"Tourists don’t know where they’ve been, travelers don’t know where they’re going."
- Paul Theroux

WORLD OF TRAVEL

Views and Interviews

March 2025

Industry Awareness Feature

Family vacations in Kodagu

Vasantha Machaiah hails from a Kodagu family with deep roots in coffee and coffee cultivation. His father, Machaiah Ponnakachira, dedicated his career to working on large coffee estates in Coorg before establishing Saibaba Mills—a renowned coffee roasting and milling unit in Siddapur. Today, this legacy continues under the capable management of Vasantha’s brother.



Vasantha's journey in the coffee industry began at the tender age of 15 when he learned the art of roasting coffee at Saibaba Mills. With many years of experience in processing and blending behind him, Vasantha currently manages his own line of kitchen-shelf masalas and spices. Known for his culinary skills, Vasantha is also an excellent cook, famous for his delectable Pandhi Curry.

We now chat with Vasantha to explore what Kodagu has in store, for tourists and vacation seekers. He explains why Kodagu is a popular destination on India’s tourism map.

A Blend of Natural Beauty and Cultural Richness Nestled in the lush hills of Karnataka, Coorg, also known as Kodagu, offers an enchanting combination of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. A family vacation to Coorg is a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, for an immersive experience in the heart of this captivating destination.



Waking Up to the Soothing Sounds of Nature Picture yourself waking up to the melody of chirping birds and the gentle rustling of leaves. A vacation in Coorg provides this serene backdrop—steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking views of sprawling coffee estates and mist-cloaked hills. The rustic charm of your resort, coupled with the warmth of traditional hospitality, creates an unforgettable retreat.



Experiencing Coorg’s Rich and Aromatic Cuisine For food lovers, Coorg is a treasure trove of rich and aromatic flavors. From the famous Pandi Curry (pork curry) to Kadambuttu (rice dumplings) and Noolputtu (rice noodles), the local cuisine is a delightful celebration of taste. Complementing the gastronomic journey is freshly brewed coffee, crafted from beans grown in nearby estates. Your hosts will ensure that you savor Coorg’s culinary heritage, making it a memorable highlight of your visit.

Exploring the Fascinating World of Coffee Embark on a guided tour of the coffee plantations for a fascinating insight into coffee cultivation. Witness the journey from “crop to cup” while immersing yourself in the vibrant flora and fauna that thrive within these plantations. The sight of blooming coffee blossoms, the aroma of freshly harvested beans, and a verdant environment provide a perfect setting for capturing picturesque moments.



Breathtaking Views and Scenic Trails Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities for exploration in Coorg’s lush hills and forests. Popular trekking routes include the trails to Tadiandamol, the highest peak in Coorg, and the scenic paths leading to Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. These adventures reward trekkers with panoramic views, verdant landscapes, and the fragrant air of coffee blossoms. Exploring these trails fosters a deep connection with nature and showcases the tranquil beauty of Coorg.

An Ecosystem Teeming with Wildlife Coorg’s diverse ecosystem offers exceptional opportunities for wildlife and bird watching. From the vibrant Malabar Trogon to the majestic Great Hornbill and the elusive Nilgiri Flycatcher, bird enthusiasts will marvel at the region’s avian diversity. A visit to nearby wildlife sanctuaries, such as Nagarhole National Park, allows visitors to observe elephants, tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, deer, and rare bird species in their natural habitat.



Immersing Yourself in Local Culture and Traditions Immerse yourself in Coorg’s vibrant local culture by visiting traditional Coorgi homes and experiencing their customs and traditions. Participate in cultural events, witness traditional dances, and explore local handicrafts and bustling markets. This cultural immersion deepens your appreciation of Coorg’s rich heritage, adding an enriching dimension to your vacation.



A getaway to Coorg seamlessly blends relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Whether you indulge in local delicacies, wander through coffee plantations, trek amidst stunning landscapes, or engage with the region’s traditions, Coorg promises you a vacation with a difference.


AIRDA Member Resorts in Kodagu (Coorg)


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Image credits: 01-Vasantha-Machaiah. 02-Club-Mahindra-Madikere. 03-Sterling-Brookstone. 04-Club-Mahindra-Madikere. 05-Sterling-Brookstone.06- Club-Mahindra-Virajpet. Images used in this article are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of any specific products or services from our partners or affiliates.


Content Disclaimer: The views expressed in our interviews and stories do not necessarily reflect the official policies, practices, and guidelines of the All India Resort Development Association, or its members. These views are based on personal experiences, private opinions, or open-source information. Images used here are either paid-for stock photos, images shared by the people we interview, or images under one of the open-source licenses such as Creative Commons and others. For some of our features, we acknowledge the use of AI referencing and writing inputs from Bard (Google), Bing/Edge (Microsoft), Meta AI (Facebook), and versions of ChatGPT (OpenAI). We also acknowledge the use of publicly available AI assistants to generate relevant images for our feature stories.

Here’s a link to some recent interviews done by us on the AIRDA website

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