Coorg(Kodagu) a beautiful hill station in the southern Indian state of Karnataka lies nestled in the Western Ghats like a shimmering emerald, rich, green, and splendorous. Yet ‘undiscovered’, Coorg is a leafy hilly paradise which is so culturally and geographically different from the rest of the state that somewhere along the climb, up from the plateau, it’s Jack-at-the-top-of-his-beanstalk-déjà vu.
Fair and robust, this strong martial society may have been a warrior tribe from further north in India or perhaps even Kurdistan or Arabia. Nature worshippers, with traditions very different from mainstream Hinduism, these people make equal rights for women a redundant issue! Kodava women can own and inherit property, choose their partners and are a strong voice in the community.
This hilly paradise, features exciting list of things to do. Coorg offers you to experience nature at its best. Hike through the coffee shrubs or spice plantation and head towards the lovely Abby Falls. Enjoy a peaceful time in the lush green hills and smell the scented unruffled breeze. For adventure enthusiasts Coorg offers trekking in the highest Tadiandamol peak. Try peaceful angling in River Cauvery and soak in the stunning scenes around.
Take a walk in beautiful forests surrounded with wreath of water bodies or visit the Dubare Forest in particular. This forest is situated on an island and has the state run ‘Elephant Training Camp, ’ Visit this place to witness the daily routines of tamed elephants and get a chance to lie with them in river water, pat, scrub and clean them.
The Tipu Sultan’s Fort and various temples ensure the history lovers and religious travellers to have a great time. Try appetizing Coorg cuisine cooked in lots of fresh coconut, spices and curry leaves. Don’t forget to shop for some honey, aromatic coffee and spices for your friends and family. You can also visit nearby Bylakuppe to buy local handicrafts, eat some steaming momos and witness the Tibetan culture.