Activities to do in Coorg
Trek to Tadiandamol, Barapole River Rafting, Visit Dubare Elephant Camp, Virajpet Sightseeing Tour, Visit Abbey Falls, Stay at Coffee Plantation Homestay, Jeep Safari, Kumara Parvatha Trek, Visit Iruppu Falls and others.
Popularly known as the Scotland of India, there are several things to do near Coorg as diverse as your imagination can get. Coorg boasts of its spectacular natural beauty and the quaint and calm environs. Whether you are travelling with your family or friends, the hidden escapes and breathtaking scenery of Coorg is sure to make everyone happy.
From a cabin in the woods to river-rafting holidays, Coorg can be as relaxing or as challenging as you want it to be! What to do in Coorg is a question that is best answered through the unique and diverse activities it offers! Enjoy a fresh brew with the vistas of coffee plantations or take a dip in the scenic waterfalls like Mallalli Falls. Madikeri Fort and the Golden Temple Monastery are also worth visiting when in Coorg.
You can also visit the Kote Ganapathi Temple and Gandhi Mandap for some calm and peace. There are even numerous adrenaline-pumping activities like hikes to Tadiandamol and hand-glider flights thousands of feet above the ground!
Here are some of the best things to do in Coorg:
1. Trek to Tadiandamol Peak:
Tadiandamol is a Kannada word that translates into big mountain’, a name which does justice to the place as it is the highest peak in Coorg and the second highest in Karnataka. Trekking to the top of Tadiandamol is one of the top activities to do in Coorg for adventure enthusiasts.
Perched at a height of 5735 feet above sea level, the peak offers staggeringly beautiful views of the surrounding Shola forests. The starting point of the trek is the historical Nalknad Palace which was built by Dodda Vira Rajendra in the year 1792.
The trek itself is long and tedious but scenic. If you decide to camp at the summit, you are guaranteed beautiful views of the rising and setting sun.
Location: 274 km from Bangalore, Coorg
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Charges: Rs 3,150
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Must Checkout - Coorg Tour Packages From Bangalore
Coorg Tour Packages From Chennai
2. Kumara Parvatha Trek:
Another thrill among the very things to do in Coorg is trekking up to The Kumara Parvatha hill. The second highest peak in Coorg and very much the epitome of a paradise, this hill is surrounded by the eternal grandeur of nature. Smothered with the Pushpagiri range around, this one just gets to your wild heart with its scenic beauty and dense forests.
Furthermore, the trek can be a little difficult for the ones who are not used to trekking. Rest assured, everything from flairs to fauna along your way will reward you with timeless beauty and an odd sense of satisfaction during the 2 days of your unforgettable trek.
Location: Pushpagiri range, Coorg, Karnataka
Charges: Rs 3,050
Difficulty level: Moderate
Recommended Read: Trekking in Coorg
Also Checkout - Coorg Tour Packages From Kerala
3. Hike to Raja's Seat:
The Raja’s Seat or the King’s Seat is a beautiful vantage point and visiting the Raja’s Seat is one of the most iconic options when thinking of what to do in Coorg. Historically, this was the place where the Kings of Coorg would come to enjoy the splendid scenery spread below them.
Today, it has been commercialised and has manicured seasonal gardens and artificial water fountains that mark the area. Although the views from Raja’s Seat are always breathtaking, the best time of the day to visit the place is during sunrise and sunset.
At the Raja’s Seat, you can also visit the Gandhi Mantap where remains of Mahatma Gandhi have been kept. Apart from the Mantapa, there is also a children’s amusement park and a toy train that takes you around the place.
Location: Near Rajadarshan Hotel, Raja Seat Road, Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Karnataka
Best time to Visit: The best time to visit is from the months of October to March
Timings: It can be visited from 6 am to 7 pm
Know More: 67 Offbeat Places To Stay in Coorg
Must Checkout - Coorg Tour Packages From Coimbatore
4. Explore The Wildlife at Nagarhole National Park:
For the adventure junkies looking for the most thrilling activities in Coorg, Nagarhole National Park is the best place to add to your bucket list. Replete with beautiful waterfalls, valleys, streams and forests, this place is blessed with spectacular natural beauty.
