Best Places to Visit in Coorg: A Comprehensive Guide

Coorg, otherwise called Kodagu, is one of the most gorgeous hill stations in Karnataka, India. Located in the Western Ghats, Coorg has been famous for its lush green landscapes, coffee plantations, beautiful waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage. Be it a nature lover, an adventure junkie, or a history enthusiast, Coorg does have much to offer for each of them. This article will make you realise, through my description, the best places to visit in Coorg, so that you can take back never-forgetting memories from this quaint hill station during your trip to Coorg.

List of 40 Best Places to Visit in Coorg

1. Abbey Falls
2. Raja’s Seat
3. Namdroling Monastery
4. Dubare Elephant Camp
5. Madikeri Fort
6. Talacauvery
7. Omkareshwara Temple
8. Coffee Plantations
9. Iruppu Falls
10. Nagarhole National Park
11. Chettalli
12. Tadiandamol Peak
13. Bhagamandala
14. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
15. Barapole River
16. Harangi Dam
17. Gaddige (Raja’s Tomb)
18. Nalknad Palace
19. Somwarpet
20. Malalli Falls
21. Honnamana Kere Lake
22. Kotebetta
23. Nishani Motte
24. Mandalpatti
25. Brahmagiri Hill
26. Karada Village
27. Chiklihole Reservoir
28. Virajpet
29. Kushalnagar
30. Madikeri
31. Kaveri Nisargadhama
32. Honnamana Hill
33. Chelavara Falls
34. Kadamakolli
35. Kabbe Hills
36. Galibeedu
37. Mukkodlu
38. Padi Igguthappa Temple
39. Bhagamandala Temple
40. Ede Lake

Abbey Falls

One of the famous places to visit in Coorg is the Abbey Falls. Situated amongst the coffee plantations and spice estates, the waterfall has a height of 70 feet. The scenic location and the roaring sound of the falls are a must on the list of places to visit.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 8 km from Madikeri

Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location: Madikeri, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Raja’s Seat

Located in Coorg, Raja’s Seat is a beautiful garden with views of the panoramic valley below and the hills surrounding it, thus making it one of the best places to visit in Coorg. Once a favorite haunt of the Coorg Kings to savour the sunsets, today it is the “hot spot” of tourist and local activity.

Built By: Kodagu Kings

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1 hour

Distance From City Centre: In Madikeri

Timings: 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM

Location: Madikeri, Coorg

Entry Fee: INR 5 per person

Namdroling Monastery

One of the largest teaching centers of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, Namdroling Monastery is famously called the Golden Temple. Its magnificent structure with a calm surroundings is surely going to make it a Coorg tourist places and one of the best places to visit in Coorg.

Built By: Penor Rinpoche

Built In: 1963

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 34 km from Madikeri

Timings: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Location: Bylakuppe, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: Famous Temples in Chennai

Dubare Elephant Camp

Dubare Elephant Camp—this is one of the excellent add-ons to your wildlife itinerary. Here, one interacts with elephants, and even feeding, bathing, or just an elephant ride can be undertaken. It is certainly one of the most unique tourist places in Coorg.

Built By: Karnataka Forest Department

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours

Distance From City Centre: 28 km from Madikeri

Timings: 8:30 AM – 11:00 AM and 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Location: Kushalnagar, Coorg

Entry Fee: INR 670 per person

Madikeri Fort

The next important historical places to visit in Coorg is the Madikeri Fort. The fort houses within it a palace, museum, and chapel, and gives an idea of the colonial period of this region. Additional advantage is the panoramic view from this fort.

Built By: Muddu Raja

Built In: 17th century

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: In Madikeri

Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Location: Madikeri, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Talacauvery

Talacauvery is considered the birthplace of the River Cauvery and hence is a sacred place to the people here. It has a temple and a holy tank and is a well-known pilgrimage center. The surrounding views are simply breathtaking and this is among the best places to visit in Coorg.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 44 km from Madikeri

Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM

Location: Brahmagiri Hills, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: Famous Temples in Coimbatore

Omkareshwara Temple

Omkareshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an unusual blend of Gothic and Islamic styles in its architecture. Constructed by King Lingarajendra II, it is among the places to visit in Coorg.

Built By: King Lingarajendra II

Built In: 1820

Recommended Duration: 30 minutes – 1 hour

Distance From City Centre: In Madikeri

Timings: 6:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Location: Madikeri, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Coffee Plantations

No trip to Coorg can ever be complete without a visit to some of the famous coffee plantations. Most estates offer guided tours that enlighten you on the processes of making coffee, and with a fresh cup amidst lush greenery, it is pure bliss.

