Unveiling Coorg's History: A Journey Through Time

Coorg, or Kodagu, is a very picturesque district in the heart of the Karnataka Western Ghats, India. History in this place flows as deep and wide in diversity and richness as this natural beauty does to frame the region. From hilltop greenery to mystic shrouded misty valleys and coffee plantations, Coorg has remained long the land of fable, myth, legend, and tradition. Due to various dynasties, invasions, and varied rulers, influences in the Coorg history go a long line back through a thousand years due to which this region has built and shaped up the cultural identity of the people from ages upon ages till the very present.

Coorg History

Ancient Period

The early history of Coorg goes as far back as when the early Kadamba Dynasty ruled over the place within the period of the 4th to the 6th century CE. This region saw Kadamba rule, at least going by the inscriptions and the temples. Those who believe to have originated from these early settlers are called Kodavas. Their mode of life, their tradition, language make them a special group, and they occupied this area more than a thousand years back. Although the various relevant theories that pertain to the origin of life as such exist in their various pluralities, still, it is generally understood that they have been a part of the region for several decades and have only later conceptualized and developed the culture and identity of Coorg.

Although that comes later, it was also that during the Chola Dynasty time of the 9th Century, and because of this culture, the architectural designs were mostly due to an influence. The Cholas had military strength and were in charge of the policy-making for the expansion and wanted Coorg to be under their southern kingdom. On the other hand, at the very same time, many flowers of temples and religious events boom over the area. There are some of the remaining temples that survive till now as proof of the influence of Chola's upon Coorg, like the Omkareshwara Temple in Madikeri.

Origin of Kodavas

Kodavas' identity came up in the 11th century. At that time, the Coorg region was ruled by several local chieftains who were members of the Hoysala Dynasty of the 12th and 14th centuries. The Hoysalas had highly impacted the political scenario of the region as the most popular ruler of the Hoysalas was King Vishnuvardhana who had his empire in the Western Ghats, which includes Coorg. This ruling power was patronizing trade and agriculture in well-balanced proportion both of which flourished greatly in the rich soil of Coorg. They went about spreading the Hindu religion besides constructing temples. Several Hoysala styles of architecture such as stone carvings with intricate designs may be seen in some temples of this region.

This led to a great influence of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century, raising the historical significance of Coorg many notches. The region under the rules of the Vijayanagara period was marked by the norm of conditions of peace and prosperity. It was, in fact, the time when Coorg could enjoy its relatively independent kingdom with the ruling Kodava kings establishing autonomy and above all, protecting it against foreign conquest. As a result, they gained recognition in their warrior culture whose centre was martial culture.

The most critical phase in the Coorg's history happened in the time of Wodeyars of Mysore who had conquered Coorg in the late 17th century. Although they were the rulers of the Kingdom of Mysore, Wodeyars wanted to dominate the Kodagu region. In the early 1600s, Wodeyars consolidated their leadership over Coorg by the reign of Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar. It strategically marked its significance since it proved a crucial buffer between the strong states of southern Marathas and Mughals to their kingdom.

In this era, the Kodava kingdom underwent many developments under the Wodeyars. Wodeyars formulated an efficient administrative system accompanied by roads, temples, and forts at every nook and corner of Coorg. The present day's district headquarters, Madikeri was one of the major towns during those times. The other contributions that were brought by Wodeyars to Coorg were arts, culture, and religion. They only strengthened Hinduism further but developed local customs too. This became one of the most brilliant viewpoints for this period in Madikeri: the Raja's Seat. It is even quite popular as a palace retreat for the royal family today.

British Era and Coorg Rebellion:

Wodeyars and the Sultan had a rival claim from the moment when Tipu Sultan established the 18th century Mysore Sultanate. British East India Company, in 1799 took control of the Mysore Kingdom with Coorg as one of its part results from a series of conquests. Coorg had been considerably under the influence of British colonization in terms of governance as well as land use patterns.

British began coffee cultivation in the plantations of Coorg and the region became a hub for mass coffee production. British also introduced other infrastructures like rail and roads for further integration of Coorg with the rest of the colonial economy. People of Coorg opposed the rule of the British in Coorg. It is just because it is known only as the Coorg Rebellion of 1837, or, for that matter, Kodagu Uprising to refer to that glorious case to came about through in the pages of the region's history. It sprang of course for this very purpose: because this soil's natives-Kodavas, which were aggrieved by the exorbitant taxations in British regimes and pretty poorly designed policies regarding the original mode of life. The movement was suppressed, and Coorg became a direct province of Britain as the State was declared a British Protectorate in 1834.

