Things To Do In Coorg

Among the various things to do in Coorg, visiting Raja’s Seat should definitely be included in your list of things to do in Coorg. Settled in Madikeri, a hill station part of Coorg district, Raja's Seat is a seasonal garden where you can spot intricate statues of animals and take a walk on its lush green grass. Visiting Raja's Seat for its perfect picnic setting is among the top things to do in Coorg, as it offers picturesque views of verdant Madikeri Valley. If you are wondering what to do in Coorg, then you can admire the layers of high- and low-rise hills from Raja’s Seat form the landscape of the valley which are graced with a shade of purple during sunset. Raja's Seat is a stunning sunrise spot as well due to the explosion of colours in its wide skies while the valley gets covered under a thick blanket of mist. Besides enjoying the various activities and things to do in Coorg, you can also kick back and refresh yourself at Raja's Seat, as the cool breezes offer some much-needed respite to visitors.  

Children can also find some exciting things to do in Coorg at Raja’s Seat. Besides the garden where you can enjoy a peaceful picnic and play games, there is also a toy train accessible at Raja's Seat for children to have an enjoyable time. This place offers some of the most entertaining things to do in Coorg. With the backdrop of lush green hills, you can enjoy the musical fountain show and enjoy the beats of dance music reverberating across the garden. There is a colourful temple by the name of Kundur Motte Sri Chowtti Mariamma Temple located in close proximity to Raja's Seat. You can include visiting this temple in your list of things to do in Coorg and offer your prayers to the deity of the temple, Goddess Mariamman.

Raja' Seat is located on Stuart Hill in Madikeri which is at a distance of 270 km from Bangalore. It is known for its historic significance as it used to be the recreational destination for the kings of Kodagu. If you are a lover of historical destinations, then visiting Raja’s Seat will be among the most insightful things to do in Coorg for you. The garden opens at 6 AM and closes at 8 PM. The musical fountain show at Raja's Seat begins at 7:00 PM during the weekdays and 6.45 PM during the weekends.

Cost: You can get an entry into the park for ₹5. If your children are looking for some fun things to do in Coorg, then they can enjoy a toy train ride for ₹20 per head. Parking space is also available for visitors for ₹40. 

One of the most popular questions while visiting South India is: what to do in Coorg? There are plenty of historical things to do in Coorg, and one of them is taking an extensive tour of Madikeri Fort. Located on the lush green Stuart Hill in Coorg, Madikeri Fort is among the most popular tourist attractions of Karnataka. Founded by Mudduraja in the 17th century, Madikeri Fort also has a grand palace inside. Now the fort is controlled by the Government of Karnataka and the office of Madikeri’s Deputy Commissioner is built on its premises. At some point, the location where the fort is built also came to be known as Jaffarabad due to the reconstruction of the fort done by Tipu Sultan. In fact, the fort has gone through further renovations by the hands of the British and Linga Rajendra II. Hence, the architecture of the fort is a unique amalgam of different sensibilities and rulers. The intricate artistry of the bygone times is visible in the stonework used to create statues of elephants. If you enjoy studying relics and artefacts, then visiting Madikeri Fort is among the best things to do in Coorg. You can find a statue of a tortoise added by King Vijayarajendra and a clock tower built under the instructions of the British.

There are plenty of things to do in Coorg, and one of them is exploring the buildings present on the premises of Madikeri Fort. A British-built church by the name of St. Mark is also present inside the fort, which also houses a museum. The fort has withstood various battles, made visible by the artefacts and relics preserved inside the museum. You can also find some age-old weapons used by Tipu Sultan and Mudduraja during their battles displayed inside the museum. A portrait of India’s first Commander-in-Chief,  K. M. Cariappa, is also present inside the museum. 

Madikeri Fort offers some of the most insightful things to do in Coorg. The fort is also home to various other buildings such as Maha Ganapathi Temple, Mahatma Gandhi Public Library and a run down prison. On Mondays, the fort is closed for maintenance. But on the other days, you can visit the fort from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. 

Cost: There is no entry fee imposed on visitors at Madikeri Fort. You can include the fort in your itinerary for things to do in Coorg and explore the various statues, artefacts and buildings present on the premises.

If you are looking for some spiritual things to do in Coorg, then you must visit Omkareshwara Temple, which is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The most impressive feature of this temple is its building which is a unique blend of both gothic and Islamic style of architecture. In fact, the structure of Omkareshwara Temple may even remind you of a dargah. This temple also stands out among other temples of India as it doesn't have a pillared hall, which is a prevailing feature in other temples belonging to Lord Shiva. A Shivalingam is installed near the entrance gate of the temple and is a revered spot among the devotees. 

