Category: Karnataka

Weekend Getaways Near Bangalore: Explore Hosur’s Hidden Temples, Lakes and Farmstays

Posted in Drestinations, Karnataka, Kerala, Travel Information, Weekend getawaysTagged , , , , Leave a comment

Not every getaway needs to be far-flung. Sometimes, the best escapes are right next door. Just 35 km from the chaos of Bangalore and a short drive from Chennai lies Hosur – a quaint, underrated gem of Tamil Nadu that most travellers zip past. But those who pause, even for a weekend, discover something magical.

Hosur isn’t just a pitstop. It’s a city where ancient legends echo from hilltop temples, lakes mirror tranquil skies, and forests whisper secrets of tribal life. This blog takes you through the soul of Hosur… its stories, spots, and serenity.

A serene lakeside view in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, featuring calm waters surrounded by lush green grass and trees under a cloudy sky.

Why Hosur Deserves Your Weekend

Conveniently perched at the border of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Hosur is easily accessible via NH-44 and the Chennai-Bangalore rail route. It’s an ideal weekend destination from Bangalore, Chennai, Salem, Krishnagiri, and Vellore.

Known as the “Little England of India” for its cool climate and colonial charm, Hosur balances urban bustle with natural calm. From historic temples to misty lakes and vibrant local life, it offers a refreshing mix for spiritual seekers, nature lovers, and urban nomads alike.

The Stories in the Stones: A Glimpse into Hosur’s Past

Hosur’s history is deeply rooted in Kongu Nadu, dating back over 800 years. It has seen the rule of the Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagara kings, Tipu Sultan, and the British. Each has left behind whispers of heritage, making Hosur a silent storyteller with every fort, temple, and relic.

A young couple enjoying a picnic on a grassy area, with a spread of fruits, snacks, and flowers, set against a backdrop of sunlight and trees.

Top Places to Visit in Hosur

1. Chandra Choodeswarar Temple: Set atop a granite hill, this ancient Shiva temple rewards you with panoramic views and divine energy. Built during the Hoysala reign, it’s a place where history and spirituality meet. Visit at sunrise for a surreal experience.

2. Maa Pratyangira Kalika Devi Alayam: Home to Tamil Nadu’s largest Pratyangira idol, this vibrant temple is both visually striking and spiritually intense. The chants, the colors, the energy, it’s an experience you won’t forget.

3. Kenilworth Fort (Brett’s Castle): A rare slice of English architecture in South India. Built in the 19th century, this charming fort-like structure is perfect for history buffs and Instagrammers alike.

4. Muthanallur & Hosur Lakes: These scenic water bodies offer a peaceful retreat. Pack a book, some snacks, and enjoy birdwatching as egrets and herons glide by.

5. Panchapalli Dam: Framed by hills, this dam is an ideal picnic spot. Less touristy, perfect for families and photographers.

6. Aiyur Forest & Eco-Tourism Camps: Trek, zipline, or simply breathe deep in the Eastern Ghats. The eco-tourism camp in Aiyur offers immersive experiences with nature, complete with tribal storytelling, forest guides, and rustic stays.

A camping setup with a tent and a small table adorned with refreshments in a green field surrounded by trees.

The Ideal Weekend Itinerary

Day 1:

  • Arrive by noon
  • Visit Chandra Choodeswarar Temple
  • Head to Pratyangira Temple
  • Evening walk at Muthanallur Lake

Day 2:

  • Morning eco-tour in Aiyur Forest
  • Lunch and relax at a local homestay
  • Quick visit to Kenilworth Fort
  • Return by evening

Where to Stay 

SaffronStays Amondhini Farmstay, Hosur

A traditional villa with a brick facade surrounded by lush greenery and a stone pathway, set against a twilight sky.

A vibrant farmstay retreat where peace, play, and exploration come together.

