This stunning waterfall does not only captivates the beholder’s eyes but makes one fall in love with its unparalleled beauty. Falling along the Brahmagiri Mountain range of a tributary originating from river Cauvery. Irupu falls is also known as Lakshmana Tirtha Falls and this is the hidden splendour of Coorg, a very famous and picturesque spot. While on your route to Brahmagiri peak.
Most of the people do not think of Southern India when monastery hits their brains, but this information is incredibly intriguing that the Tibetan-Buddhism influence had reached the southern part of India ages ago.
Mandroling Monastery in Bylakuppe is also known as the Golden temple. Around 5000 nuns and monks live together in Harmony at Namdroling and It is the second largest Buddhism settlement in India.
You can even spend some time in the bookstore and the cafe that is inside the Monastery premises. Namdroling is also called Golden temple because of the golden paintings etched on the monastery and the three golden statutes named Buddha, Padmasambhava, and Amitayus.
Photography is allowed inside the monastery and one can even light some incense sticks and sit for some time to soak in the piousness of the place.
Location: Arlikumari, P.O. Bylakuppe, Mysore, Karnataka 571104
Best Time to visit: Any time of the year.
Entry fee: No entry fee.
Timings: 7 AM to 6 PM on all the days of the week.
Average time required to visit the place: 1 to 2 hours.
Distance from Madikeri Bus Stand: Approximately 35 KM.
This river camp has trained Elephants and their mahout who bathe them and feed them. The Dubare Elephant Camp is a project which is run together by the forest department and Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd. There are naturalists who elucidate the biology, ecology and the history of Elephants to the visitors and you can not only see them but even participate in the river bath, and feeding.
Between Wayanad and Kannur districts in Kerala in the north and the east and Coorg in Karnataka in the south, lies the trekker’s paradise- Brahmagiri hills, the highest peak in the sanctuary that covers an area of 181 KM and derives its name from the Brahmagiri hill.
The celestial presence of Thirunelli temple and the adorable Iruppu falls amid the green groves en route makes the trekking experience a lifetime event that states with you for long.
It is suggested that you take a guide which will charge around INR 200 but will make your journey informative and more fun.
Height: 1,608 m
Location: Border of Mananthavady Taluk, Wayanad district, Kerala and Virajpet Taluk, Kodak district, Karnataka India.
Best Time to visit: December to March
Entry fee: A single charge of around INR 200 for the guide which is mandatory to take on the hike.
Timings: Daytime, an evening trek can be tricky.
Average time required to visit the place: The trek can be of 6 to 8 hours depending on the route opted.
Distance from Madikeri Bus Stand: Approximately 60 KM
When you explore the lesser-known destination, it fills you with euphoria and Nishani Motte peak is one of those places to visit in Coorg. Trek to Nishani Motte 15 kilometres that brings the uber joy of departing into an unknown land.
The trail goes through forest research, long paddy stretches, aromatic coffee states and small rivulets and streams. The unadulterated sight of river Cauvery or Kaveri is so soul-altering that you can sit by the bank of the river and spend some alone time. You can book the Nishani Motte Trek Tour from our platform at the best deals.
Height: 4167 ft.
Location: Nishanimotte, Bhagamandala Village, Karnataka
Best Time to visit: Winter and Autumn
Entry fee: No entry fee
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM.
Average time required to visit the place: 2 days (trek)
Distance from Madikeri Bus Stand: Around 12 to 15 KM
Originating from the river Kaveri, Chelavara falls are one of the most scenic falls in Coorg, famous for their unique appearance. Also known as Embepare (Tortoise) falls locally, the gushing columns of water crash down from a height of 150 ft. on a huge tortoise shaped rock and it is best Coorg sightseeing places.
It is a mesmerising sight to see the huge white curtains of water cascading down amidst lush green surroundings. The surroundings of the falls are enveloped in the intoxicating fragrance of coffee from the nearby plantations.
They are reachable after a 10-minute easy hike from the end of the Virajpet road. There is a 50 ft. deep plunge pool at the bottom of the fall for a cool refreshing dip. The best time to visit this famous Coorg tourist place is during the monsoons.
Height: 150 feet
Location: 2 Km From Choma Kund Hill, Madikeri, India
Best Time to Visit: Monsoon is the best time but is equally risky. Winter season is the safest one.
Entry fee: No entry fee.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM on all days of the week.
Average time required to visit the place: More than 2 to 3 hours.
Distance from Madikeri Bus Stand: Approximately 43 Km
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It is incredibly amazing to know that Karnataka boasts of 21 wildlife sanctuaries and Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is one of them that adds more greenery to the state’s sizeable vegetation.
Sprawled across an area of 102 KM, this wildlife sanctuary is world famous for its sustainable approach to endangered bird species. It is almost 290 KM from Bangalore and is situated in the Somwarpet taluk district in Coorg.
