In and Around Sakleshpur

Sakleshpur - A Reminiscence Of An Episode From India's History

Sakleshpur is one of my relaxing long weekend getaways. Lying in close proximity from Bangalore (approx 221 kms), it becomes a preferred drive for bikers and also for families looking for an outing trip.

Abode Of Tea And Coffee Plantation

Pepper Plant

Another gradually rising hilly terrain, a pick for its pleasant weather, outstretched greens of coffee and spices estates, mountain views and walkways to explore. These perfect appetizers bundled with flowing streams and welcoming waterfalls offers a tranquil escape from a busy and rambunctious city noise .

This small hill station, also referred to as 'Poor Man's Ooty' during the British rule, lies in the Western Ghats in the Hassan district of Karnataka, India.

Though a weekend trip is sufficient to cover all the attractions, however if the intent is to relax as well as explore a long weekend is usually ideal.

Myst Home-stay, Sakleshpur

Soaking Up The Fresh Air And Wide Open Greens

Tirthankar & Cooper Enjoying The Comfy Convertible

Myst Homestay

Sakleshpur is a best visit after the rains, i.e. November to mid of May. One may find a lot of budgeted hotels and resorts in the region, our pick was a home-stay.

For us home-stay's are usually the preferred accommodation as it gives you opportunity to learn about the culture of the region, have on the spot cooked authentic tasty food and ample scope to interact with the host at the comfort of a home.

We had pre-booked our stay at Myst Homestay, located on state highway 27 an additional 14.5 kms drive away from Sakleshpur town. 5 standalone huts clad with ridged tiles thatched roofs is visible at a distance from the roadside.

The structures stand visible as they are built on the gradual sloping side of a hillock and can easily accommodate 4 people in a hut. Each hut has a large bedroom with an ensuite bathroom. The ventilated and naturally well-lit up room accommodates a queen sized bed, 2 comfy armchairs and a convertible wooden sofa-cum bed, the passage under the thatched roof provisions for a sit out area to enjoy the lush in the mild showers.

Cooper Enjoying The Volleyball Dance

Walk amidst coffee and Spices Estate

The homestay has provisions for football, volleyball and board games within the premise. If you like playing badminton please do carry your own rackets and shuttle cock to enjoy outdoors.

A serene place to catch up on reading, sense invigorating walks through tea and coffee estates and to sit around a bonfire in the evening enjoying the mystical dancing flames, this is the place to be.

Hospitable Caretaker & The Manager Flanking Tirthankar

Wild Edible Mushrooms

The caretaker and the manager at Myst homestay are friendly and helpful folks. I lost count on the number of tea and coffee cups requested by us during our 3 day stay which was reciprocated with a serving of the hot beverage along with a welcoming smile.

Must try akki roti and wild mushroom (which grow beneath the ground) vegetable which the caretaker can prepare on request.

Waning gibbous

Mystic Dancing Flames Reanimated the Narnia Lullaby

For us Sakleshpur trip coincided with the full moon phase, our the subsequent evenings were spent sitting outside the hut viewing the moonlight disappearing down the hill amidst the fog. The hills appear ghostly in the moonlight and the mystic flames of the bonfire can stage a perfect ambiance to share a ghost story with friends and company.

Handy Tips:

• Do carry mosquito repellent cream or spray to enjoy the outdoors

• Room Tariff: ₹ 2250 per person per day which includes accommodation, Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks and Dinner

• For advance booking, you can contact Manu C at mysthomestay@gmail.com or reach out to him at +91-98809 31141

If you are looking for a relaxing and peaceful family getaway, a humble sojourn, check out Myst homestay.

Part II: Exploring Sakleshpur

Make sure to read Part II Explore: In and around Sakleshpur, where I visit the prehistoric Tipu Sultan's prison, catch a glimpse of opheodrys vernalis and flying peacock and soak myself in the scenic beauty of three mountain ranges forming a 180 degree view.

#travel #roadtrip #weekendgetaway