There are plenty of spiritual things to do in Coorg, and visiting Omkareshwara Temple is one of them. It has a crystal-clear water tank built on its premises that is considered to be one of the main tourist attractions here as it's akin to a fish museum due to the presence of a large number of fish inside it. The doors of the temple are open for visitors only at certain timings. In the morning, you can visit the temple from 6:30 AM till 12:00 PM. During the evenings, the timings are from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. To enjoy the beauty of Omkareshwara Temple at its fullest, it is advised to visit it between October and March. 

Tourists can enjoy panoramic views of the lush green fields near the temple which are often covered under thick dew and make for a breathtaking view for visitors. In search of scenic beauty and spiritual peace, a huge number of devotees visit the magnificent Omkareshwara Temple. If you enjoy scenic vistas and would enjoy learning more about the religious identity of Coorg, then you should include a visit to Omkareshwara Temple in your list of things to do in Coorg.

Cost: You can include Omkareshwara Temple in your things to do in Coorg itinerary and explore its premises for free.

Western Ghats are known for their breathtaking beauty, gurgling streams and lush green hills. Visiting Abbey Falls is surely among the most popular things to do in Coorg and the Western Ghats. Abbey Falls is made up of a vast stream of fresh river water flowing from the Kaveri River gushing through the hills, making up for a hypnotising view. There is a hanging bridge situated just opposite Abbey Falls, from where you can enjoy the iconic view of the mammoth waterfall and of the verdant valley. Earlier, Abbey falls was known by the name of  Jessi falls, named after the wife of a British officer. Now, the waterfall is surrounded by spice and coffee plantations, adding a distinct aroma to the surroundings. If you enjoy visiting natural locations, then you must add a trip to Abbey Falls in your list of things to do in Coorg. 

Situated at a mere distance of 8 km from Madikeri, you can either choose the cheap option of hiking up to the falls or hire a jeep which will cost you around ₹1500. Although it is forbidden to take a bath in the waterfall, you can still stand close to the waterfall and enjoy the chilly drops sprinkling all over you. It is suggested that you should not visit Abbey Falls during the monsoon, as the flow of the water tends to increase during this time of the year.

Photography enthusiasts can visit Abbey Falls during the sunset, as this waterfall shines like a stream of gold water due to rays of the setting sun falling over it. Abbey Falls is among the most picturesque sightseeing destinations in Coorg, and is surely among the most popular things to do in Coorg.

Cost: It is among the most inexpensive things to do in Coorg. The current entrance fee for Abbey Falls is ₹15 per head.

If you would like to visit spiritual locations, then exploring Talacauvery must be included in your list of things to do in Coorg. Talacauvery is counted among the most important temples in Coorg because it is believed that the Kaveri River originated from this place. Throughout the year, the flow of stream gushing here tends to remain mild, except in the monsoon when the flow increases, and the river gushes in all its glory. The magnificent Brahmagiri Hills form the backdrop of Talacauvery Temple and offers mesmerising views. You can reach the viewpoint by using the staircase and enjoy the 360° degree views of the lush green hills which get covered under a thick blanket of mist during the monsoon. Offering your prayers at Talacauvery is among the most popular things to do in Coorg.

This place receives a huge amount of rainfall every year and is regarded as the wettest place in karnataka. Compared to other towns, the weather here is much cooler due the presence of chilly winds. During the monsoon, the surroundings of the temple turn absolutely captivating, as the winding routes are filled with fog, and the mild scent of wet soil offers a rejuvenating experience to visitors. Heavy rainfall washes off the trees, offering a fresh view of the landscape.

The rituals at the temple begins by 6:00 AM, and you can visit the temple  till 8:00 PM in the evening. 

Cost: There is no entry fee at Talacauvery. You can explore the temple and the surrounding regions free of cost.

If you are wondering what are the things to do in Coorg that you can add to your itinerary, then you must head to Namdroling Monastery. The influence of Buddhism is very much visible in Coorg and in nearby areas. Namdroling Monastery is located in Bylakuppe, a town east of Madikeri. Popularly known as the Golden Temple, Namdroling Monastery is among the best things to see in Coorg. It was built in 1963 and is dedicated to the Nyingmapa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Founded by Drubwang Padma Norbu Rinpoche, the Monastery attracts a huge number of tourists due to its vibrant Tibetan architectural work. The walls of the monastery are covered with ancient murals associated with Buddhist mythologies. Inside the monastery, you can also find mammoth statues of revered Buddhist masters such as  Guru Padmasambhava. There is a 60-feet-high statue of Lord Buddha present on the premises of the monastery as well.

