Coorg: The Scotland of India
Located in the pristine environs of the Western Ghats, is the Coorg hill station, which is one of Karnataka’s most popular hill stations. Famous for its oranges and coffee plantations, the region has a rather eventful history. The Coorg hill station region is also famous for spices such as pepper, cardamoms, etc. However, the one thing that simply defines Coorg is the region’s many coffee plantations, which account for half of Karnataka’s coffee production.
Places to Visit in Coorg
- Perhaps the one monument that defines the Coorg hill station is the 19th century fort in the centre of the Madikeri town. The fort has been witness to some of the most ferocious battles in the region, and offers a complete panorama of the entire town. The fort also contains a small museum and palace.
- Another must visit place is the Sri Omkareshwara Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built in 1820, the Coorg hill station’s most prolific temple was built by the then King of Coorg. The temple is unique in that its design is a combination of Islamic and Gothic style of architecture. Located 5 kms from the Coorg hill station are the Abbi Falls, also known as Jessey Falls.
- Another quirky point of interest in the Coorg hill station is the Raja’s Seat, the spot from where the King of Coorg would watch and enjoy the sunset. Raja's Seat offers a phenomenal view of valleys, lush green fields and Western Ghats.
- Bhagamandala, 30 kms from Coorg, is another popular tourist spot. Travelers often throng here to visit the many beautiful temples. The place is also deemed holy for it is here that the Cauvery river meets the Sujyothi and Kannike. Irupu Falls, located at a distance of 48 kms from Coorg, are also very popular.
Coorg- Travel tips, languages spoken, cuisine
The Coorg hill station is one of the slightly more urban hill stations in India, even though it is no less enchanting than any other. Located in the Western Ghats, the Coorg hill station presents plenty of opportunities for both the adventurous (trekking, white water rafting, etc.) and the non-adventurous (angling, shopping, etc.). The best thing to do, however, is trekking and long walks in the pristine surroundings. The local populace speaks Kodagu or Kannada; however, English too is somewhat widely prevalent and hence, communication should not be a problem.
Best time to visit Coorg Hill Station
The best months to visit the Coorg hill station are between April and November. Further, since the Coorg hill station is a popular destination in South India, it is advisable that one avoids the peak/vacation months. The Coorg hill station, during the monsoons, is particularly beautiful.
Coorg- Getting there
- By Air: The airport nearest to the Coorg hill station is Mangalore (a distance of 130 kms). There are plenty of flights to Mangalore from all over India.
- By Rail: Mangalore is the nearest railhead.
- By Road: The Coorg hill station is well connected to all the important cities in the region.
Accommodation in Coorg
Hotels, inspection bungalows, private cottages, etc. are available to suit all budgets. Coorg hill station abounds in family holiday resorts. One can obtain excellent discounts on accommodation via package tours.