Coorg (Kodagu) in Karnataka sits at 1,525 metres in the Western Ghats and is one of India top coffee-producing regions. For families it offers the perfect blend of nature, culture, mild adventure, and incredible food.
Day 1 and 2: Arrive and Explore Madikeri
Fly into Mangalore or Mysore and drive to Madikeri. Start with Raja Seat, a garden terrace with a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys, particularly beautiful at sunset. Visit Madikeri Fort and its small museum.
Day 3: Abbey Falls and Coffee Plantation Tour
Abbey Falls is a 70-foot waterfall set in lush jungle 8 km from Madikeri. After the falls, book a guided plantation tour at a working estate. Children love seeing coffee berries, pepper vines, and cacao up close.
Day 4: Dubare Elephant Camp
On the banks of the Kaveri River, Dubare Elephant Camp is where forest department elephants are trained and cared for. Activities include elephant bathing, feeding, riding, and a coracle (circular bamboo boat) ride on the Kaveri.
Day 5: Nagarhole National Park Safari
A 2-hour drive from Madikeri takes you to Nagarhole (Rajiv Gandhi) National Park, home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and gaur (Indian bison).
Day 6: Iruppu Falls
On the Kerala border, Iruppu Falls is a stunning 60-metre waterfall in dense forest. The Brahmagiri Trek is suitable for older children aged 10 and above.
Day 7: Coorg Cuisine and Return
Spend the morning at a cooking class learning to make Coorg pork curry, kadambuttu (steamed rice balls), and bamboo shoot curry. Shop for estate coffee, locally-made jaggery, and Coorg honey before departing.