About this Blog: India’s only rain-forest resort and a delightfully rare wellness retreat, the Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa is located at close vicinity to the urban jungle of Bengaluru. I spent a couple of beautiful nights at the wellness retreat and refueled my soul and body!


taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: the view
“Everything the light touches is our Kingdom!” The outdoor pool and the reception of the Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa

 

From a blissful luxurious retreat in the Western Ghats jungles to a gorgeous backdrop of a destination wedding venue, the Taj Madikeri Resort has perfected the art of responsible hospitality. It took Taj a decade to build the property, taking keen note on the nuances of traditional Kovada architecture and subtle styles inspired by the locals. I recall my stay at the Taj property with fondness!

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
One of the luxury villa, perched on the hills and seen from the nature trail!


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How to reach The Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort


At the wee hours of a Monday night, I left Namma Bengaluru in deep slumber and wheezed past the highway connecting hinterlands of Karnataka. Within a brief four hours drive through the Tumkur highway and a couple of strong filter kapi helpings, I reached the Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa, hidden away in the folds of the mighty Western ghats.


Nearest Rail station to The Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort is located at Hubli followed by Mangalore Airport. The property arranges for car pick up upon prior request.


Perched at one of the hillocks, the Taj Madikeri overlooks a verdant valley of lush green jungle, which also doubles as a wildlife corridor in summer and winter. Poignant at the onset of monsoon winds, the jungles and her residents were preparing for the mating season. 


taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: the entrance lobby design
View from the reception!
The Chef said, on a good day, you can view herds of elephants passing through the jungle!

The Taj Madikeri stays rooted to omnipresent nature!


Upon arrival, we were welcomed with sprinkling of revered Cauvery water and an earthen cup of strong coffee, sweetened with jaggery. A sip into it, we learnt the seeds are procured from choicest Robusta and Arabica grown organically in the adjacent plantation.


“Where is the coffee plantation?” My naive mind asks standing at the edge of water-body that peeps over this part of the country of million hills, all of which belongs to the eponymous Taj. “Wherever the light touches is our kingdom!”


Did you know: Talakaveri, the source of river Kaveri is located at Bramhagiri hill and makes for a scenic trekking route. Kodava, the locals of Coorg had built a tank around it. The Hindu temple of Kaveriamma is located close by as well.



By the quirks of nature, the hill ranges of Madikeri has bald patches as punctuation in between a melodious song of dense rainforest, where myriad avians nest, endangered amphibians native to the Ghat forest live and thrive, a portion of forest is revered as God and kept untouched. Taj hotel had meticulously found those few spots and gradually developed their property using those empty patches of land. 

Thus, not a single tree was uprooted while making this humongous resort. “Fallen not felled”, as they proudly state at the Taj Khajana, the signature souvenir shop of the Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa, where the choicest of Indian handicrafts are handpicked and showcased. 

 

Standing by the lobby, I closed my eyes and breathed. A sudden burst of pure oxyzen splashed my lungs, and subsequently the entire respiratory system! 

Is it the fresh air? Or the aroma of petrichor as mild drizzles were drenching the perched red land of the Indian peninsula? Either way, I felt alive and uplifted, instantaneously!


Superior Room view at taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
View from the my villa!

For those of us the urban souls, busy in the daily grind of chasing success defined in proper urban dialect, knowing hustling as an inevitable part of it, the Taj Madikeri resort is an idyllic retreat to stop by and rethink life. And if you do not want to delve deep into the philosophy of it, but want to slow down in the sheer pleasure of being close to nature, and being grounded, you got to experience the hospitality at the Taj Madikeri. The rest of it will be taken care of by omnipotent nature. She will awaken the human soul buried deep in you!

Also read: 5 days travel itinerary for Leh with offbeat day trips suggestions


Choose your stay at the Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort!


I put extreme emphasis on nature while talking about the Taj property, which may sound ironic. Is it not all about experiencing seamless luxury in the premier hospitality brand of India, namesake to the wonder of the world?

