This homestay sits in a coffee plantation in Kotagiri about an hour away from the Ooty railway station. While most vacationer sights are a little bit of a drive from right here, the property itself is a superb escape from metropolis life. Its three rooms are frequented by chirping birds. While two are in a stone cottage with an all-glass eating space, the third is in a separate unit. Step out into the valley and also you would possibly spot a barking deer, mouse deer, porcupines, wild boars, and even a bison, if you happen to’re fortunate. You can ask the workers to rearrange for an property path and spend evenings by the cobbled bonfire pit. Rajin Kuttappa, the host, will take you thru the property’s forest whereas his spouse, Reshma, will whip up a homely breakfast. Add to {that a} good, steady WiFi connection, and also you’ve obtained the perfect workation venue. Entire keep from Rs11,000. Driving time from Chennai: 6.5 hours. —Ria Gupta
O’Land Plantation Stay, Coonoor, Tamil Nadu
This 120-acre property in Coonoor is teeming with quite a lot of avian species, together with the Malabar barbet, Asian paradise flycatcher and the orange minivet, that frequent the property’s fruit bushes. Set amidst tea, espresso and spice plantations, O’Land Plantation Stay consists of three cottages, every with massive home windows and balconies that enable the skin in. All cottages boast valley views, and a few have the added bonus of waterfall and tea plantation views. The eco-friendly homestay within the hills makes use of photo voltaic lighting, biomass water heaters, eco brick building and reclaimed wooden and bamboo furnishings. Enjoy treks and lengthy walks day by day, and don’t miss tea tastings and day journeys to Coonoor and Ooty, that are each an hour’s drive away. Doubles from Rs7,500. Driving time from Chennai: 10 hours.