On a Shoestring To Coorg - Explore the Gems of the Western Ghats

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a mesmerizing hill station situated in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. This beautiful destination is known for its lush green landscapes, magnificent waterfalls, aromatic coffee plantations, and captivating wildlife. If you are a nature lover and want to experience the essence of tranquility, a visit to Coorg should be on top of your travel bucket list.

Coorg offers a perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and relaxation. Whether you are a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family on a tight budget, Coorg has something to offer for everyone. In this article, we will explore the best ways to enjoy Coorg while being on a shoestring budget.

Getting There

The best way to reach Coorg while keeping your budget in check is by taking a bus from Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka. There are several bus operators that offer a comfortable journey from Bangalore to Coorg at affordable prices. The bus journey takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can also opt for a train journey to Mysore, which is the closest railway station to Coorg, followed by a bus or cab ride to reach your destination.

On a Shoestring to Coorg: An experience of southern India

by Dervla Murphy(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1009 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	256 pages

FREE

Accommodation Options

Coorg has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. From budget-friendly homestays to backpacker hostels and guesthouses, you can find a place that fits your needs perfectly. Staying in a homestay not only gives you an opportunity to interact with the locals and experience their hospitality but also helps you save a significant amount of money compared to luxurious hotels. Another option is to camp amidst nature, which can be a unique and pocket-friendly experience.

Exploring the Natural Wonders

Coorg is blessed with astonishing natural beauty that will leave you spellbound. Begin your journey by exploring the Abby Falls, an enchanting waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The sight and sound of the gushing water will transport you to a serene realm. Another must-visit attraction is the Namdroling Monastery, the largest Tibetan settlement in South India. The vibrant colors, intricate designs, and peaceful ambiance of the monastery will provide a sense of spiritual tranquility.

For adventure enthusiasts, trekking in the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-do activity. The sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, and the trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Additionally, you can indulge in river rafting, ziplining, and boating, which are popular activities in Coorg, ensuring an adrenaline rush without burning a hole in your pocket.

Coffee Plantations and Culinary Experiences

A visit to Coorg is incomplete without exploring the sprawling coffee plantations that cover the region. Take a walk through the aromatic coffee estates, learn about the coffee-making process, and indulge in a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Some plantations even offer homestays, allowing you to experience the local way of life and have a firsthand experience of coffee cultivation.

Coorg is also known for its lip-smacking cuisine. Don't forget to savor the traditional Coorgi dishes like Pandi Curry (pork curry),Kadumbuttu (rice balls),and Noolputtu (string hoppers). These authentic delicacies are a treat to your taste buds and are available at local eateries at reasonable prices.

Local Markets and Souvenirs

To take back a piece of Coorg with you, visit the local markets where you can find unique handicrafts, traditional jewelry, spices, and homemade chocolates. These make for excellent souvenirs to cherish your Coorg memories. The prices in these markets are often negotiable, giving you the opportunity to grab some amazing deals.

Coorg is a tiny paradise nestled amidst the Western Ghats and offers a memorable experience without breaking the bank. From stunning waterfalls to magnificent mountains, Coorg has something for every traveler. So, pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to Coorg on a shoestring budget.

On a Shoestring to Coorg: An experience of southern India

by Dervla Murphy(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1009 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	256 pages

FREE

Dervla Murphy and her five-year-old daughter Rachel- with little money, no taste for luxury and few concrete plans- meander slowly from Bombay to the southernmost tip of India. Interested in everything they see but only truly enchanted by people, they stay in fisherman's huts and no-star hotels, travelling in packed-out buses, on foot and by local boats. They double back to the place they liked most, the hill province of Coorg, and settle down to live there for two months. Here, anchored by her daughter's delight in the company of her Indian neighbours, Murphy sketches an affectionate, fresh and evocative portrait of these cardamom scented highlands and their warm, spontaneous and self-sufficient inhabitants.