Coorg

Coorg, officially known as Kodagu, is a district in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is located in the south-western part of the state, in the Western Ghats mountain range. The district is bordered by Dakshina Kannada district to the northwest, Hassan district to the north, Mysore district to the east, Kannur district of Kerala to the southwest, and the Wayanad district of Kerala to the south.

Geography

Coorg is known for its beautiful landscapes, with a topography of misty hills, lush forest, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views. The highest peak, Tadiandamol, rises to 1,750 metres, with Pushpagiri, the second highest, at 1,715 metres.

History

The history of Coorg dates back to as early as 1000 BC, when it was inhabited by the Kodava people. The region was ruled by various dynasties such as the Kadambas, Chalukyas, Gangas, Hoysalas and Vijayanagaras. In the 1830s, Coorg was annexed by the British and was made a part of the Madras Presidency.

Culture

Coorg is rich in culture and tradition. The Kodavas, the ethnic group that predominates in Coorg, have their unique customs and traditions. The Kodava language is quite distinct and has no script. The Kodavas are known for their hospitality and bravery. The traditional attire of Kodava men is the Kupya (a type of knee-length wraparound robe), while women wear the traditional Sari with the pleats at the back.

Economy

The economy of Coorg is based on agriculture, with coffee and rice being the main crops. Coorg is known as the "Coffee Cup of India" and it is the largest producer of coffee in India. Other crops like cardamom and pepper are also grown. Tourism is another major part of Coorg's economy, with many high-end resorts, homestays and hotels.

Tourism

Coorg is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful landscapes, wildlife and historical sites. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Coorg include the Abbey Falls, Nagarhole National Park, Iruppu Falls, Raja's Seat and the Tibetan Buddhist Golden Temple.