The misty mountains
In an overconnected world of social networking sites and every application that lets you broadcast your every move, the idea of a holiday is not just about leaving workmates behind anymore. Today to me it’s about leaving all this technology behind so you can take a vacation from everything that connects you to the world.
As I landed in Bengaluru, groggy, early one morning, I closed my eyes briefly, took a deep breath and mentally geared myself for a long, almost seven-hour drive to Coorg. Allowing myself the leeway of listening to some music off the radio in the car, I was determined to use as few gadgets as possible. The drive was unending, the heat from time to time unbearable and a patch of the road that I was convinced would cause my back to snap. By the time I reached the hotel in Madikeri (seven km beyond Coorg), I was yearning for a bed, waiting to drop into it and pacify my stiffened back, with no intention whatsoever to look around until I felt adequately rested.
When I walked into the reception of Vivanta by Taj, Madikeri, the staggering view of the hills and ravines took my breath and tiredness away in one swift second. Unobstructed by human habitation stood nature, waiting to cradle you and leave you rejuvenated. Standing at 4,000 sq. ft from sea level amidst a thick rainforest, I was embraced by a short chilly breeze while sipping a Coorg coffee delight — bella kaapi.
Within minutes of checking into my room, the very organic feel of the place took me in. Then I discovered that I had to stretch myself on the top of my toe and as much away from the room to possibly try and get one bar of cellphone network. If the idea was to get in touch with your inner self on a holiday, that the network was awful most certainly helped.
So I made my way to the Jiva Spa, a much talked about centre of Ayurveda, natural massages and wellness. Sixty minutes later, after the masseuse relaxed every muscle of mine, I stepped out convinced that I’d go back to my room and hit the sack. It wasn’t the best massage I’ve had but it certainly gave me the spring in my step to go out and try to explore a tiny portion of this 108-acre property.
One of the best things on offer is a nature trail. The very knowledgeable naturalist walked us through narrow paths and dense sholas, reminding us of what we miss out on a daily basis as we live our high pressure city lives. Rare orchids, bamboo plants, ferns and so many other botanical beauties cut you out of the din of a community and put you one with nature.
When I got ready to come back home, the first thing that got my attention was just how much noise I was cut off from while enjoying myself in this carefully maintained property. A holiday really should be about relaxing and not Instagramming and updating your statuses. The long drive was worth it but the silence that followed elevated the experience beyond the 4,000 sq. ft where the property was ensconced. Disconnect from your daily din and make this trip to Madikeri.
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