Many small streams chisel down the steep terrain of the sanctuary which is caved by Bisle Reserve Forest on one side and Kukke Subramanya Forest range on the other. Around 70 % of the jungle is densely covered and many exotic bird species are found such as Malaria Grey Hornbill, Nilgiri Blue Pigeon, Blue-winged Parakeet and white-bellied blue flycatcher etc.
Height: 1712 meters above the sea level ( Pushpagiri- the highest peak in the Sanctuary).
Location: Somwarpet, Kodagu, Coorg-571251
Best Time to Visit: Winter season (November to February)
Entry fee: INR 10 per head.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM n all seven days of the week.
Average time required to visit this place: 3 to 4 hours.
Distance from Madikeri Bus Stand: 64 Kms.
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Also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park this park is named after the Nagarhole (Cobra) river passing through its rich tropical forest cover. Located in Kodagu and Mysore, it was established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and converted into a national park in 1988. Wildlife enthusiasts love to experience Nagarhole Safari in Coorg to see the interesting array of its inhabitants like Wild Boars, Sloth Bears, Antelopes, Barking Deer, Leopards, and birds.
This 18th-century temple is an important religious pilgrimage site and amongst the most popular places to visit in Coorg. The legend goes that it was constructed by King Lingarajendra II to repent for his violent deeds and holds a Shivalingam from brought specially from Kashi.
The temple is famous for its extremely unique architecture that is a mix of Islamic and Gothic influences. It has a large central dome surrounded by four minarets like that of a dargah.
The ambience is peaceful and one can spend time besides the huge water tank full of colourful fish inside the premise.
Location: Highway 88, Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Coorg, Karnataka, 571201, India
Best Time to visit: November to March.
Entry fee: There is no entry fee.
Timings: 6:30 AM to 12:00 Noon and again from 5:00 PM till 8:00 PM.
Average time required to visit the place: Minimum 1 hour.
Distance from Madikeri Bus Stand: Approximately 1 KM.
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Taking a plunge down over a height of 90 ft., Burude falls are hidden in the green thickets on Siddapur-Kumta road in Sirsi district of Karnataka.
Once reached the bottom of the waterfall, you will find a marvellous sight of milky white water pounding the rocks and making it impossible for you to fall in love with the view. Burude falls is also known as Illimane Fall that follows a course of five concrete steep steps.
This spectacular waterfall is one of the places to visit in Coorg which you can not afford to miss. During the monsoon, one has to pass through a small gurgling stream through the forest and
Height: approximately 90 feet.
Location: SH-489, Siddapura - Kumta Road, Sirsi 581355, India
Best Time to visit: October to February, however, Monsoon is the time when the volume of water increases but the trail will be covered with swarms of leeches.
Entry fee: Free
Average time required to visit the place: 1 to 1.5 Hours (Gradually through easy and moderate trekking route)
Distance from Madikeri Bus Stand: Approximately 20 KM
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Indulging in an island escape is always exciting and when the island is located in the middle of a river, it feels like ‘ a cherry on a cake.’ Nisargadhma is an unspoilt and naturally blessed island on the river Kaveri in Karnataka and one of the best Coorg attractions.
To reach this ultimate picnic spot you have to walk through a patch of bamboo groves, sandalwood trees and teak trees etc. One can even walk through the shallow beds of the river and enjoy the chilled rush of the water.
Nisargadhama island is very close to Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement which is another incredible place to hit while in Coorg. Spend some hour of solitude at this island or enjoy the boat ride and elephant safaris. This is one of the offbeat places to visit in Coorg for a unique island escape.
Location: Madikeri, Coorg, Karnataka 571234, India
Entry fee: INR 10 per head (adults) and INR 5 per child.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM on all days of the week.
Average time required to visit the place: half a day or a day.
Distance from Madikeri Bus Stand: Approximately 28 KM.
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Located in the Daddamalthe village, this is the largest lake in Coorg bestowed with stunning natural beauty and is one of the best place in Coorg. This placid lake is surrounded by hills with thick vegetation, coffee plantations, and caves.
Since too many tourists do not visit the lake, it lets the visitors spend some time in the quietude of nature away from the noise of the city. You can spend time boating through the mangroves where you might even spot wild elephants.
Named after goddess Honamma, the lake also a holy place for the locals. A temple is built on the riverbank, which adorns a colourful festival look during the yearly celebrations of Gowri festival. The lake can be visited between 8:00 am- 6:00 pm on any day of the week.
Location: Honnamana Kere, Somwarpet, Coorg, Karnataka, 571201, India
Best Time to Visit: Winter season
Entry fee: No entry fee
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM on all the days of the week.
