10 Hidden Gems in Coorg’s Coffee Landscapes and Serene Countryside

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For those acquainted with information about Coorg, you've likely come across its comparison as the 'Scotland of India.' However, in my perspective, Coorg's beauty stands independently and doesn't require a moniker for validation. While you may recognize Coorg for its vast coffee and pepper plantations, winding rivers, and dense bamboo forests, did you know it's also graced with an abundance of passion fruit, avocados (known as butter fruit to the native Kodavas), arecanut, banana plantations, honey, enchanting waterfalls, and picturesque paddy fields? Coorg, a genuine paradise on earth, is nestled within the Western Ghats in the southwestern part of Karnataka, India.

It is the ancestral abode of the 'Kodavas,' an age-old clan celebrated for their remarkable martial skills, and the 'Ammangas,' the Brahmins who served as temple priests, overseeing the god’s bhandara (jewellery box) within their households. While there were originally several communities, some have unfortunately become extinct over time.

Fascinating Fact: Every Coorgi family possesses a gun, and interestingly, we are also exempted from needing a gun license.

As someone from Coorg, it saddens me that many visitors think the town centre of Madikeri is all there is to our rich culture. I want to guide travellers who are curious to see more than just the usual tourist spots and help them discover the real Coorg. The true beauty of Coorg lies in its peaceful countryside, far from the busy town, surrounded by coffee estates and quiet charm, these are the hidden gems I hope people explore.

For those who like visiting the main attractions, Madikeri is a good starting point with places like the Glass Bridge, General Thimmiah Museum, and Namdroling Monastery. But if you enjoy going off the beaten path, you should definitely visit other parts of Coorg like Virajpet and Somwarpet. Virajpet, in the south, is known for its spice and coffee plantations—it’s a place close to my heart and where my grandfathers built their homes among the coffee fields. For a quieter and more immersive experience, Somwarpet offers rolling hills and beautiful coffee estates, perfect for those wanting to soak in the untouched beauty of Coorg.

Certainly, there are travelers who prefer a predetermined itinerary featuring the prominent tourist attractions of Coorg, with limited time to explore the more remote and hidden gems the destination has to offer. For those travelers, I have dedicated a blog post - 'Top 11 Tourist Attractions in Coorg'. In the following blog post, I am going to unveil the rich Coorg experience and aim to leave you with lasting memories to cherish. Before getting there, a very important question first.

How to reach Coorg?

The closest international airport to Coorg is Kannur International Airport in Kerala, and it usually takes about 3 to 4 hours to reach different parts of Coorg from there. Other nearby airports include Mysore Airport and Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. Mysore Airport has limited flights, mostly connecting to major Indian cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, and a few others. Bengaluru Airport, on the other hand, has many domestic and international flight options.

From Bengaluru or Mysore, you can rent a self-drive car or hire a taxi to reach Coorg. The fastest way is by car from Bengaluru, which takes around 4 to 5 hours. Another option is to take an airport bus from Bengaluru to Mysore, and then continue your journey to Coorg by taxi or local bus. Several buses, including AC, non-AC, sleeper, and semi-sleeper, run directly from the Bengaluru bus stand to Coorg towns like Madikeri, Gonikoppal, Virajpet, and Somwarpet.

When is the best time to visit Coorg?

The best time to visit Coorg is between September and February, during the cool weather. Winters can be very cold, especially in December, January, and February, but they have their own charm with misty air, foggy nights, and chilly days. The summer months from March to May and the monsoon months from June to August are not the ideal times to visit due to excessive heat and heavy rainfall. However, they are still manageable for travel enthusiasts.

Hidden Gems in Coorg

With a week in Coorg, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the best the region has to offer, without rushing. This includes travel time between places and enough breathing room to truly enjoy each experience. The list below covers must-visit spots and hidden gems that promise unforgettable memories, ones that might just stay with you for a lifetime, and maybe even beyond.

#1 Offer prayers in the revered temple of Igguthappa

Back in 1810, during the reign of Linga Rajendra in Coorg, a silver elephant was gifted to this temple, a generous offering that still remains there today. The temple itself has a peaceful, sacred feel, with stone walls and tiled roofs that give it a unique charm.

This temple is dedicated to Lord Igguthappa, the beloved God of Rain and Harvest, believed to be a form of Lord Subramanya (Murugan). He’s not just a deity for the people of Coorg—he’s seen as the guardian of their land, closely connected to farming, prosperity, and local traditions.

One of the special rituals here is Thulabaram, held every Wednesday and Saturday. Families make offerings, often rice, as a form of deep devotion. A person is weighed against the offering, usually grains or other items, and this is then donated to the temple. It’s a beautiful way of fulfilling a vow and showing gratitude. On these days, Kodava men and women dress in traditional attire—silk sarees for women, and dhotis or full pants for men—adding to the spiritual and cultural vibe.