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Coorg in the 20th Century

On the very day, Britain left the subcontinent, Coorg was amalgamated with free India in 1947. Coorg was then included, along with all other princely states, as part of the newly created Indian Union when India became free in 1947. Kodagu was perfectly formed as a district of the state of Mysore, later Karnataka; this place has strategic and cultural importance apart from tremendous economic input relating to coffee production, hence it has become part and parcel of the state.

Coorg has been able to maintain its identity and culture to a large extent in the 20th century. Coorg people have their language, festivals, and other customs which differ even though they are in the state of Karnataka. Their warrior culture has made Kodavas proud integral parts of the Indian Army where they played a great role in innumerable military operations. They are renowned for their bravery all over India.

Coorg stands today among the most visited destinations in India; more for its grandeur through nature, a rich cultural heritage, coffee plantations, and others. Agriculture is the spine of the economy. Of all crop yields, this region majorly takes on coffee, spices, and cardamom, among other crops. The area has, over the years, gained significant prominence as an emerging hotspot for tourism with serene settings, dense forests, rich wildlife, and ancient structures for sight-seers from all parts of the world. Coorg has retained its culture and the Kodavas also add a lot towards the social and cultural movements. The important parts of local culture are local martial arts, the Puthari-harvest festival and Kodava food. Some religious centres are also seen here, such as Lord Shiva temples, that give spiritual value to not only locals but also visitors.

Best time to visit:

Coorg can be visited between October to March. It is the post-monsoon and winter seasons. The weather is cool and pleasant from 15 to 25°C. Hence, one can have delightful trekking, see the beauty of the place around and even view the coffee plantations. During post-monsoon, the sky becomes clean along with landscapes get green and offer an excellent opportunity to relish nature's beauty. It is also the time of all the major Coorg festivals like The harvest festival and Kodava New Year so there are enough chances to get immersed in local customs.

Even when it's summer, March to June, it's quite a good time to visit, Coorg can make it up to 30°C cooler than the plains, so it is good if one wants to go away from some heat, but too warm in case of the post-monsoon period. This is heavy monsoon rain that occurs during June and September months, so it will be quite challenging in the line of sightseeing; but if you want the ambience and to see waterfalls at their full fury in Coorg, then this is a pretty distinctive experience, though some roads, even trekking tracks would be impassable.

Nearby places:

1. Madikeri Fort in Coorg: This is the capital of the Coorg district, and Madikeri Fort happens to be a historical landmark. It was a fort built back in the 17th century by Mudduraja, later extended by the British. A museum has all the artefacts and local history. The style of architecture for the fort reflects both Hindu and Islamic architecture. Panoramic views of the town along with the hills make this attraction one of the must-visits in Coorg.

2. Abbey Falls (In Coorg): This pretty fall, among several falls located in Coorg, is Abbey Falls, 8 km from Madikeri. Nestling among coffee plantations and a spice garden, this falls from a height of 70 feet. Especially breathtaking in view during monsoon when the falls are in full flow, one would prefer to make a short trek through the forest to stand at the viewpoint for having a close experience of the falls.

3. Omkareshwara Temple (In Coorg): This temple is within walking distance from the town of Madikeri. This Omkareshwara Temple is one of the finest examples of fusion between styles of architecture by Hindus and Muslims. In the late 19th century, this temple was built by King Linga Rajendra in memory of Lord Shiva. A very beautiful water pond forms a central hub in this temple. With all kinds of green in silent surroundings, and a unique style, this place should never be missed by Madikeri tourists.

4. Raja's Seat (In Coorg): This observation point is located close to Madikeri, which is well-known for its views of the misted-covered hills and valleys of Coorg. The word used in its naming, that is "Raja's Seat", finds its basis from this truth: that it had been the local king's seat where they sat watching sundown. Beautifully done-up gardens surround this observation point. It's a great place to relax shoot pictures and just look.

5. Nisargadhama (About 26 km from Coorg): Nisargadhama island lies within closeness to Kushalnagar which is developed by the Kaveri River. The isolated retreat of the island accommodates the premises of bamboo groves, a teak forest along wildlife animals. Yet it also forms a picnic spot, wherein nature walks and boating rides with the accompanying elephants are permitted here. This place has deer and rabbits along with peacocks, so there will always be a chance that those creatures might visit this island otherwise being a natural retreat.

