The jungles of the Eastern Ghats holds treasures still undiscovered by many of us today. Nestled amongst the dense scrub forests, down a scenic and winding road, is Thicket Dreams.
This is a retreat and research station that seeks to bring our attention to the wilderness of the Krishnagiri district. Scrub forests are habitats that see a lot of shrubs, grasses, and open woodland. These are often overlooked as they perhaps do not appear like dense jungles or rainforests that rule our imaginations. Thicket Dreams seeks to put an end to that and give us an abundance of information on the magnificent jungles of the south.
An interesting feature of this place is its location at the intersection of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, giving a glimpse into what these three southern states truly share in common.
comforts
One spacious cottage can hold up to 4-6 guests, with enough bedding and space to share comfortably. There is a sit out with more spaces to nap and lounge. The cottage comes with an en suite bath.
Two more cottages are currently being built to accommodate more wildlife enthusiasts and students of nature.
You can also stay in comfortable tents to experience the wild as authentically as possible.
There is drinking water available along with facilities to make a quick cup of coffee or tea. The common dining area (a semi-outdoor space) is about 80 metres from the cottage.
food
All meals have the sumptuous and mildly peppery flavours of the South. Start the morning with a hearty breakfast of fluffy idlis, fresh coconut and peanut chutney, steaming sambar, and soft upmas.
Lunch is lovingly prepared to ready you for an afternoon nap. Eat rice and tangy rasam, and a palya that is most likely from the homegrown garden within the property.
Dinner is as delicious, with pulao or biryani, chapatis, sabzis, chicken curry (free-range chicken, always), and a bright, fresh salad.
Tea and coffee are available in the mornings and evenings. You are also welcome to bring snacks as long as you don’t feed it to birds/dogs and you take back waste with you.
ideal for
Thicket Dreams is ideal for small families and friend groups, birders, naturalists, and nature enthusiasts.
Hikers and trekkers seeking something close to Bangalore/Chennai but who don’t want to drive very far — this is a wonderful spot to choose.
getting there
Thicket Tales is located in Krishnagiri district and is a 3-hour drive from Bangalore. Accurate details will be provided at the time of booking.
things to do
We highly recommend making the most of your time here by going on guided hikes around the area. The team organises morning and evening walks, a tour of the entire property, and most exciting of all, herping trips at night to spot the mysterious nocturnal inhabitants of this scrub forest. You’ll be in very safe hands, so you can go with full confidence out into the night!
Engage with the team to learn about the native plants and trees that are being propagated and preserved. Learn about invasive and native species and understand why natives are so crucial to maintaining a habitat in its most natural state.
Bring your binoculars to do some quiet birdwatching on your own, or sharpen your brain cells by reading the books in the dining area. Those alone will give you a reasonable understanding of this part of India.
A small lake nearby is the perfect spot for some picnicking and we can even organise a mini-kayaking trip if you desire.
Wi-fi and phone network are spotty at best, so we encourage you to leave your work at home and come here with an open mind, prepared to take some time away from screens.
price
Total payable (per night)
Rs. 4,285 + 5% GST = Rs. 4,499 for 1 guest in 01 room.
Rs. 7,500 + 5% GST = Rs. 7,875 for 2 guests in 01 room.
Rs. 10,710 + 5% GST = Rs. 11,246 for 3 guests in 01 room.
Rs. 13,925 + 5% GST = Rs. 14,622 for 4 guests in 01 room.
Children between 5-10 years are charged Rs. 1,875. Above 10 years will be considered adults.
The charges for the tents would be Rs. 2,750 per person including 5% GST.
Includes – Accommodation as stated, all meals (non-veg once a day), guided walks around the property, morning and evening tea/coffee, the assistance of the caretaker, car parking, all applicable taxes, and service charges.
Please note that we have a minimum 2 night stay policy.
