Coorg – The Scotland of India

The Scotland of India

Kodagu, still widely known by its former name ‘Coorg’ is a district situated in the Western Ghats in the state of Karnataka. The district stands at an elevation of 3000 feet which gives it a very similar weather to Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. Madikeri (earlier know as Mercara) is the hill station in Coorg with an elevation of 3700 feet. This hill station gets its beauty from the lush green surroundings, birds, animals and most hospitable locals. Being a famous tourist destination for the past few decades, Coorg has given rise to an enormous number of hotels, homestays and resorts.

One of the oldest homestays in tucked away in a little village called Hosapatna. This little place is just 12km from the town of Kushalnagar and 30km before Madikeri. Take a left just before you reach the Dubare Elephant Camp and head down a narrow road till you see “The Last Resort – A Homestay in Coorg” on the right. This land was bought in the early 90’s from a well know Captain of the Indian Army. Not being used much (as we had paradise in Bangalore back then) the place was slowly falling apart. This is when we started giving it out to family and friends who would visit and carry out a cleaning and general maintenance. Slowly as the more people started frequenting the place we started charging. This was the birth of the homestay which Im sure was experienced by other home owners.

The Last Resort is centrally located to all tourist spots and is just 1.5km from Dubare Elephant Camp. Have a yummy breakfast and head to Dubare and experience all the Elephant activities arranged by the Madikeri is a three to four hour visit which can be done soon after lunch. Here you can visit Rajas Seat, Abbi Falls and Omkareshwara Temple. Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery also known as “The Golden Temple” is the second largest Tibetan settlement and is a short 20 minute drive from The Last Resort. The unique advantage of this little homestay  is the Cauvery River, which is 10 to 15 minutes walk from the house, completely secluded, no other tourists and is safe for swimming.