It is home to the most distinct flora and fauna and tourists can look forward to an exhilarating day filled with exploring wildlife with a wildlife safari at Nagarhole National Park.
Best time to Visit: For getting the best view of animals, the months of April and May are considered best. However, if experiencing pleasant weather is a priority then the months from November to February is preferred.
Location: Madikeri Road, Hunsur, Karnataka
Timings: It is open from 6:45 am to 8:45 am and then from 4 pm to 6 pm
Must Checkout - Coorg Tour Packages From Vijayawada
5. Visit Iruppu Falls:
Iruppu Falls is one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in Coorg where tourists can go to see the grandeur of nature and seek repose in the lush greenery of the landscape. Attracting scores of visitors every year, Iruppu Falls is known for having the famous Shiva Temple Rameshwara and deriving its roots from the epic Ramayana.
Located along the Brahmagiri mountain range amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Western Ghats, Iruppu Falls is a mesmerizing destination to visit on your vacation in Coorg.
Best time to Visit: The best time to witness the beauty of Iruppu Falls is during the monsoon season
Location: Kurchi, Karnataka
Timings: Tourists should visit Iruppu Falls any time between 6 am and 6 pm every day of the week
Book & Checkout - Coorg Family Packages
Also Checkout - Coorg Tour Packages From Hyderabad
6. Visit Golden Temple Monastery:
The Golden Temple Monastery or the Namdroling Monastery is a beautiful Monastery in Coorg which is an excellent example of the rich Tibetan architecture.
It holds great historical and cultural importance, especially for the Tibetan community, as it is the world’s largest centre of teaching for the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery complex spreads over several square metres and reaches as high has 40 feet.
The highly ornate temple has colourful murals on the outer walls, precious gold knockers on huge, red doors and colourful paintings of gods and demons belonging to the Tibetan Buddhist mythology. The temple is surrounded by large, landscaped gardens which change colour with the seasons, making it just the place to come and relax for a while.
Location: Arlikumari, P.O. Bylakuppe, Coorg , Karnataka, 571104, India
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Book & Checkout - Coorg Tour Packages From Visakhapatnam
Must Visit - Places to visit in Coorg in 3 days
7. Visit Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary:
Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the many wildlife sanctuaries in Karnataka and is particularly known for its rich bird population. Covering a staggering area of 102 kilometres, the sanctuary is nestled between the Kukke Subramanya Forest range on one side and the Bisle Reserve Forest on the other.
The landscape is dominated by a thick tree cover and tall peaks. While here, you can spot several endangered and rare species of birds and go out on safaris in the dense canopied jungles.
A bird safari through the wildlife sanctuary can result in close encounters with the bird species like grey breasted laughing thrush, Nilgiri flycatcher, black and orange flycatcher, Nilgiri wood pigeon, Malabar grey hornbill, grey-headed bulbul, blue-winged parakeet, small sunbird and white-bellied blue flycatchers.
Location: It is located near Mandalpatty in northern Coorg district.
Best time to Visit: The months from November to March are the most ideal to visit Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
Timings: It can be visited from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm for all days of the week
You May Also Like: Romantic Homestays in Coorg for Couples
Must Visit - Coorg Tour Packages From Trivandrum
8. Trek to Kopatty
The best way to explore Coorg is on foot and the trek to Kopatty is one of the most rewarding things to do in Coorg. A half-day trek to Kopatty on an average pace will take you through a variety of landscapes, including lush green plantations, rolling grasslands which open to the views of the valley and narrow gravel paths.
The path will lead you close to the ledge before descending into the thick forest covers, giving you dramatic views of the landscape. You can easily cover the trail in around six or six and a half hours even if you plan to take a lunch break in the middle. The impressive scenery offers many opportunities to stop for a picnic or take stunning pictures.
Location: Kopatty hill, Coorg, Karnataka
Best time to visit: Autumn and Winter
Charges: Rs 3,150
Difficulty level: Moderate
Planning a trip to Coorg? You can Checkout: Coorg Group Tour Packages
9. Quad Biking:
Picturesque hills and plains, rugged terrains, challenging curves and the off-roading tracks; all these make Coorg a sought after destination for Quad Biking.
