Jiyo Life in Coorg this summer

The summers in India are the time of year when you need to pick and choose your summer travel destinations wisely. After all, you go on holiday to have a good time with your friends and family out in the open, rather than in the confines of an air conditioned room. To help make your decision a little easier, Jiyo Life will try and introduce you to some really cool places to beat the heat this summer.


Coorg (Kodagu) is the south-western district of Karnataka bordering Kerala. It is situated on the western mountainous region of South India, and as a result enjoys moderate climate even in the summers. The summers are only slightly warm at 25-30 degrees Celsius. Add to that the scenic beauty - lush green valleys, coffee plantations, teak wood forests and majestic mountain ranges and you have the magic potion for a great summer holiday.


In Coorg,there is something for everyone. For the adventurous at heart, conceding its location and by extension, its greenery, there are trekking, golfing and angling options available. The religious ones can visit the beautiful Hindu and Buddhist temples. Family getaways can be easily arranged. Relaxation of the complete body and mind is facilitated through special Ayurvedic massages. 


But primarily, Coorg is the place to connect with nature. If you are the kind who is happiest enjoying the tiniest incidents and romancing the briefest moments, like the tingle of the cool and gentle breeze, the fluttering of the leaves in dance-like movements and the sounds of birds filling the mountain air, then Coorg is just the place to Jiyo your Life!


Following is a brief description of some of the must see places in Coorg:


Madikeri 
The capital of Coorg is also called the Scotland of India. It has enchanted millions of travelers with its misty hills, lush forests, coffee plantations and breath taking views. 


Kakkabe
Lots of Honey farms, in fact this place is the largest producer of honey in South East Asia. Also houses the most important temple in all of Coorg, the Padi Igutappa temple.


Omkareshwara Temple
Known for its architecture, this is a catholic mix of Keralite, Gothic and Islamic architectural styles and was built in 1820 by King Lingarajendra. A must see.


Cauvery Nisargadhama 
This 2.5 sq. km. large island in the middle of the River Cauvery, is a great place to spend some intimate moments with your loved one. 


Triveni Sangam at Bhagamandala & Telecauvery
At the convergence of the rivers Cauvery, the underground Sujyothi and the Kanike is the Bhangandeshwara temple. Because of the three rivers, it is also called Triveni Sangama. The serene temple has intricate carvings and a copper roof. A dip at the Triveni Sangam nearby is supposed to revive sagging spirits, but take prior permission at the temple.
Also check out the view from Brahmagiri, the source of the sacred Cauvery, which is 1535 meters above sea level.


Nagarahole National Park
Nagarahole (Snake River in Kannada)was created from a former raja’s hunting grounds. Nagarahole is one of the best game sanctuaries in South India, providing natural living conditions to several wild animals like elephants, tigers, panthers, rhinos and wild elephants, but one is more likely to see smaller game. It is a little difficult to reach, which makes it quieter than other parks. This in turn makes it a great place to relax. Jungle safaris are available as elephant rides. 


So, that’s all about Coorg. Enjoy your stay there this summer.

Image Courtesy-Wikimedia Commons