My answer will be a resounding yes. And I would like to argue, the Taj Madikeri resort and Spa is a nature’s child. With the ghats and the rainforest as an inseparable element, the resort could never be designed into the great escape it is today, had it not acknowledged its scenic surrounding! 


taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
One of the three bedrooms of the presidential suites!

Take for example, the Presidential Suite. Styled after a traditional Kodava household, the Presidential Suite is a 9000 square feet villa featuring 3 bedrooms, separate reception and living cum dining areas, an indoor pool and an additional jacuzzi.

The wooden floors, the traditional beds, the profound window panes overlooking the landscaped vistas, the courtyard with a dainty garden and more; all speaking in proper vowels of luxury retreat. 


taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka

Yet, the fact that it is located amidst a nature trail, elevates its appeal. A few mulberry trees stand in front of the pillared hallway, opening into the living space. Sitting pretty as one’s own private bungalow, the Presidential Suite of the Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa is a vacation home is a privilege reserved only for the discerning travellers. 


taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: presidential suite and private pool

The private pool of the Presidential Suite!

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
A private Jacuzzi overlooking the rolling hills of Madikeri!

The next category, the pool villa with a couple of bedrooms and a beautiful covered private pool stole my heart. It also flaunted a few small patches of gardens at the corners by the living and open space. That dash of green made it all cosy and grounded. 


Pool villa: taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
Private pool of the pool villa, perfect for a family for 4 to 6 people!

The pools are temperature controlled, meaning a relaxing dip into it is something one can always look forward to, irrespective of the season or time of the day!

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: the pool villa: best place for wedding in Karnataka
Elements of lights and water play well in the interiors!

The Taj Madikeri Resort spans over a sprawling 160 acre area of rainforest, conservatory, landscape garden, organic farmland, coffee plantation and the villas & cottages where guests reside. All the villas & some of the cottages are equipped with a fireplace, come with elaborate bathing arrangements, panoramic views of the jungle through profound glass windows. Warm muted colors adorn the walls. Subtle yet comfortable decor complements the traditional style of architecture. 

You may choose to explore all of the property by foot. The serpentine slopes are paved and wheelchair accessible. You may also want to call in the buggy.

The buggy is an electric car, fueled by green energy and designed to transport 5/8 people at one go. Swiftly, the buggy comes to your doorstep as you place request for one at the reception. 

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The “buggy ride” is enjoyable as well. The winding roads, covered in mist and flanked by tall trees with moss hanging from the top, redefining the tone of greens at every ten meters distance, reminds you of a fairytale land. Looking at the beautiful road speeding past, I remembered the iconic dialogue from the movie Inception, “A dream within a dream within a dream!”

Riding on one such road, I reached my villa at the Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa. One belonging to the premium category, my stay was adorned with literally hand stitched handkerchiefs as welcome notes, a bottle of rose wine, a basket full of fresh fruits and fancy meringues. A neat and tidy bed with crisp white sheet was inviting. A large glass window pane promised of prized values at the sunrise. 

There was a writing desk overlooking such scenic stage. A made up bathtub was waiting just by the well made bed. Tough choices indeed!

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
My work desk at The Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
Welcoming with this! The Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka superior room view
View from my bed at The Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort
Bedroom with attached bathtub at taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
I also had a made up bathtub at The Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka


In short, it was the ideal perch for a traveler in search of solitude. 

Torn between choosing one, my attention was deviated as I was given a chance to join one of the walks amid the rainforest. 


Click here for the best rate of Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa for your upcoming holiday!


Nature Walk at the Rainforest: Most prized experience at The Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort


The bigger and quintessentially better part of the resort lies in its close vicinity and easy access to the surrounding rainforest. With the knowledgeable guide from the Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa, we embarked on an epic walk in nature’s trail at the rainforest. 


Grown by the walkway!

Armed with leech protector socks, a raincoat and an umbrella, we started for the rainforest walk. 

The monsoon brings in copious amount of romance in the jungle. The trees are greener, the flowers are in full bloom. Moss spread mysteriously retaining the last drop of rain in their mechanism. The branches of berry trees are heavy in fruit-bearing. 

