Top 11 Tourist Attractions in Coorg
- Amy
- Nov 24, 2023
- 13 min read
Updated: Aug 7
Got just a bit of time to explore the prime highlights of Coorg? Well, you're in luck! Behold, a list of the absolute must-visit attractions in Coorg. Covering these in a week will let you proudly declare that you've conquered the essence of Coorg. But, if you're seeking the real Coorg experience, dive into my blog post, '10 Hidden Gems in Coorg’s Coffee Landscapes and Serene Countryside', because there's always more to uncover beneath the surface.
Madikeri, the district headquarters and a charmingly busy town, can serve as your central hub throughout your stay. From here, you can easily reach all the key attractions, many of which are located in or around Madikeri itself. Nestled amidst mist-covered hills, it offers all that a typical tourist would enjoy - historical sites, cultural richness, busy local markets, temples, resorts, local food options and picturesque landscapes.
Agenda:Top 11 Tourist Attractions in Coorg How to reach Coorg? When to visit Coorg? Top 11 Tourist Attractions in Coorg |
How to reach Coorg?
The closest international airport to Coorg is Kannur International Airport in Kerala, with a 3 to 4-hour travel time to Madikeri. Mysore Airport has limited domestic flights, while Bengaluru Airport offers extensive connections. From Bengaluru or Mysore, you can drive or take a taxi to Coorg, with the quickest route taking around 4-5 hours. There are also bus services from Bengaluru to various Coorg locations like Madikeri, Gonikoppal, Virajpet, and Somwarpet.
When to visit Coorg?
Visit Coorg from September to February for pleasant weather. The winter months of December and January can get really cold and misty and you may experience fog-filled mornings. Summers (March-May) and monsoons (June-August) can be hot and rainy but are manageable for avid travelers.
Top 11 Tourist Attractions in Coorg
A stay of 8-10 days in Coorg provides abundant time to explore the recommended attractions, encompassing both travel intervals and leisurely pursuits. The comprehensive list below ensures memories that may endure not only in this lifetime but potentially in future ones as well.
#1 Stay amidst nature’s embrace at Nisargadhama Forest Park
Imagine standing on a bamboo bridge, held up by ropes tied to strong trees. Below you, the clear waters of the River Cauvery flow gently. Along the riverbank, you might see monks meditating or bathing in the peaceful stream. Some monks cross the swaying bridge, softly chanting prayers, adding a magical feeling to the place.
All around you is lush greenery, inviting you to stay in cozy bamboo cottages. And if you're looking for a bit more adventure, there are tree houses high up in the trees where you can sleep close to nature.
This is Nisargadhama, a peaceful getaway in Coorg that instantly makes you forget the noise and stress of city life. Spread across 64 acres beside the Cauvery River, it’s surrounded by thick green forest and full of calm, natural beauty. I’ve visited Nisargadhama many times over the years, but one visit that stands out is when I went with my in-laws and we spent the night in one of their simple, traditional cottages. The stay was quiet and rustic, just the way Coorg should be. We enjoyed a delicious meal of authentic Coorgi food, and with happy hearts and full stomachs, we fell asleep to the soothing sounds of crickets. The next morning, we woke up to the sweet chirping of birds and the gentle warmth of the morning sun, refreshed and ready for our journey forward.
Important Tip: For a genuine experience of the calm and tranquil ambiance in this paradise, contemplate scheduling your trip to Nisargadhama during the off-peak season, steering clear of the hustle and bustle of noisy, commercial tourists. I strongly recommend securing one of their cottages for an overnight stay, providing you with the opportunity to rekindle your connection with nature and savor the peace and quiet of the nearby forest.
Caution: Nisargadhama used to be one of my favourite peaceful spots, but my recent visit left me quite upset. Over time, this quiet forest area has become too commercial, just like many locals in Coorg had feared. The calm, natural vibe is now replaced by crowds and noise. Today, it feels more like a fun park for kids and families, with paddle boating and ziplining (₹100 each), a deer park, and a bird feeding zone. There’s also a busy market nearby, selling clothes, food, and local products. What bothered me most was how pushy some vendors were, trying hard to sell things to every tourist. The main entrance was shut, and we had to enter through a crowded, messy path filled with stalls. The bamboo trees had names scribbled all over them. What used to be a peaceful nature spot now feels loud and crowded. The worst part was seeing exotic birds like macaws being used for photos, they looked stressed and uncomfortable. If you love nature, peace, and wildlife, this place might not feel the same anymore. It was sad to see such a lovely place lose its charm to over-tourism.