This is my family’s favourite temple in Coorg. We know the patta (priest) personally, and he always prays for our family. There’s a calm and peace here that I don’t feel anywhere else, except maybe at my dad’s Shettigeri temple! One of the highlights is the Maha-Prasad served after darshan. If you’re there in the morning, you’ll get a light breakfast with a savoury and a sweet dish. If you come around lunchtime, you’ll be treated to a full meal consisting of steaming rice, a gravy made with lentils and vegetables, and a sweet dish to end with.

Temple Timings: 5:30 AM to 2:00 PM & 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Please Note: The temple is accessed through a long stretch of steep stairs connecting the base (parking lot) to the main temple at the top, involving a steep climb.

#2 Highest Peak Thadiyandamol Trek through dense forests

I've lost count of how many times my cousin urged me to join him on this trek. Below is his account of the numerous visits to this place.

One of the best treks to do in Coorg is the Thadiyandamol Trek. It’s a moderately tough trek that takes around 5 to 6 hours in total. The one-way hike to the top is about 4 km long and climbs around 450 meters in height. The trail takes you through green forests, coffee estates, and small streams, making the walk really scenic and enjoyable.

Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of the Western Ghats and the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. If you enjoy nature and a bit of adventure, this trek is definitely worth doing while you're in Coorg.

Please Note: The trek typically starts between 6 AM to 7 AM, depending on the mist conditions. And be cautious of leeches!

#3 Explore the Historical Charm of Nalknad Palace

If you have some free time and are curious about local history, I recommend visiting Nalknad Palace (also called Nalkunadu), located at the base of the mountain that leads to Thadiyandamol peak. This quiet and hidden spot was once the hiding place of Chikka Veerarajendra, the last Haleri king, before he was removed by the British.

Locals call it Naalnaad Aramane, and it’s near Yavakapadi village. The palace was built between 1792 and 1794 ADand offers a peaceful glimpse into Coorg’s royal past.

Though the palace is a bit neglected today, it holds a truly fascinating history. I really encourage you to visit, your interest and support could help draw attention from the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Government of Karnataka, and possibly lead to its better upkeep.

The rooms are dark, and some areas like tunnels haven’t been properly maintained, but if you know a bit about Kodava history, you’ll likely find it quite intriguing. The caretaker is friendly and, if you ask, will gladly share stories about the palace and walk you through its quiet, shadowy halls, some of which still have old paintings on the walls. With some restoration and proper lighting, I believe this place could easily become one of Coorg’s most beautiful hidden gems.

Please Note:

• The approach road is in poor condition.

• The site is not well maintained.

• Closed between 1 and 2 pm; the caretaker reopens it at 2:00 PM.

#4 Conquer the rapids in Barapole River rafting

If you have already experienced river rafting in the sacred Ganges River in Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, then you can skip this opportunity. However, if you haven't had the chance to raft with the skilled Rishikeshis, you now have the option to explore river rafting in Coorg in the months from June to September. The same companies that organize rafting expeditions up north also operate in Coorg. With the fierce rapids of the Barapole River, many adventure enthusiasts are eager to take on the thrilling experience in Coorg.

There are two places in Coorg where you can enjoy rafting: the Barapole River Rafting Base and the Dubare River Rafting Base. While I haven't personally been to the one in Dubare, I can highly recommend the early morning rafting experience at the Barapole River rafting base. By starting early, we were able to avoid the crowds and admire the breathtaking views of the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and dense forests during our rafting adventure. We even had the chance to jump off the raft and swim in the river (while wearing life jackets), which is truly a surreal experience.

Please Note: The cost of Coorg rafting packages typically ranges from INR 800 to INR 2,000 per person. However, prices may vary depending on the chosen rafting course and the season. Children below 13 years of age are not allowed to participate in rafting activities.

#5 A Sip at Glenlorna tea estates

Isn’t it amazing? A tea estate right in the middle of Coorg, a place that’s mostly known for its coffee plantations! Discovering this was such a surprise and added a whole new twist to my journey. What makes it even more interesting is that tea has actually been grown here since 1914, going all the way back to British times.

We drove down in my dad’s car. It’s just 1 km from the Barapole River Rafting Point, and not too far from key towns either: 20 km from Gonikoppal, 21 km from Kutta, and 76 km from Madikeri. It's a quiet little corner of Coorg with a story of its own.

Glenlorna is a lovely hidden spot near Hudikeri town in Coorg, Karnataka. It’s the only tea estate in a region that’s mostly known for coffee, and it’s owned by Tata Plantations.

What really caught my attention was the view—on one side of the road, we passed coffee plantations with tall trees and pepper vines, and on the other side, we saw green hills covered with tea plants. As we went higher, the coffee slowly disappeared, and we found ourselves surrounded by about 1200 acres of tea gardens.

