Dubare at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Karnataka |
| Famous For | Elephant Camp, Coorg, Wildlife |
| Best Time to Visit | September to March |
| Ideal Duration | 1-2 days minimum |
| Language | Kannada, Hindi, English |
| Nearest Airport | Mangalore International Airport (IXE), 160km from Dubare |
| Nearest Railway | Mysore Junction (MYS) |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹90+ (varies) |
| Best For | nature and adventure seekers |
Dubare: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Dubare Elephant Camp is located on the banks of the Cauvery River in Coorg, Karnataka. It's primarily a training center for elephants used in the Mysore Dasara festival. The camp offers tourists a chance to observe, interact with, and learn about these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Dubare offers a unique experience to get up close with elephants. However, be aware that it is a tourist-oriented operation and can get crowded. While the elephant interactions are memorable, the facilities are somewhat basic, and the surrounding area offers limited attractions. It's best suited for wildlife enthusiasts and families with children.
Dubare: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery) | 08:00-18:00 daily | Free | Morning or late afternoon for | Modest attire |
How to Reach Dubare: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Dubare: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Mysore Junction (MYS) — Major railway station with connections to various cities. Located about 95km from Dubare.
- From Bangalore: 3 hours (₹500-1000)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Dubare: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Mangalore International Airport (IXE), 160km from Dubare
- Delhi: 2.5 hours (₹4000-7000)
- Mumbai: 1.5 hours (₹3000-6000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹2500-3500
directions_bus Bus to Dubare: Services & Timings
- From Bangalore: 6 hours (₹800-1200)
- From Mysore: 2 hours (₹300-500)
Trains are generally more comfortable for longer distances.
Best Time to Visit Dubare: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: September to March
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: September to March | 20-30 degrees C | This is the best time to visit for comfortable weather and optimal wildlife view | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: April to May | 25-35 degrees C | Fewer crowds compared to the peak season, and you might find better deals on acc | Be prepared for the heat and humidi |
| Avoid: June to August | 20-25 degrees C | The heavy rains can disrupt travel plans and make it difficult to enjoy the elep | Some accommodations and facilities |
Peak season note: Expect higher prices and larger crowds, especially during weekends and holidays. Book accommodations and elephant interaction slots well in advance.
2-Day Dubare Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Nature & Landscapes
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Dubare Elephant Camp
The Dubare Elephant Camp is the main attraction, offering a chance to interact with elephants. It's a project undertaken by the fo…
💡 Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and have a more personal experience with the elephan
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🏖️ Cauvery River Rafting
White water rafting on the Cauvery River is a popular activity near Dubare. The rapids are generally mild to moderate, suitable fo…
💡 Tip: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that can get wet. Apply sunscreen and insect repellent.
📍 Nisargadhama
Nisargadhama is a beautiful island formed by the Cauvery River. It features bamboo groves, hanging bridges, and deer parks.…
💡 Tip: Carry insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be prevalent in the bamboo groves.
Day 2 — More to Explore
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🙏 Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery)
The Namdroling Monastery, also known as the Golden Temple, is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in India. It features stunnin…
💡 Dress respectfully when visiting the monastery (cover shoulders and knees). Photography may be restr
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
📍 Harangi Dam
Harangi Dam is a reservoir built on the Harangi River, a tributary of the Cauvery. It offers scenic views of the water and surroun…
💡 Visit during the monsoon or post-monsoon season for the best views of the reservoir.
📍 Chiklihole Reservoir
Chiklihole Reservoir provides a tranquil escape with scenic beauty.…
💡 Pack a picnic to enjoy by the reservoir.