Park Timings: Mon- Sun - 9 AM to 5 PM Fees: Rs. 10 per person for Adults, Rs. 5 per person for Children, Rs. 700 - 1000 per Night for Forest Resort Accommodation. To reserve Forest Resort Accommodation, travelers need to get in touch with either the office of the Conservator of Forests, Kodagu Circle, or the office of the Deputy Conservator of Forests, Madikeri. Conservator of Forests – Kodagu Circle (Madikeri) Office of the Conservator of Forests, Kodagu CircleAranya Bhavan, Mysore Road, Madikeri – 571201 Phone: 08272‑224902 Email: wlmadikeri@gmail.com Deputy Conservator of Forests – Madikeri Division (Wildlife) Deputy Conservator of Forests, Madikeri Wildlife DivisionAranya Bhavan, Mysore Road, Madikeri – 571201 Phone: 08272‑228305 Email: dcfmdk@yahoo.com |
#2 Visit the monks at Tibetian colony - Namdroling Monastery Bylakuppe
Not many people connect South India with Buddhism or picture it as a home for monks, but you’d be in for a big surprise! Coorg is actually home to one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India. The Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, is a beautiful and peaceful Tibetan colony located in Bylakuppe, about 5 km from Kushalanagara in the Kodagu district. It houses around 16,000 Tibetan refugees and over 600 monks, and is the largest teaching center of the Nyingmapa school of Tibetan Buddhism.
The first thing that catches your eye is the golden exterior of the monastery, which is truly stunning. But step inside, and you’ll be just as amazed, the interiors are filled with beautiful Tibetan murals, colorful artwork, and a serene atmosphere that makes you want to pause and just take it all in.
At the Namdroling Monastery, visitors can pray, meditate, make offerings, and spin the big prayer wheels. If you visit around 1 PM, you can watch the prayer ceremony, which is a peaceful and respectful experience.
One of my favorite moments was the quiet walk from the entrance to the main temple. The path is surrounded by greenery, and it feels calm and soothing. The monastery is spread across 80 acres, and the main building, partly made from bamboo, is beautifully decorated with colorful paintings and detailed artwork.
Along the way, there are small shops where monks sell incense sticks, bells, chimes, and other Tibetan items. You’ll also find two small cafés inside. Namling Café, near the front courtyard, offers food like fried noodles, Thupka (noodle soup), fried rice, and ginger lemon tea or milk tea. Further inside, there’s Kunphen Café, where you can enjoy a good veg burger. It's a lovely place to relax after visiting the temple.
Important points to take note of:
Try and avoid weekends, as it can get very crowded with domestic tourists coming in from other cities of Karnataka & from Kerala.
Photography is permitted inside the monastery.
No entrance fees; although a small fee must be paid to keep your shoes before entering inside the monastery
Ample car parking is available.
#3 Jeep Safari on the rugged terrains of Mandalpatti
Mandalpatti is a popular spot in Coorg, up in the mountains about 4050 feet high. It's in a lush forest called Pushpagiri Reserve, 21 kilometers away from Madikeri town. The best time to go is from November to January when it's misty but has a beautiful view. You can drive there yourself, but if you don't have a jeep, it's better to rent a 4x4 with an experienced driver. The roads are winding and bumpy, especially the last 4 kilometers. The duration from Madikeri to Mandalpatti takes about 45 minutes. Renting a 4x4 can cost between INR 1500-3000, covering entry fees (INR 25 per person) and parking.
After parking, it's a short 5-7 minute walk to the watchtower or viewpoint. The view is amazing, with mountains all around. You can spend a lot of time there just enjoying the scenery. Mandalpatti is on top of a hill, so you're often surrounded by clouds. If you like hiking, you can buy tickets at the base and trek up to Mandalpatti. Make sure to bring water and food because there are no shops on the way up the mountains or at the top.
Please Note: There aren't clear rules or signs about fees or authorised drivers. The roads can be tough, especially for first-timers. If you're older or have muscle or joint problems, it's best to avoid Mandalpatti unless the roads improve. It's also smart not to drink too much before the bumpy ride, and it's better to skip the visit during the rainy season when the roads can be slippery. There are toilets at the top.