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka


“It is the season of harvest. We do not disturb the forest and her elements at this time!” Declared the guide as we trudged along the muddy pathway amidst the absolutely stunning nature trail. 

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: nature walk
Organically grown berries at the property! We learnt they are further used to prepare ice cream for the guests!


A sense of adventure pressed hard. Our hearts pumped with joy of exploring something precious. We were witnessing the iconic monsoon at the Western Ghats, up close. 


taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka



Tadpoles, mollusc, long tailed magpie greeted us along the way. Wild mango tree, Kachampuli and coffee bushes dot the road. Star shaped tiny grass, myriad forms of moss, fern leaves witness us walk past. Tiny huts of tribal people appear from nowhere. 

The nature trail lasts for close to one hour and we come back contented and heart filled with joy. We make a brief stop at the frog-pond to attend to the frogs in the property!


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The Frog Pond!


Malabar Flying frog: a rare species!
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: Nature walk at the rainforest


In an attempt to conserve nature’s wonder, the Taj Madikeri has dedicated a marshland for the frogs, native to the Ghats. An endangered species, the Malabar flying frog make an immediate appearance as we look around. It is monsoon and evening is the time they mate, hence remain in the most active state and are easy to spot. 


The longest Zipline of South India!


The adventures don’t just finish there. The next day, we would be gliding past the verdant lush valley in a zip line stretching from one hill to the other, and often hailed as the longest zipline of Indian peninsula. Amidst light drizzles and a marshland ready to swallow the glider at the bottom, the ziplining lasted little more than a minute but stands out as one of my best memories from the Taj madikeri Resort and Spa!


taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: Ziplining in Coorg

Clik here to view my video from the zipliner!


You just need to weigh well within 100KG and above 18 years old to be able to do this! 

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: most beautiful place to stay in Madikeri
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: hotel review

With such pretty installations everywhere, it is of little doubt why The Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort is a preferred venue for destination wedding in India!

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka

The Conservatory of Kodava Culture!


While taking a stroll around the property, we chanced upon the conservatory of the Taj Madikeri Property. Run by a veteran colonel of Indian armed forces, the conservatory showcases many nuances of the local Kodava culture. The colonel took care to explain all of the cultural significance associated with his home, from being wedded to a tiger to the coveted filter Kapi machine which must be pierced using hands. 


taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: the conservatory

Located at a distance of 8 KM from the town of Madikeri, the Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa has plenty of activities on offer. You shall remain occupied for a good week with nature’s trails, rainforest walks, the nearby hikes and exploring the gardens by the property.

 

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: jiva spa: couple spa


Take a Traditional Spa Treatment at Jiva Spa!


If your senses seek to rejuvenite, consider taking a spa treatment at the Jiva Spa located at the Taj Madikeri Resort! 

The Jiva is a signature Spa brand of Taj. At the Madikeri Property, they have designed an astounding 3000 Square feet space aiming at Ayurvedic treatment and healing. 

There are stations installed for medication. 


traditional Kodava bath at coorg. taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: best spa near bangalore
The traditional steam bath


A distinct bathing room inspired by the Kodava tradition awaits at one corner. The red floor, the copper vessel on steam, and the subsequent 3 hour long treatment seemed to be alluring however I settled for the hour long oil massage!

In case you are traveling with the beloved, do consider taking a couple milk bath as a prelude to the aromatherapy session. An ayurvedic doctor presides over the Jiva spa and shall help you with necessary consultation. 

The Spa experience was soothing and calming. It stripped me off all the tiredness and “travel fatigue”!

Post the spa session, I took a direct plunge at the indoor pool!


The Most Instagrammable Infinity Pool in India!


taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: sunset view from Infinity pool

Sunset canvas viewed from the infinity pool at the Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort.

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: infinity pool: most beautiful hotel in Coorg


There is nothing quite like dipping in an infinity pool at the end of a long day! As I edged to the corner where the sky merged with the rolling hills, a splendid sunset took place, adding colors to the sky canvas!


taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: Sunset at coorg
Jacuzzi spa at taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka

They also have a couple of Jacuzzi baths!