6. Dubare Elephant Camp: Dubare Elephant Camp is 30 km from Coorg, Dubare Elephant Camp is a participative elephant camp located along the River Kaveri. Here, every visitor becomes close, bathes, feeds these elephants and keeps updated through the camp on what education and care they extend in it. This too can be a very nice place to get familiar with the efforts being extended toward wildlife conservation throughout this region.

7. Talacauvery (48 Km from Coorg): This source site of the Kaveri River was one of those rivers in India, revered sites for Hindus. Situated at Brahmagiri Hills, the sacred site had the presence of Goddess Kaveri temple. The very beautiful landscape is encircled by hills and valleys with great scenes; hence it is good for spiritual as well as nature-loving tourists.

8. Iruppu Falls (Around 48 km from Coorg): Another pretty waterfall of Coorg is Iruppu Falls. These waterfalls flank the Brahmagiri Hills and lie amidst forests. The trek to reach the falls has once again, sights of the forest and undulating hills. This too has its sacred significance for the Hindus as this was one of the places where Lord Rama rested during his expedition to find Sita. Here one can bathe to purify oneself and can also join the ritual that is conducted at a nearby temple.

9. Brahmagiri Hills (Around 45 km from Coorg): The Brahmagiri Hills are part of the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. The hills are highly prominent trekking places. The panoramic view of the Coorg region from the top is breathtaking. There is excellent diversity in flora and fauna on the hills. Elephants, tigers, and other species of birds can be seen roaming about. It is excellent for those who love wildlife and adventure.

10. Golden Temple - Namdroling Monastery (Approx. 34 km from Coorg): Golden Temple in Bylakuppe is the largest Tibetan settlement in India and still is a major cultural and religious destination. The monastery houses breathtaking golden statues of Buddha colorful murals and Tibetan architecture. With its peaceful ambience and beauty, the monastery offers a very important visit; it offers an experience of Tibetan Buddhism and culture.

11. Honnamana Kere Lake (Almost 30 km from Madikeri): Honnamana Kere Lake is a completely refreshing freshwater lake that lies beside the village of Gonikoppal in Coorg. The lake is an important location for the people because the legend associated with the woman called Honnamana who dedicated her entire life to the cause for the welfare of the masses has its origin. It is surrounded by many hills and hence, a very good place to have a picnic or just take a boat ride there and then just sit inside the water.

12. Cauvery Nisargadhama (About 28 km from Coorg): River Kaveri, close to Kushalnagar has created an attractive island, which draws nature lovers in. One can enjoy boating, an elephant ride, or just pass through nature. Be that this place has deer and peacocks and, in some seasons, it has even other animals also, so it is most apt for a family tour or a quiet day under the nature.

13. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary (About 30 km from Coorg): Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect haven for wildlife enthusiasts, bird-watching, and trekkers. Flora and fauna range includes Malabar Grey Hornbill species that are on the brink of extinction. Another endangered species found here are Lion-tailed Macaque. The summit Pushpagiri is a constituent part of this sanctuary. It offers panoramic views of the forests and hills here.

14. Mandalpatti (Around 20 km from Madikeri): Mandalpatti is one of the hilltops, which provides some of the most spectacular views of Coorg. Jeep rides or hikes to the top can be undertaken, and panoramic views of the coffee plantations and mist-covered valleys can be savoured. Mandalpatti is one of the places, which is the most photographed and trekking spot and the beauty of this landscape makes it a sought-after destination for nature lovers to explore.

15. Kushalnagar (Approx 30 km from Coorg): Kushalnagar is the town in Kodagu district from where there are scenic tourist attractions within Coorg. This place has the Golden Temple and is a take-off point for other nearby sites such as Dubare Elephant Camp and Nisargadhama. Kushalnagar is quite laid-back and provides an excellent base to explore and view the local natural as well as cultural attractions.

Tour packages:

1. getaway Coorg Tour packages

Short break packages of the tour to cover one and two-day tours in Coorg covering all the major attractions. The trips cover popular places like Abbey Falls, Raja's Seat, Omkareshwara Temple, and Madikeri Fort, along with other vibrant coffee plantations. Most of these tours also offer a guided experience, thus providing a feeling of the richness of history, the culture of the locality, and the diverse flora and fauna of that place. In addition, most packages include transportation through AC vehicles with an experienced driver to make your tour completely hassle-free and smooth.

