The answer to this question is very subjective. On one hand, you are getting a top-notch branch at a not-so-celebrated college, on the other, a top NIT is offering a mediocre branch. Your interest matters as much in this situation.
As a student of Metallurgy at NIT Surathkal, I can shed some light on this option. The branch has a small strength of around 38-40 students in each batch. Your peers will be very supportive people. The faculty for metallurgy is experienced, learned, and supportive. Metallurgy, in fact, is one of the most student-friendly branches of NIT Surathkal. The professors are always there to solve any doubts and queries of their students.
As for the curriculum, the majority of it revolves around steel and its properties, ceramics, polymers, etc. With an interest in your branch, the curriculum is quite easy to get through. The placements are good, and maximum students are offered jobs on campus. The average package isn’t too high for this branch. This is because core profiles don’t offer more than 3-9 LPA. You can expect a bit higher packages in non-core job profiles. NITK is a highly esteemed institution, for this reason, a wide range of companies visit the campus during the placement season. The crowd at NITK is very friendly, and the Metallurgy branch has some amazing seniors.
I have provided you with all the relevant information about the Metallurgy branch at NIT Surathkal. Try to reach out to some seniors from COEP IT branch. Make your decision based on what matters the most to you- college name, branch, or your own interest.