Nestled in the serene hills of Karnataka, Chikmagalur and Coorg are two captivating destinations that promise an unforgettable escape into nature. From the lush coffee plantations of Chikmagalur to the misty hills and scenic waterfalls of Coorg, these regions offer a perfect blend of adventure, tranquility, and cultural richness. Whether hiking through picturesque trails, sipping on freshly brewed coffee, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, both destinations provide an ideal getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
We did an extended road trip to both these jewels of Southern India in December of 2024. Join us as we take you on a journey through the verdant landscapes and charming experiences of these enchanting hill stations.
The Trip in Nutshell
We spent a total of 5 days on this trip to the home of Coffee in India. We covered some of the tourist spots in these two hill towns. We also took opportunities to wander out into the woods to explore the raw nature in its true form.
The table below provides a quick summary of our entire itinerary and a day-wise description of what we did during the trip.
| Day and Date | Cities Covered | Accommodation | Description |
| Day 1 – 21-Dec-2024 | Madikeri, Coorg | Hotel Altitude, Coorg | Driving from Bangalore to Madikeri, Coorg Explored Payana Car Museum and Namdroling Monastery & and Nisargadhama on the route In evening, visited Raja Seat Garden & spice markets |
| Day 2 – 22-Dec-2024 | Madikeri, Coorg | Forest Valley Coorg (Tree house) | Driving through coffee plantations Visited Mercara Gold Estate Abbey Falls Stayed at an amazing tree house |
| Day 3 – 23-Dec-2024 | Dubare Camp & Chikamangaluru | Hotel Aadrika | Explored Dubare Elephant Camp Snacking at Fifth Generation Cafe Drive to Chikamangaluru |
| Day 4 – 24-Dec-2024 | Chikamangaluru | Hotel Aadrika | Visited Coffee Gardens Explored spice markets Jhari waterfalls Unwinded at Hirekolale Lake Sunset Point |
| Day 5 – 25-Dec-2024 | Return Trip | – | Return drive to Bangalore |
How to Reach Chikamangaluru & Coorg
Traveling to these hill stations is relatively easy, whether you’re coming from within Karnataka or from nearby states. The nearest major city with good connectivity is Mangalore, about 150 km away. Mangalore is also the closest major airport for these towns. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach these hill cities. If you’re traveling from Bengaluru, Chikamangaluru, and Coorg are approximately a 5-hour drive (around 250 km), making them perfect for a weekend getaway. In fact, the two hill towns form almost a perfect triangle with Bangalore. For those preferring public transport, buses run regularly from major cities like Bengaluru, Mangalore, and Hassan, making it accessible for all types of travelers.
You can rent a car or book a private taxi for a comfortable journey. Various packaged tours also serve tourists looking to explore these exotic destinations. The road journey to these hill stations offers picturesque views of coffee plantations and rolling hills, adding to the charm of your trip. The journey through winding roads and beautiful landscapes makes the trip itself a memorable experience, setting the tone for your time in this picturesque hill station. The journey between these two hill stations takes about 4 hours for a 150-kilometer drive.
COorg – Madikeri – First Part of the Trip
An Introduction to Coorg
Often referred to as the “Scotland of India,” Coorg is a refreshing escape from the chaos of city life, offering a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a coffee lover, or a seeker of peace, Coorg promises a memorable experience.
From the moment you arrive, the scent of fresh coffee mingled with the earthy aroma of rain-soaked soil fills the air, setting the tone for a tranquil retreat. Rolling hills blanketed in green, cascading waterfalls, and winding trails through dense forests make Coorg a haven for trekkers and nature lovers alike. Beyond its natural charm, Coorg offers a deep dive into the local Kodava culture—an ethnic community known for its distinct traditions, martial history, and warm-hearted spirit.
Things to Do in Coorg
Coorg has several places to explore for a nature lover. Below are some of the important places we explored during our visit.
Payana Automobile Museum
Located conveniently along the way, the museum showcases a fascinating collection of vintage and classic automobiles that chronicle the evolution of transport. From restored cars to rare models, it’s a treat for automobile enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Visiting Payana provided a nice break from the drive and added an interesting historical touch to the trip.
Namdroling Monastery
Next on our itinerary was the famous Namdroling Monastery. It is again a perfect stop en route to Madikeri if you are traveling from Bangalore. This Tibetan Buddhist monastery exudes peace and spiritual energy. Its intricate architecture, vibrant prayer halls, and colorful murals narrate stories of Tibetan culture and Buddhism. The monastery also has a beautiful courtyard, a jewelry shop, and cafes serving Tibetan delicacies. Don’t miss the gigantic statues of Buddha and the stunning thangka paintings.
