Yagyaraman Mahadevan

We had decided to go on a Vacation for a week. There was a Function to attend in Coimbatore on Friday. So we decided to get out of Bangalore the previous Sunday and take a Week Vacation. At the last moment, decided to start the Vacation from Nagarhole and then go to Bandipur. But, Nagarhole does not have any great Hotels for accomoation. Dilip, my Manager gave me contact of a Homestay where he had stayed, when he had been there.

It is Green Retreat (www.greenretreatcoorg.com), by Manu. Called up them to find out details about Accomodation. Even before I could confirm, he was ready to guide me about the Route from Bangalore to Nagarhole, what all can be done there etc.. After getting all the details, gave the Confirmation after couple of hours.

The 2 days of our Stay at their “Manu Estate” is certainly unforgettable. They have a 30 acre plantation. Hospitality at its best. First, we were given an Accomodation in the old bungalow, but then we moved into the New house (there were guests already in the basement rooms). The place was very very well maintained. Manu uncle and Muthu aunty made sure we were very comfortable there. The rate we paid was for accomodation and 3 times food . Food was truly extra ordinary. If you are visiting Nagarhole, I personally think, this is the PLACE to stay and enjoy life.

 We went in for a Walk in the morning in their plantation area. Uncle guided us as to what all activities are there and when to go for what so that we are also relaxing there and dont miss out on any place

We reached the place around 1 PM, after a good lunch and rest went to the Wayanad Forest Safari (Wayanad is around 3 Kms from there). This was our first forest safari and we were enjoying the trees around us, sounds of birds etc. and as we were in the middle of the forest, it rained very heavily. The thunder sound was heard in Dolby DTS effect very close to our ears. Lightening was too close. Great experience to be in the mid of the forest on a Jeep when it was raining. Could not spot anything other than Deers and Bison there.

Next morning, we went to Iruppu falls around 20 Kms from our Homestay. Was not the very right time to be there because water in the falls was very less. Monsoon is yet to set in. If you cannot walk for around 1.5 to 2 Kms on the plains, steps, stones not a right place to be in.

In the afternoon wen to the Rajiv Gandhi National Park (previously Nagarhole National Park). The Safari in closed Mini Bus is only between 3 PM and 5 PM. In case you are crossing the place by around 1:30, you can give your name, so that you are first on the Safari list. We went in around 2:30 and after waiting, I went and stood in the Queue. It is first come first server basis. Got into the Second bus. We felt, we should have been in the First bus so that we could spot animals first. Then we learnt that each bus takes different routes. Again, various varities of Deers along with Bison and Elephants was what we saw. Couple of days before they had sighted a Leopard there .

After the Safari, went to Tirunelli temple on the Wayanad side. Around 25 Kms from Kutta. First 3 Kms road is very bad. After that amazing road. Crossed the Wayanad forest and headed to Tirunelli Temple. Oh………What a view of hill and mountain from there…….

Finished the worship and left around 7 PM from there. No lights on the road because of Forest area. The first time, I saw the power of our Car’s light . As we were driving closer to Wayanad forest, we saw huge heard of Deers on the road. The headlight of the car on their eyes, made it look RED and it was an amazing experience to see.

Next morning, left to Bandipur. Passing through Nagarhole forest in the mornings is again a great experience. So many deers and sun rays passing through tall trees was a Scene to watch out for!!!

Overall Nagarhole stay was truly amazing experience though we did not see a Tiger yet in the Forest. Did we see it in Bandipur!!!!!!!!!! READ THE NEXT POST

Click on these links below to access the full set of photos taken [Most of these photos were taken by Madhu)

Photos in Nagarhole Forest   Photos of Wayanad Safari   Photos of Morning Walk in Homestay   Photos of Iruppu falls   Photos of Safari in Rajiv Gandhi National Park   Photos of route from Nagarhole to Bandipur

Sample Pictures