Waking up to the gorgeous sun rays on your bed, invigorating aroma of fresh coffee beans, gentle chirping of birds and a subtle sound of the nearby stream, can be your memorable experience in the southern hills of the country.

Eco Retreat - The Tamara Coorg

Sprawing in 180 acres, perched at a height of about 3,500 feet above sea level, The Tamara Coorg is a luxury eco - retreat nestled in the heart of the hills. Staying in this charming property means a memorable experience that combines stunning natural beauty with world-class amenities and services. You are in the middle of idyllic surroundings with lush greenery, aromatic coffee, cardamom, and pepper plantations, beautiful streams, and cascading waterfalls-all within a breathtaking eco resort. Stunning views are nothing short of magical, and the resort offers multiple vantage points to enjoy them. The tranquil silence of the hills is broken only by the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves.

60 luxe cottages are well equipped with all modern comforts while the architecture looks very earthy and eco-friendly. Swish low beds, big flat screen TVs, power showers, wooden flooring and contemporary lamps and furniture with plenty of nature light, complete the cottage decor beautifully.

What sets The Tamara Coorg apart is its philosophy, deeply embedded in its mission and vision to balance people, planet, and profit through a responsible hospitality model characterized by warmth and integrity. The team at The Tamara Coorg is dedicated to providing heartfelt service, fostering strong collaboration to leverage intelligence and creativity, pursuing continuous improvement, upholding social responsibility, and maintaining integrity in all actions.

While relaxation is paramount, the resort also offers numerous activities to keep you engaged and entertained.  Forest Therapy is very popular amongst guests, where they like to immerse themselves in the deep environs of forests, have a conversation with the trees and draw positivity from nature. Trekking and Plantation Tours are very exciting to look forward to. There are several stunning trail points overlooking the mountains, while plantation tours provide a close look at the coffee, cardamom, and pepper plantations. From Malabar Trogons and Laughing-Thrushes to woodpeckers and Whistling-Thrushes, birdwatchers have a rewarding treat!

Culinary experiences such as 'Hornbill Hi Tea' and 'Kodava Style Meals' are the highlights. Explore the local Coorgi dishes like Pandi Curry, Kadumbuttu, Akki Roti and different styles of curries like Bimbale Curry, Kummu Curry , Koli Curry and many more available at 'The Fall' Restaurant.  The Falls caters to diverse palates with a menu featuring local Coorgi specialties, classic Indian dishes with the magic of international ambiance. The restaurant boasts a unique bridge structure with a stunning glass floor revealing a waterfall below. Elegant decor, comfortable furniture, and warm service create a luxurious atmosphere. 

Whether it's indulging in yoga or meditation session,  working out at the fitness studios, enjoying a candlelit dinner, or simply listening to the gentle stream as you relax amidst pine and eucalyptus trees and chirping birds for company, every moment here is precious. It's a destination that defines the dream of a perfect blend of nature and luxury, crafting lasting memories.

To reach The Tamara Coorg from Delhi or Bangalore, the nearest airport is Kannur & from airport to property it takes 2hr 27 minutes. Total distance from airport to The Tamara Kodai is 84.4 km.

Experience Back to School Ethos at Evolve Back, Coorg

Situated amidst 300 acres of coffee and spice plantations Evolve Back resort is a perfect getaway. Enjoy the daily live sessions on the art of making gourmet coffee or opt for a guided walking or jeep tour around 300 acres of coffee and spice plantations. Bird lovers have a memorable sighting while others go for coracle ride on the Cauvery. Explore nearby villages on electric cycles, or just walk with a naturalist; every activity is full of fun and excitement.

Families, friends, and couples can opt for the heritage-inspired Kodava-style Heritage Pool Villas or the plantation-style Lily Pool Villas which ensure maximum tranquility.

The resort features Kodava-style Heritage Pool Villas, built with the design ethos and traditional homes of Coorg, while the Lily Pool Villas are crafted in a plantation style with tall roofs, rooms with an extended area of living space leading to an open shower one can bathe in under the stars.

Pure Nature and Culture at Evolve Back is a blend with nature and art. Among other activities, guests can explore a coffee plantation, go bird watching, and enjoy cultural performances, ones that will help you truly appreciate the Coorgi way of living.

This hill retreat with stunning plantations to explore, beautifully combines luxury with the charm of the region making it no to be missed destination.

To reach, best option is to take a Delhi-Bangalore flight and a six-hour road journey to Coorg from Bangalore. The car journey is long, but the highways and roads are in excellent condition, and the scenic beauty of Karnataka is not to be missed.

In The lap Of Nature At Xanadu Coonoor

 With a spectacular location, serene views and stunning vistas of the Nilgiris range, The Xanadu in Coonoor is an ideal secluded getaway. A comfortable two hour drive from the Coimbatore International airport takes you to Scandinavian chic designed villa. Xanadu is about 6 kms from the heart of Coonoor town so while you are here nicely tucked in the cosy hills, yet you are not far away from the town.

Wooden flooring, a high vaulted roof and floor-to-ceiling windows accentuate the magnificent views from the cozy comfort of the villa. Well equipped with all modern comforts, en-suite bathrooms and Jacuzzi in the Premium room promise blissful indulgence. Sit in the lush blooming garden, savour the beauty of the mist covered hills and if you like, pick a book from their well stocked library and enjoy reading.

Activities are plenty here to engage you. There are trekking trails, walks through tea gardens or visiting nearby forests, lakes and tribal communities. You can also register for tea tasting sessions. Bird lovers are profoundly moved by the sightings here. Coonoor is a paradise for birdwatchers and Xanadu offers nature walks with knowledgeable local birding enthusiast. You might spot some rare birds among the 60 species that call the Nilgiris home including the Nilgiri shortwing and the black and orange flycatcher.

For yoga lovers, the landscaped gardens and scenic surroundings provide perfect immersion sessions. If you taking it easy, no worries, capture sunrise and from your room, rather from your bed. Engage in star gazing in the night as stars twinkle like shining jewels in the sky.

You give bonus points to the team here as the focus on dining is on local and seasonal produce. Sumptuous breakfast choices include South Indian signature dishes and western staples with plenty of fresh juices. The team is happy to cook home style food on order with special preferences.

What better time to visit these destinations than the scorching heat of the plains? So brace yourselves for an unforgettable experience through an indulgent, immersive getaway in the heart of the hills, down South.

Sharmila Chand is an author and independent journalist