The ultimate trekking guide: Trekking trails to explore while in Coorg

Nestled in the hills of the Western Ghats in Karnataka, Coorg is blessed with natural beauty and charm. Known for its coffee plantations, exotic flora and fauna, and stunning vistas, Coorg offers many attractions for visitors to explore. However, there is more to discover just beyond Coorg's borders. The surrounding areas provide excellent opportunities for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. In particular, the region around Coorg is a trekker's paradise, with rainforests, streams, and flower-dotted meadows waiting to be traversed.

Whether you are an experienced mountaineer or a beginner adventurer, Coorg has something for everyone who wishes to explore the picturesque landscapes of the Western Ghats. Are you ready to set out on an unending journey?

Here are 6 fantastic trails in and around Coorg that will move all your senses:

1. Tadiandamol: Coorg’s highest peak

For many hikers, climbing Tadiandamol marks their entry into the Western Ghats ranges. Standing tall at 5,735 feet, Tadiandamol is Coorg’s highest peak and offers breathtaking vistas of endless green hills all around.

The trail itself is a feast for the senses, taking you through fragrant coffee plantations, pepper vines, and an amalgamation of areca nut trees, nutmeg trees, and the iconic fishtail palms. Interestingly enough, since this peak is close to Kerala, it even has access to the Kerala internet network!

• Maximum altitude: 5734 feet
• Trek distance: 12 km
• Trek duration: 4.5 hours
• Difficulty level: Moderate
• Best time to visit: September to October
• Starting point for the trek: Kakkabe
• Drive time from The Hosteller Coorg, Madikeri: 49.9 km (1.5 hours) and from The Hosteller Coorg Rainforest, Madikeri: 34.5 km (1 hour)

Tadiandamol | Credits: pratimmallick, Instagram

2. Kopatty: The hidden gem of Coorg

Are you looking for a quiet place that few people know? The Kopatty trail goes through well-tended coffee bushes before penetrating deep into a forested area until it finally opens up into a wide, sunny landscape leading up to its summit.

Going down is also exciting—along the grassy edges of a cliff and then in darkness through thick wood broken by a crystal-clear stream. The Kopatty Trail unravels some unique scenes from the varied landscapes of the Western Ghats, imparting an amazing feeling of being rejuvenated.

• Maximum altitude: 4852 feet
• Trek distance: 14 km
• Trek duration: 6-7 hours
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Best time to visit: September to June
• Starting point for the trek: Cherambane
• Drive time from The Hosteller Coorg, Madikeri: 38.2 km (1 hour) and The Hosteller Coorg Rainforest, Madikeri: 33.4 km (55 min)

Kopatty | Credits: plantheunplanned, Instagram

3. Kumaraparvatha: The challenging ghats

Kumaraparvatha is better known as Pushpagiri, and it is not for the weak hearted. Among the most demanding treks in South India, this is a true test of one’s endurance and honour among seasoned trekkers. Expect crowds, especially on weekends and holidays; the trail is famous for a reason.

During the trek you will pass through dense, almost mystical woods where tall trees create an enchanting interplay of light and shade. It then moves into stunning grasslands that provide a treat to your eyes with wet greenery in monsoons and brownish gold beauty during winters. The challenging climb makes reaching the peak of Kumarparvata an unimaginably satisfying experience.

• Maximum altitude: 5617 feet
• Trek distance: 22 km
• Trek duration: 2 days
• Difficulty level: Moderate
• Best time to visit: October-February
• Starting point for the trek: Kukke Subramanya
• Drive time from The Hosteller Coorg, Madikeri: 84.5 km (2 hours) and The Hosteller Coorg Rainforest, Madikeri: 81.5 km (2 hours)

Kumaraparvatha | Credits: dilip_shaiva05, Instagram

4. Nishani Motte: Paths with panoramic views

Nishani Motte, located near Bhagamandala village, takes you back to the olden days. This rugged peak was once a trusted landmark on an ancient, off-the-beaten-path route used by locals to connect Coorg with the Kerala region. The winding trail traverses through dense forests, lush vegetation, and expansive meadows, ultimately leading to a heart-pumping summit ascent that's sure to leave adventurers breathless.