Ideal for every kind of tourist, these rides can be undertaken for around 25 minutes between 10 AM to 4 PM. Chevalara in Coorg has some of the most exhilarating and exciting Quad Biking tracks.
Riding on these 250cc beasts that howl through any kind of terrain offers the much-desired adrenaline kick to adventure buffs and thus making it one of the most exciting things to do in Coorg.
Location: Kedakal Village, Suntikoppa Post, Coorg
Also Check: Places to visit in Coorg in one day
10. Dubare River Rafting:
One of the most picturesque places in Coorg, Dubare has a plenitude of host camps that organises rafting trips. As the water level reaches the highest during the monsoons, it is considered as the peak time for a rafting expedition.
There are close to 18 different rafting routes which range from easy to moderate to difficult. The activity begins at Dubare and then stretches for about 11km. Life jackets and other types of equipment are provided to ensure a safe trip.
Rafting here is considered as one of the best Coorg adventures to indulge in. Also, you can also indulge yourself in different activities in Coorg if planning to visit Dubare , and it is one of the best things to do in Coorg.
Best time to visit: July and August.
Location: Dubare, Coorg.
Recommended Read: River Rafting in Coorg
More Coorg Activities
Our Partners
Coorg Things To Do FAQs
What are the best things to do in Coorg with family?
Later, it was rebuilt and renovated by many others including Tipu Sultan and the British. Today it has a clock tower, a portico park and a beautiful museum inside the premises. The museum has been built out of a Gothic-style Anglican Church which was once a temple dedicated to Virbhadra. The other buildings inside the fort are the Mahatma Gandhi Public Library, the Kote Ganapathi temple and the district prison. The Hindu festival of Dussehra is celebrated in a grand manner by the Kote Ganapathi temple every year.
Location: Madikeri Fort, Stuart Hill, Madikeri, Karnataka
Best time to Visit: February to September is the best time to visit here.
Timings: It remains open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm. Mondays are closed.
Suggested Read: Places to visit in Coorg
2. Experience Serenity at Talacauvery: Wish to feel your head in the clouds? Then heading to Talacauvery is one of the most memorable things to do in Coorg when you visit. Known as the source of river Kaveri, this place is known for its tranquilising and spiritual ambience. Surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, Talacauvery is famous for attracting tourists dedicated to Goddess Kaveri. Talacauvery is the hub of tourist activity during the festival of Tulasankaramma which is celebrated with fervour amongst all the devotees.
Best time to Visit: The best time to visit Talacauvery are the months from February to April and October to December
Must Read - Places to visit near Coorg
3. Visit Nisargadhama: If you want to truly experience the natural abundance of the place, a visit to Nisargadhama is one of the best things to do in Coorg. Nisargadhama is a river delta of breathtaking natural beauty which is sprawled over an area of 64 acres. Surrounded by the Cauvery River, the place can only be accessed through a hanging bridge. The landscape is dominated by thick forestation which includes bamboo groves, sandalwood trees and teak trees. You can enjoy elephant rides or visit the deer park and even get into the water at some shallow points on the riverside. You will find rustic cottages tucked away throughout Nisargadhama. You can choose to stay overnight to enjoy some stunning views of the night sky and early-morning sounds of the forest.
Location: Nisargadhama is located near Kushalnagar in the Kogadu district of Karnataka.
Best time to Visit: November to February is the best time to visit Nisargadhamas
Timings: It remains open throughout the day for visitors.
Must Read: Best Resorts In Coorg
4. Plantation Walk: Owing to the expanse of coffee plantations that dot the area, plantation walks are considered to be one of the most popular things to do in Coorg. The activity is soothing as well as fun as it offers tourists a chance to witness the natural beauty of the surroundings. A regular walk covers around a stretch of 6-8 km and takes around 3-4 hours to cover with adequate breaks in between During this experience, you will be amazed at the amount of dedication it requires to maintain such a vast plantation. Within the walk, you can witness coffee plucking and if lucky, get a chance to experience a private coffee tasting session. If you want to spend some more time in this area then you have an option of coffee plantation stay in Coorg offered by some resorts there.