Top Places to Visit in Dubare: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 📍 Dubare Elephant Camp | ₹90 (Indians), ₹1437 (foreigners) | 3-4 hours | 09:00-11:00 & 16:30-17:30 daily |
| 2 | 🏖️ Cauvery River Rafting | ₹600 per person | 1-2 hours | 09:00-17:00 daily (seasonal) |
| 3 | 📍 Nisargadhama | ₹50 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | 09:00-18:00 daily |
| 4 | 🙏 Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery) | Free | 2-3 hours | 08:00-18:00 daily |
| 5 | 📍 Harangi Dam | Free | 1-2 hours | 08:00-18:00 daily |
| 6 | 📍 Chiklihole Reservoir | Free | 1 hour | 08:00-17:00 daily |
📍 1. Dubare Elephant Camp
The Dubare Elephant Camp is the main attraction, offering a chance to interact with elephants. It's a project undertaken by the forest department and Jungle Lodges and Resorts.
Honest take: Worth the visit if you are interested in wildlife and want to experience elephants up close. However, be prepared for crowds and a somewhat touristy atmosphere.
📍 Getting there: Accessible by jeep or bus from Kushalnagar, then a short ferry ride across the Cauvery River.
🏖️ 2. Cauvery River Rafting
White water rafting on the Cauvery River is a popular activity near Dubare. The rapids are generally mild to moderate, suitable for beginners and families.
Honest take: A fun and adventurous activity, especially if you're new to rafting. However, don't expect extreme rapids or a very challenging experience.
📍 Getting there: Rafting operators are located near Dubare Elephant Camp.
📍 3. Nisargadhama
Nisargadhama is a beautiful island formed by the Cauvery River. It features bamboo groves, hanging bridges, and deer parks.
Honest take: A good place to spend a few hours if you enjoy nature walks and wildlife viewing. However, it can get crowded during peak season.
📍 Getting there: Located near Kushalnagar, about 10km from Dubare.
Food & Restaurants in Dubare: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Pandi Curry (pork curry), Kadubu (rice dumplings), Bamboo Shoot Curry, Coorg Coffee, Akki Roti (rice bread), Noodles with Pork
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Pandi Curry | ₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two) | Madikeri |
| Seafood | ₹₹₹ (₹1200-1800 for two) | Madikeri |
🛺 Street Food: Kushalnagar Market — Momos, chaat, local sweets (₹50-150 per person)
Dubare Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹1000-1500/night | ₹3000-5000/night | ₹8000+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Hotels in Dubare: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Hotel Coorg International
₹1000-1500/night
Kushalnagar
OYO Rooms Kushalnagar
₹800-1200/night
Kushalnagar
🏨 Mid-Range
The Parampara Resort & Spa
₹3000-5000/night
Kushalnagar
Coorg Jungle Kids Resort
₹2500-4000/night
Near Dubare
⭐ Luxury
The Ibnii Spa Resort
₹8000+/night
Madikeri (nearby)
Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa
₹10000+/night
Madikeri (nearby)
Dubare Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Overcharging by auto-rickshaw drivers: Negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
- ✓ Fake guides: Hire guides from reputable sources or tourist information centers.
- ✓ Wear comfortable and lightweight clothing suitable for warm weather. Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the attractions. If visiting during the monsoon season, carry rain gear.
- ✓ ATMs are available in Kushalnagar and Madikeri.
- ✓ Airtel and Vodafone offer good network coverage. Purchase a local SIM card at the airport or in town. You'll need your passport and visa for verification.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Dubare
How many days are enough for Dubare?
1-2 days minimum is ideal for Dubare. Day 1 covers Dubare Elephant Camp and Cauvery River Rafting, while Day 2 explores Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery) and Harangi Dam.
What is Dubare famous for?
Dubare is famous for Elephant Camp, Coorg, Wildlife.
What is the best time to visit Dubare?
The best time to visit Dubare is September to March. Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities. The river levels are manageable for rafting and elephant activities.
Is Dubare worth visiting?
Yes, Dubare is worth visiting for Elephant Camp, Coorg, Wildlife. It is especially recommended for nature and adventure seekers and can be combined with a visit to Madikeri.
What is the budget for a trip to Dubare?
A 2-day trip to Dubare costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹1000-1500/night per night.
What are the timings of Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery)?
Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery) is open 08:00-18:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for a peaceful visit..
What is the entry fee for Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery)?
Entry fee at Golden Temple (Namdroling Monastery): Free.