The final stretch involves navigating a narrow ridge, which unfolds breathtaking vistas on both sides—building excitement with every step! From the summit, you're rewarded with a stunning panorama of rolling hills, verdant valleys, and distant mountains, stretching as far as the eye can see. The landscape unfurls like a canvas, with the misty veil of the Western Ghats rising up to meet the sky. Please note that during monsoon seasons, leeches may be present, while the region's birdlife and fauna are diverse and abundant, making for a fascinating experience.

• Maximum altitude: 4134 feet
• Trek distance: 13-14 km
• Trek duration: 7 hours
• Difficulty level: Moderate
• Best time to visit: November–April
• Starting point for the trek: Bhagamandala
• Drive time from The Hosteller Coorg, Madikeri: 49.4 km (1.5 hours) and The Hosteller Coorg Rainforest, Madikeri: 44.6 km (1 hour)

Nishani Motte | Credits: nishanitrekcampingaddacoorg, Instagram

5. Pakshipathalam: The Bird of abode

Exploring a little beyond Coorg into the Brahmagiri Hills of Wayanad district, Kerala, is a place where one can experience the magic of Pakshipathalam, literally meaning ‘bird’s abode’ in Malayalam. This trail is a paradise for bird watchers who get to see rare and endemic species.

The trek to Pakshipathalam is moderately difficult, with steep ups and downs through thick forests and rocky paths. Along the way, you can explore ancient caves, which adds to the adventure. Keep an eye out for the many birds that call this place home, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the sanctuary.

• Maximum altitude: 5708 feet
• Trek distance: 8 km
• Trek duration: 4-5 hours
• Difficulty level: Challenging
• Best time to visit: October to January
• Starting point for the trek: Thirunelli
• Drive time from The Hosteller Coorg, Madikeri: 101 km (2.5 hours) and The Hosteller Coorg Rainforest, Madikeri: 86.9 km (2 hours)

Pakshipathalam | Credits: akhilrajjs, Instagram

6. Ranipuram: Kerala's highest peak

It’s time you travelled to the Kasaragod district of Kerala and ascended Ranipuram, which happens to be the tallest peak here. Although it's situated in Kerala, it's not too far from Coorg, making it an ideal destination for a short trip. The trek to Ranipuram offers breathtaking views of undulating valleys blanketed with uninterrupted evergreen shola forests.

This biodiversity hotspot is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, which can be spotted in their natural habitat if you're lucky. Keep an eye out for signs like elephant dung on the path, and enjoy the sights and sounds of various bird species, such as the Grey Hornbill, Malabar Trogon, and Orange-Headed Thrush.

• Maximum altitude: 3438 feet
• Trek distance: 2.5 Km
• Trek duration: 3 minutes
• Difficulty level: Moderate
• Best time to visit: November to February
• Starting point for the trek: Panathady
• Drive time from The Hosteller Coorg, Madikeri: 79.1 km (2 hours) and The Hosteller Coorg Rainforest, Madikeri: 76.2 km (2 hours)

Ranipuram | Credits: madadventurersblr, Instagram

Conclusion

Coorg’s treks range from challenging hill climbs to leisurely walks through green landscapes. Each trail gives different sides to the beauty typical of the Western Ghats, like rich flora and fauna or breathtaking panoramic views. Whether in search of adventure, seclusion, or simply reconnecting with nature, Coorg paths will definitely provide unforgettable moments.

Are you set for your trip to Coorg? Here are you two best options!

The Hosteller Coorg, Madikeri, located a little further from the main road, this tranquil eco lodge has expansive dorms, single rooms, and even an adorable 3-bed hut. There’s a good vibe here: a bonfire spot, hammocks beside it, and a rooftop café with Mangalore touches. The Hosteller Coorg Rainforest, Madikeri, surrounded by green woods and coffee plantations, features big dorms with private balconies overlooking personal ponds. Enjoy a makeshift pit for fire talks, an open-air cafe on the top floor with a “floating bed", and a quiet reading room.