Best time to visit: September to February
Location: Madenadu Village, Coorg.
Timings: Starts at 10:00 AM
Check Out: Coorg to Bangalore Travel Guide
5. Stay at Coffee Plantation Homestay: If you are planning to stay overnight, then the most rewarding things to do in Coorg is a stay at one of the many coffee plantation homestays. Waking up to the unhindered views of lush green coffee fields dotted with ancient trees and shrubbery is an unforgettable experience. The early morning views of the plantations comprise of the rolling green hills shrouded in mist, giving them a dreamy and mystical quality. Some of these homestays have been around since the time of the Britishers and along with the stunning views, you can also experience a chunk of history. Or, you can choose to stay with the locals and learn about their customs and way of life at the plantation.
Suggested Read: Coorg Coffee Plantation Homestays
Also Visit - Places to visit near Coorg within 200kms
6. Sunet Jeep Safari at Mandalpati: Brace yourself for a bumpy thrilling ride through the Western Ghats in Coorg if you happen to visit this wonder of a hill station. Topping the list of things to do in Coorg, Jeep Safari is exactly what you need to wake up your senses and appreciate the unparalleled beauty of nature. Glide through the rough terrains while you sniff the aroma of coffee around you only to end up witnessing a breathtaking view of Mandalpatti. Paint the clouds that serenade the hills with your imagination.
Location: Madikeri, Coorg, Karnataka
Timing: 6:30 am – 9:30 am and 3:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Charges: Starts from Rs 750
You can Checkout: Coorg Honeymoon Packages
What are the best things to do in Coorg with friends?
Location: Kumara Parvatha, Coorg, Karnataka
Timings: 9:30 am to 2:30 pm
Charges: Rs 1000
Difficulty level: Moderate
2. Microlight Flying: Microlight Flying is probably the most exhilarating activities in Coorg. It involves a simple hang glider with the capacity to hold two people. The thrust produced by the handglider’s engine quickly takes you off the ground and towards the soaring skies up to a height of 5,000 feet! An adrenaline-filled start gives way to the calm, empty skies which offer you bird’s eye views of the beautiful Coorg landscape. The panorama consists of breathtaking views of the Brahmagiri mountain range, the gushing river Cauvery, the rolling coffee plantations and endless paddy fields. The maximum speed reached by the hand-glider is 100 kilometre per hour and a typical ride lasts for 10 minutes or 30 minutes, depending on your choice. The starting point of the flight is in Ponnampet, towards the south of Coorg.
Also Checkout - Places to visit in Coorg in 2 days
3. Waterfall Rappelling: Soak up the mesmeric beauty of the waterfalls in Coorg while rappelling through these cascading splendours! An activity that involves climbing down a rocky surface while harnessed to a safety rope, rappelling in Coorg is all about fun and excitement. Rappelling here is considered as one of the best things to do in Coorg. In this activity, the participants are briefed about all the safety measures, tips and tricks of rappelling. Safety gears include a helmet, carabineers, gloves and other such necessities.
Location: Chelavara, Madikeri
Popular Read: Top 8 Luxury Resorts in Coorg
4. Barapole River Rafting: When looking for adrenaline-pumping activities in Coorg, Barapole River Rafting offers the perfect opportunity for both newbies and experts. The Barapole River is known for its wealth of rapids where several companies provide white water rafting opportunities to people of almost all ages , and it is one of the best things to do in Coorg. The rapids offer just the right intensity to give your raft a push and nudge, allowing you to steer it in the roaring currents, making it a favourite amongst river rafting enthusiasts. You can move from one rapid to the next having a different experience with each. The rapids are named according to their intensity, i.e. Morning Coffee, Grasshopper, Wicked Witch and the Big Bang at the end. The calm patches of the river give the rafters a much-needed break and the opportunity to soak in the lush green surroundings of Kodagu.
