Best Stays- Mysore and Coorg
From royal retreats to tranquil villas, this guide explores some of the most characterful and comfortable places to stay in Mysore and Coorg—two of South India’s most charming, yet often overlooked, destinations.
For many travellers outside India, the idea of visiting this vibrant country is often limited to its best-known destinations. Cities like Delhi with its historical splendour, or Jaipur and Udaipur, known for their royal palaces, dominate the itineraries.
The golden dunes of Jaisalmer and the romantic allure of other parts of India have long been synonymous with Indian tourism. While these destinations are undeniably breathtaking, they represent only a fraction of India’s immense diversity.
Travelling through Mysore and Coorg reveals a delightful blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. These destinations offer a unique experience, especially when combined with carefully selected accommodation. Whether the royal ambience of Mysore or the unspoilt landscape of Coorg appeals to you, choosing the right accommodation can enhance your trip manifold.
In Mysore, the Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden Palace and Spa is an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and exclusivity.
Located right next to the famous Brindavan Gardens, this colonial-style hotel offers private access to the gardens, allowing guests to bypass the crowds and immerse themselves in the magical ambience of the garden in the evenings after 8pm. Illuminated in the evening, the gardens create a tranquil and picturesque setting that is otherwise inaccessible to the public, with plenty of space for children to play and adults to relax.
Guests can explore the garden without needing tickets as the hotel offers unrestricted access—a unique feature that sets this property apart from others. Rooms cost approximately Rs. 12,500 (GBP 120) per night per room, with check-in available from 2pm and check-out at 11.30am. Highlights include tranquil sunshine, an on-site spa and the opportunity to experience the gardens in their night-time splendour.
The hotel is located in Brindavan Gardens, Krishna Raja Sagar, Mandya district, Karnataka. The peaceful atmosphere and green surroundings make an overnight stay at this heritage property memorable.
For a more centralised stay, the Grand Mercure Mysore Hotel is a modern, family-friendly option that combines convenience and comfort. Located on Nelson Mandela Road, this upscale hotel is the ideal base for exploring Mysore’s major attractions, such as the Mysore Palace and Chamundi Hills.
The rooms are elegantly designed and the hotel offers a special family package: 50% discount on the second room and free breakfast for children under 12. Guests can enjoy facilities such as the rooftop pool and an all-day dining restaurant, making the hotel a great base for relaxation and sightseeing. The rate for two rooms with the discount is approximately Rs. 34,000 (GBP 300). Check-in starts at 3pm, with early check-in or baggage drop-off available, and check-out is at 11am. The hotel's address is #220360 New Sayyaji Rao Road, Mysuru, Karnataka, ensuring proximity to the city’s cultural and historical attractions.
From Mysore, the 2.5-hour drive to Coorg is a visual treat with its winding roads, green hills and sprawling coffee plantations. Coorg is often referred to as the Scotland of India and is known for its calming beauty and rich biodiversity. Here, luxury and nature merge seamlessly in the best accommodation in the region.
The Purple Palms Resort and Spa in Kushalnagar is a tranquil oasis that invites you to relax and indulge. This resort offers luxurious rooms surrounded by lush greenery, an outdoor pool and a well-equipped spa. Guests can enjoy coffee-inspired treatments and plantation tours to experience the coffee culture of Coorg first-hand.
The hotel's proximity to attractions like the Tibetan Monastery and Dubare Elephant Camp makes it a good choice for families. Rooms cost around Rs. 25,000 (GBP 250) per night for two adults, with check-in from 3pm and check-out at 11am. Located in Bollur Post, Guddehosuru, Kushalnagar, Karnataka, the resort is an upscale accommodation with close links to Coorg’s natural beauty.
For travellers seeking a private retreat, The Haven Grandeur Villa offers spacious, modern accommodation that is ideal for families or larger groups. This villa is tucked away in Byrambada and combines privacy with comfort. It has four luxurious bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and a spacious outdoor area. Guests can enjoy locally inspired meals prepared on request while admiring the green surroundings of the property.
The four-bedroom rate is approximately Rs. 73,382 (GBP 680) for three days, including taxes, while a two-bedroom option is available for Rs. 59,700 (GBP 500) for the same duration. Check-in is from 2pm and check-out is at 11am. Located at Villa No. 11/10c, Ammathi Vontiangadi, Byrambada, Karnataka, it is an excellent choice for those looking to escape the urban chaos and reconnect with nature.
Another outstanding option in Coorg is Cana’s Coorg Villa, a charming private property that offers exclusive and comfortable accommodation for up to ten guests. This villa is perfect for those who value privacy and an intimate setting. Families can organise a firecracker campaign with barbecue parties here.
The cost ranges from Rs. 57,515 (GBP 550) for a non-refundable online booking to Rs. 63,906 (GBP 600) for a refundable option with free cancellation up to one week in advance. With flexible check-in and check-out times and a focus on personalised comfort, this villa allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Coorg.
Beyond the stays, Coorg's attractions add depth to the travelling experience. The Namdroling Monastery, popularly known as the Golden Temple, is a must-visit for its stunning Tibetan architecture and spiritual ambience.
Located in Kushalnagar, the monastery is open daily from 7am to 6pm and offers insights into Tibetan culture and Buddhism. Apart from this, the cool climate of the Madikeri hill station is perfect for exploring. The main attractions include the Raja Seat, which offers a panoramic view of the Western Ghats, and the Abbey Falls, where water cascades through the spice plantations.
A final thought
Mysore and Coorg offer a blend of royal charm and natural beauty that makes the stay an unforgettable experience. From the illuminated Brindavan Gardens to the misty hills of Coorg, these handpicked accommodations ensure that every part of the journey is steeped in comfort, authenticity, and delight.