BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN COORG
Madikeri is a hill town in southern India. Framed by the Western Ghats mountain range, it’s known for the Raja’s Seat, a simple monument overlooking forests and rice paddies. In the centre, the 17th-century Madikeri Fort features 2 stone elephants at the entrance. Nearby, the domed Omkareshwar Temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. To the northwest, cascading Abbey Falls is surrounded by spice plantations.
The misty hills, lush teakwood and sandalwood forests, and acres of tea and coffee plantations of Kodagu are, in a word, stunning. Also known as Coorg and dubbed “The Scotland of India,” Kodagu is a postcard-perfect region of scattered villages and hamlets, which are the epitome of old-world charm. Kodagu is ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, angling and white-water rafting, and major festivals like Keil Poldu (worship of weapons), Cauvery Shankaramana (return of the river goddess) and the Huttari (harvest) festival are a huge draw.
Omkareswara Temple
Best places to visit in Coorg: Omkareswara Temple, the famous Siva temple in Madikeri is built by Linga Rajendra in 1820. The temple located at a distance of 1 km from Madikeri is an architectural beauty. The temple has both Islamic and Gothic styles of architecture.
There is a wonderful pool in front of the temple. There are four Minarets around and a dome in the centre of the temple. A footpath leads to the Mandap. Here the Sivalinga was named Omkareswara. Regular rituals were performed here.
Raja’s Seat
Best places to visit in Coorg: Located in the town of Madikeri, Raja seat is a popular tourist spot offering mesmerizing scenic beauty and an enchanting environment. With the literal meaning of “Seat of the Kings”, Raja’s Seat used to be a favourite place of the kings of Coorg.
They used to visit the place so as to get an amazing view of the valley around them and refresh themselves. The view of sunset and sunrise from Raja’s seat is exceptionally captivating and mustn’t be missed by tourists. Golden sunlight falling on the lush greenery offers amazing photographic opportunities as well. The environment is pleasant as well.
The calmness of the place and its scenic beauty makes for an amazing setting for morning and evening walks. Imagine being caressed by the cool breeze and greeted by lush greenery. All this is possible at Raja’s Seat.
Madikeri Fort
Best places to visit in Coorg: Madikeri Fort also called Mercara Fort is a fort in Madikeri, in the Kodagu district of the Indian state of Karnataka, first built by Mudduraja in the second half of the 17th century. Mudduraja also built the palace within the fort. It was rebuilt and restructured in granite by Tipu Sultan, and the site was then renamed Jaffarabad. Madikeri Fort is one of the many forts built or rebuilt by the Tipu Sultan during his reign in the second half of the 18th century. In 1790, Dodda Vira Rajendra took control of the fort. The palace underwent renovations by Linga Rajendra II from 1812-1814. The British made additions to the fort in 1834. Notable structures in the fort include two stone statues of elephants at the northeast entry and a church in the southeast corner. Today, the Madikeri Deputy Commissioner’s Office is housed in the palace building, while St. Mark’s Church houses the Madikeri Fort Museum, managed by the Karnataka State Archaeological Department. The museum has exhibits which display artefacts and weaponry from the time between the fort’s construction and British rule. The museum also has a large portrait of Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa.
There is no entry fee to visit Madikeri Fort. Madikeri fort timings are from 10 in the morning to 5:30 in the evening. It is closed on Mondays.
Abbey Falls
Best places to visit in Coorg: Abbey Falls is a waterfall in Kodagu, in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. It is located 8 km from Madikeri, 122 km from Mysore, 144 km from Mangalore and 268 km from Bangalore. The waterfall is on the early reaches of the river Kaveri, located between private coffee plantations with stocky coffee bushes and spice estates and trees entwined with pepper vines. There is a hanging bridge constructed just opposite the falls. Flow is much higher during the monsoon season. The falls were earlier called Jessi Falls, named after a British officer’s wife. However, the place was a thick jungle back then. Years later, the waterfall was discovered by Mr Neravanda B. Nanaiah who bought the place from the government and converted it into a coffee and spice plantation, which still surrounds the waterfall today.
Mandalpatti Peak
Best places to visit in Coorg: Located 4 km before Abbey Falls, Mandalpatti is 25- 30 km from Madikeri town. Offering amazing scenic beauty and perfect opportunities to be amidst the best of natural settings, Mandalpatti has increasingly become popular amongst tourists.