2. Extended Stay Tour Packages

If you are staying longer, then there are a few tour operators that offer three- to four-day packages covering not only the major tourist destinations in Coorg but also some of the nearby attractions. The package tour includes an excursion to Nisargadhama, a pristine river-island surrounded by lush flora, and the Dubare Elephant Camp where one is allowed to mingle with them and learn about their maintenance and conservation. Besides, there is a longer trip to Talacauvery which forms the origin of the holy River Kaveri and also to Iruppu Falls which forms a place of scenic beauty as well as a place of worship.

3. Adventure Tour Packages

There is much more for adventure tourists within Coorg that relates to trekking, river rafting and camping. Adventure packages with trekking can be undertaken to such places as Brahmagiri Hills, Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, or Mandalpatti with fabulous views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Some can be rafting in the rapids of the Kaveri River near Dubare where thrills abound amidst beautiful natural splendor. For these adventure packages, they set perfectly for a nature lover or one spiritedly interested and intent on a little spice towards that trip to Coorg.

4. Religious Package

One other thing that is religious lies in Coorg. Since one would look at the place that has loads to offer this religious enthusiast seeking blessings and what else, there do exist different tour packages guiding you around several temples alongside some other pilgrimage sites. Talacauvery, where it is said that Goddess Kaveri resides, which is one of the primary religious places, is not left out of many visitation packages. Omkareshwara Temple is yet another place in Madikeri. It has an Islamic style of architecture with just one serene atmosphere. The above context, in itself, is broad enough. Thus, such tours would involve visiting such a religious package and other well-representative religious sites that define the place as a whole, wherein, one could feel the pulse of the history and cultures around. Family-Friendly Coorg

5. Tour Packages

In such an offer as the family-friendly Coorg tour package booking of the tour, probably everything should be desired to be taken according to the possibilities Coorg is good at. Concerning such things as a visit to the Nisargadhama park, the possibility of walking across the nature there, and watching wild life there, all such matters become participants of the traditional family tour. Dubare Elephant Camp is really and genuinely a very interesting place to have the experience of making friends with elephants. All these packages generally come with leisure activities such as walking through coffee plantations and local markets, cultural shows, etc. Most of these tours are customized, and families can opt for specific activities or specific places of interest.

6. Packages for Coffee Plantation Tours

Several tours exist, which focus exclusively on Coorg's quite famous coffee plantations, for those interested in the region's coffee culture. These tours center on visiting everything from planting the beans to roasting the coffee. One can come across functional plantations and get informed of varieties of coffee grown in that region, even get a chance to taste fresh brews brewed from the beans cultivated there. Some of the tours permit one to stay overnight in homestays or resorts within the plantations so that one can experience life amidst Coorg's coffee-growing region.

7. Wildlife Tour Packages

Coorg is also known for its rich wildlife and natural diversity. The wildlife enthusiast's tour will cover Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. It encompasses the possibility of capturing all those species such as elephants, tigers, and birds. In general, safaris and treks undertake tours in the forests. It is highly thrilling for those who want to come close to nature. The sanctuaries offer great views and enable a person to interact with nature in ways that cannot be done in cities.

8. Tibetan Culture Tour Packages

The culture of Tibet can be seen in tours and visits, like Namdroling Monastery, more popularly known as the Golden Temple, Bylakuppe. It is one of the biggest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in India and allows the viewer to explore the wonderful architecture, gold-painted statues, and calmness around this place. A few tour packages add the Golden Temple visit while including the visit to Tibetan settlements around. These latter make the visit culturally more exciting for the tourist. That some portion of Tibetan handicraft shopping and understanding of Buddhist cultures existing there can be fulfilled.

9. Luxury Tour Packages

These are a few of the luxurious experiences and stays offered to the luxurious, like they have their residence place at 5-star resorts or spas or luxurious homestays, amidst many others available in Coorg within this land of leisure whose activities include walk trips as well as visits to a place with coffee plantations along with some cultural performances, amidst other visits. These are private tours and dinners, view hills by a private couple, and well-being treatment, which one is advised to a couple or for someone needing re-energization.

So for the traveller who might want something more personalized approaches toward the plan and organization of their visits, you get that within your tailor-made travel packages. In these situations, therefore, tours can be one of your choices from a list of activities and destinations given. Consequently, the experience falls into line with your areas of interest or preference - wildlife, culture, adventure, or simply pure relaxation. With this, you get customized tours that enable you to have a design for your holiday in Coorg. This offers some packages and along with that package, a general package of transport, accommodations, and guided tours is given. But the specific destination is according to an individual's choice.

