Known as Scotland of India, Kodagu/ Madikeri/ Mercera/ Coorg is famous for coffee, oranges, chocolates and pork. Although I have not been to Scotland, this place is definitely quite different with respect to landscape and culture. The Kodavas who are native to this region have their own language, very different from Kannada, own customs, costumes, houses. They are mostly warriors, contributing a lot to Indian Army. Their traditional way of wearing saree also stands out. Plan for 2-3 days in Kodagu to cover the major attractions
Visit a traditional home (Ain mane) to see the rifles, swords, head gears and traditional costumes. Access is a bit difficult and possible if you reach out to a local tour operator in the town once yu reach there
Coorg is 120 km from Mysore, 140 km from Mangaluru, 260 km from Bengaluru. Mangaluru is the closest airport. It is best to hire a taxi for full day to go around. Typical package is 300km for INR 4500-5000
Post monsoon is the best time to visit for waterfalls in full splendor, from September- November and in summers to get a respite in the hill station like weather
A lot of beautiful Airbnbs and homestays have cropped up in the region promoting staycations. The local food is also unique, mostly non vegetarian- ant chutney, pork, Kachumpuli vinegar and many more
If you want to go through an operator, you can take 2 day tour organized by KSTDC, Karnataka Tourism department or Veena World customized tour from Bengaluru
Places to visit in Kodagu/ Madikeri
Most prominent places to visit include Talakaveri, Abbey Falls, Bylukuppe Monastery and Dubare camp
Talakaveri
The origin of river Kaveri that flows through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, root of the water issues amidst two states. This place is a bit far away from town, around 40 km. Nalknad palace nearby is a small detour that can give you a glimpse of local chieftain’s home
Bhagamandala temple
Triveni Sangama, on the confluence of Kaveri, Kannika and Sujyoti, 8 km from Talakaveri
Abbey falls
You can take an auto for INR 250-300 for a 2 hour ride and stay from the town. The falls is 8 km into a private coffee estate, with a nice walking trail. You can see the waters up-close. Although not very large, this is one of my most favorite falls in India given the location, proximity to waters
Raja Seat
A garden which most people visit during sunrise / sunset. You can see rose plants adorn this place in most of the months
Omkareshwara temple
Has a unique Islamic style influence, with a dome and four pillars
Madikeri Fort
Built in the 17th century by king Mudduraja, developed later by Tipu Sultan, Raja Doddavira Rajendra, British and Lingarajendra Wodeyar. It has a façade with colonial influence. Can be skipped if you are short of time
Dubare Elephant camp
A nice place to see elephants in action. You can see them bathing in the river and take a boat ride/ raft in the same river
Bylukuppa Tibetan monastery
Near Kusal Nagar, housing the largest Tibetan settlement in South India. There are two monasteries- old and new one, both quite colorful
Nisargadhama
More a picnic spot to while away time, across a river and some tree houses
Nagarhole National Park
About 90 minutes away from Madikeri, worth a full/multi day visit if you are interested in wildlife. You need patience to spot tigers here