The place offers tourists some seclusion and space away from the usual crowdedness of the tourist spots. The place is perfect for trekking lovers who like adventure and seek the best natural settings. In order to go trekking, trekkers are supposed to take entrance tickets from the authorities at the base of Mandalpatti.
Raja’s Tomb (Gaddige)
Best places to visit in Coorg: Gaddige also known as Raja’s Tombs is a popular 19th-century monument located in Mahadevpet near Madikeri. Dedicated to the royal members of the Kodava clan, this complex is a major tourist attraction in Coorg.
Built over a hilltop, the monument has an Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. Decorated with central domes and minarets, the tombs are inspired by Muslim architecture but are dedicated to Hindu rulers.
Set amidst verdant gardens, the Raja’s Tombs offer a serene spot to spend the day in the lap of nature. You can also enjoy breathtakingly stunning views of Madikeri Town from the monument and unwind in the charming weather of Coorg.
Government Museum Madikeri
Best places to visit in Coorg: If you’re planning an itinerary for your upcoming trip to Kodagu, you have one more place to add to your list – General Thimayya Memorial Museum. For those who love the age-old culture of India, Madikeri provides you with a facility to feel that ancient value with the Government Museum established in the year 1970. An archaeological museum, it houses sculptures from the 11th century AD, old photographs, old attires of Coorg Rajas and the British, old implements, arms, inscriptions, coins, bronzes and wooden carvings.
Mercara Gold Estate Coffee Plantation
Best places to visit in Coorg: Mercara Gold Estate is a 20-year-old coffee & spice plantation located 8 KM from Madikeri town. This estate is unique since it houses a fully integrated coffee company from bush to cup. The estate has its own processing and roasting plant with a cafe & kitchen that serves up delectable Coorg delights on a platter! Visitors are welcome to tour the estate on a guided tour. We also grow a variety of spices which are well laid out for a great understanding of the products which makes Mercara Gold Estate a must-visit for anyone who wants to go back with a wonderful memory of this beautiful land and its treasures.
Opening hours: Sunday – Saturday 9 AM-5:30 PM
Tibetan Monastery / Golden Temple Coorg
Best places to visit in Coorg: The Tiny Tibetan colony in Coorg is an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The enclosed calm and the spiritual ambience of the place welcome all the visitors. The Tibetan Monastery is located around 6 km from Kushalnagar. This Place is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India. This monastery has around 16000 refugees and nearly 6000 monks and nuns. This Tibetan settlement at Bail Koppa or Bylakuppe is the second largest Tibetan settlement outside Tibet
After the Chinese took over Tibet the refugees were settled at Bylakuppe near Kushalnagar. The Monastery was re-established in the year 1972. Young Tibetans seeking enlightenment and education come to this place. Apart from that, it is one of the popular sightseeing places in Coorg. This place draws the attraction of a large number of tourists every year. The major attraction of this place is the forty feet tall golden Buddha statues.
The walls of the temples and institutions are decorated with beautiful paintings depicting the characters from Tibetan Buddhist mythology. The altar is decorated with various flowers, candles and incense sticks. This place is really worth a visit. The serene atmosphere of the place takes you to another world. There are so many shopping centres in and around the monastery where you will get traditional Tibetan items.
Dubare Elephant Camp
Best places to visit in Coorg: Dubare is known for its elephant camp, a forest camp on the banks of the river Kaveri in the district of Kodagu, Karnataka. It is an important base for the Karnataka Forest Department’s elephants.
There are opportunities for trekking, elephant interaction, and stay. These are hosted by Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd. (JLR). JLR is the eco-tourism wing of the Tourism Department of Karnataka. In addition to the elephant training camp, Nisargadhama and Veerabhoomiare the other main attractions of the forest area.
The moist deciduous forests of Dubare are home to many wild animals and birds. Sightings of wild Asiatic elephants are regular and so is spotting the sambhar, the spotted deer, tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and gaur. Bears are also seen in these forests. Crocodiles can be seen in the river. The forests are also home to many reptiles and non-venomous snakes.
Dubare camp is open for elephant interaction from 9 to 11:30 and then in the evening from 4 to 6.
