Offbeat Places of Coorg in 2025
Introduction:
Coorg is known for its coffee estates, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints — and like most travelers, I started there too. But somewhere between the touristy selfies and crowded spots, I wondered — is this all Coorg has to offer? That question led me down quieter roads, into hidden hills, and towards places where silence speaks louder than the crowd. In this blog, I’m sharing the offbeat gems of Coorg I discovered in 2025 — perfect for travelers who seek peace, raw nature, and a little surprise around every corner. Stick with me! I'll bring those places to your attention.
Talakaveri:
Talakaveri, located in the Brahmagiri Hills, is considered the sacred origin of the River Kaveri. Nestled at around 1,276 meters above sea level, this peaceful temple complex is more than just a religious site — it’s a blend of divinity and nature. At the heart lies a small spring, believed to be the river’s source, and nearby is the Talakaveri Temple dedicated to Goddess Kaveramma, along with Lord Agastheeshwara and Lord Ganapathi. Pilgrims take a holy dip in the pond next to the shrine, especially during the auspicious Tula Sankramana festival. The surroundings are serene, with panoramic views of misty valleys and green hills. For those willing to climb a little further, a steep staircase leads to a hill viewpoint offering breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the Western Ghats. It’s spiritual, scenic, and soul-refreshing — a must-visit whether you're a devotee or just a seeker of peace.
Abbey Falls:
Abbey Falls, also known as Abbi Falls, is one of Coorg’s most loved natural attractions — and for good reason. Located just 8 km from Madikeri town, this majestic waterfall is where the River Kaveri cascades down rugged rocks from a height of about 70 feet, creating a wide, frothy curtain of water. Surrounded by dense coffee and spice plantations, the short walk to the falls through hanging vines and thick greenery feels like a jungle escape. While you can’t step into the water due to safety restrictions, the view from the hanging bridge right in front is nothing short of breathtaking — especially during or just after the monsoon. The roar of the water, mist in the air, and lush backdrop make Abbey Falls a photographer’s delight and a must-stop for every traveler exploring Coorg’s natural beauty.
Dubare Elephant Camp:
Dubare Elephant Camp is a unique experience that goes beyond just sightseeing — it’s where you meet elephants up close, learn about their lives, and even spend time caring for them. Located along the banks of the River Kaveri, this forest camp is run by the Karnataka Forest Department and offers visitors the rare chance to bathe, feed, and interact with these gentle giants. Mornings are the best time to visit, especially during the elephant bathing and feeding sessions. A short boat ride takes you across the river to reach the camp, where trained naturalists share insights into elephant behavior, training, and conservation. Surrounded by thick forests and river views, Dubare is not only educational and interactive, but also peaceful and family-friendly — perfect for nature lovers and kids alike.
Chelavara Falls:
Chelavara Falls is one of Coorg’s hidden treasures, located around 36 km from Madikeri in the scenic village of Cheyandane, near Kakkabe. To reach this secluded spot, you’ll first head toward Kakkabe village, and then take the road further to Cheyandane, where the falls are tucked away in a peaceful forested setting. A mild trek from the roadside leads you to the roaring cascade that drops over rugged rock formations, surrounded by lush greenery. While the road is motorable, it’s best accessed by own vehicle, and you'll need to park at your own risk near the trail. The falls are particularly stunning during the monsoon season (June to September), when water flow is at its peak and the atmosphere feels refreshingly wild. What makes Chelavara even more special is that you can actually get into the falls and enjoy the cold splash, making it a perfect escape for those who love nature at its rawest. Despite its beauty, Chelavara remains off the regular tourist radar, offering a raw, misty experience that feels truly untouched.
Kabbe Hills:
Kabbe Hills is one of Coorg’s most underrated viewpoints, located just 2.5 km from Chelavara Falls, about 37 km from Madikeri, and near Bhagamandala. Nestled at an altitude of 1,420 meters, this spot offers panoramic views of the rolling hills and lush valleys that define Coorg’s charm. The trek to the top of Kabbe Peak is relatively short and beginner-friendly, taking around 30 minutes to complete. The actual trail begins shortly after a forest check post (permission may be required if you're heading further toward Chomakundh Peak). There are two routes—left and right—from the starting point, with the left path being easier and more commonly chosen by casual hikers. If trekking isn’t your thing, you can also opt for a sunset jeep safari, which is quite popular for the stunning evening views and costs approximately ₹3,000 per jeep (for a full car). There are no signboards or stalls, just raw nature and vast open landscapes. Entry is free, parking is available, and the trail is not too demanding, making it ideal for both adventure seekers and nature lovers who want a peaceful, crowd-free escape.
Honnamana Kere:
Honnamana Kere is the largest natural lake in Coorg and one of the most peaceful places you can visit. Tucked away near Somwarpet, this serene lake is surrounded by lush hills, coffee estates, and calming silence that instantly slows you down. It holds religious importance too, with a temple dedicated to Goddess Honnamana right by the water, drawing pilgrims during special festivals like Gowri Habba. What makes this lake special is its stillness — no commercial activity, no chaos — just misty reflections, occasional temple bells, and birds gliding across the sky.
Mallalli Waterfalls:
Mallalli Waterfalls is one of Coorg’s true hidden treasures — a spot that even many locals haven’t fully explored. Nestled deep within the greenery near the Karnataka-Kerala border, this lesser-known waterfall flows gracefully through rocks and thick forest, especially vibrant during the monsoon. The journey itself is part of the charm — narrow village roads, coffee estates, and a short trek through wilderness that rewards you with complete tranquility. Unlike commercial waterfalls, there are no railings, crowds, or signboards — just the sound of water, birds, and wind.
