Madikeri Fort: Located in the city centre, this 19th century fort has within it a temple, a chapel, a small museum and a prison. Particularly visit the ramparts for the beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Raja's Seat: A beautiful garden, this place was used by the kings to watch stunning views of the hills. Watch the beautiful sunset views from here.

River Kaveri: Located in the Brahmagiri Hills and also called Talakaveri, this river finds mention in the Hindu scriptures as one of the seven sacred rivers. Walk up to the Brahmagiri Hills from here where legend has it that 7 great sages performed a special yagna. Two temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha are also present here as is a temple tank where devotees take a dip before offering prayers.

Nagarhole National Park: A popular national park, it derives its name from the meandering "snake" river that flows through it. The park is covered almost entirely with thick forests, swamplands and several rivers. You must take one of the early morning or evening tours organized by the Forest Department. Spot wildlife including elephants, bison and spotted deer to the wild boar and peacocks. You may trek through the park or explore in private vehicles, although prior permission from the forest department is mandatory.

Iruppu Falls: A sacred spot, it is said to have miraculous powers to cleanse sins. A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on the banks of the Lakshmanatirtha River is especially crowded on Shivratri. The Falls very beautiful during the rains when it is rushes with all its force and the surroundings are a lush green.

Abbey Falls: This popular waterfall, what makes it distinctive is the loud sound that can be heard from as far as the main road. A walk through the coffee and cardamom plantations takes you right up to the falls. Carry a pair of binoculars and a camera to capture its beauty.

Nisargadhama: This island in the middle of Kaveri River is popular for picnics or even as a romantic getaway.

Omkareshwara Temple: Constructed by King Lingarajendra in 1820, the temple shaped like a dome and supported with beautiful minarets at every corner. The architecture is distinctive with a blend of South Indian, Gothic and Islamic styles.

Somwarpet: This is the coffee heartland of Coorg and is made of coffee estates with trees so tall that they seem to reach up to the skies! Also nearby is the picnic spot called Harangi Dam, Pushpagiri, the second highest peak in Coorg and the beautiful Mallali Falls surrounded by lush mountains.

Kakkabe: This was once known as the largest producer of honey in South East Asia. Today it draws huge crowds who trek through the crescent-shaped Mallama Betta, Soma Male and Kabbe Pass. What adds further importance to this place is the Igguthappa Temple, which is dedicated to Igguthappa the rain god, grain god and harvest festival god Igguthappa. Also visit the Nalnad Palace, which was once the hunting lodge and summer ground for the Kodava kings. Watch the intricately carved wooden friezes and wall murals within the palace.

Dubare: This popular spot near the Dubare Forest is great for animal lovers and is actually an elephant training camp managed by Forest Department. These elephants are trained for various jobs during the day. Later in the evenings, they are cleaned by the mahouts and fed special laddoos made of ragi and jaggery! You can also enjoy take an elephant ride within the camp.