One of the popular weekend destinations in South India, traditionally known as Kodagu, Coorg is a quaint hill station located in Karnataka. Famed for its coffee production, gushing waterfalls, verdant valleys, rich environment, lush forests, diverse culture and many more reasons, this green hamlet is a treat in all senses that no travellers can ever forget.
Speaking of the geography of Coorg, the location has made this place a natural wonder in the true sense. It is located on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats covering an area of 4,102 square kilometres in Southwest Karnataka. The region was previously treated as a separate administration till 1956 and then merged with the Mysore division. Coorg or Kodagu is bordered by equally impressive scenic locations. It is enclosed by Hassan District in North, South Kannada District in Northwest, Kasaragod District (Kerala) in West, Kannur District (Kerala) in Southwest, Mysore District in East and Wayanad District (Kerala) in South.
Most of the sightseeing places in Coorg are around the coffee plantations, hills, rivers and waterfalls. The rich landscapes of these natural assets are unforgettable and beyond comparison. There are numerous must-visit places in this popular hill station in Karnataka that will make you feel happy and content.
To help you with the decision to select the best places to visit in Coorg, we have made a list of the places and suggestions on the best things to do in Coorg. Read the whole article below and add these places to your Coorg itinerary.
Coorg Tourism – List of Top 15 Places to Visit in Coorg, Karnataka
- Abbey Falls
- Mallalli Falls
- Madikeri Fort
- Dubare Elephant Camp
- Omkareshwara Temple
- Kotebetta Peak
- Mandalpatti View Point
- Gaddige or Raja’s Tomb
- Karada Village
- Dargah Sharif
- Tadiandamol Peak
- Raja’s Seat
- Nehru Mantap
- Harangi Dam
- Nalknad Aramane Palace
Most Popular Coorg Sightseeing Holiday Tour Packages
Abbey Falls
Previously known as Jesse or Jessy Falls, located at a distance of eight kilometres from Madikeri town, Abbey Falls is one of the top tourist places in Coorg. Famous for its natural beauty, this picturesque waterfall is nestled between the spice and coffee plantations. Aromas of spices and coffee along with the coolness of air at Abbey Falls make it one of a kind place to visit.
Abbey Falls attract thousands of nature enthusiasts as well as photographers all around the year. The sight of cascading water falling from the height of around 20 metres surrounded by some breathtaking views of greenery – is what makes the people fall in love with this place. Abbey Waterfalls is a combination of several streams that fall together from a cliff and form a pool of water, which merges into the river Kaveri.
Things to Do
Abbey Falls is open to the public every day from 9 AM to 5 PM. The entry fee is Rs. 15 per person.
- Hike around 200 steps amidst the plantations and reach the falls.
- Climb to the hanging bridge and click photographs of unobstructed views of the waterfall.
- Make a plan to visit this place during monsoon to get the best views of the water.
- Taste coffee in one of the stalls near Abbey Falls.
Other Interesting Blogs to Read
Mallalli Falls
Mallalli Falls is one of the best places to visit in Coorg for couples as well as people who love chasing waterfalls. The location of the waterfall at the foothills of Pushpagiri Hill Ranges makes it one of the amazing trekking points in Coorg. It is situated at a distance of 25 kilometres from Somwarpet, which is one of the taluks of Coorg.
Mallalli Falls is basically River Kumaradhara falling from Pushpagiri Peak over a height of around 60 metres. You can find some amazing landscapes around the waterfall and the trekking trails that come through some beautiful settings of nature. The best time to visit this waterfall is during the monsoon. You will find more water in the falls and more refreshing greenery around the place this time.
Things to Do
You can visit this place at any time on a day from 9 AM to 5 PM.
- Explore the beauty of Mallalli Falls and get some amazing photographs.
- Explore the villages near the waterfall.
- Get an adrenaline rush while trekking through one of the adventurous trails in Coorg.
