Hide Away Home Stay in the Western Ghats-bound district of Chikkamagaluru in Karnataka beckons one and all for its serene ambience and verdant biodiversity. Standing apart from other getaways, it provides free accommodation to retired and serving personnel of the armed forces.
They only have to pay for their food at Hide Away Home Stay. Anybody accompanying the defence personnel will be offered discounts. Owners Venugopal and his dentist wife Shambhavi’s intention is to do their bit for people who have selflessly served or are serving the country. Most of these soldiers are posted on the borders or in inhospitable mountain terrains and deserts or in jungles, and this is the way the couple felt that they could pay it forward.
“A complimentary stay is a way of expressing our gratitude for their sacrifices,” says Venugopal, a third generation planter who diversified into heritage construction business recently. The homestay, which opened in November, has a steady flow of guests from neighbouring states and even Germany.
“Many guests keep returning to taste our local cuisine cooked by my wife Vanajakshi,” smiles caretaker Venkatesh. The cuisine comprises akki roti (roti made out of rice flour), lentils, raita and spicy non-vegetarian dishes.
With airy rooms, the homestay has huge windows offering a splendid view of the coffee plantations—wake up in the morning to the melodious chirping of dozens of birds such as Bulbuls, Minivets, Plovers, and many others.
In the wee hours, take a two-hour walk around the estate with Venkatesh doubling as a guide. He kindles curiosity by pointing at fresh hoof marks of a bison. On returning, there’s a piping hot breakfast.