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway that blends nature, simplicity, and activity, this is it. Spread across 32 acres of lush farmland, SaffronStays Amondhini is a traditional Tamilian-style villa just 30 minutes from Hosur and close to the Aiyur Forest and Panchapalli Dam biking route.

Why stay here

  • A fully functional flower and fruit farm with guided tours through vibrant polyhouses
  • Ideal for families and groups who enjoy outdoor games, cycling, and farm walks
  • Bonfire and barbecue evenings, forest drives, and breakfast by the gazebo
  • Close to local sights such as Nanjundeshwara Temple, Panchapalli Dam, and Hogenakkal Falls
  • Activities include cycling trails, badminton, cricket, board games, and forest hikes
  • Enjoy hi-tea in the garden, storytelling by the bonfire, and peaceful outdoor dining
A farmer standing amidst vibrant flower beds inside a greenhouse, holding a large bunch of flowering plants. The scene is filled with colorful blooms in shades of orange, yellow, and green.

Whether you’re sipping filter coffee in the garden or cycling through village trails, SaffronStays Amondhini Farmstay offers a grounded and refreshing farmstay experience.

SaffronStays Trisara By the Lake, Hosur

A peaceful lakeside villa with a rustic design, surrounded by greenery and pathways, offering a serene atmosphere for relaxation.

A peaceful lakeside villa where slow living and earthy comfort meet.

Just two hours from Bangalore, this earth-toned three-bedroom villa sits beside a calm lake on a fruit and vegetable farm. Built with mud walls, wooden beams, and simple traditional aesthetics, it offers a quiet break from routine.

Why stay here

  • Lake-facing and pet-friendly villa ideal for nature lovers and slow travelers
  • Hand-built with natural materials and designed for comfort and calm
  • Enjoy camping by the lake, short hill treks, or walks through the red-soil paths
  • Wake up to bird calls, sip fresh juice in the garden, or relax on the wooden swing
  • Explore the farm with organically grown mangoes, bananas, and seasonal produce
  • Evenings are best spent around a bonfire, enjoying a quiet meal or stargazing
  • Built during the lockdown as a slow project of love, care, and connection to the land
A cozy indoor living space with wooden furniture, natural lighting, and a staircase leading to an upper level.

Trisara is perfect for anyone seeking a break from the noise, with space to slow down, connect with nature, and feel at home.

Local Flavours and Tips

  • Try local Tamil meals at Mangalaam or La Creme
  • Best time to visit: November to February
  • Carry light woolens for evenings
  • Don’t miss the local flower markets in the mornings
A couple sitting on a bench by a bonfire at night, surrounded by trees and a serene landscape in Hosur.

Plan Your Escape Now 

Hosur is closer than you think and has more to offer than you expect. It’s easy to reach, easy to explore, and just right for a short break. With its peaceful temples, quiet lakes, or a walk in the forest, Hosur gives you a complete weekend experience.

Whether you’re a group of friends or a family looking for a peaceful weekend, Hosur invites you to pause and explore. Let it surprise you. Let it slow you down.

So don’t just think about it, plan your trip, pack your bags, and explore Hosur.

Top 10 Things To Do In Bangalore Post LockDown

Posted in Karnataka, SaffronStays Diaries, Travel Information
Bangalore - The Garden City

Travelling during pandemic might seem like an absurd plan, but come to think of it, it has now opened several opportunities for us all to go local. In fact, with states embracing the new normal, travelling too has got a new facelift. For instance, Staycations and Workations are now being acknowledged more than ever. However, there’s one such city, where these travel norms were being appreciated from before. Where? Well, it’s ‘Namma Bangalore’.

In a recent blog that my colleague wrote; she quite aptly said – a typical Bangalorean is someone who works hard but unwinds harder. And why wouldn’t they? This multilayered city may be the Silicon Valley of India, but it has so much more to offer. Right from cultural and historical to artistic and natural attractions, you’ll find everything in this city.

