Kodagu, also known as Coorg, is a rural district in the southwest Indian state of Karnataka. In the area’s north, Madikeri Fort has 2 life-size elephant statues at its entrance, plus a Gothic-style church with a museum on its grounds. Nearby, the Hindu Omkareshwara Temple dates back to the 19th century. Farther north are the domed Raja’s Tomb, a burial place of Kodava kings, and cascading Abbi Falls.
To the east, the village of Bylakuppe has several Tibetan settlements and temples. Thousands of Tibetan Buddhist monks and nuns worship at Namdroling Monastery. It is home to golden Buddha statues, colorful paintings and the immense, 3-story Golden Temple. To the southwest, Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary is a heavily forested habitat for animals such as tigers, leopards and lion-tailed macaques. Trekking routes lead up Brahmagiri, the sanctuary’s highest peak. Southeast, Nagarahole National Park is a protected area with Asian elephants, tigers, panthers and dozens of bird species, including eagles and owls.
When to visit : Kodagu has a tropical climate, with mild temperatures year-round. The relatively dry months (Oct–Jan) are popular times to visit, especially for trekking. Monsoon season (Jun–Sep) brings heavy rain. Kailpodh (Sep) is a festival to celebrate the end of the rice planting season. Puttari (late Nov–early Dec) is a celebration of the rice harvest.
