About Coorg Holidays - The Scotland of India is an amazing holiday destination graced with the bright rolling greens of nature in perpetual bloom. Thomas Cook India’s Coorg tour packages offer the perfect mix of leisure and excitement to make your Coorg Tour a memorable vacation. Showcasing the beauty of the Western Ghats, Coorg is a popular weekend jaunt from the nearby cities. But a longer Coorg holiday offers one of the best experiences in South India. From 2 nights and 3 days to 5 nights and 6 days, the Coorg holiday packages from Thomas Cook India give you a range of options for your vacation to Coorg. Your Coorg trip could cost as low as INR 17,499 or could be a reasonable INR 29,999, depending on the duration of your holiday.
Thomas Cook India can also create a tailor-madeCoorg holiday package for you so that you can enjoy the holiday that you’ve always wanted. Our team of travel experts, intrepid travellers themselves, add more excitement to your Coorg tour package with their own travel experiences. You can even book your Coorg holiday online if you so choose. Whether you choose your own holiday or select one of ours, Coorg promises to be a stellar holiday experience.
And the best part of a Coorg vacation is that it is sufficiently remote, yet easily accessible from anywhere around the country. You can fly down comfortably from any of the major airports such as Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi and Hyderabad. Put on your seat belts and enjoy the ride as we take you through a complete Coorg tour to help you plan your holiday better.
About Coorg
The undulating waves of verdant slopes soothe the eyes as you meander along the winding hilly roads on your explorations. The wooded monotony is broken by an occasional coffee plantation that follows the hilly contours with silky precision. The sightseeing trail in Coorg stays exclusively outdoors, venturing indoors on rare occasions. The rugged terrain and virgin forests are a treat for nature and adventure lovers. The biodiversity of the Western Ghats is magnificent in its abundance. An elephant ambling along the road is a common sight in Coorg. The intoxicating smell of coffee around a coffee plantation is wonderfully offset by the bold aromas around spice plantations. A piping hot cup of coffee at a plantation is as fresh as it can get!
Coorg has the knack of seamlessly blending the traditional with the modern. Quad biking along the mountain trails injects a dose of adventure in your Coorg holiday. Even trekking takes on a dreamy quality amidst the misty hills of this amazing hill station. Wherever you go, you will see a close connection between man and nature. You will see it in the way coffee and spices are lovingly grown and you will see it in the conservation efforts that are more than just a lip service. Every citizen of Coorg is a conservationist out on a mission to safeguard nature against exploitation. You will get plenty of opportunities to understand the thought behind these endeavours. Coorg can be experienced as solo traveller, shared with a loved one or enjoyed with the entire family. You will find all these, and more, in one of Thomas Cook India’s Coorg holiday packages.
The Best Time to Visit Coorg
Summer, between March and May, is the best time to visit Coorg for a full-fledged, all-inclusive vacation. The summer temperatures in Coorg average between 20°C to 35°C but sitting at an altitude of 3,840 feet above the sea level, the weather on the hill station stays pleasant. It does get crowded during summer as tourists from all over flock to the cooler environs of Coorg. The afternoons may get slightly hot, but the mornings, evenings and nights stay pleasantly cool. All the trekking trails, mountain-biking tracks and tourist attractions are open and accessible during summer. You may also experience some rains, but not severe enough to affect your sightseeing plans.
Monsoon is probably the most glorious time to visit Coorg. The rains bring out the magic of the Western Ghats and Coorg takes on a refreshed look. With temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C, it is the perfect weather for a steaming cup of South Indian coffee. The rains take over the hill station and venturing out becomes difficult. But wait for a break in the weather and you will be treated to some of the most breath-taking vistas of misty green valleys, impromptu waterfalls and rivers rushing along in full spate. The temperatures drop further as winter arrives. Between December to February average temperatures stay between 10°C and 25°C. Winter is a peaceful time in Coorg as there are not many tourists around at this time.
