Arriving in Madikeri bright and early at 5:45 a.m., we were greeted with a sense of accomplishment as our journey thus far had been smooth and enjoyable. Despite the pre-dawn darkness, luck was on our side as we swiftly secured an auto driver who whisked us away to a nearby hotel, where we eagerly freshened up before setting out in search of a hearty breakfast. The March morning air was refreshingly mild, and our senses were delighted when we stumbled upon a cozy eatery where the locals conversed in Malayalam, instantly transporting us to the ambiance of Kerala.
Meeting our designated driver for our staycation only added to the positive vibes of the day, as his kind-hearted demeanor set a pleasant tone for the adventures ahead. Our first destination was the renowned Dubare Elephant Camp, offering us an intimate glimpse into the world of these magnificent creatures. After quenching our thirst with some revitalizing juice, we ventured onward to the enchanting Chiklihole Reservoir, where the serene surroundings seemed to whisper tales of times gone by.
Reluctantly bidding adieu to the tranquil reservoir, we eagerly embraced our next escapade: sampling the famed coffee of Coorg. A mandatory stop at Levista rewarded us with a delightful cappuccino before we continued on to the tranquil Golden Temple, where the soothing chants of mantras enveloped us in a sense of serenity and mindfulness.
Lunchtime found us at Tibet Kitchen, where we savored delectable dishes that pleasantly surprised us with their affordability. With contented stomachs, we proceeded to Avalade Coorg, a breathtaking resort nestled within a sprawling 60-acre coffee plantation. After invigorating hot showers, we eagerly anticipated delving into the wilderness that surrounded us.
However, our excitement was tempered by a cautionary note from the hotel staff regarding potential elephant encounters. Opting for prudence, we chose to spend the remainder of the day relaxing and unwinding at our accommodation, comforted by the knowledge that the promise of further adventures awaited us in the days ahead.
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