Average time required to visit the place: 2 to 2.5 hours.
Distance from Madikeri Bus Stand: Approximately 45 KM
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The place hangs in a sap sweet aroma of the coffee estates which are widespread in the endless stretches of this village makes it a favourite among the Coorg tourist places.
The Chettalli waterfall must be in your bucket list as you have to cross two streams and walk a couple of kilometres through the rich shola forests and thick coffee plantation to reach the falls.
The interesting fact about Chettali is that it is home to the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research and is one of a kind the entire country. The temple at Todikana is the landmark from where one starts hiking and walking towards the falls.
Location: Cherala Srimangala, Karnataka
Best Time to visit: Evening, morning, and day.
Entry fee: No entry fee
Timings: 24 hours.
Average time required to visit the place: 2 Hours.
Distance from Madikeri Bus Stand: Approximately 17 KM
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Raja’s Tomb, also known as Gaddige, is a significant historical site located in Madikeri, the scenic hill town and headquarters of the Coorg district in Karnataka. This royal mausoleum houses the tombs of the former Kodava kings and reflects the grandeur of the past. Built in the Indo-Sarcenic style, Gaddige features three tombs with striking Islamic architectural elements like domes, minarets, and intricately designed bronze windows.
The first tomb was constructed in 1809 in memory of King Doddaveerarajendra, followed by the tomb of Lingarajendra in 1821. A third, smaller tomb built in 1834 is dedicated to their royal priest, Rudrappa or Rudramuniswamy. Surrounded by lush greenery and serene views, Gaddige offers visitors a peaceful setting along with a glimpse into Coorg’s royal history, making it a must-visit for those interested in heritage, culture, and architecture.
The dam is built against a small tributary of river Cauvery known as Harangue in the Hadgur village of Coorg and is mostly a combined visit with Cauvery Nishargadhama which is hardly 8 to 10 KM from the Dam.
Harangi river originates from the Pushpagiri hills and runs through 50 kilometres of a distance before meeting the main river Kaveri or Cauvery. The water depends on the south-west monsoon and heavy rainfall as it is a seasonal fall.
The dam is located at a distance of 9 KM Kushalnagar town in Coorg and is a marvellous example of civil engineering. The place is now becoming one of the main attractions in Coorg and gaining popularity with time.
Height: 47 meters.
Location: Harangi Dam, Hunger, Somwarpet, Kodagu, Karnataka, 571234, India
Best Time to visit: During the monsoon season.
Entry fee: INR 10 per person (adult), INR 5 for children below 12 Years of age and INR 10 for parking.
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM on all the seven days of the week.
Average time required to visit the place: 1 to 2 hours.
Distance from Madikeri Bus Stand: It is situated at a distance of around 34 to 35 KM from Madikeri Bus stand.
Kotebetta, also known as Fort Hill, is the third highest mountain peak and the best place in Coorg for trekking as well as for sightseeing. It is situated at an altitude of 5314 ft. above sea level. A great pull for the tourists to Kotebetta Hill is the folklore believed by the locals that the Pandavas once lived here and one can still see the stone houses by them. The hill also offers exciting opportunities to hike.
Kabbe Hills is a beautiful part of Coorg that is close to the village of Chelavara, about 37 km from Madikeri, with an elevation of about 1,420 m. You can get to the beautiful views by taking a 30-minute hike, or a Jeep ride through coffee estates, shola forests and misty meadows. Once at the top, you can see the beautiful Western Ghats, with Kerala's border on one side and the huge Coorg plantations on the other.
During the monsoon season, the landscape comes to life with bubbling streams that feed Chelavara Falls and lush greenery everywhere. The bright wildflowers attract Nilgiri Woodpigeon, Malabar Trogon, and other sunbirds, providing for amazing birdwatching opportunities. Kabbe is a peaceful place where you can spend a few hours enjoying adventure, biodiversity, and beautiful landscapes. You can end your trip by chasing sunsets with beautiful picture opportunities during the golden hour.
Kakkabe is a hamlet in Coorg that is famous for many timeless splendours and some of which are Igguthappa Temple, Thadiyandamol Peak, and Nalnad Palace. Kodava king Dodda Veerarajendra constructed this palace after escaping from the attack of Tipu Sultan and invading Coorg.
There is a stunning mandapa in the centre of the palace which was built for the wedding ceremony of Dodda Veerarajendra with Mahadevammaji in the year 1796. This palace is believed to be the last abode of the King of Kodagu and is now a conserved monument under the supervision of the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums of Karnataka.
This palace has an underground tunnel that ends at Madikeri and it was built to dart enemies.
Location: Tadiyandamol Hills, Kodagu District, Kakkabe, India
Best Time to visit: Any time during the day.