How to Reach Coorg
You can reach Coorg from anywhere in India by air, road and rail. But whoever mode of travel you choose, the last leg of your journey has to be completed by road. Coorg does not have an airport and neither does it have a railway station. Mangalore Airport, about 160 km away, is the closest airport to Coorg, followed by Bengaluru Airport which is around 260 km away. While the airport at Mangalore is closer, Bengaluru Airport enjoys a better connectivity with the rest of the country. Once you are alright at either of the airports, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Coorg. From Mangalore, a bus takes around 5hrs 40mins to reach Coorg, while a taxi is quicker at around 2hrs 10mins.
Mysore Railway Station, located around 117km away is the closest railway station to Coorg. Once there you can hire a taxi or catch a bus to complete the final leg of your journey. Mysore Express, Shatabdi Express and Bangalore Express are some of the trains that stop at Mysore. If you decide to travel by bus, you can catch one from Mysore, Mangalore and Bengaluru. NH48 is the main highway that connects Coorg to the rest of the country.
Where to Go in Coorg
Known for its awesome weather, fresh coffee and divine beauty Coorg is one of the most loved holiday destinations in south India. Coorg’s opulent natural beauty makes a perfect backdrop for an exciting hill station vacation. Life here moves at a more leisurely pace, allowing you to stop and smell the flowers. Exhilarating in summer, delightful in winter and magical during monsoon, Coorg will hold on to your heart and never let go. Here are some places in Coorg which will add diversity to your vacation.
Abbey Falls
Abbey Falls is an iconic tourist attraction of Coorg. Also known as Abbi Falls, the 70-foot-cascade is a joy to behold. It loses most of its volume during the summer months but regains it during monsoon. Wedged comfortably in between coffee plantations, it stands out with its sprawling cascade. The best views of the falls can be had from the suspension bridge that acts as a viewing platform. Bathing and splashing are not allowed at Abbey Falls. But it is a thing of beauty that is joy for all the photographers. This is a highly recommended visit, especially during or immediately after monsoon season.
Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery)
Far away from Punjab’s Golden Temple, this is probably the most improbable place of worship so far south in India. The Namdroling Monastery is known as the Golden Temple because of the 18-metre-tall gold-plated statue of Buddha inside. It can be best described as a typical Tibetan monastery that is also a centre of learning and culture for young monks. Dedicated to the Nyingmapa branch of Buddhism, it is a rather unassuming building from the outside. But the interiors have been lovingly created, with a great deal of care lavished on intricate details. The serene atmosphere inside, coupled with the lavish colourful murals, will leave you spellbound.
Nagarhole National Park
If you’re visiting Coorg with your family, Nagarhole National Park is a must-visit. Counted among the best national parks across the country, the park is home to a diverse range of species of birds and animals. Elephants, tigers, panthers, gaurs, jackals, sambar deer, spotted deer, sloth bears, mongoose, hyenas and civet cats call this park home along with almost 250 species of birds. But the biggest attractions here are the tigers and elephants. Teeming with wildlife of all shapes and sizes, the park’s plant life is also booming with abundance. Do not miss the park’s safari which takes you close to the animals to observe them in their natural habitat.
Tadiandamol Peak
The highest mountain peak in Coorg is also the second highest one in Karnataka. It offers an amazing vantage point to try and take in the stunning magnificence of the Western Ghats. The height gives it a different perspective and adds an extra dimension to its beauty. With a 1,748-metre-climb, getting to the top is not easy. But it is not that difficult either. The climb makes for an invigorating trek that is lavishly graced with nature’s unrestrained beauty all along the way. The climb is best attempted during summer or winter as monsoon makes it a daunting and dangerous undertaking.
