1. Abbey Falls, Coorg
Abbey Falls, cascading down from the height of 70 feet, is a sight to kill for. In the past, this place was called Jessy Falls because the first British chaplain assigned it this name in memory of his pretty daughter. Like him, you too may be entranced by its beauty as water gushes amidst lush green coffee and spice plantations.
Best Time to Visit : To view the fall in all its glory, plan your trip during early winters (Oct-Dec).
- Location : Madikeri, Coorg
- Timings : 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Entry Fee : ₹15
2. Iruppu Falls, Coorg
Containing lush, lush vegetation and falling from a height of 170 feet, two distinct stages, Iruppu Falls is not only the epitome of natural beauty but also holy. The religious significance of this cascade has its roots in the epic Ramayana and their name is Lakshmana Tirtha Falls.
Tip : Visit this place post monsoon for some amazing views enhanced by the fluttering butterflies.
- Location : Kurchi, Coorg
- Timings : 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Entry Fee : ₹50
3. Mallalli Falls, Coorg
One of the highest waterfalls in Coorg, Mallalli Falls is definitely worth visiting if you’re planning to head there during the rainy season. This waterfall cascades majestically down from a height of nearly 200 feet, making this one among the tallest waterfalls in India. You can listen to water beating against rocks here for a lifetime.
Tip : To enjoy the best views of the heavenly scenery, climb the trekking trails leading to the fall.
- Location : Kumaralli Village, Somwarpet, Coorg
- Timings : 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Entry Fee : Free
4. Raja’s Seat, Coorg
If you’re looking for a relaxing experience, take a hike up to Raja’s Seat. This garden is one of the top tourist destinations in Coorg, both for its natural beauty and historical significance. Whether you decide on a sunset stroll with good views of the valley or are content to watch flora and fauna from your seat, you’ll enjoy a solitary occasion worth relishing.
Tip : Visit this place early in the morning to find some quiet as evenings here are usually crowded.
- Location : Madikeri, Coorg
- Timings : 5:30 am to 8:00 pm
- Entry Fee : ₹5
5. Cauvery Nisargadhama, Coorg
Kaveri Nisargadhama, also spelled as Cauvery Nisargadhama, is a well-known picnic spot just two kilometers away from Kushalnagar. It offers dense forests, a beautiful bamboo grove, and plenty of birds, unicorns, and deer. One of the main attractions is the 63-metre-long suspension bridge that stretches 45 metres between Kaveri Island and the outside world.
Must-do : Pedal boating, elephant rides, deer spotting and swimming (restricted).
- Location : Nisargadhama, Coorg
- Timings : 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Entry Fee : ₹10 (Adults); ₹5 (Children)
6. Harangi Dam, Coorg
Harangi Dam serves as a means of recreation and entertainment. It stands against the Harangi River, a tributary of the Kaveri River. This place is consistently scouted for its captivating natural locale and also, it’s accessibility to the Nisargadhamma river island. The dam must be visited if you’re taking the route from Bangalore to Coorg–do not miss out on this beautiful cultural attraction!
Must-do : Kayaking and camping
- Location : Somwarpet, Coorg
- Timings : 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee : ₹10 (Adults); ₹5 (Children aged below 12 years)
7. Chiklihole Reservoir, Coorg
Though not as popular as other attractions in the region, Chiklihole Reservoir is on your itinerary if you’re looking to spend some time away from the crowds. Located between Madikeri and Kushalnagar, this reservoir that has been active for over 30 years deserves a visit for its beautiful scenic beauty. Go for a picnic at the reservoir with friends or family, capture the most beautiful sunset views or take your loved one for a romantic evening amidst its tranquil environs and rich flora and fauna today.
Tip : Club this attraction with a trip to Dubare Elephant Camp, which is just a 15-minute drive away.
