Overview
Kodagu, also widely known as Coorg, is growing popular at a fast pace. This hill station situated at 1150 m from sea level is a perfect getaway for people seeking solitude amidst nature. Coorg is famous for its natural scenic beauty, adventure activities, short distance trek trails and coffee plantations.
If you are planning to visit this sweet spot of nature for your next trip, there are few things you can expect. As India has 22 official state languages, it often raises the question of language barrier. For all the travellers visiting from other states to Karnataka, it is recommended you learn basic gestures like ‘thank you’, ‘sorry’ in Kannada, its state language. It is not possible to master Kannada or any language within a short span of time. Although, knowing a few phrases in the state language of whichever state you are travelling to, will give you the edge. People in Karnataka also commonly use English as their second language.
Diving into things Coorg has in store for you; coffee plantations, adventure activities, interacting with animals, resting in nature and climbing mountain peaks.
The Quarry Adventures and Cafe Quarry
The Quarry Adventures provides travellers who are looking for an adrenaline rush after a mundane life routine. This adventure centre has all sorts of activities for people with varied skills. Some of them include zip lining, tree top adventure, rock climbing, rappelling. This place aims at providing travellers with an authentic experience of nature in Coorg. The Quarry Adventures is 8 -9 kms away from Madikeri Auto stand. You can spend your whole day filled with activities and nature. The place also provides tourists with a cafe inside.
Iruppu Waterfalls
The Iruppu falls are located in the Brahmagiri Range, bordering Kerala the neighbouring state. It is a fresh water waterfall and is situated at a distance of 48 km from Virajpet. Also, there is a trail built through the forest which leads from these falls to the Brahmagiri Peak towards the south. There is also a Shiva temple in the region which is a pilgrim spot for the locals. To enter this falls, there is an entry fee. This is a call for a dubki in Nature’s bathtub. If not, a walk in nature surrounded by jungle and trees is always a great choice to attain peace of mind.
Tadiandamol Trek
Tadiandamol is situated 41 kms away from Madikeri. This is a short distance trek which won’t take more than 7 hours to complete. The starting point of this trek is Virajpet. If you are seeking to trek among the clouds and green trek trails, visit anytime between December to March. Carry your water bottle, first aid kit with you during this trek. There are a number of restaurants and homestays in Virajpet where you can pack your lunch from. One of the recommended cafes in Virajpet is Big Cup Cafe. This cafe seems to be popular among young travellers and trekkers. The cafe opens early in the morning where you can have a hearty breakfast and commence your trek. If you are not into staying in hotel rooms while travelling, do visit Tadiandamol !
Coffee Plantations
Dear Coffee Lovers! This is your paradise. Coorg is known for its exceptional variety of coffees. The most common coffee species grown in Coorg are Arabica and Robusta. These are known for their rich quality and taste. Due to Coorg’s favourable fertile land and weather, you can spot coffee plantations in almost every corner or even verandas. If you are interested in observing the journey of coffee flowers to beans, there are various plantations you can visit or you can opt to stay in Coffee estates. Some of the renowned coffee estates in Coorg are; Old Kent Estates, Height Farm Stays and BiBi Coffee estate Blue Tokai. You can also participate in coffee workshops held in either of these places. In workshops you will be involved in the process of picking the coffee from the fields to roasting and grounding the beans.
Dubare Elephant Camp
How often do we get to see elephants enjoying themselves? Here in Dubare Elephant Camp you get to interact with elephants in their natural habitat and bathe them. Elephant camp is located 36 kms away from Madikeri. The open hours of this camp are limited. Hence one needs to check with the concerned officials before going to the camp. The camp also has other activities like river rafting and boating. This will be a memorable experience for families and their kids.
Coorg is covered in rich green trees and peaks. The place strives on its sustainability and eco-friendly ways. Hence, try to travel in an eco-friendly manner and avoid littering plastic wastes during treks or sightseeing.