Chiklihole Dam
Best places to visit in Coorg: At a distance of 7 km from Dubare, 15 km from Kushalnagar and 24 km from Madikeri, Chiklihole dam is a small reservoir located near the town of Nanjarayapattana. It is one of the popular places to visit in Coorg.
The unique shape of the dam in itself is a great attraction for visitors. The dam has a semi-circular structure without any crest gates. With the increase in inflow, the water overflows like foam on a curved structure and offers a breathtaking sight to visitors. The area around Chiklihole reservoir is bestowed with lush greenery and rich fauna and flora of the forest creating a pleasing setting to spend a few special moments with your family and friends. Watching the sunset from the dam is a wonderful experience. The dense forests and open areas make for absolutely awesome picnic spots.
As the place is a remote one, there is no store or shop offering any kind of facilities to travellers. Visitors must come prepared with food, water, and snacks if they want to spend a relaxing day or even a few hours in the vicinity of the dam.
Kaveri Nisargadhama Forest Park
Best places to visit in Coorg: A forest resort on an island, maintained by the forest department of Karnataka, Kaveri Nisargadhama Forest Park is undeniably one of the most beautiful and enjoyable parts of any Coorg tour package.
When at Nisargadhama Forest, you will find a wide variety of things to do and see. The elephant ride is something that adults and kids both will enjoy. There is also a deer park and rabbit park that one can visit.
The view of River Kaveri is also something that tourists must stop by and notice, capture in their cameras, and cherish forever. The view, especially from the hanging bridge is breathtaking. The water in the river here is quite shallow. Hence, interested tourists can even cross the river on foot, letting its cold fresh water refresh them.
Although the old hanging bridge has been replaced by the new hanging bridge and isn’t functional now, it is still a popular tourist attraction.
Harangi Dam
Best places to visit in Coorg: An interesting tourist spot, the Harangi dam is situated in the Hudgur village near Kushalnagar if Coorg District. Built across the tributary of River Cauvery, the Harangi dam is the first dam that has been built across River Cauvery. It has a height of 47 meters and a length of 846 meters creating a marvellous view of forceful streams of water.
A popular picnic spot, it is good even for a family outing where one can relax and spend some calm moments with his or her loved ones. It is located at a distance of approximately 36 km from Madikeri and can be reached without much difficulty.
It is a good place offering some seclusion and privacy as it is comparatively less crowded. So if you are looking for a break from the usual hustle-bustle of tourist spots, Harangi dam is the place for you. The calm setting and cool gentle breeze make your time even more enjoyable. It is best to visit the dam during the months of August to September as the water is more in the reservoir at that time of the year.
Honnamana Kere Lake
Best places to visit in Coorg: Honnamana Kere (Honnama Lake) (Kannada: ಹೊನ್ನಮ್ಮನ ಕೆರೆ) is a popular tourist spot in Coorg. Being the largest lake in the region of Coorg, Honnamana Kere attracts hordes of tourists every year. It is located in Daddamalthe, near the village of Sulimalthe which is at a distance of 6 km from Somwarpet town. Somwarpet is one of the taluks of Coorg.
The lake doesn’t attract just nature lovers but also religious tourists. It has religious importance and is named after the Goddess Honnamma. One can also see a temple dedicated to Goddess Honnamma, located near the lake.
It is believed that Goddess Honnamma sacrificed her life for the well-being of the people. The temple sees many visitors, especially during the festival of Gowri Pooja. Many newly wedded couples visit the lake and pay their offerings and seek blessings from the Goddess.
The Lake offers captivating scenic beauty as well. It is a place where one can just relax and enjoy some quality moments with their loved ones. It is surrounded by mountains, cliffs and a huge expanse of coffee plantations along with two hills named Gavi Betta and Mori Betta. Along with sightseeing, one can also engage himself/herself in various kinds of outdoor activities such as boating and fishing.
Mallalli Falls
Best places to visit in Coorg: Located at the foot of Pushpagiri Hill Ranges, Mallalli Falls is one of the best places in Coorg to spend some time. Mallalli Falls are created when River Kumaradhara drips down from the peak of Pushpagiri Peak, which is over a height of approximately 200 feet.