Madikeri Fort
This 17th-century-warrior has withstood the test of time to stand proudly, confident in its invulnerability. Built at a time when Madikeri was declared the capital of Coorg, the fort has since passed through the hands of a number of rulers including Tipu Sultan and the British. This has resulted in an eclectic mix of arts and architectural styles that the fort carries with elan. The museum on the premises exhibits interesting artefacts from the period and subsequent journey through time. The fort is still in use and today it houses the offices of Deputy Commissioner of Madikeri. Be sure to visit here for a stroll through history.
Food in Coorg
Truly blessed in all respects, Coorg can also boast of a rich and diverse culinary culture. The fresh local produce elevates the simplest of dishes. The food in Coorg is a reflection of the culture and traditions of the Kodagu district. From spicy meat curries to simple rice dumplings, food in Coorg is a fascinating journey with many interesting stops along the way.
Kadambattu - A Versatile Player
This humble rice dumpling is a mainstay of the Kodava cuisine. Eaten almost every day, it is also a part of festivals, weddings and important religious occasions. It is made with broken rice which is blended with cardamom powder and then rolled into bite-sized dumplings. As a street food, it is served with a side of pickle. When prepared at home or served during festivals, it is paired with Pandi Curry or Chicken Curry.
Pandi Curry - Spicy Goodness
This spice-infused pork curry is a local favourite and is also popular as a street food. The roasted spices make merry with fresh herbs and chillies to create culinary magic. Cooked slowly over hours, the meat soaks up all the flavours and retains its moisture to become a succulent indulgence that is rich in texture and flavour. The original recipe used wild-boar meat, which has now been replaced by pork. This is best served with steaming Kadambuttu or piping hot Akki Roti.
Bamboo Shoot Curry - Vegetarian Indulgence
Imagine having a bamboo curry for lunch! Surprisingly, bamboo has long been a part of the Kodava cuisine, adding its flavours to an already full plate. Young bamboo shoots are soaked for 72 hours before being tossed in a complex mixture of spices and served as a curry. Bamboo shoots do have a taste of their own. Instead they take on the flavours of the spices while adding texture to the curry. The Bamboo Shoot Curry is best enjoyed with rice or Akki Roti.
Kulai Puttu - An Unlikely Delicacy
This steamed delicacy uses jackfruit pulp to add an unusual texture and taste to an unlikely delicacy. In essence, Kulai Puttu is a steamed jackfruit cake. Jackfruit pulp is mixed with broken rice rava to give it somebody and seasoned with jaggery, salt and cardamom powder. Small pieces of coconut add crunch to the dish. The whole mixture is then rolled up into seared banana leaves and steamed for around 30-40 minutes before serving. Tasty on its own, the Kuleputtu is often accompanied by a dollop of unsalted butter.
Nuu Puttu - An Everyday Staple
Like the idlis, Nuu Puttu is a versatile breakfast staple that can be enjoyed with a variety of curries and chutneys. This noodle cake is eaten almost every day and can be found in homes and restaurants across Coorg. Boiled rice dough is pressed into thin noodles using a special press known as Nuuputtu Wara. This dish is unique in the sense that it is already cooked before taking on its final form of a noodle cake. These are best enjoyed hot, accompanied by a spicy Koli Curry or Pandi Curry.
Things to Do in Coorg
From trekking to mountain biking to ATV rides, Coorg is a hive of activity for those in pursuit of adventure. On the other hand, you’d be happy to do nothing in Coorg other than enjoying the leisurely pace of life. But what’s a holiday without some excitement? Here’s a handy list of activities that will add some zest to your vacation in Coorg.
Take a Sunset Jeep Drive
The winding mountain roads and the rugged jungle trails are the quintessential SUV terrains that are best explored in a jeep. Mandalpatti is a gorgeous wooded trail that ends at a panoramic viewing point known for its spectacular sunsets. A jeep drive from Coorg to Mandalpatti is one of the most beautiful drives you’ll ever go on. Passing through swaying grasslands and cloud-capped hills, the scenic drive is easily topped by the melancholy magnificence of the setting sun. A highly recommended experience to be shared with the family.
