Arrive in Coorg and make your way to a forest resort for a unique stay amidst nature. Check out Kayak for affordable hotel options. In the morning, enjoy a peaceful walk through the surrounding forest trails, immersing yourself in the calming ambiance. In the afternoon, embark on an elephant safari at the Dubare Elephant Camp, where you can observe and interact with these gentle giants. In the evening, relax at the resort, taking in the serene surroundings and enjoying a campfire under the starlit sky.
Forest Resort: Estimated cost - varies, Time spent - full day
Dubare Elephant Camp: Estimated cost - INR 150 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to The Falls Cafe, located near the forest resort. They offer a variety of breakfast options including pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about $10 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Coorg Cuisine. This restaurant is known for its authentic Coorgi dishes like pandi curry (pork curry) and akki roti (rice flour bread). The average cost for a meal here is about $15 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at The Tamara Coorg's restaurant, The Deck. It offers panoramic views of the beautiful surroundings and serves a range of gourmet dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal here is about $30 per person.
Wednesday, September 20: Coffee Plantations and Abbey Falls
Start your day with a visit to a local coffee plantation, where you can learn about the coffee-making process and sample freshly brewed coffee. Experience the lush greenery and refreshing aroma of the plantations. In the afternoon, head to Abbey Falls, a picturesque waterfall nestled in the midst of the Coorg hills. Take a short trek through the scenic path to reach the falls and enjoy the mesmerizing view. In the evening, explore the vibrant local market in Madikeri, where you can buy spices, homemade chocolates, and souvenirs.
Coffee Plantation: Estimated cost - INR 200 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Abbey Falls: Estimated cost - INR 30 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
For a delicious breakfast, head to Coorg Food Cafe. This cozy cafe serves a variety of local breakfast dishes such as akki roti, kadambuttu, and pandi curry. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Raintree Restaurant. This restaurant offers a wide range of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Their buffet spread is highly recommended and the average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Atithi Restaurant. Known for their traditional Coorgi cuisine, the restaurant offers authentic dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Thursday, September 21: Talacauvery and Nagarhole National Park
On your last day, visit Talacauvery, the origin of the River Cauvery, located in the Brahmagiri Hills. Enjoy the breathtaking view and visit the temple dedicated to Goddess Cauvery. Afterward, proceed to Nagarhole National Park, known for its rich biodiversity and wildlife. Embark on a thrilling safari and spot various animals like elephants, tigers, deer, and monkeys. Spend the evening exploring the beauty of the national park before heading back to Coorg.
Talacauvery: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Nagarhole National Park: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Coorg Cuisine, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Coorgi dishes such as akki roti and pandi curry. The average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
For lunch, try The Falls Cafe, a charming restaurant located near Nagarhole National Park. They offer a variety of Indian and continental dishes, with the average cost for a meal being about 400 rupees per person.
For dinner, Saffron Spice is a great choice. This restaurant specializes in North Indian cuisine, offering delicious curries and tandoori dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 600 rupees per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Coorg has some hidden gems and local favorites that are off the beaten path. If you have extra time, consider visiting the Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement, the second-largest Tibetan settlement outside of Tibet. Explore the Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, and immerse yourself in Tibetan culture and spirituality. Another unique experience is visiting the Spice and Coffee Plantation in Suntikoppa, where you can get a hands-on experience of harvesting and processing spices and coffee.