Kodava secret

The growing band of charming homestays in Coorg has a new member: Gowri Nivas, located 40km from Madikeri, a traditional ainmane or ancestral home of a Kodava family. Accommodation is in simple, attractive rooms that have attached baths and running hot and cold water, apart from such unnecessary items as cable television. Ignore the last and go river rafting, parasailing, rock climbing or trekking. Visit the elephant camp, the king’s summer palace, the Igguthappa temple and the birthplace of the Cauvery. And when you’re done, come back to the welcoming folds of Gowri  Nivas and gorge on Chef Chandra’s Coorgi delights. Tariff: Rs 3,300 for couple, with breakfast. Meals: Rs 250 per head (non-veg). Contact: 08272-228597, 9448193822, www.gowrinivas.com