Coorg or Kodagu as it was originally known, is one of the most popular hill stations in the Karnataka state of India. Blessed with unbelievable natural beauty, misty mountains, streams and waterfalls, thick forests, miles of spices, paddy, coffee plantations and hospitable people with a mysterious past, Coorg is a must-visit destination for any nature lover.

Due to the beauty and bliss it offers, Coorg is also a much sought after weekend break for corporates from the cosmopolitan city of Bangalore, just 5 hours away by road. Though it is emerging as an in-demand tourist destination, Coorg retains its old world charm and is one of the cleanest and greenest hill stations in South India.

Home to the ethnic warrior people, the Kodavas who earlier carried weapons and participated in wars, Coorg has contributed a number of leading generals to the Indian army. It is largely an agricultural and plantation dominated economy. The British ruled here from 1834 enjoying the Scotland-like weather, till 1947 when India won its independence. You will still see colonial houses on coffee plantations and coffee planters convening at the social clubs, true to the times of the British Raj. Hockey is a popular sport here and so is athletics.

Attractions: Plantation walks, tibetan monastery, dubare elephant camp, talacauvery (source of the river Cauvery and a pilgrimage centre,) irupu water falls, nagarhole wildlife sanctuary, rafting, trekking, golf, bird watching, home stays, traditional cuisine and culture trails.

Shopping: Local delicacies and honey, homemade fruit juices, wines & jams, exotic fruits, pepper and freshly brewed coffee.

Accessibility: Car & local buses from Mysore & Bangalore (5 hrs by road from Bangalore)

Best time to visit: All year round. Ideal time to enjoy the monsoons, the lush green plantations and the rafting rapids is from July to October.