You can witness Buddhist monks performing various prayer rituals, offering an insightful glance into Buddhism. Various ceremonies are celebrated with immense dedication by Buddhist monks, and you must not miss visiting Namdroling Monastery during certain special occasions such as Losar, which is the Tibetan New Year that generally lies in the month of February. You can be a spectator of a grand celebration as various processions take place during this time of the year and even the Lamas join the traditional dances. In fact, June is also considered a sacred month among Buddhists as that’s when Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment, and you can witness the special rituals that take place in the monastery to celebrate this event.

Other than these events, you can visit Namdroling Monastery between June and March to enjoy the pleasant weather. Besides the basic accommodation available inside the monastery, you can also stay at Kushalnagar, which is 6 km away from the monastery. You can visit the monastery any time between 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. 

Cost: You can visit the monastery free of cost.

Besides sightseeing destinations, there are plenty of adventurous things to do in Coorg for all outdoor enthusiasts. If you enjoy hiking, Tadiandamol  is the ideal location for you to enjoy challenging trails, lush green forests, little houses huddled together and views of the Western Ghats all along the way. Tadiandamol peak is the third highest mountain peak in Karnataka, offering the perfect blend of adventure and panoramic landscape. Trekking to this peak is among the most rejuvenating things to do in Coorg due to the presence of thick bushes, valleys peaking through the fog, and the sound of various exotic birds reverberating across the trail.

Although, the trek up Tadiandamol peak is considered easy, it is still suggested that you should visit in groups, especially if you are a first-timer. To admire the Tadiandamol peak in its complete glory, it is advised to undertake this trek during early winter from the month of December all the way up to the summer. Avoid trekking during the monsoon as the weather can turn unpredictable, and the slippery trail can prove to be challenging. There is a set timeframe within which you are allowed to climb the hill. You can visit the trek from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Cost: It takes ₹20 per head to trek to Tadiandamol Peak, which is among the most challenging things to do in Coorg.

Visiting Iruppu Falls is among the most fun things to do in Coorg. Located in Brahmagiri range, Iruppu Falls is among the most popular destinations in Coorg district. Iruppu Falls is considered to be a divine spot because of its association with Hindu mythology, and hence, is also known by the name of Lakshamana Tirtha. 

The gurgling waterfall is surrounded by patches of grass, making it the perfect picnic spot for families and friends who can enjoy the views of verdant hills and thick forests. Exploring this 170-ft-high waterfall is among the most rejuvenating things to do in Coorg. Photography enthusiasts can also hone their skills here. The cacophonous sound of Iruppu Falls reverberates across the valley, allowing visitors to establish a close acquaintance with nature. If you enjoy exploring scenic landscapes, then visiting Iruppu Falls is among the most apt things to do in Coorg.

To fully explore this scenic destination, it is advised to spend at least 2 hours here. It is suggested that you should not visit the waterfall during the monsoon, as constant rainfall increases the flow of the waterfall. The waterfall is open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Cost: Counted among the most popular and cheapest things to do in Coorg, Iruppu Falls only accords an entry fee of ₹50 per person.

If you are looking for some adventurous things to do in Coorg, you can explore Brahmagiri Hills. Situated in the Western Ghats, Brahmagiri Hills are among the most picturesque things to see in Coorg, as they are covered with a thick forest area and are home to a wide variety of animals such as lion‑tailed macaques, elephants and tigers. Brahmagiri Hills are located at the height of 1,608 meters above the sea level and offer some breathtaking views of the various hills of the Western Ghats.

Among all the things to do in Coorg, visiting Brahmagiri Hills should be at the top of your list. They turn into wonderland when its raining, the grasslands get covered under a thick blanket of fog, and the gurgling waterfalls gush through various cracks and crevices of the hills. A feast for the eyes, Brahmagiri Hills are a good equivalent for those who cannot visit the Himalayas. 

There are plenty of things to do in Coorg, and one of them is to explore Brahmagiri Hills, which is dotted with some impressive temples such as Thirunelli Temple, dedicated to Vishnu, and tourist destinations such as Pakshi Pathalam, a bird sanctuary. It is believed that ancient sages used to meditate inside the caves of Brahmagiri Hills, making them a revered spot for visitors. 

Traversing across the hills is one of the most challenging things to do in Coorg. You can trek across the winding trails of Brahmagiri Hills, offering magnificent views of the waterfalls, hills and valleys. This 3-hour trek is perfect for first-timers and you can also spot various animals on your way to the top. If you would like to start trekking and are looking for the perfect opportunity, then include trekking to Brahmagiri Hills among the things to do in Coorg.

Cost: You need to pay ₹275 per head if you wish to include Brahmagiri Hills in your things to do in Coorg itinerary.