Nishargadhama Reserve
This is a serene island on the Kaveri River. Surrounded by lush teak and bamboo groves, the reserve is perfect for nature lovers. You can indulge in bamboo rafting, zip-lining, and elephant rides or simply enjoy a peaceful walk amidst the greenery. The reserve also hosts deer, peacocks, and rabbits, making it ideal for family outings.
Mercara Gold Estate Coffee Plantation
No trip to Coorg would be complete without experiencing its world-famous coffee plantation culture, and a visit to Mercara Gold Estate offers a quintessential coffee experience. Established amidst rolling hills and lush greenery, this estate provides a fascinating tour of coffee cultivation, harvesting, and processing.
Walk through sprawling plantations, learn about the various coffee varieties grown here, and witness the meticulous process that transforms ripe cherries into fragrant coffee beans. Many estates like Mercara Gold also offer tasting sessions, giving visitors a chance to sample freshly brewed coffee right from the plantation. To enjoy your tour optimally, try to visit in mornings and wear comfortable footwear as there is some hiking involved.
Abbey Falls
When you visit hills, waterfalls are a part of nature’s charm. One of Coorg’s most iconic waterfall, Abbey Falls, is a mesmerizing cascade nestled amidst coffee plantations and spice gardens. The trek down to the falls is scenic, with a hanging bridge providing breathtaking views of the waterfall plunging into the rocks below. Mornings post-monsoon is the best time to visit as the waterflow is at its peak and avoids crowds.
Dubare Elephant Camp
For animal lovers, Dubare Elephant Camp was a highlight. Here, you get to interact with elephants, learn about their care, and even bathe and feed these gentle giants. The camp is also a riverside timber exploitation center, adding an educational aspect to the visit. The camp offers insights into responsible elephant tourism and conservation efforts. For kids, it is simply an amazing opportunity to feed elephants and get to interact with them.
Try and reach the boat boarding station early, as it gets crowded pretty fast, and you could have to wait for a couple of hours. It is a very short boat ride across, but that is the only way to reach the camp. Also, there is an additional charge for video cameras and GoPros.
Raja’s Seat Sunset Point
On our first day in Coorg, in the evening, we visited Raja’s Seat in Madikeri, renowned for its panoramic sunset views over the lush valleys and hills. Once the royal seat of the kings of Kodagu, it’s now a popular vantage point for travelers seeking spectacular evening vistas. The place is lively in the evenings, with vendors selling local snacks and souvenirs.
Other places of interest
Other places of interest that you may consider visiting is the Madikeri Fort from the 17th century, and the Glass bridge, which is an exciting walk on transparent elevated platform.
Chikamangaluru – Second Leg of the Journey
Known for its lush coffee plantations, stunning hilltops, and scenic lakes, this tranquil town offers a refreshing escape from city life. During my recent trip, I explored some of its most iconic sights and hidden treasures, making it a memorable journey into the heart of Karnataka’s coffee country. Some of the places we covered on our trip are given below.
Immersing in Coffee Culture at Local Plantations
It is impossible to visit a Chikamangaluru without a visit to a coffee plantation. There are many estates offering visitor experiences. Learn about the entire coffee-making process — from cherry harvesting to roasting. Many plantations also offer tastings of freshly brewed coffee steeped in the rich aroma of Arabica and Robusta beans. Walking through the plantation’s misty fields, surrounded by verdant greenery and the scent of brewing coffee, is an experience that awakens the senses.
However, unlike Coorg, most plantations in Chikamangaluru are open to guest only during season. At other times, only some smaller ones provide visitor tours.
Exploring Baba Budangiri: Spirituality & Scenic Beauty
A short drive from Chikmagaluru takes you to Baba Budangiri, a revered mountain range and pilgrimage site. Known for its historical significance and religious harmony, Baba Budangiri is home to a Dargah and a cave shrine dedicated to Baba Budan, a Sufi saint credited with introducing coffee to India. The site offers stunning vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Relaxing at Hirekolale Lake: A Quiet Retreat
For a peaceful retreat, Hirekolale Lake is a quiet and picturesque water body nestled amidst green hills. Early mornings and evenings here are especially beautiful, with mist rolling over the water and reflections of the surrounding mountains.
Rent a boat or simply sit on the lakeside and enjoy a picnic while soaking in the scenic tranquility. The lake is an excellent spot for photography, especially during sunset when the sky turns a fiery shade of orange.
Final Thoughts
Coorg and Chikmagaluru embody the ideal blend of natural beauty, spiritual tranquility, and invigorating adventure. The scenic hilltops, lush plantations, and serene lakes make it a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous exploration. Every experience here is a reminder of nature’s bounty and Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage.
Kettle and Travel 