If you are planning to visit Coorg, here are the top 20 tourist attractions in Coorg grouped by their distance to the towns of Madikeri and Kushalnagar.

Coorg, fondly known as the Scotland of India, is a lush paradise nestled in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. With its misty hills, fragrant coffee plantations, gushing waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage, Coorg offers a diverse range of experiences for every kind of traveler.

While I was planning a budget family trip to Coorg recently, I realized how the tourist attractions in Coorg are far apart from each other and needed some grouping to make the most of our time here.

That’s how l landed on Madikeri and Kushalnagar as the two of the most popular bases for exploring this scenic district. Madikeri is the vibrant hill-town and district headquarters located closer to Mangalore and Kerala; and Kushalnagar, a gateway to Tibetan settlements and river adventures located closer to Mysore and Bangalore.

For our trip, we stayed one night and two days in Medikari, and two nights and one-and-a-half days in Kushalnagar.

To help you make the most of your trip, I’ve compiled a list of 20 must-visit places in Coorg, thoughtfully organized by their distance from Madikeri and Kushalnagar.

Is it Coorg, Kodugu, or Madikeri?

If you’ve been researching a trip to Coorg, you might have come across three different names: Coorg, Kodagu, and Madikeri—and it can be a little confusing at first. To clear things up, Coorg and Kodagu refer to the same place: a beautiful district in the southern Indian state of Karnataka.

“Coorg” is the anglicized name that dates back to the British colonial period and is still widely used in tourism and everyday conversations. On the other hand, Kodagu is the region’s original and official name, used in government records, maps, and by locals who speak Kannada.

Best Restarants in Coorg to Try Local Dishes

Madikeri, however, is a bit different. It’s the main town and administrative headquarters of the Coorg/Kodagu district. Think of it as the central hub where most tourists stay, and from where they visit other attractions in the region. Madikeri is home to key sites like Raja’s Seat, Abbey Falls, and the Madikeri Fort.

Kushalnagar is a town located in the northern part of Kodagu, close to the border with Mysore. It’s better connected by road and often serves as a gateway to the rest of Coorg.

So, to sum it up: Kodagu is the official district name, Coorg is the more commonly used name (especially in travel circles), and Madikeri is the heart of it all—the main town you’re likely to explore during your visit; and Kushalnagar is a northern town in Kodugu district popular as for its Tibetan settlement and nature retreats.

Coorg Attractions within 2 Kilometers of Madikeri

1. Madikeri Fort

One of the most visited tourist spot in Coorg is the Madikeri Fort, a historical structure that stands as a silent witness to centuries of Coorg’s tumultuous and rich history.

History and Architecture

Originally constructed in the 17th century by King Muddu Raja, the fort has since undergone several renovations, most notably by Tipu Sultan who briefly renamed it Jaffarabad. The British later revamped the structure during their reign, incorporating European architectural influences.

Perched on an elevated part of the town, the fort offers a commanding view of Madikeri and its surrounding hills. It features robust stone walls, imposing bastions, and a palace within its precincts. At the entrance, two striking life-size elephant statues greet visitors. Today, the fort houses government offices, but it remains open to the public as a historical site.

The fort is an essential stop for anyone interested in the blend of indigenous and colonial architecture, as well as the layered political history of Coorg. Besides, the view of the lower lying town from here is a sight to behold.

2. Omkareshwara Temple

The Omkareshwara Temple is one of Madikeri’s most iconic religious landmarks, renowned not only for its spiritual significance but also for its unique architecture.

History and Architecture

Built in 1820 by King Lingarajendra II, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was reportedly constructed as an act of penance by the king. What makes the temple truly fascinating is its fusion of Gothic and Islamic architectural styles, a departure from the more traditional South Indian temple design.

It features a large central dome flanked by four turrets resembling minarets, giving it the appearance of a dargah or mosque. The sanctum sanctorum, however, follows Hindu tradition and houses a Shiva Linga brought from Kashi (Varanasi). A large pond in front of the temple, home to several freshwater fish, adds to the serenity of the setting.

We found the unusual architectural blend of the Omkareshwara Temple a unique experience in Coorg.

3. Government Museum, Madikeri

Located within the grounds of Madikeri Fort, the Government Museum is housed in the former St. Mark’s Church, an Anglican structure built by the British in the 19th century. Managed by the Archaeological Survey of India, the museum offers a fascinating look into the cultural and historical heritage of Coorg.

Museum Exhibits

Its exhibits include an array of artifacts such as ancient coins, weaponry, stone sculptures, inscriptions, and tribal objects, many of which date back to the Haleri dynasty and beyond. One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of traditional Kodava weapons and attire, providing a glimpse into the unique martial and cultural traditions of the local people.

