Land of coffee plantations, towering peaks, endless mountains and stunning vistas, Kodagu undoubtedly offers more than an average hill station.
Popularly known as Coorg, it is the anglicized version of the official name – Kodagu. One of India's finest hill stations, Coorg is nestled in the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats, in the southern state of Karnataka.  Due its cool climes, cascading waterfalls, and mountainous terrain, it is often compared to Scotland and has also earned it the sobriquet – Scotland of the East. Stay options are varied, ranging from hotels and resorts to homestays and plantation bungalows, one would be spoilt for choice.

Coffee Country

Coorg is the largest coffee-growing district in India. One can experience lush green valleys blanketed with coffee shrubs sprouting red berries. The crisp fresh air filled with the smell of fragrant coffee blossoms, the chirping of cicadas and the tranquil beauty are some of the sights and sounds typical of this coffee country. Plantation trails and coffee harvesting are some of the popular activities one can indulge in. The coffee harvesting-season begins in mid-November and is on until March. Sights of pepper, cardamom, orange, lemons and vanilla plantations are also common.

The Kodavas
The natives, called Kodavas, consider themselves as the blessed children of the Goddess Cauvery (‘kod’, meaning to 'to bless' and ‘avva’, meaning 'mother'). Other sources trace their origins to Oman and Yemen, while another belief claims they are descendants of Greek. The Kodavas have a distinct culture which is a unique experience by itself. Some of them include the distinctive Kodava cuisine; their attire- kupya chele and kodava podiya;  the Kodava weddings as well as the numerous festivals and harvest related activities. The warmth and hospitality of the Kodava community are compelling reasons for the destination's popularity.

The Kodavas are a traditionally land owning agricultural community, who also have a well defined military tradition. They have a strange affection towards guns, in fact, gunfire is an essential part of their celebrations. While the Britishers gave them rights to own guns without license, after India's independence, they were exempted from the Arms Act.  They are still allowed to carry light rifles (without license) within the Coorg district limits. Even today, a gunfire signals the birth of a Kodava, while two gun shots fired in succession announce a death.

Adventure Unlimited

Its undulating terrain and imposing peaks like, Tadiyandamol (1,750 m) and Pushpagiri (1,715 m) make Coorg a favourite haunt for adrenaline junkies. Trekking, camping, rock-climbing, white-water rafting and kayaking are just some of the options for the typical outdoorsy.

Weather and Climate

Coorg is cool and wet round the year and maintains an average temperature of 15°C. Summers last from March to May with temperatures ranging between 28-30°C. June brings in the monsoon rains which last until September. Winter (December-February) can get a little chilly with temperatures dropping to as low as 11°C.