Other Interesting Blogs to Read
Madikeri Fort
Madikeri Fort is a 17th century-old building, which has become a top tourist attraction in Coorg. The fort represents an opulent historical and cultural background as it stands as evidence of several battles. Madikeri Fort now flaunts a museum, which was previously a church made in the Gothic style of architecture and also has a palace inside it.
As history says, Madikeri Fort has been rebuilt several times. It was first built in the last quarter of the 17th century. Then Tippu Sultan rebuilt it again and made it into a fort made of stones and bricks. It was renamed Jaffarabad by Tippu Sultan. Then again, it was rebuilt by Lingarajendra Wodeyar II. The British also refurbished it twice. They added a church in the place of a temple, which was dedicated to Virabhadra. The church has been converted into a museum now, which is under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India.
Things to Do
The fort is one of the top tourist destinations in Madikeri Hill Station. It remains closed on Mondays and opens from 10 AM to 5:30 PM on other days.
- Explore the fort and its surrounding area.
- Visit the museum and learn about various kinds of antiques of Coorg.
- Visit other buildings inside the fort, such as Mahatma Gandhi Public Library, district prison and more.
- Experience the celebration of Madikeri Dasara Festival in Kote Maha Ganapathi Temple.
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Dubare Elephant Camp
Dubare Elephant Camp is the best travel destination in Coorg for wildlife enthusiasts. This elephant camp is a part of a project undertaken by the Forest Department of the state that offers a unique opportunity to be close to elephants and create some memories with them. It attracts thousands of tourists every year from all over the world.
Dubare Elephant Camp is located on the bank of the Kaveri River, encompassed by lush greenery. Previously, the elephants in the camp were used to be trained for the Dussehra performance in Mysore. Now, trained under naturalists, they are used for jungle rides. People can learn about the ecology, biology and history of the elephants in the camp.
Things to Do
Elephant rides are available during the scheduled time from 10 AM to 12 PM and in the evening from 4 PM to 5 PM.
- Give baths to elephants in the Kaveri River.
- Take part in a three-hour elephant interaction.
- Feed the elephants with bananas, sugarcane and coconuts.
- Enjoy the environment of the places around Dubare Elephant Camp.
- Enjoy a stay at one of the cottages and observe the elephants closely.
Other Interesting Blogs to Read
Omkareshwara Temple
Omkareshwara Temple was built in 1820 by King Lingarajendra II as an act of self-punishment. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is known here as Omkareshwara and represents a combined form of architecture – Gothic and Islamic.
Being a popular tourist destination, Omkareshwara Temple attracts a lot of tourists of different faiths all over the year. This historical temple features a dome in the centre and the four corners of the temple are surrounded by turrets. You can have a glimpse of the deity installed near the entrance. In front of the temple, there is a water tank, which is inhabited by a variety of fish.
Things to Do
Omkareshwara Temple is open in two different time slots. It remains open from 6:30 AM to 12 PM in the morning and in the evening, from 5 PM to 8 PM.
- Seek blessings from Lord Shiva (Omkareshwara).
- Explore the mixed style of architecture (Gothic and Islamic).
- Watch the different varieties of fish in the water tank.
- Learn about the history of the temple.
- Explore the surroundings of the temple.
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Kotebetta Peak
Kotebetta is the third highest peak in the Coorg region after Tadiyandamol and Brahmagiri. It is situated at a height of 1,620 metres at the border between Coorg District and South Kannada District. Location wise, the peak lies between Madikeri town and Somwarpet and can be easily reached without hassle.
The name Kotebetta is derived from the word ‘Kote Betta’ which means Fort Hill. The peak looks like a fort on the top of the hill and that’s why it is named so. It offers an amazing trekking opportunity to tourists. The ten kilometres long trail from Hattihole to the peak offers some breathtaking views of the surroundings and makes the trek more amazing. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva at the peak where the trail ends. It is better to trek to Kotebetta Peak during the months between October and March along with a travel guide.
Things to Do
You don’t need any permission from authorities for trekking to Kotebetta Peak.