The setting itself—a church-turned-museum inside a fort—adds an additional layer of intrigue and reflects the complex colonial legacy of the region.

4.  Gaddige (Raja’s Tombs)

Gaddige, commonly known as Raja’s Tombs, is a historically significant site located on a hillock just a short drive from Madikeri town. These striking Indo-Islamic style mausoleums house the mortal remains of the Kodava royalty, including King Doddaveer Rajendra and his family.

History and Architecture

Built in the early 19th century, the tombs feature domed structures with minarets at the corners, set against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush greenery. What makes them architecturally interesting is the harmonious blend of Islamic and Hindu design elements, such as carvings of Nandi (the bull associated with Lord Shiva) placed at the entrance.

Surrounded by a well-maintained garden, the peaceful atmosphere of the site makes it an ideal place to reflect on Coorg’s regal past while enjoying scenic views of the town below. Gaddige is not only a historical monument but also a quiet retreat that offers cultural and visual appeal.

5.  General Thimmaiah Memorial Madikeri

One of our best finds in Coorg was the General Thimmaiah Memorial Museum located in the heart of Madikeri town. This museum is a tribute to one of India’s most respected military leaders, Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa’s contemporary and fellow Kodava, General K. S. Thimmaiah.

Legacy and Museum Exhibits

Located in the ancestral house of the general, “Sunnyside,” the memorial celebrates his legacy and life as the former Chief of Army Staff and a key figure during post-independence military operations.

The museum inside the memorial displays a collection of memorabilia, photographs, military documents, and personal belongings, offering you a rare insight into the life of a highly decorated soldier who played a significant role in shaping India’s armed forces.

The site is well-curated and informative, making it a valuable educational experience for visitors, especially those interested in military history. We visited the museum knowing nothing about the General (although we saw streets and schools named after him) and we came out learning of the legacy of this fine man and also the proud culture of the Koduva community in their role in the Indian Army.

6. Raja’s Seat

Raja’s Seat is arguably the most famous tourist spot in Madikeri, known for its breathtaking panoramic views and serene ambiance. The name “Raja’s Seat” literally means “Seat of the King,” and it is believed that the kings of Coorg used to visit this very location to relax and enjoy sunsets over the Western Ghats.

The viewpoint features a charming structure made of brick and mortar, with four pillars connected by arches, overlooking a deep valley filled with misty hills, lush greenery, and seasonal flower beds. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to witness sunrise or sunset, with the sky often painted in dramatic colors.

The surrounding park is beautifully landscaped, with well-laid paths, “I Love Coorg” photo point, and musical fountain shows in the evening, making it suitable for families and casual visitors alike. Raja’s Seat perfectly captures the natural beauty of Coorg and is a must-visit spot in Madikeri.

Coorg Attractions within 2-20 Kilometers of Madikeri

7. Mountain View Coffee Plantations

The lush coffee plantations surrounding Madikeri is the quintessential Coorg experience you must have while in Madikeri. There are several coffee plantations in Coorg and I am sure they are all great, but Mountain View Plantations is where we went so, I can speak for it.

The “Mountain View Plantations” coffee estates offer guided tours in Hindi, Kannada, Tamil, and English. Having visited several such plantations in Kerala, especially like Abraham’s Spice Garden in Thekkady, I was not very impressed by the guided tour. But it was still worth something.

This plantation has a glass bridge (they call it a “glass bridge” but it really is a metal bridge) that gives you a panoramic view of the coffee plantation. Walking through these plantations, you are enveloped in the earthy aroma of coffee beans and the cool shade of native trees.

At the fag end of the guided tour, you are given a complimentary coffee in their café, located on the first floor of their gift shop. The coffee tasted perfect but we were not very excited about the products in the store. Almost all packaged coffee powder products have added flavoring agents and none of them had the date of manufacturing printed on the packets.

If you are visiting a coffee plantation in Coorg, I recommend exercising caution about these minute details before buying coffee products. We ended up buying coffee beans, which I will now have to figure out ways to grind to get the perfect Arabic coffee.

8. Abbey Waterfalls

Abbey Falls is one of Coorg’s most visited natural attractions, located about 8 km from Madikeri town. The falls cascade down from a height of about 70 feet amidst a dense cover of coffee and spice plantations. A short walk through a scenic trail leads you to the falls, where the roar of the water intensifies as you approach.

Earlier, there used to be a hanging bridge opposite the falls offering the best vantage point for photography, but now the bridge is in ruins and there is no attempt to revive it.

