Top 28 Best Things To Do In Coorg
Things To Do In Coorg : With its rolling green hills and clear blue skies all year round, it’s no surprise that Coorg is often called the ‘Scotland of India’. While the region is famous for its premium coffee, there’s much more to experience here. Whether you’re a nature lover, food enthusiast, photographer, adventure seeker, or culture buff, Coorg has something exciting for every traveler. Best of all, many of Coorg’s top attractions come at no cost!
1. Dubare Elephant Camp – Bathe Elephants
One of the most enjoyable activities in Coorg is interacting with and caring for elephants. The Dubare Elephant Camp, a popular tourist spot in the region, is home to a large group of elephants that visitors can feed, bathe, and even ride. Situated along the riverbank, it’s an ideal place to cool down during the summer, making it one of the top things to experience in Coorg in a single day.
2. Golden Temple – Experience Tibetan Culture
Coorg is home to many temples, but none quite as unique and captivating as this one. It’s the only location in Southern India with a Tibetan settlement, housing the stunning Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple. Visiting this Tibetan monastery is a wonderful opportunity to introduce children to a different culture. Around the temple, you’ll find stalls offering Tibetan delicacies like momos and thukpas. A trip to Bylakuppe is a must-do experience and one of the top destinations for a getaway from Bangalore.
3. Abbey Falls – Click Pictures
Coorg is rich in natural beauty, making it a photographer’s paradise. Among the top experiences is capturing the stunning landscape. Abbey Falls, nestled within a picturesque coffee and spice plantation, offers the perfect backdrop for that ideal Instagram shot. If you’re unsure of what to do in Coorg, a visit to this popular waterfall should be at the top of your list.
4. Trekking – On The Gorgeous Routes
The lush Western Ghats surrounding Coorg provide plenty of opportunities for hiking and trekking. Popular trails include Tadiandamol, Kodachadri, Kumara Parvatha, Mullayanagiri, and Brahmagiri. Trekking is especially rewarding during the winter months when the forests are dry yet vibrant, making it one of the top activities to enjoy in Coorg during December.
5. Food Tour – Explore The Flavours
Coorg’s cuisine stands apart from the rest of Karnataka, with a distinct flavor profile that heavily features non-vegetarian dishes made from local ingredients such as forest produce, meat, and rice-based products. A must-try is the famous pork dish, pandi curry, a true highlight of Coorg. Vegetarians can savor traditional options like akki rotti, nool puttu, and koovaleputtu. If you’re wondering what to do in Coorg at night, enjoying a dinner featuring one of these dishes is a delightful way to end your day.
6. Coffee Plantation Tour – Amidst The Endless Greens
For couples looking for a unique experience, coffee bean picking is a must-try activity in Coorg. As the largest coffee-producing region, you’ll find coffee and spice plantations scattered throughout the area. The coffee picking season typically runs from November to January. On a one-day trip to Coorg, you can also explore these plantations through peaceful nature walks, adding another layer of charm to your visit.
7. Camping – Riverside And Jungles
Camping in Coorg has gained popularity in recent years, offering a variety of campsites to choose from. With a camping trip, there’s no need to worry about planning activities – just book a spot, unwind in your tent with a cup of coffee by day, and enjoy stargazing by night. Watching the stars is one of the top things to do in Coorg over a two-day stay and offers a unique experience unlike any other in the region.
8. Kaveri River – Go Fishing
Coorg is home to numerous lakes and rivers, including the Kaveri River, which originates at Talacauvery near Madikeri. Rich in aquatic life, this river is perfect for fishing and angling, making it a favorite activity among visitors. During the monsoon season, when the rivers are teeming with food, fishing becomes one of the top activities to enjoy in June. Coorg is also an excellent destination to explore in May.