So, whether it’s your first visit to Bangalore or you simply wish to know your city better, we have curated a perfect list for you:

1. Enjoy an Alfresco

Cubbon Park, Bangalore

One of the best places to unwind right in the heart of the city, Cubbon Park is an ideal picnic spot. You can spend your day with friends or family amidst green shades to relive those childhood memories. Did you know? Cubbon Park, the lung of Bangalore city, is formerly known as Sri Chamarajendra Park.

Address: Kasturba Road, Sampangi Rama Nagara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001
Timing: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm (Everyday)

2. Wander in the Wild

Bannerghatta National Park, Bangalore

A true paradise for nature and wildlife enthusiasts; Bannerghatta National Park, home to an array of flora and fauna, is spread across 100 sq.km. The park boasts of a zoo, a museum, a butterfly park, a safari and an aquarium. You can opt for a guided tour bus or jeep safari to explore the park.

Address: Bannerghatta Rd, Bannerghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560083
Timing: Open from Monday to Sunday (Tuesday Holiday).
Zoo Timings – 09:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Safari Timings – 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM

3. Admire The Deets

Bangalore Palace

The city’s most pre-eminent landmark, Bangalore Palace, a Tudor inspired estate was built in the year 1887 by King Chamaraja Wadiyar. Experience the grandeur of this palace as you walk past the majestic corridors, pristine paintings, Victorian-style furnishings, and the lush green lawns. Fun fact: The Bangalore Palace was built to replicate the Windsor Castle, England.

Address: Palace Road, Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru – 560052
Timings: 10 AM to 5.30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹230

4. Visit Sultan’s Summer Abode

Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, Bangalore

Take a trip down time to experience the exquisite living of Tipu Sultan. Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace is crafted with Indo-Islamic nuances and is made entirely using teakwood. However, the most striking features of the palace are its balconies, grand arches and floral motifs that grace the palace walls.

Address: Bangalore Fort, Krishna Rajendra Rd, New Tharagupet, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560002
Timing: 8.30 AM to 5.30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹5

5. Stroll Through the Botanical Garden

Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore

Spread across 240 acres, Lal Bagh Botanical Garden is dotted with varieties of plants that are 1000 years old. If you like to be around nature, then this is the place for you. Stroll around the park with your loved one or enjoy your morning runs here. Be sure to check out the nineteenth-century glasshouse, which was designed to mirror London’s Crystal Palace.

Besides, when at Lal Bagh, you’ll understand why Bangalore is called the Garden City. So, make sure you include it in your things to do in Bangalore ‘List’

Address: Mavalli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004
Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25
Camera charges: ₹60

6. Calm Your Soul at ISKON Temple

ISKON Temple, Bangalore

Considered to be the as largest ISKON Temple in the world, this majestic edifice aris a perfect amalgamation of spirituality and modernity. Right from modern architecture to perfectly organised stalls to Vedic theatres and open-air amphitheatres, this shrine is an ideal example of a 21st-century temple.

Address: Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Road, Rajajinagar, Bangalore 560010
Timings: 4:15AM – 5:00 AM, 7:15AM – 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM

7. Be Inspired by Art

National Gallery Of Modern Art, Bangalore

A treasure trove for modern art, National Gallery Of Modern Art is a historic mansion that exhibits art from the 18th-century to the present day. Here you’ll find works of famous artists like Ravindranath Tagore, Raja Ravi Varma, Amrita Shergil, as well as lesser-known ones like Bhabesh Sanyal, Paramjit Singh, and Sailoz Mukherjee. Did you know? The National Gallery Of Modern Art was actually a residence that was transformed into a museum.

Address: 49, GF, Manikyavelu Mansion, Palace Rd, Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560052
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: ₹20

8. Witness the Golden Hour

Nandi Hills

Nandi Hills, an ancient hill fortress, is a perfect blend of spectacular views and monuments. If you want to escape the humdrum of the city, then this is where you need to be. Don’t forget to witness the sunrise or sunset, for the view from this 4851 feet summit is truly unbeatable. If the mood strikes in, you can visit the nearby cafes with your friends to snack some delicious munchies. Some of the known cafes around Nandi hills include Hills Drive Cafe, Tribal Cafe and CAFE KA43.

