If you're from Bangalore, chances are, this is your typical weekend getaway. And in case you're not living in this city, then probably this gorgeous coffee paradise has made it to the top of your travel bucket list in India!
Coorg (or Kodagu, as it's known in the local language) is a rural district in Western Ghats, Southwest Karnataka. It is actually a region comprising of various small towns such as, Madikeri, Virajpet, Somwarpet etc.
Coorg is one region that has something for everyone. If you like wildlife, you can head off to the elephant camps, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. If you like culture, there are temples and monasteries to enthrall you.
If you like trekking, there are three great treks available to Tadiandamol, Brahmagiri and Pushpagiri peaks that you can consider. Finally, if you just want to relax, you have a variety of options available near the capital town of Madikeri. And even if you enjoy none of this, you can always shop for homemade chocolates, wines and coffee.
Bangalore to Coorg distance- 260 km
You can choose to drive from Bangalore to Coorg via Mysore for that added fun of a road trip. The other way to reach Coorg is via Hassan. Here you will cross Ramnagar and Maddur where you can take a refreshment stop at restaurants like Adigas, and Empire. A pretty decent drive that will take you about two hours to reach Mysore. Another good spot to stop for food.
Places to eat between Bangalore and Mysore:
A left turn before reaching Kushalnagar will lead you to Bylakuppe, one of the largest Tibetan settlements in South India. You can foretell your arrival as soon as you spot increasing number of monks wrapped in maroon every two minutes into the journey. A 40 ft high gold plated Buddha at the Namdroling Monastery, the decorated altar and colorful paintings on the walls representing Tibetan culture will keep you glued for one good hour.
The route will take you through the dense thickets of coffee and hamlets, where you can stop for a cup of tea while witnessing the sun go down, filtering through the leaves, before you reach Madikeri. There are plenty Café Coffee Day outlets on the way for you to enjoy some classic coffee. But what's best about South India is their filter coffee, that you could taste in some of the local street side stores.
Once you reach Coorg, you can check into the many resort options available. Here is a list of some of the best resorts to stay in Coorg for all budgets.
The monastery is the first biggest tourist spot that falls between Bangalore and Coorg. Coorg is known for its coffee plantations, small day treks, gorgeous waterfalls and delicious spicy cuisine. From Madikeri Fort to Abbey Falls, Brahmagiri wildlife sanctuary to Chomakund day trek, Coorg has a list of things to do to keep you busy and relaxed for the entire weekend.
For the perfect list of must-do and must-visit places in and around Coorg, check the ultimate list here.
If you're a nature lover residing in Bangalore, this is one of the most scenic and easy going road trips in South India. So bring out the adventure nature love in you and see this quaint little hill station in Karnataka.
If you know any other restaurants or things to look out for on the route from Bangalore to Coorg, mention in the comments below.
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