9. Homestays – Choose To Stay Here
Homestays have become a favored accommodation choice in Coorg, with many owners converting their colonial-style bungalows on coffee and spice estates into cozy retreats. Staying at one of these homestays allows you to immerse yourself in the Coorgi lifestyle and savor delicious home-cooked meals. If you’re fortunate, you might even get the chance to attend a traditional Coorgi wedding, offering a unique and offbeat experience during your visit.
10. Barapole – Enjoy River Rafting
River rafting is one of the most overlooked activities in Coorg, yet it offers an exhilarating experience. The region is renowned for whitewater rafting, particularly during the monsoon season. The Barapole River features rapids ranging from Grade I to V, providing an unforgettable adventure for thrill-seekers. If you’re visiting Coorg in August, make sure to include river rafting on your list of must-do activities!
11. Virajpet Day Trip – A Breathtaking Avenu
Once you’ve explored the main tourist attractions in Coorg, consider planning a half-day sightseeing trip to Virajpet, a charming town located just 22 km away. The town’s lush greenery provides a picturesque setting for a drive. You can easily hire a car or taxi to enjoy a delightful half-day tour of this scenic destination.
12. Jeep Safari – Sightseeing And More
If you enjoy adventure, one of the best activities to experience in Coorg over a two-day visit is a Jeep Safari. There are several safari tours available, allowing you to select one that fits your preferences. Some top spots to explore during a jeep safari include Kabbe Hills, known for its stunning panoramic views, Nishani Hills, which offers an exhilarating off-road drive, and the Mallalli Waterfalls, where you can witness the breathtaking cascades of Coorg.
13. Hiking – The Spellbinding Western Ghats
For outdoor enthusiasts and explorers, hiking is another thrilling activity to enjoy in Coorg. Consider planning a hike to Raja’s Seat during your visit, where you can take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. While this location is renowned for its mesmerizing sunset views, it’s also a fantastic spot to visit in the morning.
14. Madikeri Fort – Heritage Tour
Madikeri Fort is a fascinating heritage site in Coorg, originally built in the late 17th century. This historic fort once housed a palace within its walls and was initially constructed by Mudduraja. It has since been reconstructed and renovated by Tipu Sultan and the British. Today, the fort features a clock tower, a museum, and a park within its grounds. If you’re planning a family trip, exploring this fort is one of the best activities to enjoy in Madikeri, Coorg.
15. Quad Biking – Befriend The Muddy Roads
If you’re a fan of adventure, quad biking is a must-try activity in Coorg. What makes this experience special is the opportunity to ride through the region’s natural trails. As you navigate the steep slopes and paddy fields, you’ll enjoy an exhilarating combination of fun and excitement while exploring Coorg’s stunning terrain.
16. Wildlife Safari – Nagarhole National Park
Coorg is rich in natural beauty and wildlife, making a wildlife safari a fantastic adventure for couples. Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is an ideal destination for this experience. Nestled within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the park is bordered by the Brahmagiri Mountains and features the Kabini River winding through it. A safari here offers the thrilling chance to encounter majestic wildlife, including tigers and Asian elephants, up close.
17. Bird Watching – Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
Pushpagiri Sanctuary derives its name from the highest peak in the area, making it a notable location among India’s 21 recognized sanctuaries. It also encompasses the Kadamakkal Forest Reserve. The lush, forested mountains here are home to numerous rare and endangered bird species. Embarking on a birdwatching tour in this sanctuary provides a fantastic opportunity to observe unique winged creatures that you may have never encountered before.
18. Holy Bath – Talacauvery
Kaveri, also spelled Cauvery, is one of India’s most significant rivers, winding through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Talacauvery is recognized as the river’s source and holds a sacred status, attracting many Hindu devotees who come to immerse themselves in its waters. The serene beauty of this location also draws numerous tourists from around the world.
19. Rappelling – At The Waterfall
Waterfall rappelling is one of the most exhilarating activities you can experience in Coorg. This thrilling sport takes place at the breathtaking Chelavara Waterfalls, where you’ll descend the rocky surface of the waterfall using a harness. While safety measures will be in place, this adventure is not for the faint of heart!
