Coorg Tourism

Coorg, officially known as Kodagu, is a picturesque hill station located in the southwestern part of Karnataka, India. It is a landlocked district surrounded by the Western Ghats in the west and the Brahmagiri range in the east. The region is known for its natural beauty, rich history, unique culture, and coffee plantations.

History

Coorg has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. The region was ruled by various dynasties such as the Kadambas, Chalukyas, Gangas, Hoysalas, and Vijayanagara Empire. In the 16th century, the region was invaded by Hyder Ali and later by his son Tipu Sultan. The British took control of Coorg in 1834 and ruled until India's independence in 1947.

Geography

Coorg is situated in the Western Ghats range and covers an area of 4,102 square kilometers. It is known for its high altitude mountains, scenic waterfalls, and dense forests. The region has four major rivers - Cauvery, Lakshmana Tirtha, Hemavati, and Kabini - which originate in the Western Ghats and provide water for irrigation and hydropower generation. The climate of Coorg is subtropical, with heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (June to September) and mild temperatures throughout the year.

Demographics

According to the 2011 census, Coorg had a population of 554,519, with a sex ratio of 1,014 females per 1,000 males. The major communities in Coorg are the Kodavas, who are the indigenous people of the region, and the non-Kodava communities such as the Mappilas, Muslims, and Christians. The Kodavas have their unique culture, traditions, and language, which are distinct from the rest of Karnataka.

Economy

Coorg's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with coffee as the major cash crop. Other crops grown in the region include pepper, cardamom, orange, and rice. The district also has a significant forest cover, which provides timber, bamboo, and other forest products. Tourism is also an essential contributor to the economy of Coorg, with visitors attracted to the scenic beauty, historical monuments, and unique culture of the region.

Culture

Coorg has a distinct culture and heritage that reflects the history and traditions of the Kodavas. The Kodavas have their unique customs, which include worshipping their ancestors and performing rituals related to agriculture and hunting. The Kodava language is also distinct, with its unique script and vocabulary. The region is also known for its martial traditions, with many Kodavas serving in the Indian Army. The Coorgi cuisine is also unique, with dishes such as Pandi Curry (pork curry), Kadambuttu (rice balls), and Bamboo Shoot Curry.

Tourism

Coorg is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty and unique culture. The region has several attractions that include waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, historical monuments, and coffee plantations. Some of the popular tourist spots in Coorg are:

1. Abbey Falls: A scenic waterfall located near Madikeri town.
2. Talakaveri: The source of the Cauvery River, located on the Brahmagiri hill.
3. Namdroling Monastery: The largest Tibetan settlement in South India, located near Kushalnagar town.
4. Dubare Elephant Camp: An elephant training camp where visitors can interact with elephants and participate in various activities such as feeding and bathing.

State :

Karnataka

How to Reach Coorg