During the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, Abbey Falls is at its most spectacular, with gushing water and mist rising from the plunge pool below.

9. Southern Adventures Karnataka’s Longest Zipline

Southern Adventures, located on the way to Abby Falls, is home to one of Karnataka’s longest ziplines, making it a thrilling destination for adventure enthusiasts. Gliding at high speeds while suspended above the scenic countryside gives an unmatched adrenaline rush combined with panoramic views of the Coorg landscape. Suitable for both first-timers and seasoned adventurers, the facility ensures safety through trained staff and high-quality equipment.

10.Kote Abbi Waterfalls

Kote Abbi (or Kote Abbey) Falls is a relatively lesser-known but equally enchanting waterfall located 24 kilometers from Madikeri. Tucked away in a secluded spot surrounded by thick forest and plantation areas, it’s ideal for those seeking tranquility away from the crowds.

The waterfall is seasonal, most dramatic during and right after the monsoon months when the water volume is at its peak. Unlike the heavily frequented Abbey Falls, Kote Abbi provides a more intimate experience with nature. The best part is, you can get in the water here as the stream is of safe depths for a fun picnic. Swimming is prohibited here but you can still have a great time.

This place is so serene and secluded that when we were visiting, we found two couples getting their pre-wedding photoshoots here.

11. Mandalpatti Peak

Mandalpatti is a stunning viewpoint situated around 18–20 km from Madikeri and is one of the most popular off-road destinations in Coorg. Known for its rolling green hills and panoramic views of the Western Ghats, the peak sits at an altitude of over 1,600 meters.

Getting to the top involves either a trek or a thrilling jeep ride through forested trails and rugged terrain. Once you reach the summit, you’re rewarded with 360-degree views of mist-covered valleys, distant mountains, and an overwhelming sense of calm.

The location is especially breathtaking at sunrise and sunset. Part of the Pushpagiri Reserve Forest, Mandalpatti is perfect for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers, offering one of the most immersive landscape experiences in Coorg.

Coorg Attractions within 15 Kilometers of Kushalnagar

12. Namdroling Monastery Golden Temple

The Namdroling Monastery, famously known as the Golden Temple, is one of the most iconic and spiritually enriching places to visit in Coorg.

Located in Bylakuppe, about 6 km from Kushalnagar, this monastery is one of the largest teaching centers of the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. It was established in 1963 by Drubwang Padma Norbu Rinpoche after his exile from Tibet.

The monastery is home to over 5,000 monks and nuns, and its main temple features towering statues of Buddha Shakyamuni, Guru Padmasambhava, and Amitayus, all richly adorned with gold and vibrant murals.

The peaceful chanting, incense-scented air, and beautifully landscaped gardens create a serene and contemplative atmosphere. It is not just a religious site but also a cultural marvel, offering a deep dive into Tibetan art, architecture, and spiritual practice.

13. Tibetan Market

Just outside the Namdroling Monastery lies the Tibetan Market, a vibrant and culturally rich shopping area where you can explore an array of Tibetan handicrafts, jewelry, woolen garments, incense, prayer flags, and souvenirs.

Run by the Tibetan refugee community of Bylakuppe — the second-largest Tibetan settlement in India — the market offers visitors an immersive cultural experience. You’ll also find small eateries and stalls selling authentic Tibetan snacks, including momos, thukpa, and butter tea.

This market not only serves as a great place for shopping but also as a window into the resilient and artistic life of the Tibetan diaspora in South India. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to take home a piece of Coorg’s multicultural identity.

14. Nisargadhama

Nisargadhama, officially known as Kaveri Nisargadhama, is a picturesque river island located just about 3 km from Kushalnagar. Formed by the gentle flow of the Cauvery River, it is connected to the mainland by a hanging rope bridge and spans a lush 64-acre landscape of bamboo groves, sandalwood, and teak trees.

This eco-park is a hit among families and nature lovers, offering activities like boating, petting farm animals, bird feeding, and deer watching in a small reserve.

You can also walk along peaceful trails or enjoy a picnic by the riverside. Cottages and treetop bamboo huts are available for those who wish to stay overnight. Nisargadhama provides a great blend of fun, relaxation, and natural beauty — making it one of the best family-friendly attractions in Coorg.

The entrance to Nisargadhama is one of the best places for budget shopping in Coorg with cheap clothing, bags, accessories, and footwear in large selections.

15. Dubare Elephant Camp

Dubare Elephant Camp is one of the most popular wildlife attractions in Coorg, located around 8 km from Kushalnagar on the banks of the Cauvery River. Managed by the Karnataka Forest Department, the camp offers a rare opportunity to interact closely with elephants in a natural setting.