These falls are also good for trekking. Trekkers will come across interesting routes with beautiful settings around them which makes the experience all the more interesting and enjoyable. However, there are many leeches on the routes so it is better to be prepared for them while trekking. The falls at the foot of Pushpagiri peak and trekking till the peak enhances your overall Coorg experience.
Talakaveri Temple Best places to visit in Coorg:
Best places to visit in Coorg: Talakaveri / Talacauvery, one of the popular tourist spots located on the Brahmagiri hill. The hill is situated 8 km away from Bhagamandala and 48 km away from Madikeri. It has high religious importance and is visited by many tourists every year.
There are a big tank and a shrine that has been constructed close to the Tirth Kundike at this holy place. The devotees take a bath in the holy waters of Talakavery. There are two temples, one of Lord Shiva which houses an ancient linga and the other of Lord Ganesha. The linga is supposed to have been installed by Sage Agastya.
There is a religious significance attached to the temple. It is said that if you take a dip in the holy river you will be healed of various physical and psychological miseries. The water here is supposed to have healing and miraculous powers. It is said that the Coorgies used the holy water and prayed to Goddess Cauveramma Devi Thai.
Kotebetta Trek / Peak, Coorg
Best places to visit in Coorg: One of the popular tourist spots in Coorg, Kotebetta is the third highest peak in the Coorg region after Tadiyandamol and Brahmagiri. At a height of approximately 1620 m above sea level, Kotebetta is situated in Madhapur which is located between the Somwarpet and Madikeri towns. It is at the border between the Dakshina Kannada and Coorg districts and can be easily reached without much of a hassle.
Kotebetta offers tourists amazing trekking opportunities. It is 10 km away from Hattihole. Tourists start their trek from the Hattihole and end at the peak. Along with lush greenery and the especially huge expanse of coffee, estates accompany you on your trekking.
The best time to go trekking at Kotebetta is during the months of October to March. One doesn’t require any official permission from authorities to go trekking at this place. While going trekking, it is better to have a guide with you.
Do carry all the necessary equipment as well such as a torch; wear proper shoes and insect repellents along with a first aid kit.
Nalknad Aramane Palace
Best places to visit in Coorg: After escaping from the Tippu sultan’s troops Doddavirarajendra, a Haleri ruler built this palace at Yavakapadi in the Nalknad area. Doddaverarajendra married Mahadevammaji here in 1796. While the British army entered Kodagu, the last emperor of the Halari family Chikaverarajendra took shelter there. It is located near a village named Yavakapadi and was built between the years 1792 and 1794 A.D. Now this palace belongs to the Archaeology department. It is at a distance of 45 km from Madikeri and can be reached via Napoklu in Kakkabe.
The palace is an impressive structure and thus makes for an interesting visit. Its roofs and walls have been adorned with many ancient paintings and carvings. There is a gigantic gateway at the place. Inside the palace, you will find a Kalyana mandapa which is a platform to hold marriage ceremonies.
The palace also has a durbar. It is the place from where King held his meeting and watched entertainment performances. In the basement of the palace, there are two ‘dark rooms’ which were used as the hiding place of the king.
Nehru Mantap
Best places to visit in Coorg: Nehru Mantap, Coorg is one of the popular spots in Madikeri located in the Kodagu District of Karnataka. This place is located very near to Raja’s Seat. This place is definitely underrated among the places to visit in Madikeri.
The Mantap is located behind the Madikeri radio station. In addition to an amazing view, one gets a mesmerising overview of mountains and areas nearby. Reaching the mantap is not a difficult task either. One is required to climb only 25-30 steps so as to reach the place. From Raja’s Seat, it will take you a maximum of 10 minutes walk to reach here.
Padi Iggutappa Temple
Best places to visit in Coorg: Located in Kakkabe town, the Padi Igguthappa Temple was built by Lingarajendra in the year 1810. One of the most ancient temples, it is located in Igguthappa Devara betta in Aiyengeri forest which is 45 Km from Madikeri city towards Virajpet. Tourists can visit the temple in the morning between 5.30 am – 2 pm and then in the evening between 6 pm – 7 pm.
The architectural structure of the temple resembles ancient Keralite temples to a large extent. The temple is dedicated to Lord Igguthappa which is another name for Lord Subramanya. Situated on a hillock, this temple has a long stretch of steep stairs that connect the temple to the base. The idol of Lord Iguthappa is seated on panipeetha. It is considered to be the most important temple of the Kodavas and also one of the best places for a Pilgrimage in Coorg.