- Enjoy the trek and click some awesome photographs of the surroundings.
- Wear proper shoes and take the necessary equipment along with you.
- Seek blessings at the temple on the peak.
- Spend some relaxing time amidst nature.
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Mandalpatti View Point
A trek to Mandalpatti is one of the perfect opportunities to stay amidst the calmness and natural settings of Coorg. The seclusion of the place is surrounded by amazing sceneries of flora and fauna along with the mesmerising views from the top. It will make you refreshed and rejuvenated after trekking to Mandalpatti.
It is located at a distance of around 30 kilometres from Madikeri town and just four kilometres before Abbey Falls. One has to hire a private vehicle to reach Mandalpatti base as there is no bus facility available on the route. The best time to trek is between November and January, as the road is not developed completely and might become risky during monsoon.
Things to Do
Travellers need to take an entrance ticket from the base of Mandalpatti. They also need to carry all the necessary things as there are no shops throughout the trail.
- Enjoy the cool breeze after reaching the top.
- Click pictures of the stunning views of the surroundings.
- Spend some relaxing time amidst nature.
Also Read: Heritage Tourism in Karnataka
Gaddige or Raja’s Tomb
Raja’s Tomb or known as Gaddige or Gadduge in the native language is one of the important monuments in Madikeri or Coorg. It is located on the northeast side of Coorg at a distance of 1.5 kilometres from the town. This architectural beauty represents the pervading Indo-Saracenic style of construction.
The monument features a tomb at the centre and turrets at the corners, also depicting the Muhammadan style of architecture. There are carvings on the top of the corners as well as on the entrance. Lord Shiva is placed inside the tomb and it is believed to be worshipped. There are a total of three tombs inside the monument. The left tomb was built in 1834 AD and dedicated to Guru Rudrappa and the right one is for Lingarajendra, built by his son Chikkaveerarajendra in 1820 AD. The central tomb, which is the largest, is dedicated to King Doddaveerarajendra along with his wife Mahadeviamma.
Things to Do
You can visit Gaddige or Raja’s Tomb at any point of time on any day.
- Explore the monument and its history.
- Explore the surrounding areas.
- Visit the burial place of the royals near the tomb.
- Visit Muttappa Temple after visiting the tomb.
Also Read: Pilgrimage Tourism in Karnataka
Karada Village
After being popular as a hill station in South India, Coorg has also made its name on the list of honeymoon destinations. One such honeymoon destination in Coorg is Karada Village, which is located at a distance of approximately 30 kilometres from Madikeri town. The place is an ideal location to spend some days surrounded by nature with your life partner.
Karada Village is home to some amazing ancestral homes of Coorg. Some of them are believed to be 200-300 years old. If you want to experience a cosy stay in one of these old houses amidst the wild beauty of natural settings, you have to book one in advance. Apart from a comfortable stay, you can also experience the authentic Coorg cuisine here which will make your honeymoon days more memorable.
Things to Do
If you want to stay in Karada Village you have to book in advance.
- Enjoy the cosy atmosphere in a home-like ambience.
- Enjoy the authentic Coorg cuisine.
- Go for a trek or a nature walk.
- Enjoy clicking photographs of the coffee and spice plantations.
- Make some beautiful memories with your loved one amidst the beautiful settings of nature.
Also Read: Wildlife Tourism in Karnataka
Dargah Sharif
One of the most sacred places for people of the Islamic faith in Coorg, Dargah Sharif is located in Yemmemadu, 35 kilometres away from Madikeri town. The Dargah was built in the fond memory of two Sufi saints, Hazrath Sufi Shaheed and Sayyed Hassan Sakaf Halramir. Legend says, both of the saints came from Persia 366 years ago and sacrificed their lives serving the poor and teaching Islamic discourses.
Dargah Sharif of Yemmemadu attracts lakhs of tourists at the time of the ‘Urs’ Festival. It is an eight-day long festival organised in the memory of the Sufi saints. Moreover, this architectural beauty also remains one of the best places to visit in Coorg.
