There are times when you really want to leave the city behind but not venture out too far. We were looking for such a getaway around 3 years ago, when our little boy was just a toddler learning to crawl. We didn't want to drive more than 4 hours but wanted a refreshing vacation. That's when we first came across Coffee Thota Homestay, in Belur, which was situated just at the border of Chikmagalur.
In June 2024, we revisited this place, and if anything, our experience was even better!
About the Property
Coffee Thota Homestay is situated in Belur, just around 35km from Chikmagalur. The house is built in the middle of a coffee plantation, and it is surrounded by trees. There are hammocks and lawn chairs in the garden that will make you forget the world.
The main house has 4 rooms, 2 on the outside and 2 on the inside. The outside rooms are bigger, albeit with slightly lesser privacy. The inside rooms are cozy and private but little small. They also have a dormitory in a separate building.
There is a common area where they have a TV. They also have facilities for informal cricket, badminton, carrom etc.
The stay is inclusive of 3 meals(veg & non-veg), tea/coffee with snacks, bonfire with snacks, and a visit to a nearby view point(free if you go by your own vehicle).
Vibe Check
The property is close to nature and will definitely make you leave the busy city life behind. The coffee tastes so fine that you'll want to drink the entire flask, and the reason is that it is their homegrown coffee. The food tastes excellent, and it is quite exotic if you're not used to this regional food.
You can tour a lot of different places in Chikmagalur and Sakleshpur while staying here, or just spend time at the property reading a book, admiring nature or playing carrom and cricket with your friends and family. You can also take a walk in their plantation.
However, for me, the standout is the hospitality of the hosts. They treat all their guests like family and try to fulfill all their wishes.
Places to Visit Nearby
1. Visit to a secret sunset point(15 min drive)
The hosts will take you to this viewpoint around sunset. It is not marked on any map, and there are no people around so you'll have the place to yourself. There is a small temple which is usually closed. While you won't really be able to see the sun setting from here, the views bathed in the orange pink hues are gorgeous.
2. Devaramane(1 hour drive)
This is another hidden gem to visit in the Chikmagalur area. You can read my detailed blog to know more about this place.
3. Belur and Halebidu Temples(25-45 min drive)
Belur and Halebidu Temples are India's latest addition to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. These Hoysala era temples of 12th-14th century, exhibit exquisite craftsmanship and are definitely worth adding to your travel itinerary.
4. Chikmagalur and Sakleshpur
Various places in Chikmagalur like Mullayangiri, Baba Budangiri, Hebbe Falls etc. can visited from here. Places in Sakleshpur like Manjarabad fort and Bettada Byraveshwara Temple can also be visited from here.
Ideal For
Families, Group of Friends, Small Team Outings
How To Reach
Drive down from Bangalore. It is a 4 hour drive.
Best Time To VIsit
Can be visited any time of the year, but monsoons make the western ghats come alive, so it is my personal favourite season to come here.
Cost and Booking Details
The cost is Rs. 2000 per person per day including 3 meals(veg + non-veg), tea/coffee in morning and evening, bonfire, use of playing amenities and instruments, and guide to sunset point in own vehicle.
Booking can be done through phone/whatsapp: +919845274926
For more details visit their website
Over the last few years, I've visited so many hotels and homestays, but the beauty and hospitality of this place will make me keep coming here. If you've visited any such homestay or want to share your stories of Chikmagalur, start writing on Tripoto and earn credits to travel for free.
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