Built By: Various Planters

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours

Distance From City Centre: Various locations in Coorg

Timings: Varies by plantation

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Varies by plantation

Iruppu Falls

Located in the Brahmagiri Range, Iruppu Falls is indeed a fabulously beautiful waterfall. It is one of the favorite spots for picnics and treks, and also one of the best places to visit in Coorg. The view of the water rushing down from the dense forest is simply enchanting.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 75 km from Madikeri

Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Brahmagiri Range, Coorg

Entry Fee: INR 50 per person

Nagarhole National Park

One of the best wildlife parks, Nagarhole National Park or Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is an animal enthusiast’s paradise. This park boasts a large population of animals such as tigers, elephants, and leopards. Safari trips are conducted so one can get a closer view of the animals.

Built By: Government of Karnataka

Built In: 1955

Recommended Duration: 3-4 hours

Distance From City Centre: 90 km from Madikeri

Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM, 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Location: Kodagu district, Coorg

Entry Fee: INR 250 per person

Chettalli

Chettalli is a small village that has been popular for its silent and serene atmosphere, with very wonderful landscapes added to its beauty. The village also hosts the Central Horticultural Experiment Station, carrying out research work in fruits and spices.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 16 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Chettalli, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Tadiandamandol Peak

Tadiandamol Peak is the highest peak of Coorg and one of the most popular places for trekking. While going along treks, it offers a great view of the Western Ghats and surrounding valleys. So, it should be among the bucket list places to visit in Coorg for adventure lovers.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 4-5 hours

Distance From City Centre: 30 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Bhagamandala

Bhagamandala—This is the pilgrimage place where River Cauvery joins Kannike and Sujyoti rivers. The Bhagandeshwara Temple of Lord Shiva forms its main feature and categorize among the best places to visit in Coorg.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 39 km from Madikeri

Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary is one of the biodiversity hotspots and a heritage listed by UNESCO. The variety of flora and fauna is held within the sanctuary. It forms an excellent spot for purposes of birdwatching and trekking.

Built By: Government of Karnataka

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 3-4 hours

Distance From City Centre: 58 km from Madikeri

Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Somwarpet, Coorg

Entry Fee: INR 10 per person

Barapole River

While Barapole River is famous for white water rafting, one can find exciting rapids in this river for a perfect adventure holiday. It is one of the most thrilling places to see in Coorg.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours

Distance From City Centre: 30 km from Madikeri

Timings: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: INR 1,200 – INR 1,500 per person for rafting

Suggested Read: Places to visit in Kerala

Harangi Dam

The Dam across the Harangi River is quite famous as a picnic spot. This is a very beautiful place where the reservoir and surrounding greenery form a feast to the eyes. It’s a beautiful spot to spend time basking in the beauty of nature and checklist for places to visit in Coorg.

Built By: Government of Karnataka

Built In: 1982

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 36 km from Madikeri

Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Hudgur, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Gaddige

Gaddige or Raja’s Tomb is also an important historical monument that houses tombs belonging to kings of Coorg. The structure is in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture and set within scenic surroundings. This should be on every checklist of places to visit in Coorg.

Built By: Chikkaveerarajendra

Built In: 1820

Recommended Duration: 1 hour

Distance From City Centre: In Madikeri

Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM

Location: Madikeri, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Nalknad Palace

Nalknad Palace was constructed in 1792 by Dodda Veerarajendra. It is a pretty representation of Coorg’s traditional architecture and was a hunting lodge for the kings that used to be their residence also. Small, green, and full of beautiful landscapes, the town of Somwarpet is known for its coffee plantations. The town is also hosting one of the most beautiful waterfalls and famous places to visit in CoorgCoorg, Mallalli Falls. 

Built By: Dodda Veerarajendra

Built In: 1792

Recommended Duration: 1 hour

Distance From City Centre: 40 km from Madikeri

Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Yavakapadi, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Somwarpet

Somwarpet- This small town is known for its lush green coffee plantations and beautiful landscapes. Another beautiful waterfall of Coorg is Mallalli Falls, which is located in this town. 

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours

Distance From City Centre: 40 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Somwarpet, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Malalli Falls

Next, Malalli Falls is one of the unknown waterfalls but equally beautiful. The falls are surrounded by dense forest and offer tranquil and refreshing experiences with amazing view making it one of the best places to visit in Coorg.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 55 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Somwarpet, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Honnamana Kere Lake

The Honnamana Kere Lake is Coorg’s largest lake and is regarded as a popular picnic destination. It has been named after Goddess Honnamana and is surrounded by hills and coffee plantations all around.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 6 km from Somwarpet

Timings: N/A

Location: Somwarpet, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Kotebetta

Kotebetta is the third highest peak in Coorg and one of the places to visit in Coorg popular for trekking. This place offers some breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 3-4 hours

Distance From City Centre: 30 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: Places to visit in India during Monsoon

Nishani Motte

Nishani Motte is less known, yet an important Coorg trekking destination. The path goes through dense forests and offers beautiful views of Western Ghats.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 3-4 hours

Distance From City Centre: 12 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Mandalpatti

Mandalpatti is a nice hilltop that offers panoramic views of the hills and valleys. This view point is accessible by jeep ride and is very famous for photography.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours

Distance From City Centre: 20 km from Madikeri

Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Brahmagiri Hill

A very famous trekking spot located on the border of Karnataka and Kerala, Brahmagiri Hill offers a very gripping view of the Western Ghats and the surrounding forests.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 4-5 hours

Distance From City Centre: 60 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Karada Village

Karada Village is a small village famous for the coffee plantations and traditional Coorgi culture. You may just stroll around to get a feel of local life.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 30 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Chiklihole Reservoir

The Chiklihole Reservoir is a peaceful view between Madikeri and Kushalnagar. The silence of the reservoir and the green surroundings form an ideal quiet picnic spot.

