Top 15 Places to Visit in Coorg With Budget Plan

Top 15 Places to Visit in Coorg: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Khammaghanisa! Welcome to Your Ultimate Travel Adventure Blog

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a picturesque hill station in the Indian state of Karnataka. Famous for its lush green landscapes, coffee plantations, and serene environment, Coorg is a popular destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those looking to unwind. In this blog, we will explore the top 15 places to visit in Coorg, providing detailed information on each location along with budget estimates in Indian Rupees (INR) and US Dollars (USD).

1. Abbey Falls

Overview

Abbey Falls, located near Madikeri, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Coorg. The waterfall cascades down from a height of about 70 feet, creating a stunning view amidst lush greenery.

Highlights

• Natural Beauty: Enjoy the breathtaking sight and sound of the waterfall.
• Photography: Capture the stunning scenery.
• Trekking: Short trekking trail to the falls through coffee plantations.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: INR 15 ($0.20) per person.
• Transportation: INR 500 - 1,000 ($7 - $13) for a round-trip taxi from Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 515 - 1,015 ($7 - $13) per person

2. Raja’s Seat

Overview

Raja’s Seat, a garden with stunning views, was once the favorite spot of Kodagu kings. It offers a panoramic view of the valleys and hills, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Highlights

• Scenic Views: Marvel at the stunning vistas.
• Musical Fountain: Enjoy the musical fountain show in the evenings.
• Gardens: Stroll through the well-maintained gardens.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: INR 10 ($0.15) per person.
• Musical Fountain Fee: INR 25 ($0.35) per person.
• Transportation: INR 200 - 400 ($3 - $5) for a round-trip taxi from Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 235 - 435 ($3 - $6) per person

3. Dubare Elephant Camp

Overview

Dubare Elephant Camp, located on the banks of the River Cauvery, offers visitors a unique opportunity to interact with elephants. The camp is not only a popular tourist attraction but also a training center for elephants.

Highlights

• Elephant Interaction: Feed, bathe, and ride the elephants.
• River Rafting: Enjoy river rafting on the Cauvery River.
• Nature Walks: Explore the surrounding forest and its wildlife.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: INR 100 ($1.30) per person.
• Elephant Ride: INR 50 ($0.70) per person.
• River Rafting: INR 600 ($8) per person.
• Transportation: INR 1,000 - 2,000 ($13 - $27) for a round-trip taxi from Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 1,750 - 2,750 ($23 - $37) per person

4. Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple)

Overview

Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, is a major center of Tibetan Buddhism in South India. The monastery is famous for its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance.

Highlights

• Buddhist Culture: Learn about Tibetan Buddhism and its traditions.
• Architectural Beauty: Admire the intricate designs and murals.
• Serene Environment: Experience peace and tranquility.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: Free.
• Transportation: INR 500 - 1,000 ($7 - $13) for a round-trip taxi from Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 500 - 1,000 ($7 - $13) per person

5. Coffee Plantations

Overview

Coorg is famous for its coffee plantations, which produce some of the best coffee in India. A visit to a coffee estate offers a unique experience to learn about coffee production and enjoy the scenic beauty.

Highlights

• Coffee Tour: Learn about the coffee-making process.
• Tasting Sessions: Enjoy freshly brewed coffee.
• Scenic Beauty: Stroll through the lush plantations.

Budget Breakdown

• Tour Fee: INR 200 - 500 ($3 - $7) per person.
• Transportation: INR 300 - 600 ($4 - $8) for a round-trip taxi from Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 500 - 1,100 ($7 - $14) per person

6. Talacauvery and Bhagamandala

Overview

Talacauvery, located on the Brahmagiri Hill, is the source of the River Cauvery. Bhagamandala, located nearby, is a pilgrimage site where the Cauvery River is joined by two tributaries.

Highlights

• Spiritual Significance: A sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus.
• Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the beautiful landscape.
• Temple Visits: Visit the ancient temples at Bhagamandala.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: Free.
• Transportation: INR 1,000 - 2,000 ($13 - $27) for a round-trip taxi from Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 1,000 - 2,000 ($13 - $27) per person

7. Nagarhole National Park

Overview

Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is a wildlife sanctuary located near Coorg. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and leopards.

Highlights

• Wildlife Safaris: Explore the park on a jeep safari.
• Bird Watching: Spot various species of birds.
• Nature Trails: Enjoy guided nature walks.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: INR 200 ($3) per person.
• Jeep Safari: INR 1,500 ($20) per person.
• Transportation: INR 2,000 - 3,000 ($27 - $40) for a round-trip taxi from Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 3,700 - 4,700 ($50 - $63) per person

8. Mandalpatti Viewpoint

Overview

Mandalpatti, located at an altitude of 4,050 feet, offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. It is a popular spot for trekking and photography.

