TOP 10 FASCINATING PLACES TO DISCOVER IN COORG
Coorg is a tranquil outpost cradled in the Western Ghats, and nestled in the Kodagu district of Karnataka. It is also known as the Scotland of India and is ideal for an incredible hill station holiday. Coorg boasts of some of the most breathtaking waterfalls, lush greenery, and spectacular landscapes. The mighty Cauvery River starts its journey from Coorg. Kodavas who have made Coorg their home are the most hospitable and pleasant people anywhere. Coorg has produced men of valour, as many Kodavas serve in the Indian armed forces as decorated officers and generals. Coorg coffee is famous throughout the country, as it accounts 40 percent of all coffee production in the country. It’s no surprise Coorg is often called the Coffee Capital of India. Tourists can enjoy the majestic waterfalls, trek mountain peaks, and enjoy a lazy stroll at a coffee plantation. Besides, tourists can shop for spices like pepper, cardamom, eucalyptus, coffee & honey. Some interesting places to visit are the Namdroling Monastery, Glenlorna tea estate, and the Dubare elephant camp. Some striking places to discover in Coorg. Coorg is an all weather holiday destination, with each season offering a different natural dimension. The best time to visit Coorg is during the summer months when the day time temperatures are comfortably hot. Monsoon months can be avoided especially when travelling with children and the elderly. Here is a fascinating list of top 10 tourist places in Coorg travellers can discover and enjoy. 01. Mandalpatti Hill Mandalpatti is a famous hilltop in Coorg. Locals call it Mugilu-Pete which means Market of Clouds in English. Travellers have to trek a 25-30 km long road to the mountain peak from Abbey Falls. It is advised to have a proper trekking gear and adequate food supplies before attempting the ascent. In addition, the forest department operates 4X4 jeeps that take travellers to the base of the mountain peak. Scaling the mountain is sure to give everyone a thrilling adrenaline rush. Mandalpatti’s panoramic view of the mountain range is breathtaking since its untouched by civilization. A watchtower at the mountain peak offers travellers an incredible view of the surroundings. Treading up the mountain peak can be a bit strenuous, but the effort is worth every drop of sweat. Travellers have to purchase an entrance ticket at the forest checkpoint costing Rs 25. 02. Namdroling Monastery While a trek up Mandalpatti can be a challenge the Namdroling Monastery in Coorg is fascinating. Namdroling is the largest Nyingmapa Tibetan Buddhist centre of learning in South India. This Golden Temple is home to about 5,000 members of the Sangha community. The monastery houses elaborate artifacts of Tibetan architecture and artwork. A beautifully decorated temple tower, ornate outer walls, intricately Buddhist murals are sure to attract everyone’s attention. Prayer rituals of the monks are a unique sight. A well-manicured garden enhances the sacred vibe of the temple. 03. Madikeri Talakaveri Talakaveri is an alluring tourist stop that is sublime in nature. It is one of the best places to visit in Coorg as it’s the fountain head of the Cauvery River. The river originates here as a small water spring feeding a tank that flows downstream as the river Cauvery. A hillock beside Talakaveri that takes 407 steps to climb and is a must-do. The bird’s eye view of the evergreen forest, the misty hills makes for a perfect photo opportunity. The views around the blue hills are riveting and mesmerizing. 04. Madikeri Dubare Elephant Camp Dubare Elephant camp offers an adventure experience of living among trained elephants. It is a unique opportunity to learn about the lives of these majestic animals. A large number of Asiatic elephants stroll through peacefully here in their natural habitat. Naturalists and trained mahouts are ever-present to help visitors interact with the elephants. Visitors have the opportunity to sight birds like peacocks, partridges, kingfishers, and woodpeckers. Dubare is home to spotted deer, tigers, wild dogs, and bears which makes it exciting for many travellers. The entrance fee for visitors is Rs 800 per person. 05. Madikeri Abbey Falls Abbey Falls is about 10 km from Madikeri town and one of the regular tourist places in Coorg. The water cascade drops down a cliff from 70 feet. A spectacular view of the raging waters makes for a picturesque view. A sudden drop of the falls leaves a sizzling water spray when standing beside the falls for some time. An over-bridge across the fall offers the most picturesque view of the white water stream gushing down the ridge. A walk to the falls traverses through exotic coffee, cardamom, and pepper plantations. Bathing here is dangerous here, but the electrifying waterfalls themselves are enough to draw tourists every day. 06. Madikeri Fort Madikeri Fort is a historical fort situated in the heart of Madikeri town in Coorg. This still preserves…