If there is one thing that Coorg is most famous for, then it has to be its coffee plantations. Taking plantation tours is among the most popular things to do in Coorg. The mild smell of coffee wafts through its various coffee estates and fill up the atmosphere with delectable aroma. The winding trails lead you to Ama Plantation Trails, which is owned by TATA and is considered among the most scenic things to see in Coorg. If you are addicted to coffee and would love to delve deeper into the origins of this beverage, include a trip to Ama Plantation Trails in your list of things to do in Coorg.

You can stay at the heritage cottages and guesthouses present at the property where you can enjoy the picturesque views of the coffee plantations while sipping on a hot cup of coffee. You can enjoy a guided tour across the plantation trails and understand the origins of the Ama Plantation Trails estate. You can book a stay at Cottabetta Bungalow which is nestled in the lap of the lush green Western Ghats. It was built in 1888 and is settled amidst a plantation area of 27,000 acres. 

You can have a wonderful vacation with your family and friends at Ama Plantation Trails. There are plenty of activities you can check off your things to do in Coorg list here such as cycling on its meandering trails, playing sports such as badminton and tennis and going on leisure walks. 

Cost: The cost of your trip depends on the bungalow you are booking. You can enjoy a stay at Ama Plantation Trails for ₹6000 per night.

If you enjoy being in the outdoors and are wondering about the things to do in Coorg, then you must visit Kopatty Hills. This one-day trek is of moderate difficulty and takes you to the lush green hills of Western Ghats. The trek is located at an altitude of 4300 ft and is among the most challenging things to do in Coorg. The best time to visit Kopatty Hills is during the season of autumn and winter when the temperature drops and you can find the landscape covered under thick fog. You can start the trek with Cherambane as the base camp which is at a distance of almost 22 km from Madikeri.  

Trekking to Kopatty is among the most scenic things to do in Coorg, as its winding trails pass through thick forests. The landscape is dotted with gurgling waterfalls and crystal-clear streams. You will be moving across the verdant grasslands and colourful meadows of the Western Ghats. You can spot wooden huts huddled together and paddy fields fringing the trail. You can enjoy the expansive views of the hypnotising Erullivana Valley from the summit. Relish the tranquillity and picturesque vistas that the trail has got to offer, as the muddy routes and thick vegetation make for the perfect challenge. On your journey, you will also come across muddy jeep tracks, making the trail testing and exhausting, but thoroughly exhilarating. If you enjoy a challenging trail, you must include a trek to Kopatty Hills among the things to do in Coorg.

You can start your trek to Kopatty Hills by reaching the base camp, Cherambane, and start trekking along the tarred road. Walk into the woods and enjoy the serene setting, complemented by the chirping of birds. In fact, if you are wondering about the things to do in Coorg during monsoon, you can visit Kopatty Hills during the rainy months, as the entire valley gets covered under a blanket of fog, making the entire landscape absolutely breathtaking. 

Cost: It takes around ₹4000 per person to trek to Kopatty excluding the flight expenses. You can also camp at the top, which is among the most exciting things to do in Coorg. Doing so would help you avoid surplus charges otherwise you can return to nearby hotels.

River rafting is among the sought-after adventurous things to do in Coorg. You can enjoy whitewater river rafting in the gurgling Barapole River, also known as the Kithu Kakathu River. The activity offers immense adrenaline rush, as the roaring rapids provide the perfect rollercoaster-like feeling.  Adventure lovers can have an unforgettable time here, as you can enjoy the views of the lush green forests of the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary on either side and waggle your way along the fierce river. During the summers, it is among the unmissable things to do in Coorg, as river rafting in the Barapole River offers the ultimate respite from the hot weather of Coorg.

This 90-minute activity stretches for 4 km and starts from KKR Junction. You have to be older than 10 years of age and younger than 60 years of age to enjoy this activity due to safety restrictions. While river rafting in the Barapole River, you will even sustain class 4 rapids. You can get a slot any time between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM. It takes around 2 hours from Coorg to Shettigiri, where this adventure sport takes place. Various names are given to the rapids such as morning coffee and big bang. There are different companies available that run this activity, so it is suggested that you should select your tour operator after complete scrutinisation.

Public services are also available to reach the river rafting destination. It is advised to wear loose clothing such as t-shirts and trousers for river rafting. Changing rooms are also available at the destination. Before embarking on the adventure, get a briefing from the experts as the currents turn high and ferocious which could be difficult to handle for first-timers. Avoid river rafting during the monsoons as the river turns unpredictable and increases the possibility of fatal accidents.

Cost: It is suggested that you should keep a budget of ₹1200 to ₹2000 per person for enjoying river rafting in the crystal-clear Barapole River.

Written by Shivani Vohra, an in-house Tripoto writer.