Tadiandamol Trek
Best places to visit in Coorg: It is located 8 km from the town of Kakkabe and approximately 35 km from Madikeri. It is 30 km away from Virajpet and lies in the southeastern part of Coorg. Tadiandamol Trek is one of the most talked-about treks between trekkers starting out on their trekking journey in the Western Ghats and even experienced trekkers. The trek also draws many to visit the famous hill town of Madikeri or Coorg.
An amazing place for trekking, the peak is one of the most popular tourist spots in Coorg. The best time to go trekking is during early winter. It offers tourists mesmerizing scenic beauty and a captivating view of the areas around creating nothing less than a paradise for nature lovers. The best time to visit Tadiandamol is during the months of December to May.
Trekking here will take you through a mix of thick shola forests with stream crossings, and a carpet of beautiful grasslands. Added to this, the thrill of reaching the peak of Tadiandamol, and trekking amidst the clouds is definitely something one must experience.
Dargah Sharif of Yemmemadu
Best places to visit in Coorg: One of the most sacred shrines, Dargah Sharif of Yemmemadu is situated in Yemmemadu near Napoklu of the Coorg district. The Dargah hold huge importance amongst people of the Islamic faith. The holy tomb has been built in memory of Hazrath Sufi Shaheed and Sayyed Hassan Sakaf Halramir.
There is an annual festival celebrated here which is for 8 days. ‘Urs’ is organized in celebration of these saints. Hordes of religious tourists visit during this time to offer their prayers at the dargah and seek the blessings of Sufi saints. The number reaches almost two-three lakh. Food is served on the last day of Urs to the devotees.
Female pilgrims cannot enter the dargah. There are separate arrangements made for females so that they can offer their prayers. Yemmemadu Tajul Islam Muslim Jamaat maintains the dargah and manages Urs. An Arabic Madrasa and an orphanage are also managed by the Yemmemadu mosque.
Iruppu Waterfalls
Best places to visit in Coorg: The Iruppu Falls are located in the Brahmagiri Range in the Kodagu district of Karnataka, India, bordering the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is a freshwater cascade and is situated at a distance of 48 km from Virajpet on the highway to Nagarhole. The Falls are also known as the Lakshmana Tirtha Falls, derived from the name of the tributary of Cauvery which starts from these falls, the Lakshmana Tirtha River.
A forest trail leads from these falls to Brahmagiri Peak in Southern Kodagu. Irupu falls is a major tourist attraction as well as a pilgrimage spot. A famous Shiva temple, the Rameshwara Temple is situated on the banks of the Lakshmana Tirtha River, en route to the Falls. This temple attracts many pilgrims during the festival of Shivaratri.
Mrutyunjaya Temple
Best places to visit in Coorg: A very ancient temple with a history of 400yrs. A very powerful home (maha mrutyunjaya homa) is done every day (including Sunday) for a batch of 100 people at a particular time only i.e, 12 pm-1.30 pm. Temple opens at 11.30 am and closes at 1.30 pm. After samoohika homa, there will be prasadha (food) for the devotees. The speciality is that the purohits, archakas who perform rituals will also come to serve Prasada to devotees which is not seen in any other temples. The system for tickets, pooja & Prasada is very good. Prasadh eating hall is very good with proper places to sit. The VERY IMPORTANT part is that the KANTAKAS and GANDANTARAS of our jatakas will REDUCE and can VANISH if we involve in homa, mrithunjaya mantra chanting, ask for forgiveness of our karmas (previous births) in front of GOD.
Nagarhole National Park
Best places to visit in Coorg: Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is a wildlife reserve in the South Indian state of Karnataka. Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the park is backed by the Brahamagiri Mountains and filled with sandalwood and teak trees. The Kabini River winds through jungle landscapes, home to tigers, Asian elephants and a variety of birds. Over 270 species of birds and a great number of animals can be spotted through the dense forests which have open lines across the river banks to be able to see the wildlife clearly. Nearby, the Irupu Falls cascade down tree-lined rocks.