Glenlorna is also special because it has its own tea factory, the only one of its kind in Coorg. We parked our car by the roadside and walked around, enjoying the peaceful views of the tea estate and the hills in the distance. It’s a calm and beautiful place—perfect if you want to explore something different in Coorg.

Please Note: During my visit in August 2023, the tours were closed for renovation reasons, but they typically offer plantation tours and are open from 6 AM - 6 PM.

#6 Splash with happiness at Iruppu falls

My love for Coorg comes from my childhood, spent in clean, untouched places, because that’s all I ever knew growing up. One of the most magical spots for me is Iruppu Falls, also called Lakshmana Tirtha Falls, located in the peaceful village of Kutta, near the Karnataka–Kerala border. These falls are hidden deep inside thick forests, away from the main roads and crowds.

I still remember how leeches would sometimes stick to my uncles' and aunts' legs or backs while walking through the forest—it was a bit scary but also strangely exciting as a kid. The walk to the falls is about 500 to 600 meters from the main gate, with around 200 to 500 steps, broken up by flat areas where you can rest. There are also little spots along the way where you can sit and take in the surroundings.

Bathing under the powerful stream of water was the best part, it felt private, refreshing, and so much fun. We’d scream and laugh as the icy cold water hit our backs, it was unforgettable. For the best views, you can also climb a bit higher up.

After the dip, we always stopped by the 4 or 5 small shops near the entrance to grab some chips, biscuits, or a bottle of water before heading back. It’s a memory I’ll always treasure—simple joys in the heart of nature.

Please Note:

• The waterfall is easily accessible for families and kids.

• The entry fee is Rs. 50 per person, and the waterfall is open from 8 am to 5 pm.

• There is also a changing room next to the shops, with a nominal fee of around Rs. 10 for changing or Rs. 5 for restroom use. However, the condition of the changing rooms inside the main gate may not be the best.

• Parking is available.

• The best time to visit is early morning to avoid crowds, and for those who want to witness a heavy flow, the peak monsoon season is recommended.

#7 Coorg's Coffee Tasting Extravaganza

Coming to the coffee land and not sipping some, that's like missing out on the fun! If you are a coffee-lover, then there is nothing more precious than visiting a family-owned coffee estate in Coorg that has been producing high-quality coffee beans for generations and learning the bean to brew process and sampling some great Arabica or Robusta coffee.

Sitting at about 3,400 feet above sea level, the Karagunda Coffee Plantation, run by the Chebbi family, is a true treat for coffee lovers. A visit here is more than just a walk through a plantation, it’s an experience filled with nature, local stories from the planter, and a few wild surprises (watch out for insects and the occasional snake! 😉).

Even if you're not a big fan of coffee tours, you might want to give this one a try. You’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, fresh air, and the cheerful sounds of birds, it’s incredibly peaceful. If you visit during harvest season, you can watch workers carefully handpick each coffee bean, making sure only the best ones go into your cup.

You’ll also get to learn about how coffee is processed, both wet and dry methods, how it's roasted, and finally, enjoy a warm cup of one of Coorg’s finest brews.

Interesting to Know: Coffee is a significant part of the Coorg culture. Coffee and pepper plantation contribute to the population’s main income source. The Coorgs start the day with coffee, rely on it throughout the day, and end their day with a cup. It's no wonder, as coffee is their livelihood and a source of pride.

Address: Madikeri, Karnataka 571214, Madikeri -Taal Kaveri Road

Please Note: Wear comfy shoes, sunscreen, and expect a small tour fee (totally worth it!). And hey, drop a note if you're in Coorg - let's bond over brews in my father's century-old coffee haven! 🌿☕

#8 Explore the untamed wilderness of Nagarhole National park

Nagarhole National Park is positioned in the southern region of Coorg, near the town of Kutta. Our journeys between Bangalore and Coorg, or vice versa, inevitably involve traversing this national park. A cautionary sign from the forest department greets us, advising to "drive slow, wild animals here" or "do not get off your car." While I haven't been fortunate enough to witness it, my cousins have encountered the majestic sight of tigers standing boldly in the middle of the road, causing a temporary halt in vehicular movement. There have also been incidents of wild elephants causing chaos and pursuing vehicles along this route. On certain days, you might be treated to a diverse array of wildlife in this lush flora of the national park, including Chitals, Bisons, Wild dogs, Mongoose, Wild Pigs, Hanuman Langurs, Monkeys, various bird species, and tuskers (elephants).

Nagarhole National Park provides safaris into both its core and buffer zones for visitors interested in exploring wildlife and the natural beauty of the park. While respecting individual preferences, I believe a more appealing alternative is to explore the park at your own pace in your private vehicle, excluding the core areas, of course. I highly advocate for Kabini Wildlife, located a 2-hour drive from Virajpet or a 3-hour drive from Madikeri.

