Dheeksha Mahesh@NFC
The less trodden uphill roads, birds chirping, amidst the coffee estate, fresh air, surrounded by greenery, so calm, rejuvenates our senses. Thotadhalli homestay gives an antique feel and yet bundled with the needed modern comforts. Every space in the home stay has its own essence, and lets to unwind and indulge oneself with nature. The courtyard, dining area, front porch of every room, is adorned with hand-picked beautiful antique pieces and not to miss out the rare bonsais collection. Bundled with the beauty and comfort, yummy home cooked food was the cherry on the cake.
We were looking for a place where we with our 2 year old son could enjoy and stay comfortably. After ardent research with little time in hand, my husband stumbled upon ‘Thotadhalli Home Stay’, Chikamangalur. It looked beautiful. Checked in trip advisor and it had brilliant reviews. Finally, we zeroed down ‘Thotadhalli Home Stay’.
We started early. It was six hours drive from Bangalore including a break for breakfast. As we approached the place, we lost mobile network. The home stay was not on google maps as network accessibility is very low. We just had to follow the path and sign boards directing to the place.
I had my own doubts after booking the place but as we approached the place, I realised it’s way beautiful than I imagined. Owner – Pallavi, Prakash and staff were very welcoming. Of the four rooms, we checked in to the corner room with alluring front porch wooden swing, which I fell in love with. There is a lawn adjoining the room.
My son enjoyed the space thoroughly. The campfire in the evening added to his excitement. We also took him for morning walk in the coffee estate. The space is very kids friendly and they also make food specially for children on request. My son enjoyed kichadi specially made for him.
There are lot of places to visit around the Home Stay, but we just went to the Mullayanagiri peak and enjoyed the beautiful view. It’s been over few months now, but my son still remembers that place and wants to go visit the place again and so do we.
Check list while travelling with Kids
- Water bottle
- First aid and medicines
- Tissue paper or napkin
- Spoons and knife
- Fruits – Banana, Apple, oranges
- Dry snacks – Biscuits, dry fruits, sandwich
- An activity book, story book
- Warm clothing, jacket
- Raincoat (seasonal)
- Cap and goggles
- Sunscreen (Lactocalamine)
- Chocolates ( always a good energiser)
- Extra pair of shoes
- Quick food like Arrowroot powder, which you can prepare if kitchen available. Very good while travelling.
- Few of their favourite toys to play with