Indulge the Gourmand Soul in You!


How can a trip to the Taj Madikeri Resort and Spa be complete without a mention of the famed Kodava dish, Pandi Curry. I was saving the best for the last. And truth be told, Kodava cuisine offered so much more than just Pandi curry! 


taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: food review


The rice flour made Akki roti, the flavorful bamboo shoot soaked into the spices, the lamb soup served on a brass tumbler, a rare green mango curry and berry ice creams with a timid touch of chocolates; the chef had left no stone unturned to treat us with the best hospitality from the Taj kitchen! Needless to say we loved it!


taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: view

Lunch with a view? Yes please!

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: Coorgi food
Not sure how to eat from this pretty setting!

Traditional coorgi Thali: taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
Dinner served on a steel plate covered with banana leaf!

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
Three types of dips. An overwhelming presence of coconut!
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
Add sparkles to the dinner table!
Food makes me happy!
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: Pandi Curry at Coorg
Preparing a Pandi Curry: ingredients!
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka

Mulberry ice cream prepared with berries organically grown in the hotel premises!

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka

At Dew: one of the healthiest choices of food and drink!

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka

And the treasures of a typical North Indian spread! Memories of the Gilawati kebab make me mellow!

taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: what to eat
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: destination wedding spots in India
taj madikeri resort & spa, coorg madikeri, karnataka: sunset view point
Bidding her adieu with a promise to be back again!

Disclaimer: My stay at the Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort was hosted as a part of the bloggers trip. All opinions are of my own! I went along with Caroline (Currylines) and Niranjan (Tales of a Nomad).


Use Booking.com to book your stay at Madikeri!


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Indian Monsoon is lush green and a brings in joys of new life on Earth! Where else but the Western Ghats promise the most beautiful monsoon experience in India> That too, double with the iconic property of Taj? The Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort: A detailed Review!

#coorg #karnataka #hillstation #indianhillstation #indiatravel #southindia #monsooninindia #weekendgateway #travelindia #offbeatindia #madikeri #luxuryresort #sparesort #bangalore #wellnessresort #rainforest #tajhotel
The most beautiful Infinity pool looking over Madikeri rolling hills! Indian Monsoon is lush green and a brings in joys of new life on Earth! Where else but the Western Ghats promise the most beautiful monsoon experience in India> That too, double with the iconic property of Taj? The Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort: A detailed Review!

#coorg #karnataka #hillstation #indianhillstation #indiatravel #southindia #monsooninindia #weekendgateway #travelindia #offbeatindia #madikeri #sparesort #bangalore #wellnessresort #rainforest #tajhotel #romantic #honeymoondestinations
Plethora of food at the Taj Madikeri! Pandicurry. #pandicurry  Indian Monsoon is lush green and a brings in joys of new life on Earth! Where else but the Western Ghats promise the most beautiful monsoon experience in India> That too, double with the iconic property of Taj? The Taj Madikeri Spa and Resort: A detailed Review!

#coorg #karnataka #hillstation #indianhillstation #indiatravel #southindia #monsooninindia #weekendgateway #travelindia #offbeatindia #madikeri #sparesort #bangalore #wellnessresort #rainforest #tajhotel #romantic

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5 Responses

  1. Omg this wellness retreat looks amazing! I also wanna stay at India’s only rainforest resort! So neat and looks like a fun experience!

  2. Great post! Thanks for sharing. I’m based in Chennai and Bangalore so I’m adding this resort to my list of places to visit (and I always love staying at a Taj hotel)! They call Coorg the Scotland of India, because of the wet climate and green landscape. And your photos prove that it is indeed a beautiful part of India! If you like wellness resorts, you should check out Anantya Resorts in the Kanyakumari district in Tamil Nadu. I stayed there recently and it was incredible. There’s a review on my site if you’re interested in learning more. Happy travels!

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