Ride the River
If you’re into river rafting, the Barapole River throws a challenge that has to be accepted for the sheer thrill of it. Navigating the roaring currents as you match wits with the river, it is a rewarding experience when you finally conquer the rapids. There are many experienced rafting companies that operate near the Barapole River. All of them take safety very seriously and will conduct a safety drill before venturing into the water. This is your share of thrill and adventure in peaceful Coorg. Grab it with both hands and do not let go until your excitement is satisfied.
Spread Your Wings in a Microlight
A microlight flight is the closest you can ever get to flying. The ultra-compact microlight aircraft is a two-man contraption that takes you up to 5,000 metres high above the earth. With no canopy to separate you from the elements, you will be awe-struck with the breath-taking splendour of Coorg from a bird’s eye view. This is a solo activity where you sit behind the pilot as you go along for the ride. Do not miss this heady experience while you’re in Coorg.
Set off on a Trekking Adventure
Coorg, by the virtue of its hilly terrain, is a trekker’s paradise. A small part of the mighty Western Ghats, Coorg offers some of the best trekking in southern India. It is simply the best way to explore the natural bounty of Coorg at close quarters. As an added bonus, you can test your strength and stamina as you surge ahead on well-marked trails. Trekking is the most popular activity in Coorg during winter. After the rejuvenating monsoon, the trekking trails all over Coorg welcome you with verdant cover.
Walk Through a Coffee Plantation
Home to some of the best coffee plantations in India, Coorg is the biggest coffee producer in the country. Spread over acres of mountain slopes, these plantations are the bastions of coffee production in India. And they welcome visitors with open arms to learn all the intricacies of making some of the best coffee in the world. Follow the journey of coffee, from plantations into your cup, as you understand all the efforts that go behind making exceptionally good coffee. Try your hand at picking the berries and enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee at the end of your tour.
Coorg FAQs
When is the best time to visit Coorg?
Summer is the best time to visit Coorg for a family vacation. The weather is pleasant throughout and all outdoor activities are open. With temperatures averaging in mid-teens, winter is the season for a quiet holiday. But monsoon is the best time to experience Coorg in all its natural glory. You decide the time of your vacation.
What is the distance from Bengaluru to Madikeri by road?
There are three possible routes that connect Bengaluru to Madikeri by road.
- Via Mysore Road and NH 275 - 248km; 5hrs and 35mins
- Via NH 75 - 267km; 5hrs and 50mins
- Via NH 275 - 278km; 6hrs and 25mins
How far is Coorg from Madikeri?
Coorg is around 17.9km from Madikeri and it takes roughly 32mins by road.
How far is Coorg from Ooty?
Coorg is 234km away from Ooty and it takes 6hrs and 25mins to reach by road.
What is Coorg famous for?
Coorg is famous for its coffee, organic spices and honey, and Kodava silk sarees.
Which is the best plantation to stay at in Coorg?
Little Jungle Home Stay, Amanvana Spa Resort and Tata’s Ama Plantation Trail offer some of the best plantation stay experiences in Coorg.
How many days should my Coorg holiday be?
An ideal Coorg holiday should be 5 nights and 6 days long. It allows you to explore Coorg at your leisure and also check out significant places of interest nearby.
Does it rain all year round in Coorg?
No, it rains in Coorg only during the monsoon season, between June and September.
Can I take a train to Coorg?
Coorg does not have its own railway station or even a railway line. Mysore Railway Station, which is 120km away, is the nearest railway station to Coorg. Mysore is well-connected with all the major cities around India. From Mysore, you can take a bus or a taxi to reach Coorg by road.
Should I carry warm clothes to Coorg?
Warm clothes in Coorg are only needed during winter when the temperatures dip as low as 10°C. For the rest of the year you can carry a light jacket or a pullover as protection against the night and early morning chill.
