If you are looking for a calm getaway from the hurly burly of a hectic, busy life in the city and want to escape the chaos of traffic and the stress of work, Coorg is a perfect place to visit this summer. Located in Karnataka's Western Ghats, the picturesque destination in nature’s lap relieves you of your stress soon after you touch base, providing an instant sense of relaxation amidst greenery, mountains and serene rivers.
I stayed at a collective called Blyton Bunglow, Poomale 2.0, it was a peaceful retreat, where one can unwind and recharge batteries and slow down the pace of life. Blyton Bungalow at Coorg is home to vantage points that offer panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. There is a Raja's Seat in Coorg, hailed for its stunning sunset views and well-manicured gardens. The visitors can sit back and relax as they soak in the beauty of the sunset.
Bird-watching is a delightful experience given the vibrant presence of colourful species like the Malabar trogon and Malabar parakeet. The entire wilderness of collective Poomale attracts a variety of birds, including woodpeckers and kingfishers. Early mornings and evenings are ideal for bird-watching, with the air filled with the cheerful chirping of bulbuls and melodious songs of warblers. Migratory birds like the northern shoveller visit the region in winter.
The elephant safari is a thrilling adventure. Riding on the back of a gentle elephant, visitors can explore the lush forests and winding paths, along the way of the entire collective. Led by experienced guides, Poomale offers a unique way to observe wildlife and immerse oneself in nature's beauty. The small trek to Abbey Falls, through a coffee estate, makes for a memorable experience.
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Madikeri Fort is a must. Built-in the 17th century, the fort houses a museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to Coorg's culture, tradition and history, taking visitors back in time. Nature lovers will appreciate a visit to the nearby Nagarhole National Park. This sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various species of birds. The visitors can enjoy thrilling wildlife safaris through the dense forests, offering opportunities for spotting rare species and photography.
Coorg-Poomale 2.0 is famous for its coffee, known for its rich flavour and aroma. Travellers can explore the sprawling coffee estates, learn about the cultivation process and even participate in coffee picking during the harvest season. Additionally, Coorg is renowned for its spice plantations, where visitors can discover cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and vanilla, among others. Guided tours offer insights into spice, coffee cultivation and processing.
Coorg is also known for its homemade wines and chocolates. The flavoured wines are made from locally grown fruits in the food forest of Poomale, such as grapes, oranges, kala jamun, date wine, sweet apples and strawberries. Similarly, homemade chocolate, with flavours ranging from classic milk chocolate to combinations like orange zest and chili pepper is a delight.
Accommodation comes in the form of a Blyton Bungalow, offering comfortable rooms, dining facilities and other amenities. Blyton Bungalow provides a homely atmosphere, often with spacious rooms, gardens and scenic views of the surrounding landscapes. It also offers personalized services and activities like bonfires and nature walks. If you prefer the convenience of a bungalow, Coorg has accommodations to suit every traveler's preferences and budgets.
The cool breeze and occasional showers took me to the next level of relaxation, boosting my oxytocin levels and leaving me feeling happy and content with authentic Kodava dishes, including pork curry, kadambuttu and bamboo shoot curry, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Nature walks to explore the nearby coffee plantations and food forests called Poomale 1.0 are another level to get up close and personal with Coorg's natural beauty, surrounded by vibrant greenery and tranquil scenery. It was a déjà vu rejuvenation!
How to get there
From Hyderabad:
Flights to Bengaluru, Mangaluru or Kannur airports.
Train to Bengaluru, Mysore or Manguluru railway stations, approximately 120 to 150 km away.
Once at the airport or the railway station, travellers can hire taxis or use bus services to reach Coorg-Poomale 2.0, enjoying the picturesque landscapes along the way.
