Start your culinary journey at the Mercara Market, where you can purchase spices and fresh produce sourced from the surrounding hills. Be sure to try the locally-grown coffee and cocoa. Wander through the stalls and talk to vendors about their wares, and then enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café.
For lunch, head to Raintree Restaurant for some delicious Coorgi cuisine. Try the pandi curry, made with tender pieces of pork, flavored with freshly ground spices and served with rice or bread. Round out your meal with a slice of their mouth-watering bamboo shoot pickle.
After lunch, take a peaceful stroll through the lush greenery of Abbey Falls. Take in the stunning scenery, listen to the soothing sound of the falls and breathe in the refreshing mist. If you're lucky, you might even spot some local wildlife.
Drive to the Talakaveri Temple, which is located at the source of the Cauvery River. The temple is steeped in history and mythology, and is a fascinating place to visit. Take in the breathtaking views from the top of the hill, and then enjoy a light lunch at one of the nearby restaurants.
For dinner, don't miss Coorg Cuisine Restaurant, where you can enjoy a scrumptious thali that includes traditional dishes such as koli curry (chicken curry), akki roti (rice bread) and kheer (rice pudding). Wash it all down with a refreshing glass of buttermilk.
After breakfast, head to the Dubare Elephant Camp to watch and interact with elephants, including bathing them in the river and feeding them. Learn about these gentle giants from the mahouts, or elephant handlers. Take a boat ride down the river, and then have a picnic lunch by the water's edge.
Finish your trip with a bang at The Fort Mercara Hotel. Savor a luxurious meal in the colonial-style dining room and feast on delicacies like the parmesan-crusted fish or the tenderloin steak with port wine sauce. End your evening with a nightcap at their charming bar.
Coorg is a great destination for foodies, but keep in mind that many restaurants and markets have limited seating and may be crowded during peak hours. Carry cash, as many establishments do not accept credit cards. Also, plan ahead to avoid having to wait in long lines or missing out on popular restaurants that are booked in advance.