Start your trip by immersing yourself in the beauty of Madikeri, the capital of Coorg. In the morning, visit the breathtaking Abbey Falls, where gushing waters cascade down the rocks amidst lush greenery. Afterward, head to Raja's Seat, a picturesque garden offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, explore the historical Madikeri Fort, built-in 17th century, and learn about its rich heritage. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk around the vibrant streets of Madikeri town, savoring local delicacies and shopping for souvenirs.
Abbey Falls: INR 50, 2 hours
Raja's Seat: INR 20, 1 hour
Madikeri Fort: INR 50, 1.5 hours
Madikeri Town: Expenses vary, 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Madikeri is Coorg Food Court, known for its delicious South Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Hotel Pai Vista, a multi-cuisine restaurant offering a wide range of dishes including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
If you're in the mood for a scrumptious dinner, visit Coorg Cuisine, a restaurant specializing in traditional Coorgi cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday October 3: Discovering Talacauvery and Bhagamandala
Embark on a spiritual journey today by visiting the sacred sites of Talacauvery and Bhagamandala. In the morning, drive to Talacauvery, the birthplace of River Cauvery, and witness the mystical origin of this holy river. Afterward, proceed to Bhagamandala, a confluence of three rivers, where you can visit the ancient Sri Bhagandeshwara Temple. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the calm waters of Triveni Sangama. As the evening approaches, indulge in a serene meditation session at the scenic Brahmagiri Hill.
Talacauvery: INR 30, 2 hours
Bhagamandala: INR 10, 1 hour
Triveni Sangama: INR 50, 1 hour
Brahmagiri Hill: No entry fee, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Coorg Grinds, a cozy café offering a variety of local and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, head to Raintree Restaurant, known for its authentic Coorgi cuisine made with fresh ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at The Fort Mercara, a fine-dining restaurant serving a fusion of Indian and international flavors. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Wednesday October 4: Exploring Dubare Elephant Camp and Nagarhole National Park
Get up close and personal with nature today as you explore the Dubare Elephant Camp and Nagarhole National Park. In the morning, visit the Dubare Elephant Camp and witness the majestic elephants being bathed and fed. Enjoy an elephant ride and learn about these gentle giants. Afterward, head to Nagarhole National Park, famous for its wildlife and lush greenery. Take a thrilling safari through the park, spotting various animals like tigers, elephants, and deer. As the evening sets in, relax and unwind in the serene surroundings of the national park.
Dubare Elephant Camp: INR 50, 2 hours
Nagarhole National Park: INR 200 (safari cost), 4 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Bean Scene Café. Indulge in their fluffy idlis and crispy dosas. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Taste of Coorg. Try their traditional Coorgi dishes like pork curry and pandi curry. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
End your day with a exquisite dinner at Raintree Restaurant. Experience the flavors of Coorg with dishes like Coorgi chicken curry and bamboo shoot curry. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Thursday October 5: Admiring the Beauty of Bylakuppe
Immerse yourself in the vibrant Tibetan culture today as you visit Bylakuppe, the largest Tibetan settlement in South India. In the morning, explore the magnificent Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, with its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Witness the monks in prayer and soak in the spiritual ambiance. In the afternoon, indulge in delicious Tibetan cuisine at one of the local restaurants. Afterward, visit the picturesque Cauvery Nisargadhama, a river island, and enjoy a leisurely walk amidst bamboo groves. As the evening approaches, take in the tranquil surroundings and capture beautiful sunset moments.
Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple): No entry fee, 2 hours
Tibetan Cuisine: Expenses vary, 1 hour
Cauvery Nisargadhama: INR 10, 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Bylakuppe is Cafe Tibet, which offers a wide variety of traditional Tibetan dishes such as Thukpa and Momo. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, head to Norling Restaurant where you can savor authentic Tibetan delicacies like Tingmo and Shapta. The average cost for a meal at Norling Restaurant is about 300 INR per person.
If you're looking for a great place for dinner, Tibetan Kitchen is a must-visit. This charming restaurant serves a range of flavorful Tibetan dishes like Thenthuk and Thenthuk Thukpa. The average cost for a meal at Tibetan Kitchen is about 400 INR per person.
Friday October 6: Unwinding in Coffee Plantations and Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary
Explore the natural wonders of Coorg today by immersing yourself in the beauty of coffee plantations and the Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary. In the morning, take a guided tour of a coffee plantation, where you can learn about coffee cultivation and sample freshly brewed coffee. Afterward, visit the Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Embark on a nature walk, spotting various species of birds and animals. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic amidst the scenic surroundings. As the evening sets in, relax and rejuvenate in the lap of nature.
Coffee Plantation Tour: INR 200, 2 hours
Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 50, 3 hours
Picnic: Expenses vary, 2 hours
Restaurants
Café Coorg: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Coorg, where you can enjoy a wide range of traditional Coorgi dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Green Valley Restaurant: For lunch, head to Green Valley Restaurant and savor their delectable buffet spread, featuring a mix of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Raintree Restaurant: Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Raintree Restaurant, known for its cozy ambiance and excellent Coorgi delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Coorg is not just about popular attractions, but also home to some hidden gems and local favorites. Don't miss exploring the lesser-known Tadiandamol Peak, the highest peak in Coorg, offering breathtaking views from the top. For adventure enthusiasts, a visit to the thrilling Barapole River for white water rafting is a must. Also, make sure to try the local delicacies like Pandi Curry (pork curry) and Kadambuttu (rice dumplings) for an authentic culinary experience. Finally, spend a peaceful evening at the serene Chelavara Falls, away from the crowds, and let the sound of cascading water soothe your soul.