The Ultimate Coorg Travel Guide | Luxury Travellers’ Journal

June 23, 2024

Nestled in the verdant hills of Karnataka, Coorg, is a picturesque destination that captivates travelers with its perennial pleasant weather. Its rolling coffee plantations, mist-draped mountains and cascading waterfalls are an enchanting retreat for couples seeking a romantic haven and families yearning for a much-needed getaway. Living upto his tagline as ‘Scotlnd of India’, it transforms into an emerald paradise with lush greenery and gushing streams in the monsoons. Never been here? Don’t worry, as we reveal our Coorg travel guide with the best-times to visit, must-see attractions, delectable culinary delights, luxury villas to stay and hidden treasures, promising an unforgettable experience for every visitor. 

Coorg Travel Guide – How To Reach Coorg?

By Air: The nearest airport to Coorg is Mangalore International Airport (IXE), well-connected with major Indian cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi, as well as international destinations. It is 160 km away from the airport. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Coorg.

By Train: Coorg does not have its own railway station. The closest railheads are Mysore Junction (MYS), about 95 kilometers away, and Mangalore Central (MAQ), around 140 kilometers away. From these stations, you can take a taxi or bus to Coorg.

By Road: Coorg is well-connected by road, making it easily accessible from various cities in Karnataka or neighboring states. 

You can reach Bengaluru and drive to Coorg. It is about 260 kilometers and takes around 5-6 hours via NH275. Regular bus services, including KSRTC and private operators, connect Coorg with Bengaluru, Mysore, Mangalore, and other nearby cities. 

For a more personalized experience of a Coorg tour guide, you can hire a cab or drive your own vehicle.

Best Time to Visit Coorg 

Coorg’s weather is pleasant throughout the year, making it a year-round destination. However, each season offers a unique experience. Depending on your interests, you can choose the right time to plan a family getaway in Coorg.

March to May – Summers and spring intertwine

June to September – The perfect monsoon vibe

November to February – Ideal for outdoor activities in wintery climes

Coorg Travel Guide – Where to Stay In Coorg? 

When planning any holiday, the next thing after the tickets is the accommodation. Coorg’s beauty keeps attracting a lot of tourists, especially in the rainy and winter seasons. Ditch the hotels, consider luxury villas in Coorg by Lohono. 

Whispering Waters – Villa With Wellness Retreat in Coorg

Love experiential stays? Then this villa in Coorg spread in a 25-acre estate has to be the best decision you make for this vacation. Breathtaking views of hills and rivers, nature trails and bird-watching safaris, tour of the plantations, ayurvedic massages and riverside picnics, you won’t even feel the need to step out from this home. Learn the secrets of Coorg’s renowned coffee and spices and have a picnic by the river. 

The team can cook up elaborate Coorgi cuisine made using freshly foraged local ingredients and aromatic spices.   

NP Villa – Villa Within Coffee Plantations in Coorg

A home that feels like a part of rich history, N P Villa is a private holiday home in Coorg with a waterfall from the top of the property! As you enter, you will be greeted by a 160-year-old temple door, setting the tone for the experience that lies within. 

Think handmade tiles, magnificent artefacts, Tanjore paintings and elements that display the cultural significance of the place. This 5BHK home is the perfect place to stay in Coorg if you’re travelling as a large group, easily accommodating 10-12 people at a time. 

Booking a private stay in Coorg with a package full of activities can help you make the most of your vacation time. Our two incredible luxury villa properties near Bangalore assure of a memorable holiday, no matter which season you choose to visit. 

5 Must-See Places In Coorg on Our Coorg Tour Guide

Coorg has a variety of experiences to offer, from adrenaline pumping peaks to marveling at the wonders of the wildlife. We pick the 5 must-see tourist spots in Coorg: 

1. Dubare Elephant Camp

An experience that lets you be in close company of the gentle giant elephants, Dubare Elephant Camp is one of the popular spots in Coorg for families. Teach your children a lesson about caring for elephants an get involved in interesting activities, like giving them a bath! Take a day-trip here which includes a wildlife film show, nature walk, elephant interaction, elephant bathing, and elephant feeding. 

2. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

A wildlife safari sparks curiosity and excitement among people of all ages. Venture into Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, a biodiversity hotspot near Coorg. There are some thrilling activities for adventure seekers like trekking, bird watching, nature trails and jeep safari. There are several peak points and attractions within the sanctuary. 

Heavy rains in monsoon can make exploration difficult, winters are a perfect time if you wish to visit here. 

3. Abbey Falls

A Coorg tour guide is incomplete without including the many waterfalls that take form during monsoons. Abbey Falls is one such famous waterfalls in Coorg tucked within coffee and spice plantations. Falling over 70 ft from waters of river Kaveri, these waterfalls have a wide surface which makes their appearance more scenic and spectacular. 

Other famous waterfalls you should stop by are Iruppu Falls, Mallalli Falls, 

4. Chiklihole Dam

If you like visiting places that are relatively secluded and don’t have throngs of tourists, head to the Chiklihole Reservoir. It is a nice picnic spot amidst lush greenery and cool breeze from the dam waters. The unique circular shape of the dam is worth watching as the water drips in force. You can also wait back for a picturesque sunset. 

5. Madikeri Fort

Also called Mercara Fort, this historical gem in the heart of Coorg, stands as a testament to the region’s rich past and architectural grandeur. Originally built in the late 17th century by Mudduraja and later renovated by Tipu Sultan, the fort offers a captivating blend of history and scenic beauty. Explore the grand structure, which houses a museum, a clock tower, and ancient artifacts offering a glimpse into the bygone era.

Culinary Delights – What To Eat In Coorg

A major part of exploring any place is indulging in its culinary culture. Devour some traditional Kodagu or Coorgi recipes. It is a rather meaty affair to try the local specialties. The Pandi Curry (pork curry) is an intensely flavourful trademark recipe from the region. The mutton pulao preparation laden with fresh spices gravy is also a delight for true meat lovers. 

Vegetarians can relish on the Bamboo shoot fry, steamed rice cakes and dumplings, spicy stew with veggies and more. The special ingredient tangy chutneys offer the exact piquancy needed to your meals. 

You need not worry about food delights, if you book a stay with us. Our villas in Coorg are serviced with trained hospitality that prepare regional delicacies for guests. You can request for a traditional menu and the team will be happy to cater your wishes. 

For an experience that etches on your mind, follow this Coorg travel guide and reserve your stay with us.