As with most of our plans, last week we suddenly decided to take the weekend off. We chose Sakleshpur for reasons like the destination is still not extremely popular hence not crowded with tourists, distance is 235kms hence the drive for a weekend getaway is just right, if we felt like it - there's enough places to visit in close proximity - sravanabelgola, belur, halebid, etc,.
We stayed at this rather simple homestay called Makkithitta, run by a couple who mostly speak Kanada. The property is located within their coffee estate and is situated at almost the the base of the hill. Quite obviously it is sourrounded by small hils on almost all sides. The view you get from the property is mostly of their own paddy fields (which you can take a walk thru at is less than 5 mins away) surrounded by smaller hills that's largely uncultivated Government land.The timing of our visit was perfect as the monsoons have just begun and the rains though present are not overly dominating. From what i hear, Sakleshpur stays lush green throughout the year.
Even though the host, Mr. Tejpal, comes off as the fairly agressive type initially, he's straightforward and very kind. For me, the best part about this place was home cooked vegetarian meals they served us. Malnad style kadbu, neer dosas, variety of akki roti, sambar, rasam, pulao, khichdi, et. al. They by choice are vegetarians but can arrange for non-veg food from outside should you want it. Special apprecaition for their hospitality.
Getting there:
The property is about 20kms from Sakleshpur town towards Mudigere, the closest village is called Hanbal and is about 4kms drive on a mud road from Hanbal. The owners will be happy to help with directions but the highlights of the same are as below:
From Bangalore - just before reaching Hassan, take the bypass to Sakleshpur. Cross thru town till you cross a bridge, jsut after the bridge you'll see the old bus stand. Continue further for a little more than 1km and you'll see the new bus stand on your right. Continue straight on this road for a little under 3km, you'll find a small right hand turning, around here is the Anemal Bus Stop, take the right turn - this road takes you to Hanbal. Upon reaching Hanbal, you'll see a Karnataka Bank on your RHS, take the right turn after and the first left, you'll see small signboards leading to this place.
Budget: Rs. 2000 per person for 2days and 1 night - Meals starting with Lunch and ending with snacks the next evening, Unlimited Tea/Coffee requests entertained. :)
Contact details: Tejpal - 94483 18277 / Saroja - 93794 11741
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Other places to stay / homestays that i called in Sakleshpur are listed below:
1. Mugilu - 98454 51055 (This place came highly recommended by a friend)
2. Swarga - Chirag Shambu - 94480 54505 - Rs. 2250 per person per day
3. Imperial - 98806 68316 (This was the only place where they charged as per room rates not per person.
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