The Ultimate Bangalore to Coorg Backpacking Guide

Coorg or Kodagu is the most romantic tourist spot in Karnataka state in south India. Located deep amidst the Western Ghats, it is a hill station officially known as the "Scotland of India" due to its rolling hills, coffee gardens, and rain-soaked landscape. Renowned for its scenic beauty, salubrious climate, and historical significance, Coorg is a travel destination longed for by nature enthusiasts, sportsmen, and privacy seekers. Coorg is the country of the Kodavas, a people renowned for culture, customs, and hospitality. Winding with dense foliage, waterfall-decked hills, beautiful trekking trails, and aromatic coffee plantations, Coorg is the taste of indulgence and adventure in equal measure. The destination is also renowned for wildlife, as the different sanctuaries and parks provide shelter to different plants and animals.

Adventure Activities in Coorg

Located in the lush Western Ghats of Karnataka, Coorg (Kodagu) is an adventurer's paradise. Known for coffee estates, misty hills, and dense biodiversity, the destination has a lot to present in terms of adventure activities for adventurous travellers. A trekker, water sports enthusiast, or a nature camping addict, Coorg has something or other for everyone. A detailed account of the best adventure activities of Coorg is as below:

1. River Rafting at Barapole: White water rafting at River Barapole is a tour not to be missed by adventure seekers. The river takes its origin in the Brahmagiri hills and consists of grade II to IV rapids and is one of the most difficult places for rafting in South India. The rafting stretch is 4 kilometres long with strong currents and steep rapids challenging the skill and endurance of adventure seekers. River Barapole rafting can only be attempted during post-monsoons and monsoons of July to October when it will be in a high water state with the best rapids condition. 

2. Jeep Safari & Wildlife Sightings: Coorg has some wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, and hence it is a paradise for nature lovers. Jeep safari in these bio-diverse locations is an opportunity to catch a glimpse of rare flora and fauna in their natural habitat.

3. Dubare Elephant Camp: High up over the waters of the Cauvery River is the Dubare Elephant Camp, a strange traveller destination where the elephant's just being present in natural surroundings provides viewing thrills. Jeep ride to campsites is done through thick jungles, with a possible peep into seeing elephants bathe, graze, and about them in their natural habitat. Reach out to the nearness of loving mammoths from such close range.

4. Trekking in Coorg: Coorg Trekking is the best with its greeneries, trails, greeneries, and viewpoints. The destination has multiple trekking points of different difficulties, so they are best for beginners as well as for professionals.

5. Tadiandamol Trek: Coorg's highest and Karnataka's third highest point, Tadiandamol stands at an elevation of 1,748 meters above mean sea level. This trek is a nature lover's dream with stunning landscapes of valley mists and undulating hills. The trek goes through thick monsoon forests, thundering brooks, and grassland and is thus a scenic but strenuous experience. October to March is the best time for trekking when the weather is clear and cold.

6. Brahmagiri Trek: Situated near Nagarhole National Park, is a perfect experience for trekking and sighting diverse fauna. The 10-kilometre hike is a forest trek through dense forests, river streams, and open meadows to the summit of Brahmagiri where one has a glimpse of the Western Ghats. The trek has an easy as well as challenging trail and the best time for trekking would be during the post-monsoon months when the landscape will be lush green. Nishani Motte Trek A off-the-beaten-path trekking route,

7. Nishani Motte Trek: Coorg's hidden gem. The trek starts at TalaCauvery Wildlife Sanctuary and passes through coffee plantations, dense forests, and rugged ridges, offering an exciting adventure for the trekkers. The last phase is a steep climb, but the payoff is a breathtaking view of the hill and valley around. This trip can be undertaken by the adventurous, who do not like the tourist crowd and seek silence and peace from them.

8. Camping & Bonfire Experiences: For all those fed up with the city people and sounds, camping in Coorg provides one with the peace away from civilization that one needs. Even the simple fact of being able to spend a night under the open arms of the sky, surrounded by uninterrupted forests, and cradled in tranquillity is enchanting.

9. Riverside Camping: Camping near the Barapole River or Cauvery River is perfect for adventure and relaxation Bird songs and twirling leaves as the river streamflow is the serene ambience. Fishing, coracle rides, and kayaking are activities provided by all the camps with the inclusion of the theme of adventure.

10. Coffee Plantation Camping: Coorg is renowned for its huge coffee plantations, and camping in these lovely plantations is something one will always remember. Waking up to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, walking around the plantations, and enjoying sitting in the warmth of a campfire amidst the starry night sky is something one would never want to miss.

Nearby Places in Coorg

There are some mythical places somewhere near Coorg which add grandeur to travel activity. From wilderness and adventure, wildlife to meditation retreats, if you're looking for something of these genres, see below a few of the best tourist places near Coorg, which you should not miss:

1. Wayanad, Kerala (100 km)

   Wayanad, a three-hour drive from Coorg, has dense forests, waterfalls, caves, and wildlife reserves. What to see are Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, and Soochipara Falls.

