Explore Coorg’s Aromatic Coffee Trails With A Plantation Stay Experience

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a region in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, known for its scenic landscapes, coffee plantations, and rich cultural heritage. As the coffee capital of India, it contributes over 30 per cent of the country’s coffee production. Coorg offers a sensory journey with aromatic coffee trails, waterfalls, trekking trails, and wildlife sanctuaries. It’s a perfect blend of culture, nature, and tradition, making it a must-visit destination for coffee lovers and travellers wanting to explore the flora and fauna of the lush green and vibrant Western Ghats. 

The Origin Of Coffee In Coorg 

Coorg’s coffee history dates back to the early 19th century. The region’s favourable climate and fertile soil made it a popular destination for coffee cultivators. Arabica and Robusta varieties are commonly grown here, with Arabica being renowned for its subtle, aromatic flavour. 

One can explore Coorg’s coffee trails, taking long walks through vast plantations filled with dense greenery and earthy coffee beans. One can also visit one of the many coffee estates to learn about the coffee cultivation and processing process – right from growing, harvesting, to final processing. These estates are not just a source of livelihood for the locals, but also the lifeblood of the region’s culture. Many of the estate here offer tours that reveal the entire coffee-making journey, right from the first sprout to the final cup. 

Tasting Tours 

Visit Coorg for a coffee tasting session, known as “cupping”, where the estate host guides visitors through the intricate flavours of freshly-brewed coffee, varying in taste and flavour based on altitude, climate, and processing method.  

One can also learn to distinguish and differentiate between the different floral notes of Arabica and Robusta beans. The Coorg Coffee Festival, held in October every year, brings together coffee enthusiasts and farmers, offering tastings, demonstrations, and workshops to explore the depth and variety of Coorg’s coffee culture. 

Stay At The Estates 

Coorg coffee is a unique experience that pairs well with the region’s local cuisine, including popular dishes, such as Pandi Curry, Kadumbuttu, and Bale Curry.  

Many coffee estates offer traditional Coorgi meals as part of their stay packages, allowing guests to indulge in authentic food, while sipping on freshly-brewed coffee. To truly immerse oneself in the local coffee culture, it is recommended that one stays at a coffee plantation for a wholesome experience.  

Many estates offer homestays or resorts that offer a serene view of coffee-laden plantations that also serve as home to nesting birds. One can experience the magic of misty mornings listening to the chirping of birds while sipping on a cup of freshly-brewed Coorgi coffee.  

The Orange County Coorg (now Eagle Ridge Resort) is a well-known estate for a homestay experience, offering a tranquil escape from city life to soak in the natural beauty of the region.