Coorg: A Detailed Travel Guide

The southern part of India nests Coorg. It is also known as Kodagu, which people often refer to as the small ‘Scotland’ of India. This picturesque hill station is a popular weekend destination from Bangalore, attracting tourists from all over the country.

Fresh air and stunning views of the hills and valleys greet visitors upon arriving in Coorg, captivating their senses. Nature lovers and travel enthusiasts particularly appreciate Coorg for its peaceful atmosphere, ideal for trekking. The magic of Coorg truly lies in its serenity.

How to reach Coorg? Bangalore To Coorg ( Flight)

Coorg is easily accessible from Bangalore or Mysore. Direct options like public buses of Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) from both cities’ railway stations and airports. The journey takes approximately 6 hours from Bangalore. It Is located at a distance of 250 km and 3 hours from Mysore located 120 km away. 

The nearest railway station to Coorg is the Mysore junction. It is located 120 km away and then the Mangalore junction located 135 km away. Taxi and public buses are available from these railway stations to the main city of Coorg. The nearest airport is the Kannur International Airport. It is located about 125 km away while the Mangalore International Airport is 160 km away. The airport allows you to board buses to Coorg and complete tax formalities. (or) You can board buses to Coorg and complete tax formalities at the airport

Best time to visit Coorg 

The best time to visit Coorg is during the monsoon season. From July to October, when the city is most beautiful, with lush greenery and stunning views. However, the monsoon season can sometimes lead to landslides and limit outdoor activities. Early Spring months are also a great time to visit Coorg. To experience the local culture and tradition of this place visit in winter season. This is the coffee harvesting season during this time it offers a unique variety of coffee beans. Many people prefer visiting this place during summer as a family summer vacation trip. The temperature of Coorg is much better than the temperature of other surrounding areas as it is a hill station.

Coorg Resorts

For accommodation, hotels in Coorg range from 1500 to 2000 rupees. For a family trip, consider staying in resorts on the outskirts of the city, surrounded by nature, or opt for a cozy homestay for a more personal experience. Some options for every genre of hotels available in Coorg are:

1. The Hosteller Coorg Rainforest, Madikeri: Located 10 km from Raja’s Seat Mantapa and 16 km from Abbey Falls this property provides amenities like a bonfire, indoor and outdoor games, luggage storage, free parking, and a beautiful cafe with open Wi-Fi. It has spacious dorms and private rooms with a beautiful view of a private pond at just 900 rupees for 2 adults per night.

2. Holidayincoorg Royal Mansion: This highly-rated property, located 1.7 km from Raja’s Seat Mantapa, offers free parking, free Wi-Fi, an open dining area, luggage storage, and frequent room service.. A standard room is available at 1200 rupees for 2 adults for a night. A Delux room with a private balcony is available at 1500 rupees for two adults per night. You can upgrade your stay to include a free breakfast, private kitchen, and private terrace for only 1800 rupees per day.

3. Utthunga Coorg: About a 1.3 km drive from Raja’s Seat Mantapaand 8.5 km from the Abbey Falls this property is located in the main city of Coorg and has an excellent rating. This place has a separate seating area with onsite free parking and a power backup. All these amenities with a pleasant view of the mountains and valleys are available at just 1800 rupees for 2 adults per night. Provided an extra bed with an extra charge.

4. Cherry Loft: To experience luxurious living in Coorg at a reasonable price choosing the Cherry Loft Villa is the best option. Just 2 km from the Raja’s Seat Mantapa this property has a separate barbeque, Kitchenette, dining area, restaurant, and many more. It also offers free wi-fi and outdoor activities like tours and treks at 1900 rupees for 2 adults for a night which is quite reasonable for a luxurious stay in Coorg.

Coorg Tourist Places  ( Goa)

The places to visit in Coorg encompass both local sightseeing spots and those located on the outskirts of the city. On the first day of my trip to Coorg, I opted for local sightseeing. 

Day 1: 

I began my day at the Rajaseat Garden, a picturesque garden with a viewpoint and available adventure activities. The entry fee is a nominal 20 rupees per person. From the garden’s viewpoint, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the city amidst lush greenery. If you want the most spectacular views, head there in the evening, but expect bigger crowds.

Approximately 8 km from the main city of Coorg lies the Abbey Waterfall, where the entry fee is just 10 rupees per person. A short 5 to 10-minute walk from the ticket counter takes you to the waterfall, where you can hear the soothing sounds of nature.. During the monsoon season, the waterfall is particularly breathtaking, with a powerful flow that diminishes during other seasons. 

Coorg boasts Mandalpatti as one of its most beautiful places to visit.Many tourists prefer reaching this destination via a jeep off-road, although a scenic road for two-wheelers is also available. The 2 km path from the parking area to the viewpoint is incredibly scenic, surrounded by lush greenery, and often enveloped in clouds and fog, offering a mystical experience. 

Don’t miss Raja’s Tomb, another notable spot! It houses two tombs within its premises and boasts a vast surrounding garden The entry fee is 10 rupees per person, with the garden blooming beautifully with flowers in March and April. Liven up your Coorg evenings by exploring the vibrant streets of Madikeri town and indulging in some local shopping!

