Eco-Tourism in Coorg

Abbey Falls

Situated just 7-8kms from Madikeri town, Abbey Falls is one of the most visited spots of Coorg. The falls catches one by surprise by the roaring sound that shatters the tranquility of the environment. As the water flows down in a speed it creates a layer of misty cloud that always hang over the mountains and provides a fascinating sight. There is a hanging bridge opposite to the falls that provides a better view to the tourists. A Kali Mata temple on the other side of the bridge is also not to be missed.

Photo Courtesy: Samraj M

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is located in between Wayanad of Kerala in the south and Coorg of Karnatka in the north. It is located on the Western Ghats and Brahmagiri is the highest peak of this sanctuary. This is one of the favourite places for the trekkers as the Brahmagiri hills can be approahed from both the sides. Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is the home to different wild animals like Lion-tailed Macaque, Elephant, Gaur, Tiger, Jungle Cat, Leopard Cat, Wild Dog, Sloth Bear, Wild Pig, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Nilgiri Langur, Slender Loris and Bonnet Macaque.

Photo Courtesy: Bopannap

Dubare

The Dubare forest reserve area is located in Coorg, on the banks of the river Kaveri.The forests of Dubare play host to a variety of wild creatures from elephants to Sambhar, chital to tigers, and leopards to wild dogs. It is famous for it's elephant camps where visitors can have a close experience with the gentle giants and has been an elephant training ground.The hilly terrain of this forest is ideal for trekking and rafting is also a popular option here.

Photo Courtesy: Priya Radhakrishnan

Honnamana Kere

Honnamana Kere is the biggest lake in Coorg and a place of historical and spiritual significance. There is story which says that the goddess Honnamana sacrificed her life for the welfare of the people and a temple adjacent to the lake has been constructed in the honour of Goddess Honnamma. Honnamana Kere is surrounded by two hills Gavi Betta & Mori Betta and by beautiful mountains, cliffs and coffee plantations. It is also a boating and fishing spot.

Iruppu Falls

Iruppu Falls is located in South Coorg in the Brahmagiri Range of hills and is also known as the Lakshmana Tirtha Falls as the Lakshmana Tirthariver which is a tributary of Kaveri originates from this falls. There is a bridge and stairs to climb up along the falls and also benches to relax at the side of the falls that makes it easy to have a closer look. The picturesque view of the ferns and other trees along with the gushing sound of the falls makes it a memorable experience.

Mallali Falls

Mallali Falls is the most beautiful waterfall in Coorg and is formed from Kumaradhara River. It is situated at the foot of Pushpapagiri hills. Monsoon is the best time to visit here as the river dries up in summer. In monsoon the falls runs in full strength with water gushing down intensely and creating a layer of mist around it that adds to the mystic atmosphere.

Nisargadhama

Nisargadhama is a wildlife sanctuary and is a 'must visit' attraction of Coorg. It is an island located amid the Cauvery River and linked to mainland by a bridge made of ropes. Elephants, deer, rabbits and peacocks are some of the animals that can be seen at this sanctuary. Tourists can also enjoy several activities, such as boating and elephant rides here.

Photo Courtesy: Priya Radhakrishnan

Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary

Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Somwarpet taluk and is recognised as one of the most important bird areas of the world. Many endangered bird species like the grey-breasted laughing thrush, black, orange flycatcher and Nilgiri flycatcher, take shelter in this sanctuary. Also different wildlife species like the Wild Dog, Brown Palm Civet, Indian Giant Squirrel, Indian Hare, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Indian Muntjac, Gaur, Asian Elephant, Wild Pig and Giant Flying Squirrel can be found here.

Valnur Fishing Camp

Valnur fishing camp is very near to Dubare. Located at the backwaters of Kaveri it is a heaven for people who love fishing and angling. This is the most beautiful fishing spot in whole Karnataka. Other than the fishing experience one can never deny the wonderful beauty of nature. Valnur has various species of fish that include Mahseers, Marals and Mapps. A regular fishing license from the Coorg Wildlife Society is required for someone who wants to fish in Valnur Fishing Camp.