#9 Coffee plantations tour in a tractor

One of the best parts of our trips to Coorg, for both my kids and me, has always been the tractor rides through my uncle’s coffee estate. We hop onto the big, sturdy tractor, and as the engine starts with a loud, cracking sound, it often startles the peacocks, who quickly move out of our way as we drive past them.

The ride can be a bit bumpy (you might feel it in your back and on your butt!), but it’s so much fun and totally worth it. If you're staying at a homestay hosted by a local, I’d definitely recommend asking if they can arrange a tractor ride. It’s a great little adventure, especially for kids!

#10 Elephant Feeding at Mathigodu Elephant Camp

As you enter or exit Coorg through Anne Chowkoor, make sure to stop by the Mathigodu Elephant Camp, a peaceful and hidden gem near Thithimathi, surrounded by thick forest. This quiet camp is home to around 20 elephants, all cared for by the forest department and their dedicated mahouts (caretakers), who spend their days feeding, bathing, and bonding with them.

The camp is open to visitors only for a short time each day, from 9 to 10:30 AM and again from 4 to 5:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly. During these hours, you can touch the elephants, feed them, and enjoy your own quiet moment with these gentle giants.

These elephants aren’t just here for show. They are trained and used for important forest work, like tracking tigers and other wildlife, especially since there have been several tiger attack incidents in nearby villages. They also help forest officials monitor the health of the jungle, keeping an eye on wildlife activity. A few of them are even chosen to take part in the grand Dussehra processions, proudly representing Karnataka’s rich tradition.

Stays - Witness the culture of the Kodavas living in a heritage home

Can you imagine truly living the Kodava way of life? For example, my home, a century-old heritage house, has cool red oxide floors, low doorways, and a cosy sit-out that opens up to wide paddy fields, surrounded by lush coffee plantations. It’s peaceful and calm, far away from the noise of city life, poor network, no sounds, only tranquility.

During the day, the only sounds you hear are the cows mooing in the distance, the soft chatter of estate workers, and the evening calls of crickets. Sometimes, we help the maids milk the cows, gather firewood for the old-style hande (a large metal drum used for heating water, especially for bathing), or join in to cook local dishes like Kadambuttu (soft rice balls), Otti (rice roti), and Kumbala curry (spicy pumpkin curry).

In the evening, we light a bonfire in the courtyard and share stories about the brave Kodava warriors like Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa and General K.S. Thimmaiah.

Notable recommendations:

The Elephant Corridor - Biddanda Estate Badaga Banangala, Post, via, Siddapura, Dist, Karnataka.

Narikadi Homestay - Narikadi Estate Kutta Post Near Nagarhole Forest, Kutta

Accommodation

Homestay

I suggest opting for comfortable homestays that provide a glimpse of Coorgi hospitality, featuring traditional home-cooked meals and estate trails.

• Gowrikad Homestay - Gowrikad Homestay located in South, Dhanugala is a perfect example of such a delightful accommodation, where the hosts ensure an authentic Coorg experience.

A cozy little home surrounded with greenery nestled in south Coorg encompassing two bedrooms with attached bathrooms & a porch, a living room, a small kitchenette and a fire place outside for bonfire/ barbecue etc.

Services offered:

• Estate walk with a guide: An insight about coffee plantations, Berries and Beans, pepper , bird's eye chillies etc

• Exclusive Yoga Session in amidst the sounds of Nature. (*Meditation & Pranayams, *Power yoga *Therapy yoga for pain & ailments *Chakra / Sound Healing

• Camp Fire 🔥

• Pick Coorg Coffee powder, Pepper, Cardamom & Coorg Honey.

Book Gowrikad Homestay on Booking.com.

• SaffronStays Calamondinn Bungalow - A cherished homestay in Virajpet Taluka, the SaffronStays Calamondinn Bungalow offers an authentic Coorgi experience.

Book SaffronStays Calamondinn Bungalow on Booking.com.

Luxury Stays

Alternatively you could also splurge on luxurious resorts, which are unique, gorgeous and add a touch of the authentic Coorgi charm in their hospitality and food. Few incredible resort stays in Coorg:

Somwarpet Taluka:

• Coorg Wilderness Resort & Spa

• The Bungalow 1934

• The Barn, Coorg

• Amritara Ambatty Greens resort

Virajpet Taluka:

• The Tamara Coorg

• The IBNII - Eco Luxury Resort

Book these luxurious properties on Booking.com.

To my fellow readers - I conclude my blog post about my cherished haven Coorg here. I trust you found it enjoyable.

To my dearest Coorg - You occupy a unique space in my heart. Your beauty, the warmth of family, and the enduring memories we crafted will be treasured forever.

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