#4 Walking on air at Glass Bridge Madikeri
I have offered several different ways in which you can possibly explore and get mesmerised with a coffee plantation in Coorg - on foot, with a local guide, staying in a homestay, tractor ride, jeep ride and so on and so forth. Would you ever imagine getting a view of the plantation from atop, like an aerial view? This adventure might sound a bit unnerving, but I'm ready for it. Second only to the glass skywalk bridge in Wayanad, Kerala, the glass skywalk bridge in Kodagu is situated amidst the forests and hills of the Western Ghats. This bridge has become a tourist attraction known as the 'Pappy’s Bridge of Coorg' at Udoth Motte near Madikeri on the Madikeri-Bhagamandala Road. It's also known as South India’s largest glass bridge. The bridge is open daily from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, and the entry fee is ₹200 per person. It’s a fun stop for great views, photos, and a little adventure surrounded by lush coffee plantations.
Initially, Pappy's was solely a coffee plantation open to visitors. However, now, in addition to an informative plantation tour, you can enjoy a splendid view of the surroundings from a newly constructed deck. The bridge, towering at about 78 feet and measuring around 32 meters in length with a width of 2 meters, can accommodate 40 to 50 people simultaneously, providing them with an opportunity to embrace the beauty of nature.
#5 Immerse in History at General Thimayya Museum
Housed in the regal heritage home of General Thimayya, now transformed into a museum, it unquestionably stands out as a must-visit attraction when in Coorg.
The significant museum was officially opened on February 6, 2021, by President Ram Nath Kovind. General Kodendera Subayya Thimayya, a distinguished Indian military figure from Kodagu, is rightfully honored for his exceptional contributions to the nation. Following extensive restoration efforts, General Thimayya’s residence, known as 'Sunny Side', has been transformed into a captivating war museum. Situated on 2.6 acres along G T Road in Madikeri, Kodagu district, this war memorial will showcase a diverse collection of antique weaponry and war artifacts.
Noteworthy features include:
The renowned battle tank ‘Himath,’ strategically positioned at the entrance. This tank played a crucial role in the India-Pakistan war in 1971 and was generously donated by the Army Training Centre in Pune.
The famous Bofors gun, an imposing cannon transported and installed by the Madras Regiment of the Indian Army.
A decommissioned MiG-21 fighter jet and interceptor aircraft, utilized during the India-Pakistan war in 1971 by the Indian Air Force.
A war diary containing handwritten accounts of various wars fought by Indian soldiers.
Address: Mahadevpet, Madikeri, Karnataka – 571201.
Operating Hours: 10 AM to PM.
#6 Holy dip in Bhagamandala
Bhagamandala, situated 36 km from Madikeri (Coorg) en route to Tala Kaveri, is a must-visit destination in Coorg. The prominent Sri Bhagandeshwara temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, stands at this location, dating back to the late 17th century. Revered as one of the holiest places in South India, the temple holds local beliefs that the sacred Kaveri, known as Dakshina Ganga, originates from the matted hair locks of Shiva here.
Within the temple premises, visitors can explore four smaller temples dedicated to Bhagandeshwara (Ishwara), Subramanya, Mahavishnu, and Ganapati. The temple complex, featuring Kerala-style architecture, boasts intricate wood ceiling carvings and a low roof covered with copper-plated sheets.
Adjacent to the temple, the Triveni Sangama point invites pilgrims and visitors to take a dip in the river Kaveri, where it converges with the tributaries Kannike and the mythical Sujyoti rivers, forming the Thriveni Sangama. This spring is believed to possess healing properties, making it a significant spot for prayers and rituals. Pilgrims often perform rituals for their ancestors here before proceeding to Tala Kaveri, the birthplace of the Sacred River Kaveri.
Please Note:
The temple adheres to a dress code, prohibiting sleeveless attire, 3/4th sleeves, and shorts. Visitors not meeting the dress requirements can avail themselves of clothing for a nominal charge of Rs. 10.
Additionally, experiencing the popular prasadam around lunchtime is highly recommended.
#7 Offer prayers in TalaKaveri (TalaCauvery)
Located 46 km from Madikeri on Brahmagiri hills near Bhagamandala, TalaCauvery holds religious significance for the Kodavas, the local community. The act of immersing oneself in the sacred waters of TalaCauvery is considered a crucial ritual for the people of Coorg. According to myth, Sage Agasthya held the river Cauvery captive in a Kamandala, a pot carrying sacred water. Lord Ganesha, in the form of a crow, caused the Kamandala to topple at this hill while Sage Agasthya was meditating, giving rise to the Cauvery river, known as TalaCauvery. Regrettably, the site lacks information about the significance of this place, which is the source of the mighty Cauvery river, vital for millions of people across Southern India.