2. Chiklihole Reservoir (24 km)

   Less crowded but a serene destination to be, Chiklihole Reservoir is the perfect spot for a serene retreat, in nature and with wonderful sunset views.

3. Mysore (115 km)

   Culture and history seekers would be happy to visit Mysore. The Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Brindavan Gardens, and St. Philomena's Church are all a perfect day out to have from Coorg.

4. Bisle Ghat (60 km)

   A paradise for nature enthusiasts, Bisle Ghat Viewpoint provides some of Western Ghats' best-looking landscapes with fog-shrouded valleys and untouched forests.

5. Nagarhole National Park (90 km)

   Heaven for nature enthusiasts, Nagarhole National Park has tigers, elephants, leopards, and a variety of birds. Jeep safari and boat cruising is a thrilling experiences with nature.

6. Dubare Elephant Camp (30 km)

   Located on the river bank of the Cauvery River, Dubare Elephant Camp is a chance to get close to elephants, watch feeding time, and even take a ride on these giants.

7. Talacauvery & Bhagamandala (45 km)

   Cauvery River originates at Talakaveri, a location in the Brahmagiri Hills. Close by is Bhagamandala, a pilgrim centre and a meeting point of three rivers and thus a holy place.

8. Iruppu Falls (75 km)

   The sight of a fall stretching across its state boundary along Karnataka and Kerala, Iruppu Falls is holy as well as a wonder of nature. Enjoy the drive to the falls through dense forests.

9. Mandalpatti Viewpoint (20 km)

   Mandalpatti, one of the most picturesque spots of Coorg, provides a broad view of the Western Ghats. One gets there on a trek or jeep safari.

Local Food & Culinary Experience in Coorg

• Kadambuttu (Steamed Rice Balls): Kadambuttu are light, fluffy rice balls served with vegetable and non-vegetable curries. A light, subtle side dish that soaks up rich gravies and contributes a general richness to the meal.

• Noolputtu (Rice Noodles): Or, String Hoppers, Noolputtu is a thin, filmy rice flour preparation. Noolputtu is served with Coorgi chicken or pork curry and is the native folk's breakfast dish.

• Koli Curry (Coorgi Chicken Curry): Koli Curry or Coorgi Chicken Curry is among the favourite dishes that suit the taste of the strong flavour of the region. The curry is a mixture of different spices and finished with coconut milk, which suits Noolputtu or Kadambuttu best.

• Coorgi Coffee: No Coorg meal is ever served without a glass of its world-famous coffee. The Coorgi coffee produced on the country plantations of Coorg is strong and full-bodied with a very light chocolate finish. Freshly ground coffee can be had in coffee houses or plantation regions, and it is always compulsory while moving around Coorg.

• Pandi Curry (Pork Curry): One of the most popular dishes of Coorgi food, Pandi Curry is a rich pork curry with a smoky taste due to the introduction of pungent spices and Kachampuli, a native souring agent. It is a smoky long-lasting meal and therefore a favourite among locals, as well, apart from tourists. Akki Roti or Kadambuttu (steamed rice balls) is eaten along with, and because of its sheer tartness and pungency, it is one of the essentials in Coorg.

• Akki Roti (Rice Roti): Akki Roti made of rice flour is a staple day-to-day item among the people of Coorg. It is also distinct from other' Indians' wheat-rolled rotis in that Akki Roti is soft and crumbly to the mouth, typically flavoured with onions, green chillies, and cumin seeds. Akki Roti is served with Pandi Curry or any spicy curry so much so that it's part of Coorg cuisine.

• Bamboo Shoot Curry: An off-season dish that lasts only a few months, Karnataka Bamboo Shoot Curry is savoured as one of the vegetarian delicacies of Coorg. The bamboo shoots are boiled to remove their bitterness and then steamed along with mustard seeds, coconut, and a mix of spices. Slightly sour and earthy in taste, the final product has to be consumed hot with steaming hot rice.

Best Time to Visit Coorg

Coorg is beautiful throughout the year, though the tourist season differs depending on the tourist's choice as well as what sort of experience one is looking for. Coorg has something unique that makes it an easy destination to visit in all seasons.

1. Summer (March-May)

   Summer is good in Coorg, 20°C to 35°C. Summer is good for those who don't prefer plains' heat. The soft and lush breeze is ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities. Raja's Seat, Madikeri Fort, and Dubare Elephant Camp are open. Coffee plantations in summer are green with scenery and perfuming experience.

