Visit Namdroling Monastery, the largest teaching center of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism outside of Tibet. Watch monks debate about Buddhist scriptures and witness the Golden Temple's intricate paintings and statues. You can also shop for souvenirs, prayer flags and Tibetan handicrafts from small shops inside the temple complex.
Get up close and personal with gentle giants at Dubare Elephant Camp. Bathe and feed elephants, learn about their behavioral patterns, and take a coracle ride in the river Cauvery. You can also go on a nature walk, spot colorful birds, and watch trained elephants perform various commands.
Witness the majestic Abbey Falls, where water cascades down from a height of 70 feet into a pool. Take a short trek and spot pepper, cardamom and coffee plantations. Next, explore Madikeri Fort, which was built in the 17th century and has a museum and a temple. You can also stroll along Raja's Seat, a garden with a panoramic view of the surrounding hills.
If you have more time, you can add a visit to Talakaveri, the origin of river Cauvery and Brahmagiri Peak, a trekker's paradise. If you have less time, you can skip Dubare Elephant Camp or Abbey Falls, depending on your interests. Coorg has a cool climate, so carry warm clothes, especially during winter. Book accommodation and transportation in advance, as Coorg is a popular tourist destination.