Built By: Government of Karnataka

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 30 km from Madikeri

Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Virajpet

This small town is famous for its coffee plantations, beautiful landscapes, St. Anne’s Church-one of the oldest churches in Coorg, etc.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 32 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Kushalnagar

A rapidly growing town, Kushalnagar owes its present development to the Tibetan Monastery and Dubare Elephant Camp. This town also acts as a gateway to other places of tourism interest in Coorg.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 30 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: Best Places to Eat in Kerala

Madikeri

Located in the Coorg district, Madikeri is a district headquarters and forms one of the major tourist places in Coorg. Several points of interest include the Madikeri Fort, the Raja’s Seat, and the Omkareshwara Temple.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 days

Distance From City Centre: N/A

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Kaveri Nisargadhama

Kaveri Nisargadhama is an island formed by the River Cauvery. The place is very well known for picnics and is said to offer activities like boating and elephant rides, as well as nature walks.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours

Distance From City Centre: 30 km from Madikeri

Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location: Kushalnagar, Coorg

Entry Fee: INR 10 per person

Honnamana Hill

Honnamana Hill is one of the noted trekking centers located next to Honnamana Kere Lake. From the top of the trek, one can view the surrounding hills and valleys.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 3-4 hours

Distance From City Centre: 6 km from Somwarpet

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Chelavara Falls

Chelavara Falls is a lovely falls located close to Cheyyandane village. With the falls surrounded by coffee plantations, it offers a tranquil and refreshing experience.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 43 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Cheyyandane village, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Kadamakolli

Kadamakolli is one of the most beautiful villages, with coffee plantations and a touch of traditional Coorgi culture. It’s a great place to get a feel of the local way of life.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 25 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Kabbe Hills

Kabbe Hills is a beautiful hilltop that offers a panoramic view of surrounding hills and valleys. One has to reach this viewpoint through a jeep ride and is the best spot for photography.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours

Distance From City Centre: 27 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Galibeedu

A small village, Galibeedu is known for its green coffee plantations and other views of nature. It also forms the base camp for various treks.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 26 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: Explore Ananthagiri Hills

Mukkodlu

A tiny hamlet surrounded by coffee plantations, Mukkodlu is soaked in traditional Coorgi culture. This is an excellent place to assimilate into village life.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 21 km from Madikeri

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Padi Igguthappa Temple

Padi Igguthappa Temple is another key temple in Coorg. This temple is dedicated to Lord Igguthappa, the local deity. It is an excellent example of beautiful architecture and serenity.

Built By: Lingarajendra I

Built In: 1810

Recommended Duration: 1 hour

Distance From City Centre: 14 km from Kakkabe

Timings: 5:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Location: Kakkabe, Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Bhagamandala Temple

The Bhagamandala Temple lies at the confluence of rivers Cauvery, Kannike, and Sujyothi and is of immense pilgrimage value. This temple is dedicated to Bhagandeshwara and reflects beautiful architecture.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1 hour

Distance From City Centre: 39 km from Madikeri

Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Ede Lake

One such beautiful lake located in the vicinity of Virajpet, surrounded by hills and coffee plantations, is Ede Lake. It is perfect for a quiet picnic.

Built By: N/A

Built In: N/A

Recommended Duration: 1-2 hours

Distance From City Centre: 10 km from Virajpet

Timings: N/A

Location: Coorg

Entry Fee: Free

Escape to Serene Landscapes of Coorg Now!

Coorg is an absolute treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. Places to visit in Coorg range from the serene Abbey Falls to the historic Madikeri Fort and from the vibrant Namdroling Monastery to the adventurous Dubare Elephant Camp. Be it a peaceful retreat, adventurous trek, or a taste of culture that you’re after, Coorg has something to entice you with. Pack your bags and get ready to explore the beautiful hill station called Coorg.

Lush coffee plantations, pristine waterfalls, historic landmarks, rich cultural heritage—Coorg is indeed a paradise on earth for every genuine traveler. Among the very 40 places mentioned above, each has something unique and of interest to serve as an experience in Coorg and to make it worth a visit, not once but several times. Include Coorg in your itinerary next time you plan for a trip and rediscover Coorg on your way to the best places to visit in Coorg.