Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a lush green hill station tucked away in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. While most tourists visit Coorg in the summer or winter months, the monsoon season brings a unique charm that often goes unnoticed, especially for birdwatchers. If you’re someone who enjoys calm, nature-rich getaways and loves watching birds in their natural habitat, bird watching in Coorg during monsoon offers a peaceful, rewarding experience.

Why Go Birdwatching in Coorg During the Monsoon?

Monsoon turns Coorg into a green haven. The forests are thicker, the streams fuller, and the air fresher. This invigorating climate turns out to be perfect for birds and birdwatchers. With more than 300 species of birds found here, bird watching in Coorg becomes a truly immersive and fulfilling adventure for nature lovers. During the monsoon, migratory birds and occasional residents can be seen across plantations, forest borders, and wetlands. The rains reveal the brilliant coloration and distinctive calls of many species, enriching your overall bird watching experience.

Birds You May See in Coorg

Here are some delightful birds you may encounter during the monsoon months:

  • Malabar Trogon – With its striking red and black plumage, it stands out beautifully amidst the misty green canopy.
  • Nilgiri Flycatcher – A shy stunner found only in the Western Ghats.
  • Greater Racket-tailed Drongo – Known for its dramatic tail and mimicry skills.
  • White-cheeked Barbet – Heard more often than seen, thanks to its distinctive "kutroo-kutroo" call.
  • Orange Minivet – A vivid orange presence darting between the trees.
  • Asian Fairy Bluebird – Typically seen in pairs, shining with deep blue and black feathers.
  • Indian Pitta – Nicknamed the "navaranga" bird for its vibrant, nine-coloured plumage.

You may also spot sunbirds, hornbills, bulbuls, and woodpeckers – all adding to your enriching bird watching experience.

Best Places for Birdwatching in Coorg
  • Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary – A must-visit for spotting endemic and rare birds, especially during the early hours.
  • Brahmagiri Hills – Offers not just birds but breathtaking, mist-clad landscapes.
  • Nisargadhama and Dubare Reserve Forest – Great for catching glimpses of kingfishers, bee-eaters, and other river-loving species.
  • Coffee Plantations around Madikeri and Virajpet – Birds love these shade-grown estates. You may even be lucky enough to see a peacock strut by!
Tips for Birdwatching in the Rain
  • Carry a rain cover for your binoculars and camera – Sudden showers are common.
  • Dress in muted colours – To avoid alarming the birds. Go out early – Birds are most active at dawn, and the surroundings are quieter.
  • Be silent and patient – Sometimes, it’s the sounds that guide you more than sight.
  • Hire a local guide – Their expertise often leads to rare sightings.
Where to Stay?

Stay close to nature at 3Hills by Aster Holidays. Nestled in the heart of coffee plantations and near popular birding spots, 3Hills offers cosy, eco-friendly stays with the added charm of waking up to birdcalls. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or someone simply looking to enjoy the serenity of Coorg during monsoon, this is your ideal escape. Ready to leave the din behind and discover your serenity among the rain-kissed forests of Coorg? Book your stay at 3Hills, Aster Holidays, and immerse yourself in the tranquil magic of monsoon bird watching in Coorg. Let nature put you in slow motion. Let the birds pace your mornings.