Nestled in the lush greenery of Karnataka, Coorg, often referred to as the “Scotland of India,” is a captivating destination that never fails to leave a lasting impression. Located in the Western Ghats, this hill station boasts rolling hills, coffee plantations, and abundant flora and fauna. The cool climate and serene landscapes make it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can explore aromatic coffee estates, visit the breathtaking Abbey Falls, and indulge in local Kodava cuisine. With its rich cultural heritage, misty mountains, and the warm hospitality of its people, Coorg is an enchanting paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
How to Reach Coorg – Best Routes by Air, Train, and Road
Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a beautiful hill station in Karnataka. It does not have a railway station or airport, but it is well connected by road from major cities. Here’s how you can reach Coorg:
By Air (Nearest Airport to Coorg) ✈️
The nearest airport to Coorg is Kannur International Airport (Kerala), about 90 km away. Another option is Mangalore International Airport, which is around 135 km away. Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (Bangalore Airport) is the major airport, around 260 km from Coorg.
- From Kannur/Mangalore Airport: You can hire a taxi or take a bus to Coorg.
- From Bangalore Airport: Take a cab or bus to Coorg (approx. 5-6 hours).
By Train (Nearest Railway Stations to Coorg) 🚆
Coorg does not have its own railway station. The nearest railway stations are:
- Mysore Junction (MYQ) – 115 km
- Mangalore Junction (MAJN) – 135 km
- Hassan Railway Station (HAS) – 105 km
From these railway stations, you can take a taxi or a bus to Coorg. Mysore is the most preferred option due to better connectivity.
By Road (Best Route to Coorg by Car & Bus) 🚗🚌
Coorg is well connected by road from major cities in Karnataka and nearby states.
- From Bangalore: 260 km (Approx. 5-6 hours) via Mysore Road or NH275
- From Mysore: 115 km (Approx. 2.5-3 hours) via Hunsur Road
- From Mangalore: 135 km (Approx. 3.5-4 hours) via NH275
- From Chennai: 585 km (Approx. 10-11 hours) via Bangalore
- From Hyderabad: 850 km (Approx. 14-15 hours) via Bangalore
🚌 By Bus: KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) and private operators run regular buses from Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore to Coorg (Madikeri).
🚖 By Taxi: You can hire a private cab from major nearby cities for a comfortable journey.
Best Route from Bangalore to Coorg
- Bangalore → Mysore → Hunsur → Kushalnagar → Madikeri (Coorg)
- Bangalore → Channarayapatna → Hassan → Madikeri (Scenic route)
Best Time to Visit Coorg – Ideal Season for a Perfect Trip
Coorg is a year-round destination with pleasant weather, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. Here’s a season-wise breakdown:
🌸 Summer (March to May) – Best for a Pleasant Getaway
- Temperature: 20°C to 35°C
- Why Visit? Ideal for sightseeing, coffee plantations, and waterfalls. The weather is warm but not too hot, making it a good escape from city heat.
- Perfect for: Families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
🌧️ Monsoon (June to September) – Best for Nature & Waterfalls
- Temperature: 18°C to 30°C
- Why Visit? Lush greenery, misty hills, and gushing waterfalls. However, heavy rainfall can lead to slippery roads and landslides.
- Perfect for: Monsoon lovers, photographers, and those who enjoy cozy stays in nature.
🍁 Winter (October to February) – Best for a Cozy & Adventurous Trip
- Temperature: 10°C to 25°C
- Why Visit? The weather is chilly and refreshing, perfect for trekking, coffee estate visits, and wildlife exploration.
- Perfect for: Couples, honeymooners, and adventure enthusiasts.
⏳ Ideal Time for Specific Activities:
✔️ Trekking & Adventure – October to March
✔️ Waterfalls & Greenery – July to September
✔️ Coffee Plantation Tours – November to February
✔️ Honeymoon & Relaxation – October to February
Final Recommendation:
- Best Overall Time: October to March (Pleasant weather, great for all activities)
- Avoid: Heavy monsoons (June-August) if you don’t like too much rain or road travel in wet conditions.
Top Attractions & Sightseeing of Coorg (Medikeri)
- Madikeri Fort: Begin your exploration with a visit to the historic Madikeri Fort, which offers a glimpse into the region’s past. The fort also houses a museum where you can learn about Coorg’s heritage.
- Raja’s Seat: Head to Raja’s Seat, a beautifully landscaped garden with a stunning view of the sunset. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the panoramic vistas.
- Omkareshwara Temple: Nearby, you can visit the Omkareshwara Temple, an ancient shrine known for its unique architecture and tranquil atmosphere.
- Abbey Falls: A short drive away, Abbey Falls is a must-visit. These cascading waterfalls are at their most magnificent during the monsoon season, but their beauty is enchanting year-round.
- Dubare Elephant Camp: Begin your day by heading to the Dubare Elephant Camp, located on the banks of the Kaveri River. Here, you can engage in various activities like feeding, bathing, and even taking an elephant ride. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience for animal lovers.