Highlights

• Scenic Views: Panoramic views of the hills and valleys.
• Trekking: Enjoy a moderate trek to the viewpoint.
• Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: INR 25 ($0.35) per person.
• Transportation: INR 1,000 - 1,500 ($13 - $20) for a round-trip taxi from Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 1,025 - 1,525 ($13 - $20) per person

9. Iruppu Falls

Overview

Iruppu Falls, located in the Brahmagiri Range, is a picturesque waterfall and a popular pilgrimage site. The water cascades down from a height of 170 feet.

Highlights

• Natural Beauty: Enjoy the scenic waterfall.
• Trekking: A short trek through the forest to reach the falls.
• Temple Visit: Visit the nearby Rameshwara Temple.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: INR 50 ($0.70) per person.
• Transportation: INR 1,000 - 2,000 ($13 - $27) for a round-trip taxi from Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 1,050 - 2,050 ($14 - $28) per person

10. Omkareshwara Temple

Overview

Omkareshwara Temple, located in Madikeri, is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its unique architecture, which is a blend of Gothic and Islamic styles.

Highlights

• Architectural Beauty: Admire the unique design.
• Spiritual Experience: A peaceful place for worship.
• History: Learn about the temple’s history and significance.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: Free.
• Transportation: INR 100 - 200 ($1.50 - $3) for a round-trip taxi within Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 100 - 200 ($1.50 - $3) per person

11. Chelavara Falls

Overview

Chelavara Falls is a beautiful waterfall located near Cheyyandane village. It is a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Highlights

• Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the mesmerizing waterfall.
• Trekking: A short trek through the forest to reach the falls.
• Picnic Spot: Ideal for a day out with family and friends.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: Free.
• Transportation: INR 1,000 - 1,500 ($13 - $20) for a round-trip taxi from Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 1,000 - 1,500 ($13 - $20) per person

12. Honnamana Kere Lake

Overview

Honnamana Kere Lake, the largest lake in Coorg, is named after Goddess Honnamana. It is a serene spot surrounded by hills, coffee plantations, and man-made caves.

Highlights

• Boating: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake.
• Scenic Views: Beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
• Temple Visit: Visit the temple dedicated to Goddess Honnamana.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: Free.
• Boating Fee: INR 50 ($0.70) per person.
• Transportation: INR 500 - 1,000 ($7 - $13) for a round-trip taxi from Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 550 - 1,050 ($7 - $14) per person

13. Gaddige (Raja’s Tomb)

Overview

Gaddige, also known as Raja’s Tomb, is a historical site in Madikeri. It houses the tombs of the Kodava kings and offers a glimpse into the region’s history.

Highlights

• Historical Significance: Learn about the Kodava kings.
• Architectural Beauty: Admire the Indo-Saracenic architecture.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy the view from the hilltop.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: Free.
• Transportation: INR 100 - 200 ($1.50 - $3) for a round-trip taxi within Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 100 - 200 ($1.50 - $3) per person

14. Tadiandamol Peak

Overview

Tadiandamol Peak, the highest peak in Coorg, is a popular destination for trekking. The trek offers stunning views of the Western Ghats and the surrounding valleys.

Highlights

• Trekking: Enjoy a challenging trek to the summit.
• Scenic Views: Breathtaking views from the peak.
• Camping: Ideal spot for camping under the stars.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: Free.
• Transportation: INR 1,000 - 2,000 ($13 - $27) for a round-trip taxi from Madikeri.
• Camping Gear: INR 500 ($7) per person if renting.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 1,500 - 2,500 ($20 - $34) per person

15. Cauvery Nisargadhama

Overview

Cauvery Nisargadhama, an island formed by the River Cauvery, is a popular picnic spot and offers a range of activities for visitors.

Highlights

• Boating: Enjoy a boat ride on the river.
• Wildlife: Spot deer, peacocks, and rabbits.
• Nature Walks: Explore the bamboo groves and sandalwood trees.

Budget Breakdown

• Entry Fee: INR 10 ($0.15) per person.
• Boating Fee: INR 50 ($0.70) per person.
• Transportation: INR 500 - 1,000 ($7 - $13) for a round-trip taxi from Madikeri.

Total Estimated Budget: INR 560 - 1,060 ($7 - $14) per person

Conclusion

Coorg, with its lush green landscapes, rich culture, and serene environment, offers a variety of experiences for travelers. From breathtaking waterfalls and scenic viewpoints to historical sites and wildlife sanctuaries, there is something for everyone. This comprehensive guide to the top 15 places to visit in Coorg provides a detailed overview and budget estimates, making it easier for you to plan your trip. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or cultural insights, Coorg promises an unforgettable experience.

Happy travels!