10. Festival Tour Packages

Even though Coorg is very popular for its natural beauty and adventurous activities, the region does have many local festivals and cultural events. The packages offered mostly overlap festivals peculiar to local communities in Coorg - like Puttari, where they celebrate New Year or more broadly, the Coorg Carnival, which is for regional-specific customs and traditions. Experience this richness much better by attending the festival event activities.

Accommodation:

1. Luxury Resorts

Coorg offers resorts with a rich feature of high-quality, soothing panorama, and unbeatable hospitality for luxury stays. They usually have large rooms, private cottages, and suites. Many are supported by the beautiful and natural coffee plantations. Normally, a luxury resort will have spas and wellness centres, infinity pools, gourmet restaurants, and guided excursions making for a perfect stay to just relax and indulge in. Such retreats are perfect for travellers who take Coorg in the style of luxury services and personal treatment

2. Boutique Hotels

A refreshing mix of comfort with local flavours is the boutiques in Coorg that help the traveller who does not wish for a very overwhelming experience. These are small establishments run by families so feel cosy for the tourists and give experience to those who wish to experience something more than the usual hotel. These boutique hotels are presented mainly with local architecture and interior design which incorporate cultural influences and give an authentic feeling about Coorg's heritage. Silence and serenity arrive with fewer rooms as boutique hotels have given each due attention to individual time being spent. Boutique hotels best come for people who keep their eyes open for something special in nature and mostly come up as offering bespoke experiences like in-locale cooking classes, culture performances, and excursions

3. Homestays

Coorg homestay is an excellent opportunity to spend some good time under the warm hospitality of Coorgies and get a feel of the local culture. There is much more chance of staying with locals which will give a very personal and authentic experience. He would get to know his hosts a little better, the local traditions, customs, and cuisine that make Coorg different from the rest. The houses are either situated within a coffee plantation or in a quiet village so that the visitor gets to experience rural life close up. The homestay places generally comprise small but very cosy rooms traditionally furnished in the Coorgi fashion. Ideally, these homestays are suitable for those who want to get in touch with the region closely but are far off from the city schedules. Homestays

Homestays mainly offer food in a home-cooked condition whereby the visitor gets an opportunity to taste the traditional food.

4. Budget Hotels

There are a lot of budget hotels across Coorg that budget travellers can avail themselves of so they can get bare essentials with comfortable stays without compromising anything. Budget hotels in Coorg are mid-located so they make it very easy to approach all of the best places in that area. Normally, they will be able to provide very basic services, such as a clean room, hot water, Wi-Fi, and breakfast. These make them ideal for those prepared to go out into the locality without breaking the bank on accommodation. Budget hotels are much cheaper compared to luxury resorts. Most of them are moderately suitable for backpackers and individual travellers as well as for family groups who would wish to stay in a budget hotel.

5. Guest houses

Guest houses across Coorg are cheaper and lately have become fashionable among those who do not want to splurge hard-earned money but seek comfort and convenience at this relatively lesser cost. These are mostly owned and operated by a family or small business in the community and, to an extent, are not as business-like as other hotels. Guesthouses have private rooms with en-suite bathrooms in addition to basic furniture. Many guesthouses have serene surroundings that would make them perfect for secluded retreats amidst nature. The eco-friendly homestay is perfect for the budget-conscious traveller to look forward to snug accommodation as they enjoy the local culture and charm of Coorg. The hosts, normally very well-versed about the surroundings, are all set to give proper advice regarding local sightseeing and other things to be done in the town.

Since Coorg offers virgin, untouched nature and a sense of need to protect the environment, it becomes an eco-friendly destination to reside in as the tourist waits to minimize his footprint there. These eco-resorts and homestays constructed in harmony with their surroundings will be involved in one of the most effective usages of earth-friendly materials in sustainable ways of using it. Such facilities have applied so much conservational measures to avoid energy consumption, waste, and water usage. The guest when coming to these resorts can be sure to think of sustainable tourism for staying in the ecotouristic rooms of the hotel. They bring us to more outdoor attractions, nature walks, bird spotting and escorted tours on conservation locally, thus giving an exposure to all views of Coorg while it shall be kept for tomorrow's day too.