- Cauvery Nisargadhama: After your time with the elephants, make your way to Cauvery Nisargadhama, a serene island and nature reserve. You can stroll through the bamboo forests, relax by the river, and visit the deer park and a hanging bridge.
- Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery): If you missed it on the first day, consider visiting the Namdroling Monastery in Bylakuppe. This beautifully ornate Tibetan monastery is a tranquil place for meditation and reflection.
- Tibetan Cuisine: While in Bylakuppe, indulge in some delicious Tibetan cuisine at one of the local eateries. Momos, thukpa, and Tibetan tea are must-tries.
- Nagarhole National Park: If you’re passionate about wildlife, you could explore Nagarhole National Park, known for its rich biodiversity. A safari here might lead to exciting wildlife encounters.
- Raja’s Tomb: On your way back to Madikeri, you can visit the Raja’s Tomb, a historical site with beautifully carved structures.
- Talacauvery: Start your day early by heading to Talacauvery, the source of the River Cauvery. It’s a sacred place for locals and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Don’t forget to climb the Brahmagiri Peak for panoramic vistas.
- Bhagamandala: After visiting Talacauvery, make your way to Bhagamandala, a small town known for its confluence of three rivers – the Cauvery, Kannike, and Sujyoti. The Bhagandeshwara Temple here is another noteworthy attraction.
- Iruppu Falls: Your next stop can be Iruppu Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a great place for a refreshing dip and some beautiful photo opportunities.
- Bylakuppe Monastery: If you missed it on the previous day, you can visit the Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement and monasteries. The serene ambiance and intricate architecture are worth experiencing.
- Chettalli: Visit the charming village of Chettalli, known for its coffee estates. Take a coffee plantation tour to learn about the coffee-making process and savor the aroma of freshly roasted beans.
- Rameshwara Temple: Explore the ancient Rameshwara Temple in the village of Koodlur. This historic temple is an architectural marvel and holds cultural significance.
- Harangi Dam: Head to the Harangi Dam, a picturesque reservoir surrounded by hills. It’s a serene spot for a leisurely walk and to enjoy the serene waterscape.
- Nalaknad Palace: Visit the Nalaknad Palace, which boasts stunning architecture and a rich history. The palace offers a glimpse into Coorg’s royal heritage.
- Coffee Museum: If you have an interest in coffee, consider visiting a local coffee museum to delve deeper into the history and production of Coorg’s famous coffee.
Best Stay Options in Coorg – From Budget to Luxury.
Best Pure Veg Restaurants in Coorg – Jain & Vegetarian-Friendly Options
Best Pure Veg Restaurants in Coorg
🔹 Kailash Prabhat (Madikeri) – 🌟 Best for Authentic North Indian & Jain Food
- Must-try: Jain Thali, Dal Tadka, Roti, Jain Pulao.
- Why visit? A pure vegetarian restaurant serving North Indian and Jain meals with great taste.
🔹 Paakashala (Madikeri) – 🌟 Famous for South Indian Veg Dishes
- Must-try: Masala Dosa, Idli-Vada, South Indian Thali.
- Why visit? Great ambiance and authentic flavors, perfect for breakfast and lunch.
🔹 Vrindavan Pure Veg Restaurant (Kushalnagar) – 🌟 Best for Traditional South Indian Food
- Must-try: Akki Roti, Vegetable Kurma, Fresh Filter Coffee.
- Why visit? Pocket-friendly restaurant with homely vegetarian meals.
🔹 Hotel Sri Shanti Sagar (Madikeri) – 🌟 Budget-Friendly & Popular Among Locals
- Must-try: South Indian Thali, Sambar Rice, Curd Rice.
- Why visit? Best for quick, affordable, and pure vegetarian meals.
🔹 Ambika Upahar Udupi Vegetarian Restaurant (Madikeri) – 🌟 Best for Authentic Udupi Cuisine
- Must-try: Udupi Thali, Ghee Roast Dosa, Rasam Rice.
- Why visit? Serves traditional Udupi dishes with fresh ingredients and a homely taste.
🔹 The Udupi Grand Pure Veg Family Restaurant (Kushalnagar) – 🌟 Best for Family Dining
- Must-try: Udupi Special Thali, Masala Dosa, Filter Coffee.
- Why visit? A perfect spot for families looking for authentic vegetarian meals with great service.
🌟 Additional Tips
✅ Most of these restaurants offer Jain-friendly food on request.
✅ For North Indian flavors, Kailash Prabhat is the best choice.
✅ If you’re looking for authentic South Indian & Udupi cuisine, Ambika Upahar and The Udupi Grand are great options.
Where to Try Local Coffee in Coorg ☕
Coffee Blossom (Suntikoppa) – A must-visit for coffee lovers.
Big Cup Café (Madikeri & Kushalnagar) – Best for locally brewed Coorg coffee.
Beans n Brews Café (Madikeri) – Cozy place for coffee & desserts.