Things to Do
Dargah Sharif of Yemmemadu remains open from 7 AM to 7 PM.
- Seek blessings of the Sufi Saints.
- Visit this place at the time of the ‘Urs’ Festival and celebrate with other devotees.
- Explore the architecture and the surrounding areas.
- Enjoy the food served on the last of ‘Urs.’
Also Read: Must Visit Hill Stations in Karnataka
Tadiandamol Peak
The highest peak of Coorg and the second-highest in the state of Karnataka, Tadiandamol is one of the favourite destinations in Coorg for trek lovers. It is located in the Southeast part of Coorg at a height of 1,746 metres.
Trekking through the amazing trails of the hills towards Tadiandamol Peak offers some captivating views of the surroundings. The best time for trekking to this peak is during winter, between the months of December and May. However, one can also visit one-third of the trail by jeeps if they do not want to walk through the full length.
Things to Do
You can travel to this peak on any day of the week and at any time.
- Trek to the peak through the amazing trails.
- Click pictures of the breathtaking views from the peak.
- Stay at the Nalknad Palace.
- Visit Padi Igguthappa Temple near the peak.
Also Read: Adventure Tourism in Karnataka
Raja’s Seat
Raja’s Seat, literally known as ‘Seat of the Kings,’ is a must-visit place to add to the list of places in your Coorg travel plan. The place is located in Stuart Hill, Madikeri and used to be a favourite of the Kings of Coorg. Raja’s Seat is definitely a beautiful place to refresh yourself with the mesmerising views of the valleys and soothing environment.
The scenic beauty and the calmness of the place are beyond comparison and make this place a perfect spot for spending some relaxing time with your loved ones. Raja’s Seat is also one of those places in Coorg from where you can experience stunning views of sunrise and sunset. It is now converted into a park along with a children’s amusement section, which makes it a perfect spot for a family outing.
Things to Do
Raja’s Seat remains open to the public from 5:30 AM to 8 PM and there is an entry fee to enter the park.
- Watch a beautiful sunrise or sunset.
- Have a toy train ride in the park.
- Spend some relaxing time amidst nature.
- Visit the Gandhi Mantap near the place.
Also Read: Beach Tourism in Karnataka
Nehru Mantap
Nehru Mantap is a secluded spot, located on the top of a hill overlooking the Madikeri radio station. It is a top travel destination in Coorg for nature lovers and people who want to travel to the lesser-known and uncrowded spots far away from the hustle and bustle of cities.
The refreshing, calm and natural setting around the place will rejuvenate you. Reaching this place is not a difficult task for travellers. You have to climb around 30 steps to reach Nehru Mantap. The amazing view of the Madikeri radio station along with the enticing views of the distant mountains are one of a kind.
Things to Do
The place remains open from sunrise to sunset (from 6 AM to 6 PM).
- Refresh yourself amidst the peaceful environment of Nehru Mantap.
- Click some amazing pictures of sunrise and sunset from the place.
- Enlighten your creativity in privacy.
- Set up a picnic for your dear ones.
Also Read: Must Visit Museums in Karnataka
Harangi Dam
Sightseeing in Coorg cannot be completed without visiting this marvellous dam in Hudgur village in Kodagu District. The first-ever dam built across the river Kaveri, Harangi Dam has a length of around 850 metres and a height of 47 metres. Popular as a picnic spot, Harangi Dam offers a spectacular view of water falling down.
It is one of the best places to visit with family if you want to spend some relaxing time in a secluded and less-crowded place in Coorg. This picnic spot is located at a distance of 36 kilometres from Madikeri town and can be reached easily. The best time to visit the palace is between August and September. However, if you want to stay here, you can book one of the guest houses in advance.
Things to Do
Harangi Dam remains open to the public from 8 AM to 6 PM.
- Visit the dam and the surrounding area.
- Visit the Cauvery temple near the dam.
- Plan a picnic with your dear ones.
- Click photographs of some exotic flora and fauna at the places near the dam.