You can witness elephants being bathed and fed, and gain insights into their training and daily life through knowledgeable guides. There are also options for river rafting, nature walks, and birdwatching around the area.

A popular attraction at Dubare Elephant Camp is the adventurous walk across the shallow and rocky part of River Cauvery. The sight of people holding hands and making a human chain across the width of the river is a common fun group activity here.

The camp is accessible via a short boat ride across the river, which adds a sense of adventure to the visit. It’s particularly family-friendly and educational, making it a must-visit for wildlife lovers and children. Visiting during morning hours gives you the full experience of elephant interactions.

16. Chiklihole Dam

Chiklihole Dam is a serene and relatively offbeat destination located around 14 km from Kushalnagar, tucked away between the towns of Madikeri and Somwarpet.

What sets Chiklihole Dam apart is its unique semi-circular structure without crest gates. During the monsoon season, the overflowing water creates a captivating waterfall-like effect over the curved surface, offering you a mesmerizing sight. We visited the dam in May and it was not the best time to view the distinct flow of water through the semi-circular crest as the water level was too low. The best time to visit Chiklihole Dam is post-monsoon.

This small reservoir, built across the Chiklihole River, is surrounded by dense forest and gently sloping green meadows, offering a peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere.

Unlike other dams with heavy infrastructure, Chiklihole has no major tourist amenities, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy undisturbed nature, quiet picnics, or reflective walks. It’s still waters and open skies also make it a beautiful spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.

17. Harangi Dam

Located about 9 km from Kushalnagar, Harangi Dam is built on the Harangi River, a tributary of the Cauvery. It is the first dam to be built across the river and creates a large reservoir that serves both irrigation and aesthetic purposes.

You will love the beautiful and well-maintained park around the Haringi Reservoir for a fun family time or a romantic couple’s walk. Every night at 7:00 pm, the park hosts a musical fountain that you can witness for just Rs.10 per adult.

18. Greenway Coffee Island Plantation

If you are unable to visit a coffee plantation in Medikeri or you are looking to really learn about plantations rather than plantation photography, I recommend Greenway Coffee Island. The Greenway Coffee Island is a family-owned picturesque coffee estate and agri-tourism destination located near Kushalnagar.

Nestled amid sprawling plantations, the estate offers an immersive experience into Coorg’s rich coffee-growing culture. You can walk through neatly arranged rows of Arabica and Robusta coffee plants, learn about organic farming practices, and observe the process of bean harvesting, drying, and roasting.

Why I would recommend Greenway Coffee Island as a better option than most coffee plantations in Coorg because this is a home-run business and you will be guided by someone who actually manages the farm unlike the more commercial plantations where you are guided by people who were hired to just rot and repeat a set narrative as part of the guided walking tour.

19. Harangi Elephant Camp & Tree Park

Located close to Harangi Dam, the Harangi Elephant Camp & Tree Park is an emerging eco-tourism spot developed to support wildlife conservation and awareness. This facility serves as a temporary shelter for elephants and provides a quiet, uncrowded alternative to the more popular Dubare camp.

You can observe elephants during feeding and bathing routines, and learn about their care from trained mahouts. The surrounding Tree Park is a well-maintained green zone featuring walking trails, rare plant species, and shaded sitting areas — ideal for nature walks or family picnics.

The Harangi Elephant Camp & Tree Park is also a great place to watch a mesmerizing sunset!

20. Coorg Vintage Car Museum

The Coorg Vintage Car Museum, located near Kushalnagar a little ahead of Dubare Elephant Camp, is a hidden gem for automobile enthusiasts and history lovers alike. This privately curated museum showcases a fascinating collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and mechanical artifacts, some of which date back several decades.

The collection includes classic models from Mercedes, Ford, Chevrolet, and Hindustan Motors, all meticulously restored and maintained. In addition to vehicles, the museum also features old bicycles, spare parts, tools, and vintage household items, giving a glimpse into India’s automotive and domestic history.

Conclusion: Places to Visit in Coorg

Coorg is more than just a scenic getaway — it’s a tapestry of history, culture, nature, and adventure woven into the hills of Karnataka. By planning your visit based on proximity to Madikeri or Kushalnagar, you can make your travel itinerary more efficient and immersive. From tranquil monasteries and royal tombs to roaring waterfalls and thrilling zip lines, each destination within this guide offers a unique slice of what makes Coorg truly special.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, these 20 places serve as the perfect compass to navigate your journey through the heart of Kodagu. So pack your bags, fuel your wanderlust, and get ready to experience Coorg — one scenic stop at a time.