Abbey Falls is a popular tourist spot that offers a tranquil and refreshing experience in Coorg. It is located amidst dense forest and coffee plantations. You can take a jeep ride through the lush green forest or take a pleasant trek to reach the falls. The waterfall cascades from a height of around 70 feet, creating a misty atmosphere that is a sight to behold. You can also take a dip in the pool of water at the bottom of the falls. The best time to visit Abbey Falls is during the monsoon season when the waterfall is in full glory.
Dubare Elephant Camp is an elephant training center located on the banks of the River Cauvery. You can spend time with the elephants and even give them a bath in the river. The elephants are trained using positive reinforcement methods and are not harmed in any way. You can also go on a nature walk with the elephants through the forest. The camp also offers elephant rides and coracle rides on the river. It is a perfect place for animal lovers and a great experience for families with kids.
Talacauvery is the birthplace of the River Cauvery, located on the Brahmagiri hills. It is a popular pilgrimage site and is considered sacred by the locals. You can climb up to the top of the hill to get a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and forests. At the bottom of the hill, there is a holy tank where the river emerges as a small spring. Just a few kilometers away is the Bhagamandala temple, which is one of the oldest and most important temples in Coorg. It is located at the confluence of three rivers - the Cauvery, the Kannike, and the Sujyoti. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is surrounded by scenic hills and valleys.
Nisargadhama is an island formed by the River Cauvery and is accessible via a hanging bridge. It is a great place for families to enjoy some outdoor activities such as boating, elephant rides, and zip-lining. You can also spot some deer and rabbits in the forested area. There is a small snack bar where you can enjoy some local delicacies. You can spend a few hours at Nisargadhama and then head back to your hotel to relax.
For those with more time, you can add the following places to the itinerary: Raja's Seat, Madikeri Fort, Omkareshwara Temple, and Tadiandamol Peak. For those with less time, you can skip Talacauvery and Bhagamandala and go to Nisargadhama directly from Dubare Elephant Camp. It is also advisable to start early to beat the crowds and traffic on popular tourist spots.