Also Read: Best Hill Stations to Explore in South India
Nalknad Aramane Palace
Nalknad Aramane is an age-old palace built by a Haleri ruler Dodda Virarajendra in 1792 after he escaped from Tippu Sultan’s troops. There are several different stories associated with the palace, which has been standing as historical evidence of Coorg. As per history, the palace was also used as a shelter for the last emperor of Haleri, Chikkaveera Rajendra. He was hiding here during the period of the British invasion of the Kodagu District.
One of the top visiting places in Coorg, Nalknad Aramane Palace flaunts an impressive structure on the top of a hill and ancient carvings and paintings across the walls and roofs. You will see a huge gateway upon entering the palace and a kalyana mandapa inside the building. Moreover, there is a durbar or a meeting place and ‘two dark rooms’ in the basement, which were used as the hiding places for the kings.
Things to Do
Nalknad Aramane Palace remains open from 9 AM to 6 PM.
- Explore this beautiful architecture and its history.
- Explore the surroundings of the palace.
- Click pictures of this stunning architectural beauty and all of its chambers.
Other Interesting Blogs to Read
All of these visiting places in Coorg are beautiful and offer tranquillity amidst nature, far away from the hustle and bustle of cities. This enchanting hill station tour will give you some memorable moments that will keep you rejuvenated through the year. We hope this travel guide will help you select the places in your Coorg trip.
Moreover, if you need any assistance in booking a Coorg hill station tour, you can browse our websites. We have several Coorg Tourism packages/Coorg Sightseeing Tour packages that cater for all of your requirements of travelling to Coorg tourist places.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why visit Coorg?
Popularly known as the ‘Scotland of India,’ Coorg is a little paradise on earth. There are numerous reasons why you should visit Coorg, and all of them are associated with the geographical and cultural diversity and beauty of this place. This beautiful region is home to several coffee and spice plantations, rolling hills, mystic valleys and green rainforests, which are some of the main ingredients to make your Coorg Hill Station tour memorable for life.
What are the best places to see in Coorg?
There are innumerable places to see in Coorg. It is one of the best places to add to your itinerary if you are planning for a South India tour. However, holidays in Coorg cannot be completed without visiting these places:
- Abbey Falls
- Raja’s Seat
- Namdroling Monastery or Golden Temple
- Iruppu Falls
- Tadiandamol Peak
- Madikeri Fort
- Dubare Elephant Camp
- Omkareshwara Temple
- Harangi Dam
- Honnamana Kere Lake
What are the top things to do in Coorg?
The various top tourism sights in Coorg let the travellers make the best memories along with several activities to do. Some of the top things to do in Coorg are:
- Trek to Abbey Falls and click pictures.
- Bathe elephants in Dubare Elephants Camp.
- Go fishing in the Kaveri River.
- Learn about spice and coffee plantations at the estates.
- Experience a heritage tour of Madikeri Fort.
- Explore the unique cuisines of Kodagu.
- Hike to the highest peak of Coorg, Kotebetta.
- Experience bird watching in Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Explore Tibetan culture at Golden Temple.
- Witness the magical Iruppu Falls.
What is the best time to plan holidays to Coorg?
Popular as a nature tourist destination in South India, Coorg is a place that has a wide range of ecosystems all in one place. It has options like trekking, jungle safari, heritage walk, nature walk and many more - in a single place. You can make a plan for the best places to see in Coorg at any time of the year.
However, September to June is the best time to visit the popular points of tourist interest in Coorg. Also, if you are a trek lover and want to trek in this hill station, then October to March is the best time for planning treks in Coorg.
About the author
From the ‘City of Joy,’ Kolkata, Nandini Bhattacharya is a Travel Writer by profession and traveller by passion. She loves to explore places around the world, new cultures, different cuisines and all new things that one can learn outside the home. She also loves to document her journey so that people can be inspired and travel more. Nandini is a nature lover and talks about sustainable tourism. She wants to make this world a good place where people can live healthy and happily.
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