9. Go on Shopping Spree

UB city

When you are done exploring Bangalore or if you are out of options, then you must visit UB City. Located in the Central Business District of Bangalore, UB City is the ultimate shopping destination for all your luxury needs. You’ll find several international brands here such as Rolex, Burberry, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, and Estee Lauder to name a few. Alas!

Address: Vittal Mallya Rd, KG Halli, D’ Souza Layout, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001
Timings: Store Timings: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Restaurants Timings:
11:00 AM – 11:30 PM (Weekdays), 11:00 AM – 01:00 AM (Weekends)

10. Hop, Skip and Chug at Breweries

Known for being the micro-brewery capital, beer-lovers you cannot complete your trip without tasting the craft beers. Toit, Arbor Brewing Company, Byg Brewski, The Pump House, ShakesBierre, Windmills Craftworks are some of the well-known and the must-try breweries in Bangalore. So, make sure to add them to your list.

Savour Authentic Flavours In These South Indian Homes

Posted in Karnataka, Kerala, Local food, SaffronStays DiariesTagged , , ,
Breakfast at Nandavan, Tamil nadu

Comforting coconut curries and stews, gunpowder, fermented, steamed rice cakes, a tinge of tamarind and a tadka of curry leaves with mustard seeds…. Did we hit your soft spot yet? A breakfast daily for many, and comfort food for others, South Indian food is quite a favourite among Indians. While you may not be aware of Bisi Bele Bhaath, Idli Sambhar may still be your go-to dish. 

South India is immensely diverse when it comes to food. It’s safe to say that South Indian flavours have gained tremendous popularity not only in India but across the globe. However, there’s so much more to South Indian cuisine beyond idli and dosa. From lip-smacking rasams and sambhars of Udupi, to the flavoursome appam and Ishtu of Kerala, South Indian cuisine has something in-store for all kinds of foodies. You know what’s better? You can enjoy these flavours at our homes, too.


Chettinad, The Not-So-Fiery One

Pictured here: SaffronStays Nandanvan Estate, Tamil Nadu

Stocked with culinary treasures, Tamil Nadu has always been loved by gastronomers. No matter where you travel, you are bound to be greeted with a delicious spread. Apart from the regulars, Tamil Nadu has one such cuisine, which will please your tummy and satiate your soul — the Chettinad Cuisine.

Known for its complex flavours, Chettinad cuisine is an experience by itself. However, it’s a myth that Chettinad cuisine is spicy and greasy. As a matter of fact, the authentic cuisine is quite mild as it typically uses more coriander seeds than chilli seeds in its dishes.  

Imagine the sweet and savoury Kozhukattai (rice flour dumplings), soft and succulent Chicken Chettinad, freshly made Idiyappam served with either sweet coconut milk or spicy stew… sounds heavenly right? 

Looking for a place to stay in South India? Click here to choose your pick from these top 10 homes in the South.

Carnatic, The Mellow One

Pictured here: SaffronStays Maleya Manor, Karnataka

Considered to be one of the oldest surviving south Indian food, Karnataka cuisine – or Carnatic, as we’d call it – is not just about Mysore Masala Dosas and the Mysore Paks (Pssst! For most of us, it is!). The more you explore this cuisine, you will realise that every region in Karnataka has its speciality. From the famous Neer Dosa and Kori Rotti of Mangalorean cuisine, to the scrumptious fish curries of Malnad, spicy Meat Curries of Kodagu cuisine and the Oh-So-Famous Udupi Rasam, you will literally need a timetable to devour Carnatic cuisine to your heart’s content. Fun fact: Rava Idli, a twist to the regular Idli was invented during World War II due to the scarcity of rice.

