Under the Canopy is the brainchild of a former city couple who decided to leave behind their hectic professions and lead a quiet life in the countryside. It is tucked away in a sprawling 8 acre mango farm, neighbouring lush fields of sugarcane, bursts of marigold, and green patches of paddy on one end to the mighty Cauvery river on the other. The farm is laden with over 70 mango trees, including half a dozen 100+ year old trees, the canopy of which covers half an acre. The oldest villager, over 91 years old, remembers climbing these trees during his childhood.
In addition to mangoes, the farm also produces coconuts, sugarcane, beans and lentils, to name a few. They are experimenting with a self-sustaining model where the crops that are grown, the fruit trees that are planted, the organic vegetables, the cows that are reared, and the waste that is generated for organic manure, come together to propel a lifestyle that is at once simple, organic, and healthy. The quiet peace of the farm is perfect as a retreat to meditate or catch up on some reading. The couple has opened the doors to their farm for like-minded individuals to revel in quietness and solitude.
comforts
The 8 acre property houses 3 lovely rustic double bed cottages with ensuite bathrooms within it. The first is a hut, inspired by stupa designs, and has an attached concrete bench that people comfortably took naps in (and probably still do). The other is twin cottages, with a common verandah, wooden slats for a ceiling and bay windows overlooking the farm. The flooring is a cooling red oxide and the bathrooms are set in stone flooring which adds great charm, besides being skid-proof. All three cottages are enveloped by the cooling canopy of the mango trees. The dining space is a thatched ‘pavilion’ right outside the cottages where one can enjoy an open-air meal. A wooden swing and a hammock chair sway alongside the mango trees outside. The property has a maximum capacity of 9 adults and is operational throughout the year.
food
The food that is served at the property is exclusively vegetarian. The food you eat is fresh, wholesome, and flavorful with a combination of harvests from the farm and locally sourced from the nearby villages. The hostess is an excellent cook and the cooking is predominantly done by her, with the staff assisting only in the prepping. Using the wide range of ingredients available, new recipes are usually tried out using grains like millets, instead of rice. Sugar is replaced by jaggery and the cold pressed coconut oil from the farm is used as the cooking medium wherever suitable. Expect innovative breakfasts consisting of idlis made out of red rice rava and red pumpkin, served with the famed coconut chutney and accompanying papaya or other seasonal fruit.
ideal for
This place is an ideal getaway for those who are seeking to leave the big bad city and spend some time quietly. It is a great place for families who would want their children to experience rural life and climb a tree or two, feed the cows, or feel the excitement of the peafowl’s call. The property is not a place for an action packed holiday nor is it a party destination. Smoking, alcohol, loud music, and non-vegetarian food are strictly prohibited.
getting there
The property is located about 60 kms before the city of Mysore and about 150 kms from Bangalore. Accurate details will be provided at the time of confirmation.
things to do
Apart from curling up on the delightful hammocks that are strung under the mango trees, one can choose to go bird watching among the plethora of birds that are sighted within the farm including fly-catchers, hornbills, minivets, owls, pittas, drongos etc. Additionally, one can take long leisurely walks to the sunset point which offers breathtaking views of the setting sun mirrored on the winding Cauvery river or choose to take the other path that passes by the village next door and get a glimpse of pastoral life in all its simplicity. There are cycles available on the farm if one wishes to cycle around the countryside and meander through the paddy fields along the tiny canals of the cauvery river. One can also take a trip to the ancient temples that are abound with tales of devotion, curses and blessings!
price
Rs. 2000 per person inclusive of stay and all three meals.
