Coorg or Kodagu is a hill station located in the western ghats of south Karnataka. A home away from home, this place is unique in its own way.
Clockwise from top: On way to Coorg, Monastery at Bylakuppe, Abbey falls, Thalakaveri, river rafting, coffee plantations
Coorg or Kodagu is a hill station located in the western ghats of south Karnataka. Also known as the “Scotland Of India,” Coorg is one of the popular destinations for those, who wish a weekend getaway from the city landscape and a monotonous routine.
A home away from home, this place is unique in its own way. What amazed me was, the various settlements, in and around, has not affected its purity. Fresh air, captivating landscapes and acres of coffee and spice plantations will refresh your senses like never before. Here are a few must-visit sites when you travel to the “Coffee Cup of India”…
Thalakaveri
A three hour drive from Mangalore, in the lap of Brahmagiri hils, Talakaveri is the headquarter of Madikeri district. Taking a dip in the waters of the river here, is considered to be holy by the localites.
A crow, they say, overturned a pitcher of water there.
No, I am not talking about the story of a crow you’d heard as a kid. According to the legend, a sage named Agasthya held the sacred Kaveri in a vessel to perform a few rituals. What had tensed the gods then was- how to liberate the river so she could benefit the whole land and not the sage alone. Ganesha, the elephant headed god took the form of a crow and toppled the vessel. Ever since, the water has been flowing over the land, making it fertile and quenching thirsty throats. Hence the name- Thalakaveri.
Raja’s seat
One of the most popular tourist attractions, the Raja’s seat has a long and royal history. The local folklore suggests that, the kings of Kodagu used to come here to unwind after performing their daily duties. A musical fountain that operates until late with a view of the sunset soothes you in a magical way.
Buddhist Monastery at Bylakuppe
Apparently the second largest Tibetan settlement outside Tibet, Bylakuppe is situated approximately 40km away from Madikeri. Inside the Namdroling Monastery resides a statue of Lord Buddha with Lord Padmasambhava and Lord Amitayus on either side.
Abbey Falls
Located 7-8 km away from the district headquarters, the route to Abbey Falls is via the coffee plantations which is quite scenic. The beauty of the falls can be appreciated while standing on a hanging bridge band opposite to the falls.
Whitewater rafting
If you are one of those, who loves adventure in any form, this is the thing for you. Under the expert guidance of internationally trained rafters, indulge in one of South India’s most challenging White Water Rafting adventures at the Upper Barapole River in Coorg.
Coorg is a perfect place to chill out during the summers, especially if you want a break from your boring routine. The misty mountains, rains, cold evenings and beautiful landscapes with a hot cup of coffee makes it all perfect.