The Coconut-ty One

Pictured here: SaffronStays RiverSong – Villa in Kollam, Kerala

Kerala, a true-blue tropical paradise, has a simple yet delicious food platter. And because of its diverse and simple flavours, you might end up going gaga over its cuisine. Besides, with an amazing blend of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, you will never be out of options. Do you know why Kerala is called the land of coconuts? Well, the name Kerala is derived from the Malayalam word ‘Keram’, which means ‘coconut tree’. That’s how the place came to be known as ‘Kerelam’ (land of coconuts). So, the next time you relish those delicious curries, you know why it is infused with coconut milk! 

Some of the must-try Kerala cuisines include Puttu and Kadala Curry, Appam with Ishtu, Dosa Ghee Roast, Kerala-style Prawn Curry, Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu (Spicy Chicken Fry), Naadan Beef Fry (Kerala Style Beef Fry), Mappila Biryani, etc. Also, don’t forget to try Ela Sadya—the king of all the Kerala food, which is prepared on special occasions. 

If these cuisines have got your tummy growling, it’s time you plan your vacation to South India. And, if you still need some more motivation, trust our southern homes to do the trick for you.

5 Ways Your Vacations Can Benefit The Environment

Posted in Community tourism, Goa, Hosts, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Weekend getawaysTagged , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

Are you a nature lover? Wish to contribute to environment protection? Well, there is an exciting way to do that – make your holiday eco-friendly. How? On World Environment Day we show you how to contribute to the environment while enjoying the abundance of nature.

Plant Saplings: One Seed Bears Many Fruits

Whether by a beach or in the mountains, everyone loves to rest and relax amidst abundant flora. For those escaping the crowded metros of our country, a dash of green is always more soothing than the dull greys that surround us. So, while armchair activism about fewer trees in the vicinity may provide temporary respite to the weary mind, planting saplings, especially of indigenous plants, would be a perfect long-term answer for the greater good. Take Kurinji Estate, Kodaikanal for example: This lovely heritage property sits nestled in the midst of an award-winning garden, a percentage of which is the fruit of all its guests. How, you ask? Every guest SaffronStays hosts is gifted a sapling before check-out and can place it anywhere they like on the 9-acre property. Inclusion at its best, innit?

Harvest Water: Each Drop Counts

The fact that our country has to face water scarcity every summer is no news. Interior Maharashtra, the Himalayan region and Central India are some of the worst hit. But you can do your bit by saving your usage of water, and recycling what you can. While lush lawns may look visually appealing, sometimes less is more, and in case of water scarcity, absence can be sweet. The charming owner of L’attitude, Kamshet forfeit the traditional water-guzzling, ecologically disruptive short-grass lawn and planted 108 drought-tolerant trees around the home. Practicality and presentation can always go hand-in-hand. After all, 8th Grade Environmental Studies was taught for a reason, right?

Create Indoor Gardens: True Beauty Is On The Inside

Remember when your mother said ‘Looks don’t matter till you are actually beautiful from the inside’? While an acne-ridden face could not digest this statement, there is no truer line for a home. Imagine waking up to a stunning garden inside your home, rather than just around it? Fresh air, cool ambiance, branching shade and gorgeous flowers, literally at your doorstep is a perfect setting to grab your morning cuppa. While Master’s Coutryard, Gholvad has a central aangan with bed of trees, the various indoor plants sprouting within Cabo de Goa make both these holiday destinations

Source Locally: Nobody Likes A Foreign Body

Being different and trying to push an exotic concept, be it through architecture, materials or plants may not be the best approach to creating a home. Villa 270°, Dapoli is the epitome of inclusive creation: terracotta tiled roofs, structures made of local laterite stone, vernacular architecture that make the cottages charming, yet conserve the environment.

