72 Hours in Coorg – The Ultimate Travel Experience

There’s something magical about Coorg—something you feel the moment you enter its mist-covered hills and coffee-scented air. Often called the Scotland of India, this hill station in Karnataka is peaceful, lush, and refreshing in a way that pulls you instantly into vacation mode. When I spent 72 hours in Coorg, I realised why travellers keep returning: the views are unspoiled, the pace is slow, and every corner feels like it belongs on a postcard.

If you’re planning a weekend trip or a 3-day escape, here’s a complete, experience-rich Coorg itinerary to help you make the most of your time. Think waterfalls, coffee estates, forest trails, delicious Kodava food, and moments that soothe your mind. Let’s dive into what the ultimate 72 hours in Coorg really feels like.

Arriving in Coorg: First Impressions & When to Visit

Coorg sits about five hours from Bangalore, and the drive itself sets the tone for your trip. As the highway slowly narrows into winding hill roads, the temperature drops and shades of green begin to take over. You’ll pass through charming small towns, roadside coffee stalls, and stretches of forest that feel untouched by modern chaos.

If you're wondering about the best time to visit Coorg, aim for October to March. The weather is crisp and perfect for sightseeing. Monsoons bring heavy rain, but they also transform Coorg into a dramatic green paradise—ideal for travellers who love foggy forests and moody weather.

Reaching Coorg is simple:

– By road: Most travellers come by car or bus from Bangalore, Mysore, or Mangalore.

– By train: The nearest station is Mysore, about 90 km away.

– By flight: Kannur and Mangalore airports are the closest.

As you enter Madikeri—the main town—you’ll notice a mix of hill-station charm and Kodava culture. Homestays and plantation stays are everywhere, and staying within a coffee estate is something I strongly recommend. Waking up to the aroma of freshly roasted beans is a feeling you’ll carry home with you.

Day 1 – Waterfalls, Coffee Aroma & Sunset Views

I started my Coorg trip with a simple goal: ease into the hills and explore what Madikeri had to offer. After checking into a quiet homestay surrounded by tall silver oak trees, I headed straight to the famous Abbey Falls. Even though it’s popular among tourists, the sound of water crashing down the rocks inside the dense forest instantly calms your mind. A hanging bridge overlooks the falls, giving you the perfect frame for photos.

From there, I made my way to Raja’s Seat, a viewpoint that gives a panoramic view of Coorg’s rolling hills. It’s beautiful any time of day, but sunrise and sunset are magical. Clouds float close to the ground, the sky shifts to warm colours, and the entire valley seems to glow. It’s easy to see why Coorg’s kings once spent their evenings here.

Lunch in Coorg is incomplete without trying local Kodava cuisine. Dishes like pandi curry, kadambuttu, and koli barthadu bring the flavours of Coorg alive. If you're a coffee lover, take time to stop at small cafés that serve freshly ground local brews—Coorg’s coffee tastes richer when you sip it in the middle of a plantation.

The day ended with a slow walk through Madikeri town. Shops selling homemade chocolates, spices, essential oils, and coffee powders line the streets, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs. By evening, the temperature dipped, and the town settled into that quiet, cozy rhythm that Coorg is known for.

Day 2 – Trekking, Wildlife & the Deep Green Side of Coorg

My second day in Coorg was all about getting closer to nature. I started early for the Tadiandamol Trek, the highest peak in Coorg and one of Karnataka’s most scenic treks. The trail takes you through thick forests, open meadows, and cloud-covered ridges. It’s not difficult if you take it slow, but sturdy shoes and water are musts. On a clear day, the views from the top stretch endlessly across the Western Ghats.

If trekking isn’t your thing, you can swap Tadiandamol for Mandalpatti Viewpoint—accessible via a thrilling jeep ride through rugged trails. The view at the top is nothing short of spectacular. Mist swirls around you, valleys sink into the distance, and the entire landscape feels alive.

After the trek, I headed to Nagarhole National Park, located about an hour from Coorg depending on where you're staying. The safari here is worth it—not only for spotting wildlife like elephants, deer, and bison but also for the serenity of driving through dense forest. Early morning and evening safaris offer the best sightings.

On the way back, I stopped at a local spice plantation for a guided tour. Coorg is rich in spices like pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Walking through the estate while learning how these spices grow was unexpectedly fascinating.

I wrapped up the second day with a quiet dinner at my homestay, listening to crickets echo through the night. Coorg becomes unbelievably still after dark—a silence that city life makes you forget.

Day 3 – Temples, Rivers & the Last Taste of Coorg

My final day in Coorg was slower and more reflective. I visited the Namdroling Monastery in Bylakuppe, also known as the Golden Temple. This Tibetan settlement is one of the largest in India, and stepping inside feels like entering a different world. The monastery’s vibrant colours, detailed murals, and large statues of the Buddha create a peaceful atmosphere that stays with you.

From there, I drove to Kaveri Nisargadhama, an island formed by the Kaveri River. Surrounded by bamboo groves and tall trees, this place is perfect for leisurely walks and riverside picnics. If you’re travelling with kids, they’ll enjoy the hanging bridge and the deer enclosure.

I ended my 72 hours in Coorg by visiting Dubare Elephant Camp. Located on the Kaveri River, it gives visitors a chance to watch elephants being fed and bathed. It’s educational and heartwarming, especially if you appreciate wildlife conservation.

Before leaving, I made sure to stock up on Coorg essentials—fresh coffee, pepper, homemade wine, and local chocolates. These tiny reminders of the trip continue to bring a smile even after returning home.

Travel Tips, Safety & Budget Planning for Coorg

A trip to Coorg is simple to plan, but a few local tips make the journey smoother. Carry light woollens even in summer—the evenings can be surprisingly cool. If you're visiting during the monsoon, expect misty weather, slippery trails, and occasional roadblocks. Always check local conditions before heading out.

Budget-wise, Coorg offers something for every traveller.

– Homestays usually cost ₹1,200–₹2,000 per night.

– Coffee estate stays start around ₹3,000–₹5,000 for a more premium experience.

– Food is affordable, and local restaurants offer hearty meals.

– Trekking, safaris, and guided tours have varied pricing depending on the season.

For safety, avoid late-night drives through forest areas, as visibility is low and wildlife may cross the roads. Stick to marked trails while trekking and book safari slots in advance to avoid last-minute rush.

Suggested Itinerary & Why Coorg Stays With You

Here’s a simplified version of the 72-hour Coorg itinerary you can follow:

Day 1: Abbey Falls → Raja’s Seat → Madikeri Town → Coffee Tasting

Day 2: Tadiandamol Trek or Mandalpatti Jeep Ride → Nagarhole Safari → Spice Plantation

Day 3: Namdroling Monastery → Nisargadhama → Dubare Elephant Camp

Coorg isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. A feeling of slowing down, breathing deeply, and reconnecting with nature. Whether you’re sipping hot coffee while watching the rain, trekking through forested paths, or simply sitting quietly under a sky full of stars, Coorg has a way of staying with you long after the trip ends.

If you're planning a weekend getaway or need a break from city noise, 72 hours in Coorg may be exactly what your soul needs.