Surlabbi Waterfalls
Best places to visit in Coorg: At a distance of 23 km from Somwarpet, and 33 km from Madikeri, Surlabbi Waterfall is a stunning waterfall situated at Surlabi village in the Coorg district of Karnataka. It is one of the lesser-known waterfalls in Karnataka, and among the best places to visit in Coorg.
Surlabbi Falls is a natural waterfall formed by a small stream. It flows through several steps through rocks. The waterfall is locally known as Medura Abbi or Medarahole Falls. The waterfall is a wonderful sight as the water gushes from the rocks amidst the green environs. The enchanting natural beauty and the tranquillity of the place attract tourists and nature lovers. This waterfall is seasonal and it offers wonderful views in the rainy season. The tourists are advised not to get into the water during the monsoon.
Barapole River Rafting
Best places to visit in Coorg: At a distance of 27 km from Gonikoppal and 78 km from Madikeri, Barapole River is a famous spot for white river rafting in Coorg, Karnataka. White water rafting in the Barapole River is one of the most popular things to do as part of Coorg Tour Packages.
The Barapole River is a turbulent river that originates from the Kathu Kakathu River further extending to Brahmagiri hills to the Arabian Sea. White water rafting is one recreational activity that Barapole River is famous for and is considered one of the most challenging rafting experiences in South India. This stretch of river has more than nine Class 2‑Class 4 rapids. The real length of this run is between 3 – 4 km and the whole rafting session keeps going for around 3 hours.
River rafting takes place in Barapole almost throughout the year. If you want a great rafting experience, it is best to go in the monsoon. For an even better experience go river rafting in Coorg between the months of July and August when the river water is in full and quick flow. The minimum age requirement for this trip is 13 years. Adults should be in reasonably good health and weigh less than 110 kg. Knowledge of swimming is not mandatory.
Nilakandi Falls
Best places to visit in Coorg: At a distance of 7 km from Kakkabe, 27 km from Virajpet and 48 km from Madikeri, Nilakandi Falls is a beautiful waterfall located near Kabbinkadu village in the Coorg district of Karnataka. Well-known as Honey Valley, it is one of the stunning waterfalls in Coorg.
The Nilakandi Falls is set amidst the dense tropical forests of Coorg and starts somewhere in the Thadiyandamol range. Cascading down from a height of about 50 feet, it is a picturesque and serene waterfall that lends trekkers a wonderful waterfall shower experience. This place is definitely one of the few tourist places in Coorg that portray the enchanting beauty of this lovely destination. Do plan a visit to this waterfall if you want to plunge into the natural beauty of Coorg.
Nishani Motte
Best places to visit in Coorg: At a distance of 9 km from Bhagamandala and 40 km from Madikeri, Nishani Motte is a mountain peak in Karnataka. Coorg experiences a moderately cool climate throughout the year. During summer it is slightly hotter during the daytime but nights are temperate. Winter is cool and pleasant and is chosen as a favourite time by trekkers to climb Nishani Motte. The months between November-April are frequented mainly by trekkers on this route as it is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities.
From the summit, one can get a 360◦ view of the stunning landscape with the emerald Western Ghats making a perfect backdrop. Since it is a long-distance walking trail amidst dense forest, it is recommended that you start around 9 AM from the Tala Cauvery base so that you may reach the summit before 3 PM when there is still some light around.
A magnificent view of the mountain ranges of Karnataka and Kerala can be seen from here, with the river Cauvery flowing, perfecting the scenery. It’s a view that’ll surely strike a chord in your heart and make a mark on your mind. For this trek, trekkers need permits from the Forest Department. One can obtain these permits from the FRH Office in Bhagamandala.
Chettalli
Best places to visit in Coorg: At a distance of 12 km from Siddapura and 15 km from Madikeri, Chettalli is a small village located on Madikeri – Siddapura Road in Karnataka, India. Situated at an altitude of 609 m, Chettalli attracts many visitors because of the undulating nature of the hills. The place hangs in a sap-sweet aroma of the coffee estates which are widespread in the endless stretches of this village making it a favourite among the places in Coorg.
The Chettalli waterfall is a must-visit attraction at Chettalli. One has to cross two streams and walk a couple of kilometres through the rich shola forests and thick coffee plantations to reach the falls. Another interesting fact about Chettalli is that it is home to the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research and is one of a kind in the entire country. The temple at Todikana is the landmark from where one starts hiking and walking toward the falls.