A notable tradition involves the participation of newlywed couples, new parents, or newborn children taking a dip in the holy water. Additionally, the Coorg community celebrates a special festival called Cauvery Sankramana, where the ritual of immersing oneself in the holy waters holds profound significance. During this festival, thousands of pilgrims from neighboring regions gather at the river's birthplace to witness the rise of the fountainhead when water gushes up from the spring at a predetermined moment.
Timings: Monday to Sunday - 6 am – 8:30 pm
#8 Discover Tranquility in Omkareshwara Temple
It is fascinating to me that rich history in India has inspired a captivating blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles across the country and this feature is beautifully showcased in many temples and monuments. One notable example is the Omkareshwara Temple in Madikeri, Coorg. It is recognized as the primary temple in Madikeri and holds a significant age. Commissioned by King Lingarajendra II in 1820 as an act of penance for a regrettable incident, the temple exhibits a unique fusion, featuring a central dome in the Muhammadan style and four minarets and a Shiva Linga near the entrance. One notable feature of this temple is the forefront water tank, housing a connected mandapa accessible through a walkway.
Timings: Monday to Sunday - 6:30 am – 12:00 pm and 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Please Note: Appropriate attire is required within the temple premises; kindly refrain from wearing shorts, frocks, or skirts.
#9 Soak in Scenic Bliss at Raja's Seat
Raja's Seat, as the name implies, served as the royal resting place for kings and queens in Kodagu, who ruled over Karnataka for over two centuries, from 1600 to 1834 CE. Perhaps they missed an opportunity for a more inclusive title like 'Raja and Rani's Seat', but hey, royalty's gotta rest somewhere! It provides a serene setting for relaxation and admiration of the surrounding beauty. The location offers captivating views during both sunrise and sunset, making it an ideal spot to unwind. Adjacent to a delightful park that houses the Gandhi Mantap, where Mahatma Gandhi's remains are preserved, it has become a popular tourist destination. For those who appreciate mountain views, Raja's Seat is a rejuvenating haven. Don't miss the daily 15-minute musical fountain show starting at 7 pm on weekdays and 7:15 pm on weekends.
Timings: Monday to Sunday - 5:30 am – 8:00 pm
#10 Chase the Cascades of Abbey Falls
Abbey Falls is highly touristic, tends to get extremely crowded, and if you've experienced falls like Dudhsagar, Abbey Falls might not leave a lasting impression. I prefer visiting Irrupu, although smaller, for its tranquil beauty and serene surroundings, which, as mentioned earlier, attract me more than Abbey.
Please note: Abbey Falls is open for visitation from 9 AM to 5 PM. There is a nominal entry fee of Rs. 15 per person, and a typical visit takes approximately 2-3 hours.Starting from the entrance gate, there is a descent along a concrete pathway and steps leading to the falls. The downward walk is straightforward, and if needed, there are seating arrangements provided along the pathway for resting.
#11 Encounter majestic giants at Dubare Elephant Camp
The Dubare Elephant Camp in Coorg was originally set up to train elephants for logging and forest work. Back then, elephants were used to move heavy timber through the forests. But as logging reduced over time, the camp’s purpose shifted. Today, it's mainly focused on caring for retired, rescued, and tamed elephants, and is managed by the Karnataka Forest Department.
Yes, the elephants here are generally well-fed and looked after. They receive regular food, health check-ups, and attention from mahouts, their full-time caretakers. The camp also plays a role in tracking wildlife, as some elephants are trained to help forest officials during patrols, especially in areas where wild animals like tigers are spotted.
The camp is also open to tourists, who can feed elephants, bathe them, and learn more about their lives. During feeding time, visitors can offer bamboo or coconuts, and sometimes local guides share stories about elephant encounters in the wild. Many people enjoy elephant rides or climb into tree houses around the camp.
But as someone who visited this camp as a kid, I now see things differently. While I respect the work of the mahouts and forest department, I find it hard to enjoy watching chained elephants or waiting in long lines to interact with animals kept in captivity. Though these elephants are well cared for, there are still ethical concerns to consider, especially if, like me, you feel that elephants belong in the wild. For those seeking a more natural experience, spotting wild elephants on the Anne Chowkoor road feels more respectful and real.
Please note: If you wish to visit the camp, I would not recommend visiting Dubare Elephant Camp on a weekend or public holiday in Coorg, as it tends to be crowded with tourists and locals, making the experience overwhelming and busy. The timings for Elephant interaction at Dubare Elephant Camp are from 9 AM to 11 AM in the morning and again from 4.30 PM to 5.30 PM in the evening.
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