GLENORA HOMESTAY

Mr. and Mrs. Rajagopal’s huge coffee, pepper and betel nut plantation of 90 acres is the setting for Glenora Homestay. One of the most outstanding aspects of Glenora is the two brand new luxury “cottages” built on platforms high above the ground allowing spectacular views deep into the plantations without a sign of habitation for miles around. The couple lives in a modern house which visitors are encouraged to use as their own when they are not relaxing on the balconies of their cottages. The delicious traditional Keralan meals are usually eaten with the guests in the central dining room (with the sound of Hindu devotional chants drifting from the Puja room), and the informal and friendliness of the couple leads to long conversation over numerous cups of hot coffee. . Mr. Rajagopal enjoys explaining about the plantation which he has been running for over 40 years and take guests can be taken round in a jeep or by walk to show off his life’s work. During these informative trips one can learn about the different methods of cultivation, the 20 different types of fruit trees, and the many species of birds which flock to nest in them. Treks to waterfalls and the awe-inspiring “Sunrise Valley” are also an option worth exploring and a trip to a tribal colony only 1km away is a fascinating opportunity to see the ancient community life. In the evening and early morning peacocks and monkeys are often seen around the area. Lucky guests are often witness to the beguiling sight of peacocks dancing with feathers spread like a Japanese fan in the early morning mist. An ideal base for exploring the Wayanad area, Glenora offers the perfect combination of luxury and privacy along with the warm company and traditional hospitality of an Indian family.

• Visits to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
• Jeep safari of the family’s plantation and learning about cultivation processes
• Cooking lessons
• Star gazing
• Bird watching
• Badminton
• Swimming in a river in the plantation
• Visiting ancient Hindu and Jain temples
• Treks to waterfalls, in forests, plantations (guides optional)
• Mountain treks, such as the climb to Chembra Peak
• Walks to nearby Sunrise Valley
• Visits to tribal colonies and watching traditional temple arts, such as dancing and theatre
• Witnessing many temple festivals that happen all year round

• Two large cottages detached from the house, double room with ensuite bathroom, veranda balcony looking out on to plantation
• One double room with ensuite in the family’s house
• Upstairs and downstairs sitting rooms with televisions
• Solar power electricity back up
• 3 meals per day served, breakfast as part of tariff
• Two sports bicycles provided
• Room Refrigerator
• Coffee Maker
• Fire Extinguisher
• Garden (roses)
• Badminton net
• High security
• Internet access
• Laundry service
• Ayurveda treatment and massages
• Doctor on call
• Pick up arranged
• Library