Kutta, a plantation village, nestled in the Western Ghats, beyond Coorg is a perfect destination for a monsoon break. A mix of thick forests and coffee plantations, very few know of this rainy paradise, hidden beyond the mountains, and the popular tourist circuit. A border town between Karnataka and Kerala, Kutta is part of Coorg.
It lies within a part of the Nagerhole forest. Herds of deer may greet you as you enter the vicinity, flanked by thick forests on both sides. The bamboo is replaced by tall silver oaks, and the wilderness of the terrain can be intoxicating. And if you are a fan of petrichor, here it is flavoured, as the rain drops on coffee plantations, and a nuanced smell of coffee permeates the air.
Kutta is also near the Irpu spring, the beginning of the Kaveri river. It forms a cascading waterfall at Lakshamana Tirth. The path to the waterfall leads through a paddy field, and the entire hike can be an exhilarating experience.
Image Credit: blogspot
You can also visit the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary from Kutta. Malabar squirrels jump from trees to trees with their winged limbs, and the loud calls of the langur render the forest air with noise. Birders can have their lucky day if they manage to spot Malabar parakeets screech, white belied woodpecker, crested serpent eagle and oriental honey buzzard.
You can also try rafting on the river in the Nagarhole forest. Rafting through the forest is unlike any other white water rafting site in India. The river rushes through thick wooded forest, and the experience can be one of its kind.
Image Credit: lonelyplanet
Kutta is one of the main centres for the homestay culture. You can live economically with the locals, and have an immersive experience in their culture and way of life. Especially, sipping a home made cup of filter coffee under the thick blanket of rain can make for a great monsoon experience.
Kutta has a small bus station with frequent bus services to the neighbouring towns, especially the interstate local services between Kerala and Karnataka. Thanks to the hilly nature of the terrain, jeeps seems to be a favoured option, rather than auto rickshaws and taxi cars.
So, head to Kutta to experience the best of monsoon this year.
Read Also: The Best Places To Travel During The Monsoons