- Location : Attur Forest, Coorg
- Timings : 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Entry Fee : Free
8. Mandalpatti Viewpoint, Coorg
The ‘market of clouds’ in the local language, this hilltop is part of the Pushpagiri Reserve Forest and offers great views of the region. You can reach it by either route – via Abbey Falls junction or via Makkanduru. The latter is a longer but more interesting route that meanders through rugged terrain.
Tip : Hire a Jeep from Mandalpatti base (starting @₹ 1000) to reach the viewpoint in an hour.
- Location : Madikeri, Coorg
- Timings : 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee : ₹25
9. Dubare Elephant Camp, Coorg
If you weren’t able to experience something like the Dubare Elephant Camp before, your trip to Coorg would feel incomplete. Here at the Karnataka Forest Department and Jungle Lodges and Resorts project, an eco-tourism site, you have the possibility of experiencing not only being around elephants but also participating in new and exciting activities with them.
Trivia : The elephants for the famous Mysore Dusshera festival were once trained at Dubare.
- Location : Nanjarayapatna, Coorg
- Timings : 9:00 am to 9:00 pm
- Entry Fee : Starts @₹ 4780 (including stay, meals, Jeep safari, interactive experience & taxes)
10. Brahmagiri Hills, Coorg
If the idea of a trip through the verdant trails of Brahmagiri Hills appeals to you, make this your next adventure in Coorg. The 300-foot high summit is home to thick forests and colourful flora, as well as an array of wildlife residing in the misty hills. Neighbouring heights serve as a haven for Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Spotted Deer, Giant Flying Squirrel, Leopard Cat and Sloth Bear with Emerald Dove also present among them.
Tip : Opt for the Brahmagiri Trek only if you are physically fit as it can be quite challenging.
- Location : Yevakapadi, Coorg
- Timings : Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fee : Starts @₹ 200
11. Nagarhole National Park, Coorg
Nagarhole National Park is a must-visit in Coorg for its varied flora and fauna, especially for its animals. Its dense forests, lush valleys and rivers are home to Sloth Bear, Baking Deer, Bengal Tiger, Jungle Cat and over 250 migratory bird species. This is an experience so unforgettable to both the locals and visitors alike you won’t want to forget!
Best Time to Visit : Plan a visit to this park during summers (Apr-May) or winters (Nov-Feb).
- Location : Mysore-Madikeri Road, Hunsur, Coorg
- Timings : 6:00 am to 9:00 am, 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm
- Jeep Safari – 5:30 am to 10:00 am; 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm
- Bus Safari – 6:00 am to 9:00 am; 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm
- Coracle Ride – 9:00 am to 11:00 am; 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee : Starts @₹ 150
12. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Coorg
One place you would want to visit if you are a birdwatcher is Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. It is home to many endangered and rare bird species including the Malabar Grey Hornbill, Nilgiri Flycatcher and Gray-breasted Laughing Thrush. Many exotic animals like Indian Giant Squirrel, Brown Palm Civet, Spotted Deer and Asian Elephant also take refuge in the hilly terrains of this sanctuary. You must plan a visit here for the quintessential Western Ghats experience.
Tip : Explore the 7 km-long trekking route to Pushpagiri Hill, which is the second highest in Coorg.
- Location : Kumaralli Village, Somwarpet, Coorg
- Timings : 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee : Free
13. Tadiandamol Peak, Coorg
Sitting at 5724 feet and second highest in Karnataka, Tadiandamol is a forested mountain with some great opportunities for those who wish to indulge in trekking. You can also access three-third of the mountain via jeep so there is no reason why you can’t enjoy the most mesmerizing views of the green hills from its peak.
Tip : If you are not a seasoned trekker, Tadiandamol Peak is the perfect playground for you.
- Location : Kakkabe, Coorg
- Timings : Sunrise to Sunset
- Entry Fee : Free
14. Madikeri Fort, Coorg
The towering fort dominates the view of Madikeri, just as its long history. The present structure has been in existence since 1681, with various changes occurring over time. It is now home to a church, a tortoise sculpture and a museum. You will pass through its grand entrance to find life-size statues of elephants and a clock tower built by the British during their rule in 1814.
