March 23, 2024
As I ventured into the heart of Chikmagalur, I found myself drawn into a world where every leaf, the breeze, and every aroma seemed to whisper tales of coffee. The journey to The Serai Chikmagalur was not just a physical one; it was a journey through the rich history and culture of coffee in India.
Amidst the lush greenery of Malenadu, The Serai Chikmagalur stands as a beacon of luxury amidst nature's bounty. As I arrived, I was greeted by the soothing melodies of chirping birds and the gentle rustle of frangipani swaying in the breeze. The air was infused with the unmistakable fragrance of freshly brewed coffee, hinting at what lay hidden within the sprawling 77-acre plantation.
The Serai Chikmagalur welcomed me with open arms, offering a sanctuary where I could immerse myself in the captivating world of coffee. The resort itself is a testament to luxury, with its elegant architecture blending seamlessly with the natural beauty that surrounded it. From the opulent rooms overlooking the verdant plantations to the serene infinity pool, every aspect of The Serai Chikmagalur exuded an aura of tranquility and refinement.
Nestled in this woodlot are 29 villas spread across four categories offering private pools or jacuzzis, each one a haven of luxury and comfort amidst the verdant embrace of the coffee plantations. As I stepped into my villa, every window framed a picture-perfect view of the dense plantations. I found solace in the simple pleasures of floating in the private pool with my Kindle in tow.
The coffee experience at The Serai truly captured my heart. Guided by the inhouse naturalist Pradeep, I embarked on a journey of discovery with a walk through the plantation. The history of coffee in Chikmagalur is a tale steeped in legend and tradition, dating back centuries to when the mystical properties of the humble coffee bean were first discovered in the lush hills of Malenadu. Historical records suggest that it was the legendary Sufi saint Baba Budan who introduced coffee to the region in the 17th century.
Legend has it that Baba Budan, on a pilgrimage to Mecca, discovered the invigorating properties of coffee and resolved to bring it back to his homeland. Concealing seven coffee beans within his garments, he returned to Chikmagalur and planted them in the fertile soil of the Western Ghats. From these humble beginnings, coffee cultivation flourished, transforming Chikmagalur into a thriving hub of coffee production. Over the centuries, Chikmagalur became synonymous with the cultivation of Arabica and Robusta coffee varieties, thanks to its ideal climate and rich soil. The region's cool temperatures, ample rainfall, and misty hill slopes provided the perfect conditions for growing coffee, resulting in beans of exceptional quality and flavor.
The highlight of my stay was undoubtedly the coffee tasting session, where I had the opportunity to savor a diverse range of flavors and aromas. From the bold and robust notes of Arabica to the smooth and mellow tones of Robusta, each cup told a story of its own, reflecting the unique terroir of Chikmagalur. This was complemented by various coffee brewing techniques from the humble mocha pot to the modern aeropress. I thoroughly enjoyed the local concoction of black coffee with a generous helping of black jaggery and cinnamon.
Beyond the plantation walk and coffee tasting, The Serai Chikmagalur offers a plethora of experiences like a trek to Mullayanagiri, the highest peak in Karnataka, cycling across the estate, spa treatments and Malenadu dining experiences. You can also indulge in a romantic dinner at your villa draped in rose petals. A birding tour is conducted every morning at 6.30am which reveals a treasure trove of biodiversity, with kingfishers, swallows, drongos, and woodpeckers flitting amongst the branches.
In the embrace of The Serai, I found myself slowing down, savoring each moment and reveling in the simple joys of life. And as I watched the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of gold and crimson, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the magic of Chikmagalur in all its glory.
