You will stay in a heritage colonial bungalow dating back to 1853, surrounded by coffee and spice plantations. The property offers a distinctive old-world atmosphere with its traditional architecture, verandas and peaceful surroundings. This is a heritage plantation stay rather than a conventional luxury hotel or commercial resort. Its charm lies in its history, intimate setting and close connection with nature.

The journey combines nature, heritage and local experiences, including: - Guided walks through coffee and spice plantations. - A visit to a tea factory to understand the tea-making process. - Exploration of the scenic tea gardens. - An evening walk towards the origin of the Hemavathi River. - A visit to the picturesque village of Javali. - A trek to Bidruthala through shola forests and grasslands. - A picnic breakfast amidst nature. - Traditional Malnad cuisine and relaxed plantation evenings. The journey also includes visits to the iconic Gomateshwara statue at Shravanabelagola and the magnificent Hoysaleswara Temple at Halebidu.

The tour includes a combination of leisurely plantation walks and a short trek to Bidruthala through natural trails, shola forests and grasslands. The Bidruthala trek involves walking on uneven terrain and requires a reasonable level of basic walking fitness. Comfortable trekking shoes are recommended. While the walks offer opportunities to explore the surroundings at a relaxed pace, participants should be comfortable with outdoor walking. The trek may be skipped by those who prefer to spend time relaxing at the estate.

Food is an important part of the plantation experience. You can look forward to traditional Malnad cuisine, featuring regional flavours and home-style preparations. The experience includes freshly brewed plantation coffee, tea and meals served during your stay. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences can be communicated while booking, subject to prior confirmation.

January is generally a pleasant time to explore the Chikmagalur region, with cool mornings and evenings and comfortable daytime temperatures. We recommend carrying: - Comfortable cotton clothing for daytime. - Light woollens or a jacket for early mornings and evenings. - Comfortable walking shoes and trekking footwear. - Sunglasses, sunscreen and a cap. - Personal medication and a reusable water bottle. A small daypack will also be useful for plantation walks and the Bidruthala trek.

Connectivity can be limited in certain parts of the plantation, depending on your mobile network provider. Network availability may vary across the property and surrounding areas. The setting offers a wonderful opportunity to disconnect from everyday routines, enjoy conversations and spend more time amidst nature.

Yes. The experience is suitable for travellers who enjoy nature, heritage stays, plantation life and slower-paced journeys. Couples, families, friends and solo travellers can all enjoy the experience. However, participants should be comfortable with the walks and outdoor activities included in the itinerary. Besides the scheduled January departure, customised arrangements for private groups can also be explored on request, subject to availability and group requirements.