The Taj Madikeri is built in a stunning location, surrounded by 180 acres of rainforests on all sides. They organized a walk with Nitin Subbiah, a naturalist and our guide and we were intrigued with his deep knowledge of the many mysteries of the forest, the unique balance of nature, the many examples of the harmony that exists between the flora and fauna – from funnel web spiders that create their home and trap their prey, to strangler trees, wild elephants, exotic butterflies, mushrooming of spices and coffee, this was an incredible walk that was enjoyed across age groups (our group spanned three generations from age four to seventy).
We also got a chance to do the Nishani hike which offers stunning views of the ghats, gorged on local food, shopped tons of spices and indulged in the allure of our surroundings. If there is one thing that stood out for me, it was the remarkable beauty of nature that is abundant in Coorg, in all shades of green. A photo essay below-
The Taj Madikeri is a stunning property set amidst lush green rainforests (It’s an expensive stay and considering that, we had some unexpected teething issues, but all in all, what you get for the price is amazing scenery, plus they have a killer buffet breakfast spread).
Just look at that pool! We spent a lot of time here and the days(in Dec) were extremely sunny and pleasant.
The landscape as we went into the rainforests on our guided walk. As you go deeper, the forest gets dense, but what doesn’t change is the green.
If you love South Indian food, you will go wild at breakfast since a variety of local dishes are served everyday. Light crispy fresh dosas with a choice of chutneys was a daily staple for me.
And I loved this bamboo shoot curry with the rice balls. Yum!
These funnel web spiders were everywhere. They find their spot, create their home and use the web to catch their prey. We were lucky to spot this guy just coming out of his nook.
We plucked some peppercorns off a tree and actually tasted them in their current unripe form. Once ripe, these are cooked and dried and look like the black peppercorn we use in everyday Indian food.
Stunning colors on this little butterfly!
Lot of Elaeocarpus Ganitrus trees grow in the forest, the seeds are known as Rudrakash seeds and used as prayer beads in Hinduism.
This tree is called a Strangler Tree, typically grows in dark dense forests where the competition for light is intense. It grows around any existing tree and spreads itself upwards for light, and downwards to establish roots. Once done, it starts killing the tree inside, if you look closely you can see that the original tree is all but hollow. Survival of the fittest!
Polka dot plant, now abundantly grown in city homes.
We met this little guy and oh and aah-ed to capture photos till we were told it’s poisonous! Nitin assured us that any animal would attack only if they felt threatened. As long as we kept a safe distance and didn’t come in their way, we would be fine.
Stunning views from the top of Nishani peak.
And of course, ending with some coffee yogurt and strong black coffee 😀 .
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