Harangi Backwaters:
Harangi Backwaters is where Coorg slows down and shows you its softer, more peaceful side. Located near the Harangi Dam, this quiet spot is all about calm waters, breezy evenings, and wide open skies painted with sunset hues. Unlike the main dam area, the backwaters remain largely untouched by tourism, making it a favorite for campers, couples, and anyone looking for a relaxing getaway. The landscape is dotted with tiny islets, grassy banks, and reflections so clear they feel surreal. Early mornings here are magical with mist rising over the water, while evenings are perfect for quiet walks or just sitting by the shore doing nothing
Nisargadhama Forest Island:
Nisargadhama Forest Island is a lush, green escape that feels like stepping into a natural wonderland. Formed by the River Kaveri, this island near Kushalnagar is connected by a hanging rope bridge, instantly setting the tone for an adventure. Once inside, you’re surrounded by thick bamboo groves, sandalwood trees, and chirping birds — a refreshing break from city noise. There are walking trails, a deer park, a small boating area, and even tree-top bamboo cottages for those who want to stay overnight. It’s family-friendly, calm, and perfect for spending a few slow hours with nature.
Nagarahole National Park:
Nagarahole National Park, spread across 640 sq. km between the Mysuru plateau and the Western Ghats, is one of South India’s top wildlife sanctuaries. It shelters tigers, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, and herbivores like gaurs, elephants, sambar and spotted deer, with crocodiles and tortoises found near the serene Chickpalala pond. The park is rich in teak and rosewood forests and is a haven for bird lovers, boasting over 250 species. Safaris operate daily from 6:45–8:45 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM via Kabini Nanchhi Gate (Kutta) and Veeranahosalli Gate, lasting around 1.5 to 2 hours in jeeps, canters, or buses. Advance booking is recommended as each session allows only 120 visitors. Entry is open to those above 3 years, and visitors are advised to wear earthy clothes and follow forest rules. While the park remains open almost all year, some safari rides may be unavailable during peak monsoon or summer due to weather or fire risk. Temporary closures may also occur during VIP visits, forest department activities, or on national holidays like Republic Day or election days.
Safari costs vary by vehicle: Jeep Safari (shared) – ₹500 for Indians and ₹1,500 for foreigners, Bus Safari – ₹300 (Indians) and ₹800 (foreigners), and Boat Safari on Kabini River – ₹500 (Indians) and ₹1,000 (foreigners). Camera charges are ₹50 for still cameras and ₹1,000 per day for video cameras. Apart from safaris, visitors can also enjoy boat rides, treks, and birdwatching. There are a range of stay options nearby, including forest lodges and private resorts. The best time to visit is from October to May, with November to February offering the best chances of wildlife sightings.
Barapole River Rafting:
Barapole River Rafting is a must-do adventure in Coorg, especially during the monsoon season (July to September) when the rapids come alive. Located about 78 km from Madikeri and 27 km from Gonikoppal, this stretch of the Kithu Kakathu River is packed with 9+ rapids ranging from Class 2 to Class 4, thrillingly named Morning Coffee, Ramba Samba, Wicked Witch, and more. The rafting trail covers 3–4 km and the total rafting session lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, with activity slots running between 9 AM and 10:30 AM. Visitors are advised to arrive on time at the meeting point near Glenlorna Tata Tea Estate. Please note, participants must reach the location on their own — it's best to take a private vehicle or cab as public transport is not available.
The entry fee ranges from ₹1,000 to ₹1,500, which includes rafting, safety gear, and return transfers from the end-point to base camp. Only those aged 11 and above are allowed to participate, and a minimum of 2 participants is required per booking. Safety equipment such as helmets and life jackets are provided and must be worn throughout the ride. Changing rooms are available at the base camp, and your gadgets and valuables will be safely stored by the instructor, who may also record your experience on a GoPro mounted on their helmet.
To make the most of this adventure, it’s highly recommended to carry:
- An extra pair of clothes
- A valid ID proof (PAN card not accepted)
- Comfortable clothing
- Sunscreen lotion (SPF 40+)
- A towel
For your safety, avoid heavy meals or alcohol before or after the activity. Pregnant women, those recovering from surgery, or anyone with chronic pain or injuries are advised not to participate. The experience is subject to weather conditions, and the instructor has the right to deny participation if someone is deemed unfit. Littering, carrying sharp objects, or alcohol is strictly prohibited. Kindly cooperate to help preserve the natural beauty of the destination.
Kote Betta:
Kote Betta, the third highest peak in Coorg at 1,620 meters, is located near Hattihole, about 22 km from Madikeri and 15 km from Somwarpet. The 10 km trek begins near Hattihole junction, passing through coffee estates, local dwellings, dense forests, streams, and Echo Valley, where sounds naturally echo. A steep final stretch leads to the ancient Shiva temple atop the summit. The peak offers panoramic views of Kumar Parvata, Harangi Dam, and Surlabbi Waterfalls en route. Believed to have housed the Pandavas during exile, stone structures still remain. Trekkers can also opt for jeep rides up to the base before trekking. The best time to visit is from November to February, and the trek usually takes 3–4 hours for experienced hikers. No railway access nearby, but well connected by road to Somwarpet, Madikeri, and Kushalnagar. BSNL is the only reliable mobile network, and medical help is available in nearby government centers like Singapura Pete and Kadaba PHC. The trail is scenic but can be slippery during monsoons, so caution is advised.