Ultimate Coorg Trip Guide: From Bangalore to the Scotland of India

The Kodava people who originally lived here weren't just any regular community – these folks were literal warriors who had military traditions that go back centuries.
We're talking about people so skilled in combat that everyone from local kings to the British wanted them on their side.
Even today, you'll find multiple generations from the same Kodava families serving in the Indian Armed Forces.

After the fall of the Vijayanagara Empire in 1565, Kodagu became a power vacuum.
That’s when a prince from the Bednur royal family arrived incognito, dressed as a Lingayat priest.
He slowly started gaining followers near Haleri (close to today’s Madikeri).
Plot twist? He wasn’t just another holy man—he was building a base to rule.
And just like that, the Paleri (Haleri) dynasty was born, turning Kodagu into an independent kingdom ruled by Lingayat Rajas for the next 200 years.

Fast forward to the late 18th century, Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore, launched repeated military campaigns to conquer Kodagu.
Tipu captured Dodda Vira Rajendra, the prince of Kodagu—but here’s where the story goes full action hero.
The prince escaped (legendary move), rallied his people, and defeated Tipu, taking back his homeland like a total boss.

Then came the Wodeyars, ruling parts of Kodagu between the 17th and 19th centuries, right before the British, ever the opportunists, stepped in to “help” (read: colonise).
In 1834, Coorg officially became a British province, and soon, the hills were covered not just in fog but also in coffee plantations and colonial bungalows with names like Fern Hill and Silver Oak.

And then came the beans.
While Chikmagalur may have started India’s coffee story, Coorg perfected it.
Under British influence, coffee plantations boomed across the region, turning Coorg into the bean belt of South India.
These estates are now some of the most scenic places to explore in Coorg, with plantation tours topping every list of must-do activities.

Abbey Falls—The Roaring Beauty
Witness the spectacular 70-foot cascade as crystal-clear mountain water thunders down moss-covered rocks into a natural pool below. The falls create a mesmerising symphony of sound and mist that instantly transports you into nature's embrace. Its fascinating history as part of a private coffee estate adds cultural richness to your visit. Today, you can still smell the aroma of coffee blossoms while trekking through the plantation paths leading to the viewpoint. Every angle at Abbey Falls offers a frame-worthy shot. The surrounding coffee plantations create a lush green backdrop, while the hanging bridge provides unique vantage points for capturing the falls from multiple perspectives. The interplay of sunlight filtering through the canopy creates magical lighting conditions, especially during early morning and late afternoon visits. Visit between 9 AM and 5 PM, with just ₹15 for entry—it’s one of the most rewarding spots to visit in Coorg without burning a hole in your wallet.

Mandalpatti—The Off-Road Escape
While there’s no entry fee, a round-trip jeep safari costs around ₹1,500 to ₹2,000. The area is open to visitors from 6 AM to 6 PM. The ride to Mandalpatti in itself is an adventure in its truest form—a thrilling off-road jeep safari, scurrying through thick coffee estates, wild paths, and obstinate hills. Sitting at an elevation of 1,600 m, Mandalpatti opens up views of the Western Ghats that are to die for! Ordinary vehicles are not allowed—only some rugged jeeps can handle the driving conditions here, which makes it an exclusive experience for serious adventure enthusiasts. On a misty morning, it’s one of the most surreal things to see in Coorg; you will literally walk through clouds, lending the place an otherworldly quality that is both mystical and exhilarating.

Raja’s Seat
For just ₹10 per person, Raja's Seat offers an incredibly affordable taste of royalty, complete with sunset views that have charmed visitors for generations! This elevated garden viewpoint showcases the same breathtaking sunsets that once mesmerised the royals. The sight is absolutely stunning, with the sun's rays creating a halo around the misty mountains during both sunrise and sunset. As the evening rolls in, don’t miss the enchanting musical fountain display, which takes place at 7 PM on weekdays and from 6:45 PM to 7:20 PM on weekends. Raja's Seat is one of the most famous attractions in Coorg, where you can typically spend about 1 to 2 hours wandering through the garden, snapping photos, and soaking up the serene atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of Madikeri, it’s easily reachable yet feels like a royal getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Once the favourite sunset spot of Kodava kings, it’s still one of the top Coorg sightseeing spots for those chasing that golden-hour glow.