Ventilate Organically: Natural Is Normal

Summers in India are nothing short of harsh. Imagine planning a getaway and then facing the horrid heat, where even an Air-Conditioner is a mere tool against the forces of nature? But, there is a way to beat the blues organically: Create using the natural pattern of wind to maximise the breeze through windows, and curate using natural plant-based materials like Vetiver (Khas) that can provide a day’s cooling on a few drops of water. Simple and easy, right? The owner and the architect at Maya, Khadakvasla got this formula absolutely bang-on.

 

So get going, and let’s save the environment!

11 places in India to enjoy your bowl of Maggi!

Posted in Coastal Maharashtra, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Ladakh, Local food, Maharashtra, SaffronStays Diaries, SikkimTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

Reluctant as ever, my Grandpa refrained to eat noodles, until one day, we were both home alone, rest of the family was busy attending a family function, and how he hated outside food! So, to avoid going to bed with an empty stomach, he gave in to the pop culture and asked me to share my bowl of Maggi with him. Surprisingly, one spoon after the other, slurp..slurp..and slurp! He finished his first ever bowl of Maggi! This yellow colored packet had some magic I tell you, even my Grandpa couldn’t resist the 2 minutes miracle! Yes #WeMissYouToo Maggi, hoping for a comeback, or else you will only be heard of in our memories and be seen in our Maggi Selfie’s to our future generation. Below are the places across India where you can have unique encounters with Maggi.

#01 Matheran

Glide over the mesmerizing beauty of Matheran, while you hear the clippety cloc-cloc of horses. This is one among the very few pedestrian hill stations in India! Enjoy the view of forest from the top and munch on your Maggi meals.

Don’t know where to stay at Matheran? Click here!

#02 Murud

Murud, a city in Raigad region is fast becoming a favorite tourist destination because the only sound that disturbs the peace is that of the sea waves crashing on the shores, barely 50 meters away. Because of the land across, the sea here is quiet and tranquil. Wouldn’t it be amazing to spend some time in isolation with your favorite dish i.e., Maggi?

Don’t know where to stay in Murud? Click here!

#03 Lonavala

Let the gentle breeze at Lonavala sooth you, enjoy the warm maggi, a cup of hot chocolate and some corn bhajiya’s at Tiger point. Cuddle up with your friends, gossip about your school days, or take your kids for a drive and share your good old days with them!

Don’t know where to stay while in Lonavala? Click here!

#04 Munnar, Kerala

Kerala is blessed with a lot of beauty, water bodies, beaches, culture & art! So why not indulge into multiple elements and savor your taste buds with a bowl of Maggi which soothes your sense, mind, body & soul! Sip on the soupy noodles and let the waves wash away your stress.

Don’t know where to stay in Kerala? Click here!

#05 Kullu-Manali

After a long drive through the beautiful ghats, relax with your friends or family in the balcony and peep into the nature and come alive while you fight with your friends for the last spoon of Maggi in that bowl!

Don’t know where to stay in Manali? Click here!

#06 Coorg, Karnataka

The old structures and monuments in Karnataka come alive to tell you tales from the past, hear them out on your visit, and on your way back to home, living amid the jungle, let the monsoon showers hinder outside while you enjoy with your delicious bowl of Maggi!

Don’t know where to stay at Gulmarg? Click here!

#07 Srinagar

Remember your Mom waking you up by bribing you a bowl of hot Maggi? Imagine you are on a holiday and you get a home cooked delicious Maggi with added flavors from the hills, nothing like it, right?

Don’t know where to stay at Srinagar? Click here!

#08 Lahaul & Spiti

Out of nowhere amid the magnificent Spiti Valley, when you finally take a sigh & want to fill in your stomach, a two minute Maggi would be a saviour, isn’t it? Settle yourselves under a tent, glance at the mountains right in front of you & let the breeze bring you a homely feeling!

Don’t know where to stay at Lahaul & Spiti? Click here!