6. Plantation Stays

Plantation stays in Coorg can provide a very unique experience in staying within a working coffee or spice plantation. These visits will provide knowledge of coffee production from bean picking to processing to roasting. Visitors will find very peaceful surroundings, complete with greeneries accompanied by a freshly brewed aroma of coffee. There are plantation stays; guests take guided tours of the plantations, and firsthand insight into how agriculture has become part and parcel of this region by a glance to history as its coffee industry is in bloom. This fitted any who may wish a few experiences of the country's environment, in an almost natural and peaceful background.

7. Hilltop Resorts

The destination, that is hilltop geography with the view of all the surrounding valleys, forests and coffee plantations of Coorg, develops the correct ambience for hilltop resorts. Resorts are built over the hills; hence tourists always stay in a serene environment away from the bustle of the city noises. Hilltop resorts in Coorg amalgamated perfectly with nature providing luxurious private cottages with spacey rooms and high-class amenities. Cool climate and view make hilltop resorts an ideal getaway to a relaxing retreat. The place also provides nature walks, bird watching, stargazing and everything through which people can rediscover the surroundings in a calm ambience.

8. Riverfront Stays

For those guests who are interested in seeing the Coorg's rivers and streams of waterfalls, the riverfront is a total contrast very picturesque. Streams and rivers flowing through Coorg make the place full of lots, and many resort homestays are done near the rivers and streams along its sides. Indeed, the views and sounds from these water bodies are beautiful. Riverfront stays are ideal locations for fishing, boating, and nature walks along the banks. These resorts are open spaces for dining, private balconies, and huge grounds upon which the guests can be seated and get mesmerized by the majestic beauty of the river along with the surrounding topology. And to those who love peace, rivers, and water, it is time spent in Coorg. Rejuvenation Wellness Retreat

Coorg, India gives rejuvenating modern wellness retreats to reboot the guest's mind, body, and soul. Most of the time these are a blend of therapies at spas, yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda which heal a guest on various levels of being. In Coorg, some happen to be pretty serious kinds of wellness retreats; most of them locate themselves in very serene sites and help someone find himself at that point. These retreats are useful to provide guests with individualized well-being programs suitable for individual needs when they indulge and regain their strengths in the pride of Coorg.

Adventures and Activities:

For anyone looking for something more thrilling or getting an experience different from anything else, Coorg offers camping as well as glamping. Coorg is one of the most excellent options for camping in nature. This guesthouse is in the surroundings of woods, hill stations, and plantations. From the simple pleasures of nature having a bonfire or stargazing to just mere nature walks-it is comfortable because of its comfort-provided beds, electricity, and a private bathroom. The thrill of camping next to the comfort and convenience of staying in a hotel keeps the travelers comfortably in position hence good for the outdoorsy type but not missing any comfort.

Coorg is very scenic but just happens to be a destination for adventures that offers so much to adventurers. Amongst the most frequently pursued activities are

• Hiking: There is the trekking trail, within a short climb, to Iruppu Falls from Brahmagiri Hills, and Pushpagiri. Treks may range from easy strolling to stiff climbs.

• Whitewater Rafting: This adventure can be ventured on in the Kaveri River. Suggested locations to experience the whitewater rafting ride would be the water stretch in Dubare.

• Camping: Coorg has plenty of camping places along the river banks and amidst coffee plantations. It provides an experience through which one can get close to nature and savour the tranquillity of the hills.

• Mountain Biking: The mountains provide just the right amount of tracks and trails for riding mountain bikers.

How to Reach:

• By Air: Mangalore International Airport (IXE) is the nearest airport at a distance of 140 km with flights from Bangalore, Mumbai, and Chennai. Bengaluru International Airport (BLR) is around 260 km but much more in terms of flight.

• By Train: There is no railway station in Coorg. The nearest major stations are Mysore Railway Station, 120 km from Coorg and Mangalore Railway Station, 140 km from Coorg. Taxis and buses can be accessed from these stations to reach Coorg. It is possible to access Coorg from the nearby cities, which are road-accessible. NH 275 offers a distance nearly about 250 km from Bangalore which is around 5-6 hours long. In addition, it also takes routes to Mysore which takes almost 3 hours and Mangalore which distances approximately 3.5-4 hours. Through this, it's easy to get eye-catching views while road travelling to get to that amazing Western Ghat so really one can see all those attractions.

• By Bus: There are luxury buses as well as other regular buses that travel to Coorg from Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore. Normally the distance takes nearly 5-7 hours. Taxis, private cars, and auto-rickshaws are pretty convenient for local travelling around Coorg. One can hire cycles or motorbikes for sightseeing in the beautiful areas of Coorg.

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