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Now that monsoon is well and truly under way, and Game of Thrones is nearly done for the season, there’s nothing stopping you from feeling the full force of the Monday Blues. Regardless of what day of the week it actually is. Top that up with the gargantuan feat which is commuting, and by the time you’re at work you’re resembling something closer to a mop than a coiffed professional. This means the weekends are the last bastion of hope, if you intend to regain your sanity. We figure, why spend it at home when you could travel? You’ve already seen our piece on beautiful monsoon homestays in Mumbai, so we figured it’s time to extend the courtesy further south to all our lovely readers in Bangalore.
I. Angana – The Couryard, Kanakpura Road
60 kilometres far from the Bangalore International Airport (which is really far away from everything else in the city) lies an intimate vacation experience you’re unlikely to forget. The Country inn serves all the warmth of an ancestral villa, with services that will make you crave the days of yore. Perhaps you can seek some contemplative meditation by the silent pool? Or take a walk through wide open spaces to their beautiful flower gardens. For the adventurous traveller, kick up your hiking boots for a trip by the countryside as you explore the watchtower, and then cool off by the pool if it isn’t still pouring. Our more lazy travellers can laze around by the beautiful gardens and unwind with a book from the house library. You can even experience ayurveda firsthand as you sample traditional cuisine. Whatever you choose, we’re sure you will leave feeling reinvigorated and stress-free.
What it will cost you: A standard room will cost you Rs. 706, but if you choose to “lux” it up with a private cottage, it will be Rs.7086.
II. Edakkal Hermitage - Wayanad
The first thing you will notice about the Edakkal Hermitage is the enticing aroma of peppercorns and coffee beans. The second will be the bird’s eye view of the Western Ghats, leaving you with the distinct impression that you’re a colossus. Couples can enjoy the plantations by moonlight, and savour the most delicious delicacies on offer.Each of the cottages are distinct and offer something for everything personality. You have major proximity to Edakkal Caves, where you can explore the lost arts of an ancient era, or you can opt for a visit to the wildlife sanctuary. Theatre geeks will enjoy the cultural and heritage events at the local open theatre.
What it will cost you: Something for everyone @ Rs. 4465
III. Georgia Sunshine Village - Shivanasamudram
Surrounded by forests and green valleys, and skirting the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, lies the Georgia Sunshine Village. Here you get to decide your kind of vacation, be it a book from the library while sprawled in an open lounge, indoor games, a swim in the pool or a fast paced game of Badminton. The Georgia Sunshine Village even promises a stellar bonfire, get your s’mores out! The days can be spent visiting the scenic Bharrachukki and the Gaganchukki waterfalls, where rumour has it the River Cauvery divides into two and plummets into a gorge that’s 75 meter deep. Hikes are also organized to the falls.
What it will cost you: You’ll be walkin’ on sunshine anywhere between Rs. 7000 to Rs. 9000
IV. Gitanjali Homestay - Mysore
The Gitanjali understands Kodava hospitality; owned by a Kodava family settled in Mysore, this is the perfect home for the weary. Savour the authentic cuisine and bathe in the culture through performances by musicians and dancers of the Kodava tradition. People who want to carry this experience back with them can request to learn how to make the cuisine. Of course, if you’re looking to be as far away from the cooking as you can, opt for an ayurvedic massage or a mysore painting class.
What it will cost you: Rs. 4500 -7000 for the weary
V. Gowri Nivas - Coorg
You want to travel, but the purse strings are squeaking away to a grim reality. However, Homegrown has your back and Gowri Nivas has your heart with this affordable homestay for the budget-conscious. Located in the heart of Madikeri, you’ll be offered the best comfort and luxury that a home can provide, with cottage and homes fixed with all the necessary amenities. Plan for some solitude as the estate is close to the foothills of Tadiyendamol, the highest peak of Coorg. As such, you’re not likely to come across too many people.
What it will cost you: Rs. 4232 for the entire place is a real steal if you’re heading over with a few people. Happiness is best when shared.
VI. Hilltop Heritage Bungalow Experience- Kakkabe, Kabbinakad
Coorg happens to be for nature’s most ardent devotees, helping those looking for the road less travelled. Nestled on a bungalow on a hill near Kakkabe, you’ll be offered breathtaking views of Tadiandamol Peak. Antique lovers will love the artefacts on the walls, although feel free to bring people along as this is a spot for the honeymooners and families. Activities here include a stream walk, horticulture tour and bonfire sessions.
