Rainforest Retreat

Orange County 

The RAINFOREST RETREAT is our eco-lodge located on an Organic Spice Plantation (MOJO Plantation) nestled in the heart of the Western Ghats (in Kodagu district of southern Karnataka). Surrounded by rolling hills and densely forested valleys, this is a naturalist's paradise waiting to be discovered. Let us show you the true meaning of bio-diversity as you explore remote idyllic valleys and tropical rainforests or learn how coffee, cardamom, pepper, vanilla are organically cultivated under the shade of rainforest trees. Anglers can also try catch the mighty Masheer in the nearby Cauvery river. All this and more awaits you.

Here you can unwind and let your senses be soothed by the sights, sounds, and smells of Nature. Awaken to the melody of singing birds and the fragrances of exotic flowers. Walk leisurely through a tropical evergreen forest and discover the meaning of "Biodiversity" with our help. See rare, exquisite orchids growing in their natural habitats. Experience an unforgettable evening luminescence that is a delight for artists and photographers. Sit around a camp-fire, listen to the sounds of a rainforest at night and gaze into clear tropical skies. All this and more is awaiting you.

Participate in an exciting ecological experiment as you learn how coffee, cardamom, pepper and vanilla are cultivated organically in the shade of rainforest trees, and see for yourself the different methods of biological pest control being developed and practiced at the Research Farm. This area is also rich in medicinal plants and many of the local tribals depend on them as their only source of healing. You will learn first hand about the diversity of these plants and their many uses.

With our rich bio-diversity, the Rainforest Retreat is becoming recognized as one of the finest birding and trekking destinations in South India. We offer a variety of Nature Walks (accompanied by a trained guide) through evergreen rainforests and idyllic valleys. You can participate in long rugged treks or opt for more leisurely walks but the memories of being in a tropical forest will linger long after you have returned home. Overnight treks with tented accommodation can be arranged.

After a few leisurely days of exploring the Retreat and surrounding areas, you have an opportunity to visit several other plantations in Kodagu. Each one is unique and has its own charms. Changes of season witness the harvest of different crops and each is associated with its own colourful traditions and festivals. The people of Kodagu are famous for their hospitality and you will have the opportunity to interact with local people from all walks of life.

Location: 

India has several major international airports (Mumbai/Bombay, Delhi, Chenai/ Madras, Calcutta). From there you can easily take connecting flights (or trains) to Bangalore, Mangalore or Mysore where you will be personally met and escorted to the WAPRED Research Centre near Madikeri in the comfort of our private vehicle. Madikeri is 250 km (road journey of about 6h) from Bangalore and 140 km from Mangalore (road journey of 4h).

Accommodation : 

There are 2 different types of accommodation available. Two deluxe guesthouses have been specially designed to meet international standards of style and comfort and are set in a rustic surrounding of bamboo, banana, coffee, and orange plants and surrounded by a crystal clear stream.  Each cottage has 2 independent bedroom units with attached western bathrooms  (with bathtub and hot water). All the cottages are powered by eco-friendly 12V solar lighting - there is NO 220V current or telephones in the rooms.

The Plantation Cottage is a little more rustic and has two comfortable, independent rooms each with fireplace, solar lighting and attached western toilets. This secluded cottage is nestled 200 m (walking) inside the plantation so it may not be suitable for seniors of persons with walking difficulties. Please note that meals are now served in a common dinning area so guests in the plantation cottage have to walk 300m to the deluxe cottage for all meals.

Room View