#09 Pangong Tso Lake

The deep blue lake reflects the sky and the mountains around. With a falling temperature, this is the perfect location to be your share buddy for a bowl of Maggi! The clouds are just handful away, thin air, silence, you and your Maggi!

Don’t know where to stay in Pangong Lake? Click here!

#10 Sikkim

Do you like trekking in the Himalayan range? Often come back to the base camp with memories from the hills? Ever cooked your own food at the base camp? A two minute break would be such a relief from the long hour cooking procedure! Enjoy the hot Maggi dish with your trek mates and bring back home #MeriMaggi stories.

Don’t know where to stay in Sikkim? Click here!

#11 Marchula, Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand, an originating point of significant Indian rivers, also known as a land of spirituality, offers breath taking views of mountains to the visitors. This region has multiple options and Marchula, is one among the many! It is a small yet beautiful and famous tourist place. Spend some time observing the running water from the banks of Ramganga and sip on your Maggi soup!

Don’t know where to stay while in Marchula? Click here!

P.S. Cover Photo Credits: http://www.hourdose.com

About the Author:

Keenjal Patel

A reader at mind, a writer at heart, a believer at soul and an achiever overall, is what she want to be. She loves to express through words. She’s a firm believer that imagination rules the world and the day this world absorbs the essence of her words, that would be a day of pride for her!

The “do nothing” rustic stay

Posted in Home stay reviews, Karnataka, Local cultureTagged , , , , Leave a comment

As the title suggests, Sameer’s place in Chettimani is truly one where you can let your thoughts slow down and literally, do nothing.  We had initially booked the ‘mud cottage’, but we eventually moved to the main house, as the kids were thrilled by the idea of sleeping in the attic.

The property lies on the way to Thala Cauvery, the origin of the holy Cauvery River. A visit to the origin point en route is highly recommended. Ask for a cab and your care taker, Harish can help organise the same. But if you don’t want to drive down, just a 15 min walk away through lush green paddy fields and coffee plantations, one can reach the gently flowing Cauvery.  Dip your feet there and forget your worries.

Kaushik and Harish, the caretakers, cooked and served us the most authentic Kodava food, including Pandhi curry (pork curry).  And whenever our stomach rumbled, a round of pakoras and such other snacks were presented. What a gastronomic treat!

As promised (and warned) beforehand, the large spiders (although harmless) did pay us a visit – so be ready to welcome them and not freak out when you see them.

Coorg
A game of scrabble, chess and many rounds of cards – that’s how the kids enjoyed the evenings.

While there, my daughter and I trekked through the jungles (ably guided by Harish) and reached the top that provided some spectacular views. Also, since we were not fully prepared for the trek, a number of leeches did feast on us. The memory that stays with us is of the beautifully flavoured black coffee and honey water given to us by the old lady staying in the house at the top was totally unexpected and an experience we will never forget.  My lazy husband and son decided to stay back and did their own slow trek through the coffee plantations and fields.  My husband also finished reading a book on Coorg history – a book we picked from the home stay library – in a day during the stay.

Coorg home stay
My daughter, Eshani, with the kind Coorgi lady we met during the trek.

Coffee plantation Coorg
Coffee seedlings being planted in a plantation near the property

Coorg Plantation
Showing our son, Aniruddh, what a Pepper plant looks like.

Coorg trek
My daughter excitedly leads the trek while I follow.

 

Take a trip to this beautiful property if you want to switch off from the the rest of the world and experience a rustic stay that brings you close to nature.  Be prepared to welcome the spiders and determine the level of adventure as per your liking!

Hello, Goodbye, Hello – The SaffronStays Express Mission

Posted in Karnataka, Ninja DiariesTagged , , , , , Leave a comment

It’s hard to believe it was only 2 days ago that I was sitting at office in Malad, Bombay, not knowing what was in store for me soon.  And then we, (as in Samir and I) were told that in two days we would have to pack for 20 days of South-seeing! There was like a surge of mixed feelings, like wondering how exactly I would pack 20 days into one bag and how I was going to finish my six pending articles with all the excitement!