Entry fee: No entry fee
Timings: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM on all the days of the week
Average time required to visit the place: 1 to 2 hours.
Distance from Madikeri Bus Stand: Around 35 KM.
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This Kerala style temple is situated at the confluence of three holy rivers - Cauvery, Sujyothi, and Kannike. The confluence is famous as Triveni Sangama and is a very significant pilgrimage sight.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Subramanya, Lord Narayana, and Lord Bhagandeshwara and is said to be more than a thousand year old. Over the rule of various dynasties in the past, the temple has been renovated from time to time and presently, it is still a well-maintained temple proving the test of time and attracting flocks of devotees every day.
If you attend the Pooja, the priests would explain the brief meaning behind every action and the historical story of idol installation. Sri Bhagandeshwara Temple is one of the ‘must-go’ places to visit in Coorg.
The temple remains closed from 1:30 to 2:30 PM and the food is available to devotees and worshipers as well. As a visitor, it is our duty to maintain the peace and tranquillity of the place and let the positive aura reach to everyone who comes to worship.
Location: Bhagamandala, Karnataka 571201
Best Time to visit: October to April
Entry fee: Entry is free.
Timings: 6 Am to 6 PM on all days of the week.
Average time required to visit the place: Not more than 30 minutes.
Distance from Madikeri Bus Stand: Approximately 36 KM.
1. Abbey Falls: This glittering waterfall is set amidst the coffee plantations and offers a sight to behold. The picturesque attraction is a must visit for photographers and nature lovers in Coorg.
2. Raja’s Seat: This is a beautiful garden which is a delight for nature lovers and among the top picnic spots for the tourists. It offers a wonderful view of the sunset and a panoramic glimpse of the curated gardens and an array of colourful flowers.
3. Iruppu Falls: Known for its religious significance, Iruppu Falls is a grand spectacle that attracts a number of visitors. It leads the trekking trail to Brahmagiri Peak and offers a peaceful respite for all nature lovers.
4. Namdroling Monastery: Also called Golden Temple, Namdroling Monastery boasts of an exquisite example of Tibetan architecture in Coorg. It is built from Bamboo and is known to be home for about 5000 members of the Sangha community in Coorg.
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1. Abbey Falls: The famous Abbey Falls cascades down from an elevation of around 70 feet, amidst a lush spice and coffee plantation. The shimmering stream of gushing white water offers an incredibly beautiful sight to behold.
2. Mandalpatti Viewpoint: Perched at an altitude of around 4050 feet inside the Pushpagiri Reserve Forest, Mandalpatti Viewpoint offers picturesque mountain views to bask in with your beloved.
3. Honnamana Kere Lake: Making for the largest natural lake of Coorg, Honnamana Kere Lake is known for its spiritual and religious significance. You can visit Goddess Honnamana temple located at the banks to seek blessings for your relationship.
4. Namdroling Monastery: Namdroling Monastery is a 3-storied shrine sheltering over 5,000 Buddhist nuns and monks. You can spend some peaceful time here, marveling at the gold-clad temple and relaxing in the meditative atmosphere.
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1. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary: Pushpagiri is home to umpteen varieties of rare and endangered bird species, such as the Hornbill, Malabar Grey, Gray-breasted Laughing Thrush, and Nilgiri Flycatcher. You can also spot a number of exotic animals here including the Brown Palm Civet, Indian Giant Squirrel, and Spotted Deer.
2. Harangi Dam: Standing against the beautiful Harangi river, the famous Harangi Dam offers the best camping and kayaking opportunities in the whole Kodagu district.
3. Raja’s Seat: Nestled on an enchanting hillock, Raja’s Seat is a sprawling green garden, where the Kodava kings once spent their leisure hours. You can easily witness spellbinding sunset and valley views from this spot.
4. Iruppu Falls: Tucked in the mighty Brahmagiri mountains, Iruppu Falls cascades in two different stages, from an elevation of around 170 feet. Travelers visiting this place enjoy soaking in the breathtaking views of the cascading waters and taking a bath in it.
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1. Madikeri Fort: One of the popular tourist attractions in Coorg, Madikeri Fort is a sight worth witnessing while traveling with family. Home to a temple, prison, church, museum and library, this fort is a blend of various cultures and traditions.
2. Abbey Falls: One of the most beautiful and fascinating sights to visit, Abbey Falls will provide you with a day replete with fun and adventure. Visit the falls with your family and take in the charming, tranquil views.
3. Raja’s Seat: Witness the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset from Raja’s Seat that offers you a panoramic view of the surroundings. Refresh yourselves and visit the place with your family for an enchanting experience.
4. Barapole River: Visit the Barapole River and indulge in the adventure water sports with your family. Take part in white water rafting and let the adrenaline rush take over you making it one of the best places to visit in Coorg.
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