What it will cost you: Lose yourself @ Rs. 2500
VII. La Maison, Kotagiri, The Nilgiris
Mr. Benoit seeks your presence in his Maison at the Hadathorai resort. Once there, he ensures to take care of each of his guests and makes your homestay the most fulfilling experience imaginable. Mr. Benoit shares the meals, activities, club meetings and purchases at the village markets (also, he knows the fashion shops so score!) This is for the traveller who likes the couch surfing sort of experience where you really get to know your host, as Mr. Benoit takes a personal interest and suggests music, books, walks and visits. Perfect for families with kids and seniors. During weekends and short holidays, he acts as a correspondent parent of your children if they stay at local boarding schools and is more than happy to organise parties for families, friends and business associates up to a 100.
What it will cost you: An experience like no other but you will have to call them for rates
British aristocracy once frequented this majestic mansion and international tea school, but now nature resorts have taken over and tried to bring back some of its 1800s charm. If coffee isn’t your vice and you long for seclusion, check out the tea nest and its lush tea gardens.
What it will cost you: Yet another Coorgi getaway @ just Rs. 3000
IX. Offbeat Estate Stay - Near Karada
Soak yourself in the scenery when you visit this estate in Karada Village, near Virajpet. After your 12 pm check in, you’ll realise the how riveting your surroundings are, as you trek your way through jagged trails right by the Kabbe Hills. This is the kind of experience you’ll sorely miss if you don’t see Coorg, with its beautiful waterfalls and farms. The morning is filled with a wholesome breakfast and the homestay has two rooms and an attached bathroom, with hot water and back up power for those who are more concerned with the basic amenities on offer.
What it will cost you: Rs. 1750 for the real Coorg
X. Silver Oak Farm - Nandi Hills
A short 90 minute drive from Bangalore will bring you to the fresh air of the hills and tranquil Silver Oak Farm. If you’re the kind of person who likes to live the #locallife, you will appreciate the stay on the slopes of the Nandi Hills, where you can interact with local, rural life. The weather is always beautiful all year round and the food is home-cooked, served with organic produce from the farm itself. You get a spacious porch to gaze upon the homestay and look at the slopes, but a short walk will take you to a plantation. Plan a short trek with your loved ones or play indoor games, because this is the kind of place you want to be device-free in.
What it will cost you: A taste of home away from home and a double room will cost you Rs. 3,750.
XI. Sundara Vana - Nagarhole
This homestay has the benefit of being nestled on 20 acres of private forest, abundance in trees, fruits, crops and various woodland creatures. If you like your nature to be teeming with life, look no further than the Nagarhole National Park close by. You can enjoy a farmhouse experience with a stay at one of their cottages. Dig into the home cooked food and take in a wildlife tour, you’ll be amazed at the biodiversity. A jeep safari will be the perfect accompaniment to adventurous activities such as trekking and whitewater rafting. The evenings can be spent in the cosy indoors with indoor games and campfires.
What it will cost you: At Rs. 2000, we’re surprised we can’t hear the zips on your travel bags.
XII. The Hidden Valley- Chikmagalur
In the town of Handi in Chikmagalur is a homestay experience only the Aranhas can afford you. You’ll be offered something spacious, tasteful and filled with all the necessities. Solo travellers will love the boat rides, bird watching, white water rafting by the River Bhadra and treks. Guided plantation tours and farm life offer the perfect escape from the city. With 30 acres of coffee around you, what more do you need?
What it will cost you: Explore the hidden valley for anywhere between Rs.1500 to Rs. 3500.
Special Mention
XIII. Orange County - Coorg
So we’ll be honest. This doesn’t fit with anybody’s budget and is hardly a ‘homestay’, but we couldn’t resist making a mention of it because the monsoon works a whole different kind of magic in this stunning property. No stone is left unturned at the Orange Country if you’re seeking a luxurious five star holiday. The staff makes sure to cater to your every need and you’ll get an environment so pristine and protected, you’ll wonder why you ever moved to the urban jungle. Design your own plan at the OC, as you observe the indigenous cultures and transport yourself into a land where luxury and pure experience is never shortchanged. The OC offers interactive story telling sessions followed by an evening of tribal dance, an early morning wildlife safari with elephants and a visit to the tribal village will get the blood pumping.
What it will cost you: At Rs. 37,000, don’t say we didn’t warn you.
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