Chikmagalur, with its rolling countryside and spreading plantations, is best enjoyed by living in a homestay.

The district of Chikmagalur or Chikkamagaluru in Karnataka was until recently a well-kept secret. But its growing popularity has not dimmed its allure, for this entrancing verdant hilly corner of the country, bordering Hassan, Mangalore and Shivamogga, has a number of romantic nooks where couples can schmooze the days away. Sitting pretty in the heart of coffee and spice plantation, shielded by thick vegetation and a virtual wilderness. Communed with nature, trekked in a lush forest where birds trilled in hidden boughs and strolled past frothy waterfalls. Bhadra sanctuary where the playful behemoths and their caring mahouts displayed a touching camaraderie. Back in plantation homestay/resort, where birds roosted noisily for the night and the sawing of cicadas resonated in the forest beyond, you feel totally in sync with nature and each other.