While tourism provides the opportunity to marvel at nature’s wonders, it also includes the responsibility to protect and preserve it. Rainforest Refuge, in Agumbe, is a solid example of both.
Rainforest Refuge is primarily a research station in Agumbe dedicated to conservation, ecological research, and environmental education. Agumbe is one of the wettest and most biodiverse rainforest regions in the country, and considered an ecological hotspot of utmost importance. The centre involves visitors in a structured program which focuses on learning through guided field experiences, interpretation sessions, and interactions with naturalists, rather than conventional tourism activities to help participants understand rainforest ecosystems and biodiversity.
Rainforest Refuge is tucked deep inside the, well, rainforest, with a perennial stream flowing through the station. There are large patches of rainforest amongst smaller patches of betelnut crops. Experience the seamless integration of educational activities with fun, interactive, and exciting adventures. As a result, it attracts ecologists and naturalists from all over the world to come and explore.
comforts
Situate yourself in one of six comfortable cottage rooms made out of recycled wood and spot an abundance of biodiversity right from your verandah. The cottages come with attached bathrooms, hot water, and a shower.
All lighting is solar-powered, though there is an electrical backup. The property does not allow alcohol, smoking, bonfires, loud music, and lights after 10 PM to respect the sanctity of the forest and its wonderful nocturnal inhabitants that can get scared easily!
food
Food plays an important role in a Knowhere Travel experience, so expect lip-smacking, traditional Malnad cuisine at Rainforest Refuge, served in the common dining area with ingredients sourced from farms and villages in the vicinity.
Food is also made from produce grown within the property on small patches. Guests are expected to wash their own plates and spoons after the meal.
ideal for
Rainforest Refuge is for those drawn to the wild with curiosity. Whether you’re just beginning or already deeply invested in understanding the natural world. Set in one of India’s richest biodiversity hotspots, this is where you encounter amphibians, reptiles, insects, and birds that rival the famed species you’ve heard about from the Amazon or other parts of the world. If you want to experience Agumbe for what it truly stands for, this is an ideal place to stay, where guided explorations, naturalist-led learning, and quiet immersion come together for those willing to step beyond the familiar.
As a conservation and research space, the experience here is structured and purpose-led, it is best suited to those who are genuinely interested in learning and engaging with the ecosystem, rather than a leisurely, service-led holiday.
getting there
Rainforest Refuge is easily accessible by road, however, the last 15 minutes is a narrow, off-road path (with ample signages) that is beautiful but requires more attention and care while driving. The hosts can also pick you up from the main road for an additional fee. From the parking lot, guests need to walk down about 25 meters to reach the property. It is not advised for people with mobility issues. There are convenient buses for those of you traveling in from Bangalore. Guests are expected to reach by 5 pm, before nightfall.
The accurate location will be provided at the time of confirmation.
things to do
Visitors will be hosted under a “Rainforest Connect Program”, which is designed around rainforest education, conservation, and immersive field-based learning. The program includes guided nature trails, rainforest interpretation sessions, and interactions with the naturalists, with the aim of helping participants understand the ecosystem and ongoing conservation efforts in a meaningful way.
Going there without a sighting of a rare snake or reptile is highly unlikely, but please know that all your sightings will be under controlled and safe conditions and under the guidance of expert naturalists and researchers.
Additionally, the drive from Tirthahalli to Agumbe is extremely lush and beautiful, so don’t miss out on the traditional Malnad architecture here. You can also visit the legendary Doddamane which was used as a set in RK Narayanan’s Malgudi Days.
There are ancient forts and temples around that are worth checking out as well.
price
Total payable (per night)
Standard cottage x 4 nos
Rs. 6,930 + 5% GST = Rs. 7,277 for single occupancy
Rs. 8,090 + 5% GST = Rs. 8,490 for double occupancy
Rs. 12,135 + 5% GST = Rs. 12,135 for triple occupancy
Amenities – Double bed/twin bed, futon, bed linen and towels, wardrobe, fan, attached bath with hot water, private balcony with forest view, morning and evening tea/coffee, WiFi, kettle with tea/coffee/sugar.
Large cottage x 1 nos
Rs. 8,085 + 5% GST = Rs. 8,490 for single occupancy
Rs. 9,240 + 5% GST = Rs. 9,702 for double occupancy
Rs. 13,860 + 5% GST = Rs. 14,553 for triple occupancy
Rs. 18,480 + 5% GST = Rs. 19,404 for quadruple occupancy
Amenities – Double bed/twin bed, futon, work desk, bed linen and towels, wardrobe, fan, attached bath with hot water, private balcony with forest view, morning and evening tea/coffee, WiFi, kettle with tea/coffee/sugar.
Extra large cottage x 1 nos
Rs. 8,663 + 5% GST = Rs. 9,097 for single occupancy
Rs. 9,820 + 5% GST = Rs. 10,311 for double occupancy
Rs. 14,730 + 5% GST = Rs. 15,467 for triple occupancy
Rs. 19,640 + 5% GST = Rs. 20,622 for quadruple occupancy
Amenities – Double bed/twin bed, futon, work desk, bed linen and towels, wardrobe, fan, attached bath with hot water, private balcony with forest view, morning and evening tea/coffee, WiFi, kettle with tea/coffee/sugar.
Children below 5 yrs, no charges.
Children between 5-10 yrs, 50% of adult rates.
Cost includes – Accommodation, all meals (veg and non-veg), morning and evening tea/coffee, WiFi, documentary screening, applicable taxes, and 5% service charges.
Guided activities
– Herping trail – (5 pm or 9 pm/1 hour) – Experience the best herpetofauna diversity through thick forests, waterfalls, and beautiful natural landscapes.
– Stream trail – (11 am or 1 pm/2 hours) – Follow the winding forest stream to our very own watering hole, sight wildlife, and swim.
– Sunset/sunrise trail – (6 am or 5 pm/1.5 hours) – Offering splendid views of the surrounding forests and hills.
– Night trail – (9 pm/1 hour) – Walk the forest when darkness descends and nocturnal life comes alive. Look for flying squirrels, civet cats, owls, Srilankan frogmouth, frogs, snakes, and many other critters
– Bird trail – (7 am/1 hour) – Tune into bird songs and spot endemics like the Malabar barbet, Flame throated bulbul, Crimson-backed sunbird, Malabar trogons, Fairy blue-bird, and many more!
Activity pricing
Single trail – Rs. 385/person
Two trail combo – Rs. 715/person.
Three trail combo – Rs. 1050/person.
*Prices are applicable of GST.
