🌿 Introduction
Coorg, often called the Scotland of India, is a paradise nestled in the misty hills of Karnataka. With lush coffee plantations, waterfalls, and serene temples, Madikeri and its surroundings offer a perfect mix of adventure, spirituality, and peace.
🌄 Mandalpatti – The Misty Hills of Coorg
High above the clouds, Mandalpatti offers a mesmerising view of the Pushpagiri range. Located about 30 km from Madikeri, it’s accessible only by jeep through scenic forest roads.
The drive is very creepy. If anybody has neck & back pain or is travelling with children, be careful before taking a drive. The 5-7km road near the Mandalpatti view point is not good. Don’t try to take your own bike or car, need only experienced driver with local jeep is advisable
Travel Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset when the mist creates a surreal atmosphere.
💦 Kote Abbi Falls – A Hidden Gem
Peaceful and lesser-known, Kote Abbi Falls is surrounded by dense forest and natural beauty. Perfect for those who love offbeat spots and quiet photography sessions.
Let the world fall silent as you watch the cascade. The only sound — the water — becomes nature’s voice calling you to feel its peace.
Tip: Footpaths can be slippery after rains – wear sturdy shoes. During rain, there might be leeches
🍛 Coorg Cuisine Restaurant – Authentic Kodava Flavours
In the heart of Madikeri, Coorg Cuisine serves traditional dishes like Pandi Curry, Kadambuttu, and Noolputtu. It’s the ideal place to savour the rich flavours of Kodava food culture.
This restaurant is a must-visit to experience authentic Kodava flavours. The ambience is simple and unpretentious, but the food truly stands out. If your goal is to savour genuine local taste rather than seek luxury, this place is worth a visit.
☕ Coffee Plantation – The Soul of Kodagu
No trip to Coorg is complete without a coffee plantation tour. Walk through emerald-green estates, learn about coffee-making, and sip freshly brewed local blends.
The coffee plantation tour is worth experiencing. As you stroll through the estate, the guide shares insights about various coffee beans and spices such as cardamom, bird’s eye chili, and pepper. The tour ends at the spice shop — you can pick up what you like, but don’t get carried away! The salespeople are very good at tempting you into buying more than you planned.
🛕 Bhagamandala – Sacred Temples of Kodagu
At Bhagamandala, visit the Bhagandeshwara Temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva, along with shrines for Ganapathi, Vishnu, and Subramanya. The temple’s Kerala-style architecture and calm surroundings make it a must-visit spiritual site.The roof top is copper sheeted. Bhagamandala is the highest rainfall receiving station in the Kodagu district.
During 1785–1790, the area was occupied by Tipu Sultan. The temple was burnt and destroyed.[3] He renamed Bhagamandala to Afzalabad.[4][5] In 1790 King Dodda Vira Rajendra took Bhagamandala back into an independent Kodagu kingdom.
🌊 Triveni Sangama – The Holy Confluence
Just beside Bhagamandala Bhagandeshwara Temple lies Triveni Sangama, At this place, the Kaveri is joined by two tributaries, the Kannike and the mythical Sujyothi river. It is considered sacred as a river confluence (kudala or triveni sangama, in Kannada and Sanskrit respectively)
It is a common practice for pilgrims to take a dip in the triveni sangama and perform rituals to their ancestors before proceeding to Talakaveri, the birthplace of Kaveri. A temple of Lord Supremo Shiva in the name of Bhagandeshwara embellishes the place. It is the local belief that Kaveri, revered as Dakshina Ganga, comes out of the matted hair locks of Shiva here. During Tula Sankramana which falls on 17 or 18 October, pilgrims assemble here in large numbers.
🌸 Raja’s Seat – The King’s Viewpoint
Raja’s Seat offers the best sunset views in Coorg. Once a favourite retreat of Kodagu kings, this viewpoint is now a lovely park with musical fountains and flower gardens.
🐘 Dubare Elephant Camp – Meet the Gentle Giants
At Dubare Elephant Camp, visitors can feed, bathe (this as per permission of camp guidelines), and learn about elephants under expert supervision. A delightful experience for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
🌿 Nisargadhama – A Green Island Retreat
Nisargadhama is a serene island on the River Kaveri with hanging bridges, deer parks, and bamboo groves. It’s perfect for picnics or overnight stays in eco-cottages.
🕍 Tibetan Camp (Bylakuppe) – A Slice of Tibet in Coorg
Visit Bylakuppe, home to the majestic Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple). With golden Buddha statues, murals, and chanting monks, it’s one of India’s most peaceful spiritual spots.
💦 Abbey Falls – The Iconic Coorg Waterfall
Located 8 km from Madikeri, Abbey Falls cascades amidst coffee plantations, offering stunning photo opportunities. Visit after the monsoon for the best views.
🌿 Conclusion
From the tranquillity of Bhagamandala to the thrill of Mandalpatti, Kodagu is a destination that satisfies every traveller’s soul. Its beauty lies in its simplicity — nature, coffee, and culture in perfect harmony.
You can also check: Best temples to visit around Mangaluru (Manglore)