Day 2:

Just 50 km from the main city of Coorg, you’ll find two renowned destinations: the Shri Baghamandala Temple and the Talakaveri Temple, both among the most-visited places in Coorg. As you journey from Coorg to Kuta route, you’ll encounter picturesque coffee plantations, where the fragrant blooms of the plants add to the scenic beauty. 

For those seeking adventure, a visit to Kushalnagar is a must, offering thrilling activities like rafting and the unique experience of camping with elephants at the Dubare elephant camp. Additionally, the Nisargadhama reserve beckons with its safari tours, riverside bamboo attractions, and boating activities. 

History buffs, rejoice! The Madikeri Fort, now a museum, awaits your exploration in under 5 minutes. Don’t miss other notable attractions like the Golden Temple and monastery, adding to the charm of your Coorg adventure.

Is Coorg Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Solo travel has become increasingly popular in recent years, with women embracing the trend to explore destinations independently. Calling all solo female travelers! Coorg, nestled in Karnataka, beckons as the perfect weekend getaway. Solo female travelers can travel with even greater ease in Coorg thanks to the local people’s reputation for politeness and hospitable service. While Coorg is generally safe, women should trust their instincts and avoid venturing alone into poorly lit areas at night to mitigate any potential risks. Ensuring the safety of personal belongings and selecting secure accommodations are crucial steps to minimize any risks while traveling.

Mobile Network in Coorg 

Coorg boasts excellent mobile network coverage, with 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G networks provided by various companies such as Airtel, Jio, Vodafone, Idea, and BSNL, among others. Even in remote areas surrounded by nature, internet connectivity remains reliable, with many resorts and hotels offering open Wi-Fi access for guests.To avoid any connectivity woes during your Coorg trip, reach out to your mobile network provider beforehand and check coverage details for the specific areas you plan to visit.

Languages Spoken in Coorg

Visiting Coorg? Since it’s located in Karnataka, be aware that Kannada is the official language. However, the local language spoken in Coorg is Kodava, which is predominant among the residents. Don’t worry about language barriers in Coorg! While Kodava is the language of most locals and vendors, Malayalam, Tulu, and Tamil are also spoken in the region. Given its status as a tourist destination, many people in Coorg also have a basic understanding of Hindi and English, facilitating communication with tourists.

Nearby tourist spots in Coorg

When traveling to Coorg through Mysore, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the iconic Mysore Palace, a must-see destination. Mysore also offers several other local sightseeing spots worth exploring. In Coorg, immerse yourself in a range of outdoor activities, including trekking, camping, jeep safaris, ziplining, adventure sports, and biking, ensuring an unforgettable experience amidst nature’s beauty. Many travelers opt for combined packages to Ooty and Coorg to enjoy both these stunning hill stations in the south. Coorg’s proximity to several other attractions makes it an ideal base for further exploration. Be sure to visit Tala Kaveri, Nehru Mantap, Tadiyandamol Peak Trek, Tala Kaveri Temple, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Mallalli Falls, and Iruppu Falls, enhancing your Coorg getaway with diverse experiences.

How to travel in Coorg?

Renting a scooter in Coorg can be a convenient option for exploring the area, but it can be pricey, with rates averaging around 700 rupees per day. Bikes and bullets are also available for rent, but at higher rates, often exceeding 1000 rupees per day. To secure the best prices, it’s advisable to book these two-wheelers online, especially during peak seasons when prices tend to fluctuate.

Where to eat in Coorg?

Coorg’s traditional dinners are a must-try for any foodie. You won’t believe the delicious food you’ll find at a traditional Coorg dinner! Coorg has amazing local food! Try specialities like Pandi Curry (spicy pork curry), Kadambuttu (steamed rice dumplings), and Bamboo Shoot Curry. You can find these dishes at local restaurants, or even surprisingly, at some Italian outlets in the city!. Some notable dining establishments in Coorg include East End Hotel, renowned for its traditional Coorgi cuisine; RainTree Restaurant, offering a wide range of vegetarian dishes; Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa, known for its luxurious dining experience; and Fort Mercara, celebrated for its continental dishes. Whether you’re craving local flavors or international fare, Coorg has a variety of dining options to satisfy every palate.

Other tips

  • Don’t miss out on purchasing high-quality coffee beans, a specialty of Coorg. 
  • Explore the local eateries in the main market for authentic flavors. 
  • Since there are only buses for public transport in Coorg, you’ll need to plan your trip accordingly. This emphasizes that planning is necessary due to limited public transport options.
  • It’s advisable to carry an umbrella during the monsoon to stay dry. 
  • Indulge in the delicious Coorgi cuisine for a true taste of the region.
  • Pack basic medical supplies as Coorg has limited medical facilities.
  • When visiting Coorg during the monsoon season, consider getting a package deal for the best experience.

Budget 

For a cost-effective trip to Coorg, a two-day itinerary is ideal. Accommodation in an average hotel costs around 1500 to 2000 rupees for two adults per night. You can expect to spend around 700 to 800 rupees per person on meals in Coorg. The major expense is transportation, which amounts to 4500 to 5000 rupees for a car. 

Expense Breakdown:

Hotel: 2000/-

Meals: 1500/-

Transportation: 2500/-

Total Cost for 2 Days: Approximately 6000 rupees per person. 

Note: All expenses are approximate and do not include taxes.

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