Welcome to Coorg! Begin your journey by checking into your hotel and freshening up. In the morning, head to Abbey Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Spend some time enjoying the tranquility and capturing the beauty of this natural wonder. For lunch, try some authentic Coorgi cuisine at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Namdroling Monastery, home to thousands of Buddhist monks. Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere and witness their daily rituals. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through Madikeri town, exploring its local markets and savoring a cup of freshly brewed Coorgi coffee.
Namdroling Monastery: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Madikeri town: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A quaint breakfast spot in Coorg is The Hive, known for its delicious traditional breakfast dishes such as idli, vada, and dosa. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, head to Taste of Coorg, a restaurant that offers a variety of Coorgi delicacies including pork curry, pandi curry, and kadambuttu. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, try Coorg Cuisine, a popular restaurant that serves authentic Coorgi dishes with a modern twist. Some must-try items include chicken curry with bamboo shoot and pork pepper fry. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday, December 15: Coorg Coffee Plantations
Start your day with a visit to a coffee plantation. Learn about the process of coffee cultivation and enjoy a walk amidst the fragrant coffee plants. After the plantation tour, head towards Raja's Seat, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Coorg countryside. Enjoy a serene morning here. For lunch, try some traditional Kodava cuisine at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Omkareshwara Temple, known for its unique architecture and peaceful ambiance. In the evening, take a jeep safari through the Nagarhole National Park, spotting wildlife and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Coffee Plantation Tour: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Omkareshwara Temple: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Nagarhole National Park Jeep Safari: Estimated cost - INR 1,500 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Coorg Cafe, a charming eatery located in the heart of Coorg. Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and a selection of mouth-watering pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Raintree Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Kodava cuisine. Try their signature pandi curry (pork curry) and enjoy the flavors of Coorg. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
In the evening, dine at The Fallsview Restaurant and Lounge, located near Raja's Seat. Indulge in a delectable dinner while enjoying panoramic views of the Coorg countryside. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Saturday, December 16: Wayanad Exploration
Today, venture into Wayanad, a neighboring district known for its natural beauty. Start your morning with a visit to the breathtaking Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India. Enjoy the scenic surroundings and take a boat ride on the reservoir. For lunch, indulge in some delicious Malabar cuisine at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the Edakkal Caves, ancient caves with fascinating carvings and stunning views. Afterward, visit Pookode Lake, a serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush forests. End your day with a visit to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species.
Banasura Sagar Dam: Entrance fee - INR 20, Boat ride - INR 750 per boat, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee - INR 150 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Sunday, December 17: Wayanad Tea Gardens
On your last day, explore the tea gardens of Wayanad. Begin your morning with a visit to the Meenmutty Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by dense forests. Enjoy the beauty of nature and take a refreshing dip in the pool. For lunch, savor some aromatic tea and local delicacies at a tea estate. Afterward, visit the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its rich biodiversity and elephant population. Take a guided safari through the sanctuary and spot various wildlife species. In the evening, enjoy a scenic drive back to Coorg and spend your evening relaxing at your hotel.
Tea Estate Visit: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Entrance fee - INR 110 per person, Safari cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the Beans N Brews Café in Coorg. Indulge in a variety of breakfast options like fluffy pancakes, hearty sandwiches, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to the Green Gates Restaurant in Wayanad. This restaurant offers a wide range of local and international cuisine, with options for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Don't miss their delicious biryanis and seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at the Raintree Restaurant in Coorg. This restaurant specializes in traditional Coorgi cuisine, including mouthwatering pork curries, spicy chicken dishes, and flavorful vegetarian options. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and indulge in their delectable dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
In Coorg, don't miss out on exploring the Dubare Elephant Camp, where you can interact with elephants and learn about their conservation. Another hidden gem is the Talacauvery, the birthplace of the sacred river Cauvery. It is a serene place with a temple and beautiful mountain views. In Wayanad, take a detour to the stunning Soochipara Falls, a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. For a unique experience, visit the Thirunelli Temple, an ancient temple nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills. Locals often indulge in trekking through the untouched wilderness of Brahmagiri for an adventurous escape from the usual tourist spots.