Harangi Dam
Tucked near Kushalnagar, Harangi Dam is one of the most underrated places to explore in Coorg. It’s open from 8 AM to 6 PM, and for just ₹10 per person, Harangi Dam is a fantastic getaway that offers a serene escape, making it a dream spot for nature enthusiasts and photography lovers. This stunning dam spans the Harangi River, a tributary of the Cauvery, creating a peaceful backdrop where water flows gracefully against the hills. The scenery is particularly breathtaking during the monsoon season when the gates open and the water rushes out with a powerful display—truly a feast for the senses. You can take a leisurely walk along the well-kept path, catch the sunset over the reservoir, or even have a cosy picnic with friends or family. Harangi Dam is one of the beloved yet tranquil attractions in Coorg, where you can easily spend an hour or two soaking in the beautiful views and fresh air. Surrounded by vibrant greenery, it’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, all without straying too far from civilisation.

Harangi Elephant Camp
At just ₹15 per person, Harangi Elephant Camp offers exceptional value for money. You're not just buying a ticket—you're investing in a meaningful experience that combines wildlife conservation, natural beauty, and unforgettable memories. This latest gem in Coorg tourist attractions offers a refreshing escape from the bustling Dubare camp. Here, you'll find 15 elephants that have been shifted from Dubare to Harangi. Nestled in a picturesque spot, the camp boasts breathtaking views of the reservoir, all while providing meaningful wildlife encounters. The camp is ideal for families, nature lovers, and photographers looking for a distinctive Karnataka trip because it provides an authentic wildlife encounter in Coorg's stunning scenery. This camp has now evolved into one of the most unforgettable spots to visit in Coorg.

Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple)—A Slice of Tibet
It’s open from 9 AM to 6 PM, and entry is completely free. Easily one of the most unique things to see in Coorg, Namdroling Monastery offers a soul-soothing escape into Tibetan culture, right in the heart of Karnataka. Located in Bylakuppe near Kushalnagar, this is the largest teaching centre of the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan Buddhism outside Tibet. Also known as the Golden Temple, the monastery stuns visitors with its 40-foot golden Buddha statues, intricately painted murals, and the gentle hum of monks chanting prayers. The energy here is calming, almost meditative, making it a rare blend of spiritual immersion and cultural exploration. You can easily spend 1 to 2 hours wandering through the temple complex, capturing the ornate art, sitting in quiet reflection, or simply observing monastic life in motion. Though it’s just a short drive from Coorg’s main towns, Namdroling feels like a world of its own—timeless, tranquil, and totally unforgettable.

Dubare Elephant Camp—Close Encounters with Giants
It is open from 8:30 AM to 11 AM and again from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM. The entry fee is ₹100 per person, and with additional charges, you can participate in elephant bathing and feeding, learn about elephant behaviour from experienced mahouts, and go on coracle rides on the river. The camp also offers nature walks and bird watching. It's one of those experiences that feels both fun and meaningful, especially knowing that the focus is on elephant rehabilitation and conservation rather than just entertainment. This was once a training ground for elephants used in Mysore Dasara. Today, it’s a peaceful spot where you can observe and engage with these gentle giants. It's one of the best things to see in Coorg for children, families and nature lovers.

If you're the kind of traveller who leaves room in your bag for “souvenirs”, good, because the attractions in Coorg don’t end at waterfalls and treks.

• Coffee is the number one purchase in Coorg—look for premium varieties like Arabica and Robusta directly from the plantations.
• Spices like cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, and vanilla are top-quality and make excellent shopping choices.
• Honey from Coorg is unique, with flavours that change depending on whether the bees feed on coffee flowers, wildflowers, or herbs.
• Homemade chocolates, wines, and liquor from Coorg make distinctive gifts you won’t find anywhere else.
• Local handicrafts such as Kodava silver jewellery, traditional Kodava clothing, wooden artefacts, and bamboo products support local artisans and carry real cultural significance.