Introduction:

Coorg is also known as Kodagu, It is in a district in Karnataka State. Coorg is known for its hospitability of people and beautiful scenery. This is one of the best destinations for nature lover in India. The most affluent hill station is Coorg. It is praised as the 'Scotland of India' and also renowned as 'Kashmir of the South' due to the majestic beauty and cool ambience of the hill station. and many tourists arrive in Coorg to enjoy the wild beauty which unfold to its maximum during the monsoon. This place also offers many exciting outdoor activities like angling, trekking and golfing for the travelers. And have plebty of offers to admiring facilities to the golf lovers with three golf courses. Coorg is a spot for precious bird watch. The sheer beauty of the landscapes, the unpolluted environments, pure oxygen rich air and the clean facilities attract many tourists to this place

Photo Credit: Suchana Seth

Destination Facts:

Location: Karnataka, District: Madikeri, Somwarpet, Virajpet
Altitude: 3500 feet above the sea level
Area: 4,102 sq km (1,584 sq mi)
Temperature: (Summer 19 to 34°C) & (Winter 14 to 29°C)
Languages spoken: Kannada, Malayalam, Tulu.

Getting there:

Nearest Airports: The nearest airport is Mangalore, about 135 km away..
Main Railway Station: The nearest rail is Mysore, about 120 km away.
Main Bus Station or Road Direct: There is a regular bus service from Mangalore, Bangalore, Mysore, Hassan.

Distance of a few Major Towns from Coorg:
Madekeri-17km, Mercara-17km, Dubare-34km, Nagarhole-57km.

Eating Around:
Multi – Cuisine, but special varieties Non – vegetarian food

Places of Tourist interest:

Nagarhole National Park:
It is also known as the Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is located between Coorg and Mysore district. Tiger, Indian bison or gaur and Asian elephants are the prominent species found inside the park. Other animals like jackals, grey mongoose, sloth bears, and striped hyenas, spotted deer or chital, sambar and barking deer can also be spotted. This park is home to 270 species of birds, including the endangered oriental white-backed vulture, vulnerable lesser adjutant, greater spotted eagle and the Nilgiri wood-pigeon.

Omkareshwara Temple:
It is dedicated to Lord Shiva that was built by Linga Rajendra .With central dome and four turrets at the corners, this temple reflects the Muhammadan style of architecture This Shivalinga is named as 'Omkareshwara' and is worshipped by people. The architecture of the temple reflects both Hindu as well as Islamic style. Near the entrance of the temple, there is a Linga installed, similar to that of the Muslim Dargah. The history of the temple is inscribed on a copper plate, which has been fixed at the entrance door frame. Furthermore, the temple also features a water tank, which has tons of fresh water fishes in it. In the middle of the tank there is a 'mantapa', which is connected by a causeway.

                                       Omkareshwar Temple

Dubare Elephant Camp: 
It is located near Madikeri, is a famous elephant training camp. The deciduous forests of Dubare are home to several species of wild animals and birds. Asiatic Elephants, sambhar and the spotted deer are among some of the animals that can be easily spotted. Besides, Indian Bison or Gaur, crocodiles, peacocks, patridges, kingfishers and woodpeckers can also be seen. This elephant camp caters to both overnight guests as well as day visitors. Wildlife safari, joyride on the elephant and coracle ride are among the major attraction of this camp.

 Iruppu Falls:
It is a fresh water cascade, which is located in Coorg district of Karnataka. By following this falls visitors can reach Brahmagiri Peak, Near these falls, visitors can find the famous Rameshwara Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

                                            Iruppu Falls

Mallalli Falls:
This is situated in the foothills of Pushpagiri, is known as one of the most beautiful water falls in Coorg. The origin of the fall lies at the point where Kumaradhara River takes plunge over 200 feet.
 

Brahmagir Peak:
One of the most fascinating temples is the majestic Bhangandeshwara temple which has a Kerala style of architecture. It is situated at the convergence of the underground rivers, Sujyoti, Cauvery and Kanike. The temple has a copper roof with the exterior intricately carved with sculptures.. The origin of the river is at the top of Brahmagiri.

Getting around the destination:
Continues Bus, Minibus, and tourist buses Facility is provided to get around the destination in Coorg

Shopping Areas & Entertainment:
Woolens, Jackets, Small Souvenir, Curio, Wine, Bokhu and Carpets famous things to shop

Best time to Visit:
October to March is the best time to visit.

Festival:
Kagyat Dances, Magha Sankranti, Sagadawa and Diwali, Madikeri or Mercara Dasara, Cauvery Sankramana, Kunde Habba - A unique tribal festival