Coorg: The Verdant Hills of Coffee and Culture
Complete Journey Overview
Coorg: The Verdant Hills of Coffee and Culture
Coorg: The Verdant Hills of Coffee and Culture
Embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with amazing experiences
Day 1: Arrival in Madikeri & Sunset Vistas
Arrival in Coorg (Madikeri)
Arrive in Madikeri, the main town of Coorg. The most common route is by road from Bangalore (approx. 6 hours) or Mysore (approx. 3 hours). The drive through the Western Ghats is scenic, with winding roads and lush greenery.
Check-in to your Homestay/Resort
Check into your pre-booked accommodation. Coorg offers a range of options from luxury resorts nestled in coffee plantations to cozy, authentic homestays that offer a glimpse into the local Kodava culture.
Lunch at Coorg Cuisine
Have your first taste of authentic Kodava food. This restaurant is famous for its traditional dishes. Don't miss the Pandi Curry (pork curry), Kadambuttu (steamed rice dumplings), and Akki Roti (rice flatbread).
Explore Abbey Falls
Visit the picturesque Abbey Falls, located amidst private coffee plantations and spice estates. A short walk through the lush greenery leads you to a hanging bridge with a fantastic view of the water cascading down the rocks.
Sunset at Raja's Seat
Head to Raja's Seat, a seasonal garden with artificial fountains. It's a popular viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the rolling hills and a spectacular sunset. It is said that the kings of Kodagu used to watch the sunsets from here.
Dinner at The Fort Mercara
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant offering a mix of Coorgi, Indian, and Continental cuisines. It's a good place to unwind after a day of travel and sightseeing.
Day 2: Elephants, Monks & Coffee Beans
Dubare Elephant Camp
Start your day early with a visit to the Dubare Elephant Camp, located on the banks of the River Kaveri. You can watch elephants being bathed, fed, and trained by their mahouts. You can also participate in these activities for a unique experience.
Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple)
Visit Bylakuppe, the second-largest Tibetan settlement outside of Tibet. The main attraction is the stunning Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple. Admire the 40-feet high golden statues of Buddha and the intricate artwork.
Lunch at a Tibetan Restaurant
Experience authentic Tibetan cuisine for lunch near the monastery. Try dishes like Momos (dumplings), Thukpa (noodle soup), and Shapta (stir-fried meat).
Coffee Plantation Tour & Tasting
No trip to Coorg is complete without a walk through a coffee estate. Take a guided tour to learn about the process of coffee cultivation, from bean to cup. The tour usually ends with a freshly brewed coffee tasting session.
Dinner at Raintree Restaurant
Enjoy dinner in a charming, ancestral home converted into a restaurant. Raintree offers a fine-dining experience with a focus on Kodava specialties and other Indian dishes.
Day 3: Sacred Rivers & Misty Peaks
Visit Bhagamandala Temple
Drive to Bhagamandala, a sacred pilgrimage site. It's located at the confluence (sangam) of three rivers: Kaveri, Kannike, and the mythical Sujyothi. Visit the Sri Bhagandeshwara Temple, which has a unique Kerala-style architecture.
Explore Talacauvery
From Bhagamandala, drive up to Talacauvery, the birthplace of the River Kaveri. There is a small tank (kundike) where the river originates as a spring. Climb the steps to the Brahmagiri viewpoint for a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding hills.
Lunch at a Local Eatery
Have a simple, traditional South Indian lunch at one of the small restaurants near Bhagamandala or on the way back towards Madikeri.
Jeep Safari to Mandalpatti
Embark on an adventurous off-road jeep ride to Mandalpatti, also known as 'Mugilu-pete' (Market of Clouds). The final stretch is a bumpy ride, but the reward is an unparalleled panoramic view of the Western Ghats from the viewpoint.
Backup Option: Madikeri Fort
If the weather is not suitable for Mandalpatti (heavy rain or fog), a great alternative is to visit the Madikeri Fort. The fort houses a palace, a museum, a church, and a library. It offers insights into the history of Coorg.
Dinner at The Falls at The Tamara Coorg
For a special occasion or a luxury dining experience, consider having dinner at The Falls, the multi-cuisine restaurant at The Tamara Coorg. The setting is spectacular, and the food is top-notch.
Day 4: Local Flavors & Departure
Breakfast and Coffee
Enjoy a final leisurely Coorgi breakfast at your homestay or a local cafe. Savor one last cup of freshly brewed filter coffee.
Shopping for Local Produce
Spend the morning shopping in Madikeri town. Coorg is famous for its coffee, spices (pepper, cardamom, cloves), homemade wines, and pure honey. Pick up some souvenirs and local products to take back home.
Check-out from Hotel
Complete the check-out formalities at your hotel or homestay.
Departure from Coorg
Begin your journey back from Coorg, filled with memories of misty hills, aromatic coffee, and the warm hospitality of the Kodava people.
