Colonial plantation bungalow turned homestay: hotels in Madikeri, Coorg

The mud-plastered burnt-brick house was born in the last century, with strong wood beams and wraparound verandahs—the colonial plantation bungalow is now a homestay with two charming bedrooms, and still retains its terracotta roof tiles and vintage window shutters. Adjacent is the Rustica cottage, its two large bedrooms sleeping four each, and provided with a kitchen for self-catering, simplicity itself. The plantation shelters coffee pulpers from the 1900s and a 150-year-old granary with a 1-tonne capacity for paddy, as your genial hosts Coluvanda and Diana Thimaiah will happily show you. Coffee, pepper, cardamom and rice grow on the 110-acre estate, about 6km from Madikeri town. The place is proof that simple things are worth striking out for. Breakfast is south Indian/Coorg style plus bread and eggs, coffee or tea; lunch is not served but dinner may be requested in advance (ask for Diana’s pork!). TARIFF From Rs 2,950 doubles CONTACT +91-8272-200234; www.livingcoorg.com