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Nestled high in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, Coorg (Kodagu) is a timeless classic among India’s hill stations. With its rolling hills carpeted in emerald coffee and spice plantations, cascading waterfalls, and distinct Kodava culture, it truly earns its nickname, the “Scotland of India.”
If you are planning a refreshing trip, a Coorg Itinerary for 3 Days and 2 Nights is the perfect duration to cover the major attractions around Madikeri and Kushalnagar. This comprehensive guide details the best places to visit in Coorg, ensuring you soak up the region’s natural beauty and rich heritage.
Let’s explore your ultimate Coorg 3 Days 2 Nights travel plan!
📅 Coorg Itinerary: 3 Days & 2 Nights Overview
This itinerary strategically splits the main sights into the Madikeri area and the Kushalnagar area to minimize travel time, making your trip efficient and relaxing.
| Day | Focus Area | Key Activities |
| Day 1 | Madikeri Town & Waterfalls | Arrival, Abbey Falls, Madikeri Fort, Omkareshwara Temple, Sunset at Raja’s Seat |
| Day 2 | Kushalnagar & Culture | Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple), Dubare Elephant Camp, Kaveri Nisargadhama |
| Day 3 | Nature, Trekking & Departure | Coffee Plantation Tour, Talakaveri, Bhagamandala, Local Shopping & Departure |
🌿 Day 1: Madikeri – Waterfalls, Forts, and Sunset Views
Morning: Arrival & Aromatic Welcome
Arrive in Coorg (most likely Madikeri) and check into your homestay or resort, ideally located amidst a coffee plantation for the true Coorg experience.
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Coffee Plantation Walk: Start your day with a guided walk through your homestay’s surrounding estate. Learn about coffee and cardamom cultivation and enjoy a fresh, aromatic Coorg coffee.
Afternoon: Iconic Madikeri Sights
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Abbey Falls: Head to the most famous waterfall in Coorg. Just 10 km from Madikeri, the gushing water descends amidst private coffee and spice estates. A hanging bridge offers a spectacular view of the fall.
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Madikeri Fort: Explore this historical fort, originally built in the 17th century. While it now houses the Deputy Commissioner’s office, you can explore the fort grounds, the church, and the tortoise statue within.
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Omkareshwara Temple: Visit this unique temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which showcases an intriguing blend of Gothic and Islamic architectural styles, a rarity in South India.
Evening: The King’s Throne
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Raja’s Seat: Conclude your day at Raja’s Seat, a beautiful garden and viewpoint where the Kings of Kodagu (Coorg) once watched the sunset. The panoramic view of the misty valleys, especially at dusk, is truly spectacular. Don’t miss the musical fountain show!
Musafir Diary Tip: Day 1 focuses on the core of Madikeri. The sights are relatively close to each other, allowing you to settle in and enjoy the town’s charming atmosphere.
🐘 Day 2: Kushalnagar – Tibetan Serenity and Wildlife Encounters
Day 2 involves a drive to the Kushalnagar side of Coorg, offering a complete contrast of culture and wildlife.
Morning: The Golden Temple
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Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple), Bylakuppe: Drive towards Bylakuppe, the second-largest Tibetan settlement in India. The sheer magnificence of the Golden Temple with its towering, gold-plated statues of Lord Buddha, Guru Padmasambhava, and Amitayus is awe-inspiring. Spend time walking through the temple and observing the serene atmosphere of the monk community.
Afternoon: Encountering the Gentle Giants
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Dubare Elephant Camp: Located on the banks of the River Kaveri, this is a must-visit. You can watch elephants being bathed, fed, and trained by their mahouts. This interactive experience offers insight into elephant conservation and care.
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Kaveri Nisargadhama: Near the elephant camp, this beautiful 64-acre island formed by the River Kaveri is a delightful picnic spot. You reach the island via a hanging bridge, and the park features deer, peacocks, and a bamboo forest.
Evening: Taste of Coorg
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Dinner: Head back to Madikeri and treat yourself to the famous Kodava Cuisine. The signature dish is Pandi Curry (Pork Curry) paired with Akki Roti (rice roti) or Kadambuttu (rice dumplings). This robust, spicy meal is a cornerstone of Coorg’s unique identity.
🏞️ Day 3: The Source, The Heights, and Departure
Your final day is dedicated to visiting the sacred source of the river and taking one last look at Coorg’s incredible vistas before heading home.
Morning: The Sacred Source
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Talakaveri: Drive early to Talakaveri, the source of the holy River Kaveri, located on the Brahmagiri Hill. This is a pilgrimage site with a small tank (kundike) and a temple. Climb the 407 steps to the top of the hill for a panoramic view that stretches across the Western Ghats.
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Bhagamandala: Located en route to Talakaveri, this is the confluence (Triveni Sangam) of the three rivers: Kaveri, Kabini, and Sujyothi (a mythical river). It is another important religious site often visited along with Talakaveri.
Afternoon: Viewpoints or Trekking
Choose one of the following based on your energy and departure time:
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Option A (Leisure): Mandalpatti Viewpoint: Hire a jeep (mandatory, as the road is rough) for a thrilling ride to this spectacular viewpoint. It offers rolling, misty meadows and is a photographer’s dream.
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Option B (Adventure): Tadiandamol Peak: If you have an afternoon/evening departure, you can opt for a moderate trek to Tadiandamol, the highest peak in Coorg, for sweeping valley views.
Late Afternoon: Final Shopping and Departure
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Local Market Shopping: Before heading out, stock up on the authentic Coorg coffee powder, locally produced spices (pepper, cardamom), and the famous Coorg Honey.
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Departure: Head to your onward destination (Mysore, Mangalore, or Bangalore) with unforgettable memories of the “Scotland of India.”
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Your Coorg Trip
| Aspect | Essential Tip |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May offers pleasant weather. July to September (Monsoon) turns Coorg intensely green, making the waterfalls majestic, but the fog can obscure viewpoints. |
| Getting Around | Coorg is spread out. Hiring a taxi for a full day is the most convenient way to cover all sights. Self-drive cars or bikes are also excellent options. |
| Stay Recommendation | Opt for a Homestay on a coffee plantation. This offers an authentic experience, Kodava hospitality, and home-cooked regional food. |
| Food Must-Try | Don’t miss Pandi Curry, Akki Roti, Bamboo Shoot Curry (seasonal), and the local Kadambuttu (rice balls). |
| What to Pack | Light woolens or a jacket are necessary, especially for misty mornings and late evenings at viewpoints like Raja’s Seat. |
This Coorg Itinerary offers the perfect mix of culture, history, nature, and flavor, guaranteeing a memorable feature on your Musafir Diary blog!
