore.
By Train:
| Nearest Railway Station: | Mysore |
|---|---|
| Distance from Coorg: | 95 km |
