How a Spontaneous Trip to Coorg Reconnected Me With Myself

The Weekend That Changed Everything: A Journey to Coorg

I never planned to visit Coorg. It wasn’t even on my travel bucket list. But sometimes, the most unplanned journeys become the most unforgettable ones.

It was a Thursday evening in Bengaluru, and I was burned out. My corporate job was demanding, my phone never stopped ringing, and my mind was a cloud of deadlines and unread emails. I needed to escape—not just the city, but also the version of myself that was slowly losing joy.

That night, I booked a bus ticket to Coorg for Friday night. No itinerary, no hotel reservations, just me and a backpack.

The Arrival: Mist, Coffee, and Calm

When I reached Madikeri the next morning, a cool breeze and the scent of coffee blossoms greeted me. The town, nestled in the Western Ghats, looked like a painting—lush green hills wrapped in mist. I checked into a cozy homestay run by an elderly couple who welcomed me like family.

That morning, sipping freshly brewed Coorgi coffee on the balcony, I felt something I hadn’t felt in months: peace.

A Day with the Kodavas: Learning from Locals

One of the highlights of my trip was meeting Ramesh, a local coffee plantation owner. He invited me for a walk through his estate, explaining how the beans were harvested and roasted. I helped him and his wife pick pepper pods while they shared stories of growing up in Coorg.

What struck me was how grounded and content they were. They lived simply, deeply connected to the land and the rhythm of the seasons—something I had forgotten in my own fast-paced life.

The Abbey Falls Revelation

That afternoon, I trekked to Abbey Falls. As the thundering waters cascaded down moss-covered rocks, I sat silently on a nearby stone, letting the mist hit my face. It was there I realized—I didn’t need to escape my life. I needed to reconnect with the parts of it that still made me feel alive.

That single moment of clarity made the whole trip worth it.

Digital Detox in the Mountains

The best part? I had no phone signal for two days. No social media, no emails—just nature, my thoughts, and meaningful conversations. I journaled, read poetry, and even tried sketching the landscapes. The detox gave me a mental clarity I hadn’t experienced in years.

Why Coorg Should Be on Your Travel List

If you’re looking for:

• A peaceful getaway with lush landscapes

• Authentic local experiences

• A chance to slow down and reflect

Then Coorg is the place for you.

Must-Visit Spots:

• Raja’s Seat (for sunrise views)

• Abbey Falls

• Coffee plantations

• Namdroling Monastery (Golden Temple)

Best Time to Visit: October to March
Ideal Duration: 2–4 days
Getting There: 6-hour drive from Bengaluru (overnight buses available)

Final Thoughts: Travel to Heal, Not Just to Escape

That spontaneous trip to Coorg wasn’t just a break from work—it was a journey inward. Travel has a way of showing you not just new places, but new perspectives. And sometimes, all it takes is one brave decision to step out of routine.

Next time you feel overwhelmed, don’t wait for the perfect plan. Pick a place, pack a bag, and go. The road will take care of the rest.