The journey
Chikmagalur is a tranquil hill station about 250 km from Bangalore. The route is relatively simple. Follow the Bangalore-Mangalore highway till Hassan and then head straight to Belur road till you reach Chikmagalur. The route offers all kinds of driving pleasures ranging from expressways to sharp hairpin bends on hilly roads and boy it is fun! The coffee estates on the way can also be booked for a day or two if you are a larger group looking for some luxurious tranquility in the lap of nature. But we were heading to something much better.
Wind mills spotted on the way
There lies the hill station
Climbing for the clouds
A coffee estate
Jhari Ecostay Resort
Our destination was a unique resort located beside a waterfall. It is located a bit before the main town. The road which leads to the resort is rather adventurous and only 4 wheel drive vehicles owned by the resort can take you to the actual spot. Our vehicle had to be parked at the start of the private resort road. It started pouring when we reached at the entry point which added to the excitement and thrills of the downhill road. Also, the cell coverage will be lost till you are at the resort which adds up to the tranquility of the experience.
The location of the resort will make you happy the instant you reach there and view from the suits is another refresher. The resort also has a nature therapy spa which is a bit expensive but the small spa has its own natural ambiance. We received complimentary foot massage in our package and it was refreshing. Coming to the food, I must say we were impressed with the overall dinning arrangement and taste of the food.
View from the dinning area
View from the suit
The nature therapy spa
The Adventure zone
The resort advertises many adventure activities but it is not the real adventure destination except for two activities.
The rope crossing in front of the waterfall
Downhill trek to the downstream waterfall
The waterfalls
Probably the main attraction of the resort is 2-3 waterfall around it. One is exactly beside the resort while the other two are located downstream where the resort personnel normally arrange for a barefoot trek. Beware, if you are afraid of leeches, this activity or even the resort is not advisable as there is no shortage of that. You constantly have to check your feet after you come back from outside. But at the time of barefoot downhill trek, we have to apply oil to out feet which refrains leeches from biting your skin. The fear goes away once you see the oil working. And I will recommend this activity if you want to have some adventure and you are fit enough to climb back with the help of ropes.
The spot offers decent enough offbeat experiences for two days of stay. People can also explore nearby treks and waterfall if time permits.
The stay tends to feel longer than usual due to absence of mobile network coverage and helps you connect better with the nature. For me it was an unique liberating experience away from hectic daily routine and in the lap of nature.