Kopatty Hills
Best places to visit in Coorg: At a distance of 10 km from Bhagamandala and 35 km from Madikeri, Kopatty Hills is a mesmerizing hill range situated at Kopatty village near Cherambane on Madikeri – Bhagamandala Road. It is one of the lesser-known trekking destinations in the Western Ghats.
The trek starts from the Maha Vishnu Temple, which is a short walk away from the Kopatty Bus Stop. The initial stretch of 2 km consists of a concrete road surrounded by paddy fields. Later, the trail goes through a muddy jeep track for 20 minutes until the first stream appears. Take a left at the Y-intersection and after 10 minutes you will reach two abandoned houses that take you into the forest. Walk through the forest for 2 km and reach an open region on the top of a flat table range of Mandalpatti that overlooks Erullivana, a scintillating valley. Kopatty Hills are visible from here. It is a ten-minute ascent to the peak which is marked with a flag where one can enjoy a 360-degree view of the Western Ghats.
Glenlorna Tea Plantations
Best places to visit in Coorg: At a distance of 1 km from Barapole River Rafting Point, 20 km from Gonikoppal, 21 km from Kutta and 76 km from Madikeri, Glenlorna is a tea estate situated near Hudikeri town in the Coorg district of Karnataka. Owned by Tata Plantations, this is the only tea estate in the centre of the coffee-dominated Coorg and among the must-visit places for nature lovers while holidaying in this region of Karnataka.
Tucked away in the hills, the Glenlorna Tea Plantation Estate lies at an impressive elevation of 808 m, surrounded by the famed fauna and flora of the Western Ghats. Apparently, tea was grown here since 1914 and like many other estates, this was a part of the British legacy too. Spread over an area of about 1200 acres, Glenlorna is well-renowned for its impressive tea production averaging roughly around 3,845 kilograms of tea per hectare, post-harvest. There is a tea processing factory here and is the only tea estate with a processing unit in the Coorg district.
The Glenlorna Tea Plantation has an old British edifice that is charming and cosy and surrounded by boundless serenity. This old villa was named after Glen & Lorna, the children of a British planter, its original inhabitants. With slanting roofs, an arched portico, red tiles on the floor and antique wooden beds, the bungalow has been standing strong with time ever since 1914.
Brahmagiri Trek
Best places to visit in Coorg: The Brahmagiri Trek comes with a great opportunity with which you would trek for 12 hours. On choosing the Karnataka route, you can start for Brahmagiri hills from Iruppu falls, which is at a 9 km distance, or from Munikal caves, which is at a 7 km distance.
It is located on the border between Wayanad District of Kerala state on the south and Kodagu District in Karnataka on the north side. The peak of the hill is well-forested and is rich in wildlife. The primary attractions around this trek are the Iruppu Falls, the Thirunnelai Temple which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Pakshipathalam which has a cave that is legendary for being a haven for ‘rishis’ primaeval times.
Rameshwara Temple
Best places to visit in Coorg: Situated on the banks of river Lakshmana Tirtha, Rameshwar Temple, a small Shiva Temple is one of the main places of interest in Coorg, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Rameshwara Temple is one of the main places of interest in Coorg, which is a small Shiva temple situated on the banks of the river Lakshmana Tirtha, which is a tributary of the Kaveri river and originates in the Brahmagiri hills near the Iruppu falls.
Chelavara Falls
Best places to visit in Coorg: At a distance of 43 km from Madikeri, 23 km from Virajpet & 13 km from Kakkabe, Chelavara Falls is a beautiful waterfall situated near Cheyyandane village on Virajpet – Talacauvery road in Coorg. It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Karnataka and also one of the best places to visit in Coorg.
The waterfall is really a wonderful site as the water gushes from the rocks amidst the green coffee plantations. The enchanting natural beauty and the tranquillity of the place attract tourists and nature lovers.
The waterfall is close to the motorable road (autos can be hired at Cheyyandane) and needs a 10-minute walk to reach the falls. Chomakund Hill is another renowned tourist spot which is about 2 km away from the falls. Tourists visiting Chelavara Falls will also visit Chomakund hill. Chomakund is an awesome place surrounded by lush green shrubs and trees and is almost covered in fog most of the time.