2. Monsoon (June to September)

   Monsoon rains turn Coorg into heaven on earth. Heavy showers blanket waterfalls, streams, and forests and turn them into a paradise for nature lovers and photographers as well. Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls are in full swing. Mystical hilltops and lush coffee plantations turn the landscape mystical. But trekking and rafting through open sections are not suitable due to slushiness on roads and uncontrollable weather. If monsoon climate is your preference, then you would prefer to visit Coorg in all its natural beauty, now is the time.

3. Post-Monsoon (October to November)

   Weather is optimum during this time when rains recede and fresh and green landscapes are left behind. The Emerald City comes in climatic conditions still cooler, ideal for an outdoor outing. Trekking activists can climb Tadiandamol and other routes without dreading too much rain. Waterfalls are not completely dry and the forests also are green and fresh. In addition, this is the ideal time for coffee enthusiasts as the coffee plantations harvest their coffee.

4. Winter (December to February)

   The winters also are an ideal time to visit Coorg. The temperature hovers between 10°C to 25°C, and the chill only imparts a heavenly gloss to the area's scenery. The hazy morning and rolling hillocks receive a divine touch. It's ideal for trekking, walking around, and cuddling over a hot cup of Coorg's finest coffee. The wildlife sanctuaries too are ideal places to visit during this time since the animals are most active here. Apart from that, the Puthari, or native harvest festival, is an occasion to witness Kodava life and celebrations. Coorg is a resort town all year round with something novel to explore every time of the year.

How to Reach

1. By Road (popular and recommended): 250-km distance

• Time taken: 5.5 hours-6.5 hours

• Route: Bangalore-Ramanagara-Mandya-Mysore-Hunsur-Kushalnagar-Madikeri (Coorg)

• Driving your car: The roads are quite good, mainly the NH275. Road trippers would love this option.

• Hiring a cab/taxi: Numerous travel operators provide round-trip or one-way cabs to Coorg.

• Bus: KSRTC and several private operators have frequent AC and non-AC bus services to Coorg towns like Madikeri and Kushalnagar. This is a more economical and convenient option.

2. By Train (Via Mysore)

• There is no direct train to Coorg as there is no railway station. The nearest station happens to be at Mysore Junction (MYS).

• Step 1: Take a train from Bangalore to Mysore (around 3 hours).

• Step 2: Hire a cab or take a bus from Mysore to Coorg, which is about a 3.5-hour drive to Madikeri.

The option works best for train lovers who wish to break their journey, as it does not connect to Coorg directly.

3. By Airport

• Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (IXE)- ~160 km from Madikeri

• Alternative Airport: Kannur International Airport (CNN)- ~90 km from Madikeri

There shall be no airport at all in Coorg. So, if you are coming from another state of the country or another country itself, you may land either at Mangalore or Kannur and then take a cab or bus to Coorg. This option, though, would surely not be the most comfortable from Bangalore since a drive or bus would take less time.

Accommodation in Coorg

1. Evolve Back (Orange County), Coorg – In the very lap of coffee plantations, resorts with infinity pools, heritage villas, and spas, it's an extraordinary offering.

2. Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa – A 5-star property nestled deep inside the rainforest that gives out breathtaking views, has its own infinity pool and provides you with flawless service.

3. The Tamara Coorg – A romantic getaway with picturesque wooden cottages and a few curated experiences on the plantations.

4. The Coorg Cliffs Resort – Set on cliffs that provide panoramic views and outdoor activities.

5. Amanvana Spa Resort – Its location along the banks of the Kaveri River only makes it ideal for couples and wellness-oriented ones.

6. Parampara Resort & Spa – Stay ranges from cottages to interactive family activities like zip-lining.

Why Book with escape2explore

When it comes to exploring the Coorg trip from Bangalore and beyond, escape2explore stands out as a trusted name in adventure and experiential travel. Here’s why hundreds of travellers choose us for their getaways:

• Trusted, Well-Reviewed Local Operator: escape2explore has gained the trust of thousands of content tourists all over India. With persistent positive feedback and an unblemished reputation for delivering quality experiences, we assure your experience to be hassle-free, memorable, and value-packed. Our insider local knowledge guarantees you to always be in safe hands.

• Seasoned Guides: Our trips are led by friendly, trained, and professional guides who are passionate about the outdoors and your safety. Whether it's a beach trek, a cultural tour, or a spiritual walk through temples, our team knows the terrain, the stories, and how to make each moment count.

• Safe & Curated Itineraries: Your safety is our number one priority. Each of our tour packages is thoughtfully crafted with safety measures, researched accommodations, and easy travel arrangements. We take care of the details so you can have the experience hassle-free and worry-free.

• Unique Experience That You Won't Find Anywhere Else: With escape2explore, you discover more than the tourist attractions. We go off the beaten track with hidden beaches, unusual treks, offbeat cultural destinations, and true interactions. Whether camping out beneath the stars or exploring a hidden beach cove, we present to you the other side of Coorg that not many get to encounter.