Location: Karnataka South Coorg, Virajpet Taluk River Barapole, Near Tata Tea Plantation , Birunani, Route, Srimangala, Karnataka 571217
Best time to visit: Experience river rafting in Coorg between the months of July and August
Difficulty level: Moderate
Special Offer: Experience River Rafting at Flat 20% Off
5. Nishani Motte Trek:
Another one of the thrilling things to do in Coorg is trekking all the way up to Nishani Betta peak. The 12 km hike up to the peak is decked with the beauty of emerald green plains and fragrant coffee plantations. No less than any other peak around the world, the exquisite beauty of this one is breathtaking. The Brahmagiri range cocooning the Nishani peak will welcome you with a tight embrace while you marvel at the old world heritage of the Western Ghats. The peak boasts of a latitude of 60 degrees making the trek a bit difficult. The blue ridge trek is a 12 km long trek and can easily take 4-5 hours to complete. Furthermore, the final stretch of 1 km is comparatively harder but worth the fight for the view from the top is unparalleled.
Location: Nishani Hills, Madikeri, Coorg, Karnataka
Charges: Rs 800
Difficulty level: easy to moderate
Must Checkout - Trek to Nishani Motte Trek
Which are the best things to do in Coorg in 2 days?
2. River Rafting in Barapole River: River Rafting in Barapole River is a must-have in your itinerary on your 2 Day trip to Coorg. Feel the droplets of the crystal clear river water on your face as you raft across the rapids on an inflatable platform.
3. Visit Namdroling Monastery: Visit and seek blessings from the almighty at Namdroling Monastery which was set up in 1963. All-day long, monks draped in their traditional garment chant hymn which is bound to invoke spirituality. Besides, the peaceful environment and the impeccable architecture of the Namdroling Monastery are equally mesmerizing.
4. Day Hike to Abbey Falls: Indulge in a day hike to Abbey Falls which cascades down the lush green surroundings of Western Ghats. Especially, monsoons are the perfect time to witness its real charm because it experiences heavy flow due to incessant rainfall.
What is the best time to visit Coorg?
Located in the western ghats, Coorg is an evergreen hill station and no matter which time of the year you visit this place, you will always enjoy your holidays. The climate stays pleasant throughout the year.
Summers can be a little hot and the maximum temperature during summer days may reach 40oC but it never goes any higher than this. So, if you want to beat the summer heat by visiting this hill station, you can avoid visiting it during May and June. Rest of the year, the temperature will be quite pleasant. In winters, the temperature will not go below 10oC, and it's also a good time to visit the place. However, if you want to avoid too much rain, as the trekking becomes a little risky due to rain, you must not go during the monsoon season, that is July and August.
Of all, March and April are the best time to visit the place.
Where can we do river rafting in Coorg? How challenging are the rapids?
White water rafting is one of the best experiences that one can indulge in while visiting Coorg. It would be an enthralling and exciting experience for you. Barapole river is one of the most adventurous rafting sites in the entire state of Karnataka, and when you are in Coorg, you must not miss it.
The rafting in Coorg is a thrilling experience as there are a plethora of menacing and rousing rapids, but depending on your rafting skills, you can choose the rafting route. Though, the rapids are not very challenging, they certainly are risky. The Barapole river has 9 ferocious class 2 rapids. There are some level 3 and level 4 rapids as well.
What sort of activities are enjoyable by children in Coorg?
In Coorg, children will enjoy activities like a visit to the Dubare Elephant camp where they can see as many as 150 elephants, and can see the mahouts giving bath to the elephants and training the Mysore Dasara festival. Here children can learn everything about the elephants.
Apart from this, they can enjoy the jeep safari to the various waterfalls and can have fun in Raja's Seat park. Children can also visit the various wildlife sanctuaries in Coorg and can witness the animals in their natural habitat.
Is Coorg a good destination for Camping? Which places are famous for camping in Coorg?
Yes, Coorg is an amazing place for camping and one can enjoy overnight camping with family & friends here. The most famous camping sites in Coorg include:
- Camping in Madikeri
- Civet Creek Camping
- Prakruth Homestay
- Camping in Gonikoppal
- Coorg Planter's Camp
Which are must visit waterfalls in Coorg?
Coorg is a land so rich in beauty and greenery, during the monsoons apart from its lush green carpet is the sound of numerous streams and waterfalls nearby that form a picturesque sight. Some of the must visit waterfalls in their whole gush and splendour are:
- Abbey Falls
- Burude Falls
- Iruppu Falls
- Mallalli Abbi Falls
- Irpu Falls
Where can we go for a wildlife safari in Coorg?
