Atomic Energy Central School No.
3 Rawatbhata
Handout Class: X
Sub: English Language & Literature
Chapter 7 - Glimpses of India Part 2-Coorg
By Lokesh Abrol
Module: 2/3
Introduction:
India is a land of regional variety. It adds unique flavor in the taste of Indian culture. Coorg is a
place in India which is endowed with natural beauty. Coorg is one of the such natural beauties.
The land of Coorg is a coffee country. It is famous for its rainforests and spices too. The people
of Coorg are known to be one of the bravest. A variety of animals can be found here. The place
is surrounded by beautiful Brahmagiri hills, islands and Tibetan settlements. This essay is a
beautiful description of the land of Coorg.
About the Author:
Lokesh Abrol is a renowned doctor by profession. He established the first multispeciality
hospital in the private sector in Gurgaon. He is also a social worker. He established the first stray
cow shelter in Gurgaon. Lokesh Abrol is also an established writer. The present essay on ‘Coorg’
highlights his sharp observation and the ability for a graphic description of the wonderful land
‘Coorg’.
Features of Coorg:
The lesson gives us a beautiful insight of the smallest district of Karnataka and its people. It is a
hill station located in the ‘Western Ghats’ in the state of Karnataka. Coorg is situated exactly
between Mysore and Mangalore in hills. It is also known as Kodagu. This beautiful land is full of
evergreen forest, spices and coffee plantations. This place is inherited by Martial men and
women. Coffee estates and colonial bungalows stand tucked under tree canopies in prime
corners.
The weather of Coorg:
The weather of this place is amazing throughout the year. There is enough rain during the
monsoon season at this place. 30% of the area of Coorg is covered with evergreen rainforests.
The place receives rain for most part of the year, especially during the monsoon season. The
period from September to March is ideal for visiting Coorg. The weather is pleasant and there is
some rain which makes it worthwhile. The air is filled with the strong fragrance of coffee due to
the abundant coffee plantations.
Origin of Coorg people:
This place is inherited by Martial men and women. It is said that they are descendants of Greeks
or Arabs. There is a story of their connection with Greeks. A Story goes that a part of
Alexander's Army stayed back and married local women. So the present race is mixture of both
cultures. The reason, they are said to be the descendants of Arabs, is their long black coats,
embroidered waist belts which relates them to Arabs and Kurds. The Kuppia garment is similar
to Kuffia- the Arab garment. That is why, it is said that may be their ancestors were Arabs or
Kurds.
Bravery and Hospitality:
The people are very welcoming and warm in nature. They are hospitable and they feel very
proud to talk about the tales of their forefathers’ bravery. They are always ready to entertain with
stories of their ancestors. The people of Coorg are known to be one of the bravest. The Coorgi
men are brave warriors who are permitted to keep firearms without a licence due to their
trustworthiness. They are known to be independent, ferocious and brave which is evident from
the fact that the Coorg regiment in the Indian army has received the maximum number of awards
for bravery. The first chief of the Indian Army named General Cariappa belonged to Coorg.
Water and life in Coorg:
The river Kaveri originates from Coorg. The evergreen forests and the Hills of Coorg provide
water to river Kaveri. A large freshwater fish Mahasheer abounds in the water. Animals like
langurs drop partially eaten fruit in water. Kingfishers dive in it, elephants also take bath in its
river. The fish named Mahaseer is found in the river. Many animals and birds like kingfisher,
langur, squirrels and elephants can be spotted along the river.
Sports and Adventures:
The tourists who visit Coorg to relax in the natural beauty of the place also get attracted towards
the various adventure sports activities available. River rafting, travelling in a Boat and rock
climbing make tours adventurous. Wild elephants, butterflies and squirrels draw tourist attention.
Tourists relax in the serene atmosphere and also enjoy adventure sports like river rafting,
canoeing, rappelling, mountain biking, rock climbing and trekking. While trekking on the nature
trails, animals like Macaques, Malabar squirrels, langurs and slender loris can be spotted on the
trees.
Worth Watching Places:
The entire Coorg can be seen by climbing Brahmagiri hills. To have an overall look at the
beautiful city of Coorg, one must climb up to the Brahmagiri hills. Coorg is surrounded by
astounding places of beauty like the island of Nisargadhama and Bylakuppe which is India’s
largest Tibetan settlement. The Island of Nisargadham and Buddha settlement at Bylakuppe are
interesting places. Monks wearing red, orange and yellow coloured garments can also be found
in the district of Coorg where their lifestyle is a fascinating view for the travellers. Coorg is a
great example of natural and cultural heritage which represent the heart and soul of India.
