It was a cozy morning in Sringeri. The weather was pleasantly cool, a refreshing change from the coastal heat we had experienced over the past few days. Being at a higher elevation and away from the sea, the air felt lighter and calmer.
With no rush to leave, I took a moment to simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings of our countryside guesthouse. The gentle sounds of birds chirping and the occasional call of peacocks made the environment feel vibrant yet tranquil. The caretaker and staff at the stay were extremely polite and attentive, making sure our stay was comfortable. A few other families were staying in nearby rooms, but most of them were already preparing to leave early.
Unlike the previous days filled with long drives, we decided to start this day slowly. After a freshly prepared South Indian breakfast, I asked the homestay staff if I could wash the car, which had become quite dusty and muddy after the off-road drives from the previous day. They kindly agreed, and it felt satisfying to give the car a quick clean before continuing the journey.
Through the Forest of Kudremukh
Our next destination was Kudremukh National Park, through which we had to pass to reach our stay at Coffee Gudda near Kalasa in Chikkamagaluru district. This day was meant purely for slowing down—less sightseeing and more soaking in nature.
At the forest checkpoint, we were stopped by the ranger as the road passes through a protected reserve. They took down our basic details and advised us not to stop inside the forest or overspeed. We were also given an ID card containing our travel details, which had to be returned at the exit checkpoint.
The instructions were clear—and important to follow—because the entire stretch is monitored by forest patrol teams.
Hanumanthagudi Waterfalls – A Hidden Gem
Midway through the forest drive, we stopped at Hanumanthagudi Waterfalls. Reaching the falls requires a short trek down a long flight of steps, but it is absolutely worth the effort.
The place felt untouched by commercialization. The water flowed quietly through dense greenery, and the surroundings were calm and refreshing. The entry fee was ₹60 per person. We spent some time taking pictures and simply enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Of course, the return climb was another story—over 300 steep steps back up to the parking area definitely required some effort!
Coffee Gudda – In the Heart of Coffee Country
After exiting the forest checkpoint and returning the ID card to the ranger, we continued a few more kilometers and finally reached Coffee Gudda Resort.
The property is a beautiful plantation estate growing coffee, tea, spices, and betel trees. What caught my attention were the clusters of small white flowers spread across the plantation. Curious, I asked about them and learned that these delicate blossoms are actually coffee flowers—the early stage of the coffee beans that will be harvested in the future.
Since it was the off-season and the resort was undergoing some expansion work, the manager generously upgraded our room to a King Suite, which normally rents for around ₹18,000 per night during peak season.
After ordering lunch from the in-house restaurant, we spent the afternoon relaxing in the room until about 5 PM.
Evening Visit to Horanadu
Later in the evening, we drove to the nearby Horanadu Annapoorneshwari Temple. The road leading there was lined with endless coffee and tea plantations, which reminded me strongly of the scenic Temi Tea Garden from my earlier travels in Sikkim.
The temple complex also has souvenir shops and a small restaurant area. We spent a little time exploring, trying some local snacks, and enjoying a warm cup of authentic Chikkamagaluru coffee.
A Simple Dinner Stop
On the way back, the dark rural roads eventually led us to the small market area at Kalasa Junction. Here we stopped at a humble but famous local eatery, Nandhini Dosa Camp.
Run by an elderly couple, the place is known for serving authentic local-style dosas. If you ever pass through Kalasa, this is definitely a must-try spot.
A Perfect Night in the Plantation
With the cool mountain breeze brushing our faces, we slowly drove back to the resort. By the time we reached, the entire area was pitch dark. Since we were almost the only guests in the property, there were very few artificial lights around.
It turned out to be perfect for stargazing.
The night was silent except for the gentle chorus of crickets and night insects—a natural lullaby echoing through the plantations.
A perfect way to end a slow, peaceful day in the heart of the Western Ghats.
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