The following wildlife parks and sanctuaries can be best discovered with a Safari:
- Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
- Nagarhole National Park
- Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary
Which temples are famous in Coorg?
Known basically for its tourist attraction, Coorg is also a center for devotion and pilgrimage. The following are some of the famous Temples of Coorg:
- Talakaveri
- Sri Omkareshwara Temple
- Bhagamandala
- Padi Igguthappa Temple
What is so special about Bylakuppe?
Bylakuppe in Coorg is an area which is known as home to several Tibetan settlements. It gives the visitors an opportunity to explore the Tibetan culture. The Golden Temple with its humongous 40 ft statues and 7000 monks is what attracts people to view this unique vista.
Can we go for a jeep safari in Coorg?
Yes, you can go for a jeep safari in Coorg. There are many places like waterfalls, forests, wildlife parks and sanctuaries that can be best visited by a jeep safari.
Jeep safari offers a unique way to explore the different tourists' spots in Coorg, and especially the waterfalls. It is an enthralling ride and would become one of the most memorable experiences of Coorg for your lifetime.
How is Nishani Motte trek? Can anyone do it?
Nishani Motte trek is another prominent trekking destination in Coorg. This is one of the easiest trekking destination. Yes, anyone in good health and at least a bit physically fit can do it.
Can we go for Kumara Parvatha trek? Is it a difficult trek?
Kumara Parvatha trek is one of the most difficult treks in Coorg and an ideal place for you if you are looking forward to explore the adventurous side in you. Only well trained and experienced people do trekking here, as it is 6 - 7 km trek on one side through the lush green forests, green meadows and beautiful landscapes.
The peak of Kumara Parvatha is 1712 meters high from the sea level and lies in the Pushpagiri range.
What things can couples do in Coorg?
Coorg is a city filled with scenic beauty and adventures. Couples and newlyweds can spend quality time here capturing memorable photos and rejuvenating themselves in the lap of nature. They can also experience the adventurous life near the campsite enjoying with each other. There are various honeymoon packages of Coorg that are just perfect for a romantic outing with your partner.
The overnight camps with a bonfire are an incredible way to spend a romantic evening right under the stars. Apart from this, couples can visit the aromatic coffee plantations and the serene waterfalls with pristine natural beauty. All the waterfalls in Coorg are splendidly beautiful and the atmosphere near the waterfalls is quite tranquil. Couples can also experience thrilling white water rafting together and indulge in sightseeing across the various picturesque hills in Coorg.
Is Coorg a good destination for a family vacation? What activities can families do in Coorg?
Yes, Coorg is a good destination for a distinguished family vacation. There are so many places to explore in Coorg right from scenic beauties to divine temples and pilgrimages. There are many enthralling activities like rafting, camping, trekking, visiting natural waterfalls, and visiting wildlife parks and sanctuaries.
There are many places where one can enjoy with the family, like the wildlife sanctuaries where children can see the animals living in their natural habitats. One of the most unique experiences that one can have in Coorg with family is a visit to the Dubare Elephant training camp. Here you can see the elephants getting trained, getting the food served and getting bathed by the mahouts. In fact, the tourists can also help in bathing the elephants on the banks of the river kaveri in this elephant training camp.
If you want your children to learn about a different culture, then you can visit the Namdroling Monastery in Coorg. Here, you can explore the Tibetan culture as it is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India.
Is it advisable to visit Coorg in monsoon?
Monsoon adds some of its flavors to Coorg. During this season, roads become wet and there is a time to time drizzle happening at irregular intervals. The best part is that Coorg looks greener than ever which is pleasing to watch as a tourist. But, at the same time, the rain might make the trekking destinations and some waterfalls little risky to visit.
Thus, one must avoid visiting Coorg in monsoon, if you want to visit all the tourist destinations. But, if you want to enjoy the rain and get mesmerized by the natural beauty, you can plan a trip to Coorg during the monsoon.
Newly Added Coorg Experiences
Coorg Things To Do Reviews