20. Microlight Flying – Fly Like A Bird
The stunning landscapes of Coorg provide an ideal setting for a microlight flying adventure. Experience the thrill of flying approximately 5,000 feet above ground, where you can soar over the lush mountains and the rushing Kaveri River, taking in the breathtaking views. Flights depart from Ponnampet and head south through Coorg, typically lasting between 10 to 30 minutes.
21. Civet Creek Camp – Experience The Adventure And Thrill
Many people dream of camping surrounded by nature, and Coorg offers the perfect backdrop for this experience. Imagine falling asleep under a canopy of twinkling stars, with the peaceful hills of Coorg around you. The adventure includes trekking through lush forests, slopes, plantations, and streams, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery. For an unforgettable camping experience, consider staying at Civet Creek Camp, where you can capture the breathtaking beauty of the region.
22. Iruppu Falls – Witness The Splash Of Cool Waters
Looking to see one of Coorg’s most stunning waterfalls? Iruppu Falls is a must-visit destination, offering a serene escape surrounded by lush greenery. This picturesque spot attracts many travelers, especially due to its proximity to the famous Rameshwara Temple, which is linked to the epic Ramayana. Be sure to include Iruppu Falls in your itinerary; it promises to captivate and enchant you.
23. Activities In The Misty Rainforest Near Coorg – Feel The Dare And Adventure
At Misty Rainforests, you can engage in four exciting activities: explore the unique wildlife on a Rainforest walk filled with diverse flora and fauna, take in the breathtaking views from various viewpoints in Coorg, embark on a treetop adventure that includes a pool walk, wobbling bridge walk, climbing a giant hammock, walking on tires, and ziplining at speeds of up to 40 km/h. Come and experience the thrill for yourself!
24. Cycling Tour To Kote Betta – Ride In Fresh Air
A cycling tour to Kote Betta Hill promises to be an unforgettable adventure, filled with excitement and diverse landscapes. As you ride through various terrains, you’ll be captivated by the stunning views of Kote Betta. The journey will take you to Kote Abbi Waterfalls and the scenic Harangi Backwaters, enhancing your overall experience and making it truly memorable.
25. Kushalnagar – Experience The Greenery
Kushalnagar is a picturesque town adorned with lush greenery, vibrant wildlife, waterfalls, and monasteries. Travelers often explore Cauvery Nisargadhama, an island along the Kaveri River, where you’ll find a hanging bridge, a deer park, tree houses, and bamboo forests. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to visit several monasteries, including the Tibetan monastery, which is a must-see during your visit.
26. Night Mountain Drive In Coorg – Encounter The Night Thrill
As night falls, the sky comes alive with stars and clouds, making a mountain drive in Coorg a truly enchanting experience. For your nighttime adventure, you can choose to hire a jeep or any other vehicle. Start your journey in Kabbe during the evening, and enjoy a scenic ride lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the beautiful sky and the breathtaking hill station.
27. Talacauvery – Experience The Serenity
Talacauvery offers one of the most beautiful experiences in Coorg, recognized as the source of the Kaveri River. Here, you’ll find a serene and spiritual atmosphere that promotes relaxation. This sacred site, dedicated to Goddess Kaveri, has become a popular destination for travelers, especially during the Tulasankaramma festival.
28. Nisargadhama – Enjoy Natural Beauty
Nisargadhama is a stunning destination that showcases the beauty of nature, making it a must-visit during your vacation in Coorg. This delta spans 64 acres and provides breathtaking views that enhance your experience. You’ll reach this enchanting spot via a hanging bridge, where you can admire the bamboo groves, sandalwood trees, and various teak trees along the way.
Things To Do In Coorg : Here are our top picks for the best activities to enjoy in Coorg. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, you’ll have plenty of exciting options to choose from. They sound fantastic, right? Plan your trip to Coorg with TravelTriangle for an unforgettable and enjoyable holiday with your loved ones!