- Location : Madikeri, Coorg
- Timings : 10:00 am to 5:30 pm (Closed on Mondays)
- Entry Fee : Free
15. Raja’s Tomb, Coorg
Known as Raja’s tomb, this mausoleum of former King of Kodagu is a sight to behold if you are interested in history. The two identical tombs that stand nearby date back to 1821 and his wife. To their right, there is the tomb of Lingarajendra built in 1820 and the one on the left belongs to the royal priest, Rudrappa, who was built in 1834. Shrouded with tales from the past, these Indo-Sarcenic style domes and its minaret-like turrets are quite a sight.
Trivia : These Islamic-style tombs are engraved with Hindu-related carvings of Nandi and Lord Shiva.
- Location : Madikeri, Coorg
- Timings : 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
- Entry Fee : Free
16. Namdroling Monastery, Coorg
“This monastery is home to more than 5,000 monks and nuns and is dedicated to upholding the teachings of Lord Buddha.” The 3-storied Buddhist shrine, Tibetan Golden Temple, nests atop a mountain on Bylakuppe’s world’s second largest Tibetan settlement outside Tibet. Underneath this meditation temple lies a “gold-laden” temple with a prayer hall for guests to admire, but visitors cannot stay at this site without obtaining permission from the monastery.
Tip : The Protected Area Permit must be applied for in advance as it takes 3-4 months to arrive.
- Location : Arlikumari, Bylakuppe, Coorg
- Timings : 7:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Entry Fee : Free
17. Talacauvery, Coorg
This is an important pilgrimage site in the Brahmagiri Hill, marking the birth of the sacred Kaveri River. There is a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva standing on the spot where the water rises. Every year on October 17th (Tula Sankramana), devotees flock here, making it a major destination during this time of year.
Tip : Head to the Brahmagiri Peak nearby to enjoy uninterrupted views of the picturesque scenery.
- Location : Brahmagiri Hill, Coorg
- Timings : 6:00 am to 8:30 pm
- Entry Fee : Free
18. Bhagamandala, Coorg
Bhagamandala is a place of sacred significance to Jains, Hindus, and the Muslims. The confluence of three holy rivers that run through Kodagu’s triveni sangam was believed to be coated with healing powers by everyone who visited the marvellous site. With its famous Bhagandeshwara temple, there is plenty of culture as well.
Trivia : Bhagamandala is also the site of a bee rearing (honey production) centre, Madhuvana.
- Location : Brahmagiri Hill, Coorg
- Timings : 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Entry Fee : Free
19. Omkareshwara Temple, Coorg
Dating back to 1820, the Omkareshwara Temple has Indo-Saracenic architecture with a central dome and turrets in four corners. Legends reveal that King Lingarajndra II built this temple in order to atone for the unjust killing of an innocent Brahmin. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple attracts Hindu pilgrims and tourists alike for its religious significance as well as architectural brilliance.
Trivia : Despite being a Hindu shrine, this structure is built in Islamic style and resembles a dargah.
- Location : Madikeri, Coorg
- Timings : 6:30 am to 12:00 pm; 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm
- Entry Fee : Free
20. Honnamana Kere Lake, Coorg
This is the largest natural, freshwater lake in the entire Kodagu district of Tamil Nadu, Honnamana Kere. The lake is frequented by locals, tourists and many people for its religious and spiritual significance. There is a temple that sits on a bank of the lake dedicated to Goddess Honnamana who sacrificed her life to save the people of an entire village according to legend. Every year, a special pooja is conducted at this time during the Gowri festival and devotees visit the lake to offer offerings to their beloved deity, who sits in honor in Her revered temple.
Tip : Even if you’re not religiously inclined, you can visit this lake to indulge in boating and fishing.
- Location : Doddamalthe, Coorg
- Timings : 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee : Free