This wasn’t just a “moment-I’d-been-waiting-for” cliched scene, it was THE moment I had anticipated since I decided to come back to Bombay from Melbourne (thus leaving all my travel dreams behind I’d assumed). Actually, it’s difficult to explain what this trip really spells out for me.  Sometimes clichés work best and this is one of those times ‘fo shizz’!

DSCN0006

Much packing and not many hours later, I was getting mentally prepared. I was nervous, not quite sure why.  But then again, Thoughts were speeding past my head in speeds I didn’t know existed.

Somewhere amidst all of that, I ended up in Mangalore today.

However, a traveler is about the journey as well as the destination, in my opinion. This story would be complete without a full blown account of the 19 hour bus ride! So here goes.

Day 0: Of backpacking and phone stealing backsides

Thursday the 14th saw me waiting at Andheri, with my parents in tow, waiting to see their “baby” off: / something I was warned I’d been picked on for at work!  Only half an hour late, our bus showed up and suddenly the entire journey mapped out like a virtual projection in my head!

I had planned on making that bus ride my last night of luxury in terms of sleep, but life had other plans for me! Super loud movies deserved my attention! If you know me well enough, you will know that bus rides turn me into and emotional ball of Tian’ness. It was probably a good thing that Samir and I had separate seats (for his sake). Because, for some odd reason I felt streams of saline pouring out of my eyes! ‘IKNOWRIGHT’? WRONG. I’ve never been able to puzzle that one out. Inevitable, though it is.

After I was over being a weirdo (as if!), there was a two hour “I lost my phone” scare at around 1 30 am! After countless silent prayers, trying to sleep and eyeing potential phone stealers suspiciously (also checking out hottie in the aisle in front), aunty next to me turned in her sleep to reveal a blinking red light of the phone I’d “lost” peeping from under her bottom. Yes, Yes. I had to.

It was 3:30 am when that fiasco ended, so much for getting the longest sleep ever. I promise the morning had more stories that the bus ride. So, here we go

Day 1: Of food and families…and more food.

Touchdown Mangalore.  Land of my forefathers, land I had never been to because I never thought I was missing out. Boy was I proved wrong!

After getting slightly duped by our rikshaw guy, we were greeted by our host, Winnie Lobo.  Walking into the little Manglorean lanes was quite refreshing after being cooped up for 19 hours.

And then it all began. The Manglorean way of life, that is. That means lots of talking and LOTS of food.

We started off with a breakfast one scrumptious sannas (fermented rice cakes) with coconut chutney and tea to get us all prepped up for our long day!

Then we chalked out our host meeting plan for the day, and got set to conquer the task at hand. But not without some lunch, our host insisted. J

We, then set out to meet some pretty kickass families. Our leads in Mangalore were slimmer than the ones we have in the other places along the way so while we were at it, we made sure we soaked in the culture as much as we could.

DSCN0048Here’s a picture of Samir being local!

Many hospitable families  with gorgeous houses(that you will soon see on the saffronstays website) later, we ended the day with some new-found friends and some delish kerela parothas and chicken curry! mmmhmm.

Best parts of the trip so far:

Every place has a dog.

DSCN0034

Our hosts were AWESOME! So was the entire neighborhood that refused to let us leave Mangalore without a ‘small’ bite at their place.

DSCN0073

Our last listing was such a nice experience.

DSCN0072

Thanks to everyone we met, we stumbled upon a bonus location as well!DSCN0077

Stay tuned to see where we head off to tomorrow 😉

Good Night world.

About the author: Tianna Coelho is a Bombay born, multi-continent bred, Melbourne-shaped writer with a default wanderlust addiction and an affinity for fashion,passion,chocolate and cuddles! You can read about her quirky discoveries and misfortunes on www.quirkazoid.wordpress.com as she tries to live vicariously through creating, discovering and immortalizing everything along the way!