THE WINDERMERE ESTATE
sits high in the Palni Hills, in the middle of the magnificent Western Ghats, in Kerala. This lovely little place comprises rooms and cottages perched on a hilltop, surrounded by cardamom plantations. The 360 degree views are truly awe-inspiring and you often find yourself looking down on the clouds below you, before they get burnt off by the sun to reveal the huge valley below and the distant ring of hills. Friendly staff will take you off on long walks in the hills or on an exciting walk through the maze of tunnels through their private cardamom estate. Delicious, local cuisine and thirstquenching mint tea awaits you on your return from a vigorous and informative walk.
Munnar is accessed by air or road from Kochi, and by a 2 - 3 hour drive by road from Thekkady, Kanam, Palakkad, Madurai or ‘the Backwaters’.
THE KALMATIA SANGAM
HIMALAYA RESORT
lies in the heart of the Kumaon hills, close to the temple town of Almora. At 2000m, this delightful little place comprises a collection of individually different but very prettily decorated colonial hillside cottages. It is managed by descendants of the original owners, who take an active part in the running of the property. For those wanting to explore further a field two day walks with an overnight stay in a tent or longer walks can also be arranged by your very affable hosts.
Almora is accessed by road from Corbett, Nainital, Binsar, Kausani, Ranikhet or by train to Kathgodam from Delhi, followed by a 3 hour journey. |
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PALACE KAWARDHA
is situated in the state of Chhatisgarh. This tranquil, isolated retreat is surrounded by stunning scenery, the Maikal Hills and tribal lands. Constructed of Italian marble and stone and surrounded by well maintained gardens, it was built in the 1930’s by Maharaja Dharamraj Singh. The Royal family still maintain their residence.Whilst here you can venture out on day walks to learn about the cultures of the local tribe, the Baigas. Overnight treks, taking you deeper into this fascinating area can also be arranged along with visits to Kawardha town which has some interesting temples.
Kawardha is accessed by air to Raipur followed by a 3 hour road journey, or by road from Bilaspur, Kanha National Park or Kanker.
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TRANQUIL PLANTATION HIDEAWAY,
on the Kuppamudi Coffee Estate is situated at Sultan Battery, high in the coffee growing area of the Western Ghats. It remains a delightfully unexploited area of northern Kerala. This secluded plantation is run by the estate’s Resident Director and his wife who are highly amusing and friendly hosts. The 70 year old plantation bungalow has been beautifully restored and each of the 8 comfortable rooms has been individually decorated. Take leisurely walks high into the hills on various different walking routes which are outlined on an ingenious map left in your bedroom. Half way through a walk you may be rewarded with a feast of a picnic awaiting you in some hidden spot and throughout the walk you will have sublime views. Return in the evening for a swim in the pool and a mouth-wateringly delicious dinner.
Tranquil is accessed by road from Tellicherry,Wynad, Ooty, Coorg, Nagarhole and Calicut.
THE GLENBURN TEA ESTATE,
lies just an hour from Darjeeling, high in the Himalayas of West Bengal. This heavenly little plantation retreat is situated above the banks of the River Rungeet, and is overlooked by the mighty Kanchenjunga. Home to generations of tea planters, it was originally established in 1860 and remains today a working tea estate. Owned and run by the Prakash family, it is a wonderfully cosy and peaceful place to stay.Wildlife abounds and there is plenty to do by way of a private tour of the tea estate or walking, trekking, fishing, picnicking and birdwatching.
Glenburn is accessed by air to Bagdogra, followed by a 3 hour drive. It is also reached by road from Gangtok, Darjeeling, Pelling, Samthar, Kalimpong or by a longer road journey from Phuntsholing on the Bhutan/India border. |
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THE GREEN MAGIC RESORT,
is situated deep in the jungle of the Western Ghats, overlooking the tropical forest of Wynad National Park. It is a place where nature has been perfectly preserved and where you find verdant vegetation, gurgling streams,misty mountains, and abundant animal species. It is a naturalist’s paradise. The accommodation has been designed and furnished with indigenous, eco-friendly materials and comprises 8 cottages set along a rushing stream. The 3 incredible ‘tree houses’ are 100ft up in the canopy of the jungle and have birds eye views out over the surrounding forest and are reached by ropeways or a pulley. The food is simple but excellent and, organically grown. A haven of peace and a true jungle experience.
Wynad is accessed by road from Tellicherry, Sultan Battery, Ooty, Coorg, Nagarhole and Calicut.
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