BY N J RAVI CHANDER 

 

 

KODAGU (Coorg), renowned for its coffee and the game of hockey (the legendary BP Govinda, MP Ganesh, MM Somaiya, Arjun Halappa and AB Subbaiah have captained the Indian team in the past), is a place of endless fascination. Sprawling plantations dot the landscape, and plantation walks are a new rage. The intoxicating fragrance of coffee and spices is a sensory delight, and the crisp mountain air is an extra treat. Embarking on a thrilling walk through one of the plantations nestled in the heart of the town was a unique and exhilarating experience. The modest entry fee of Rs.200 per person was a small price for the opportunity to delve into the heart of coffee culture and experience the essence of Coorg. Our guide, Hassan, was a true connoisseur and a treasure trove of knowledge about the estate. His expertise and passion for the plants, shrubs, and trees on the plantation were evident as he led us through the lush greenery, pointing out their various uses and sharing fascinating facts. His presence truly elevated our tour experience. The estate housed various spices like cardamon, black pepper, vanilla, bay leaf, clove, and stone flower, which added to its rich aroma. As we navigated the estate, we also came across exotic fruit trees like the Starfruit, Sweet Lime, Coorg Orange, and Citron. We also discovered a palm tree with clusters of green berries. Sap derived from the tree is used in toddy making.

 

The plantation’s diverse ecosystem made it appealing to those who love nature. There were fragrant Sandalwood trees, Tea trees and Betel vines. The estate prohibited the plucking of fruits and flowers. Our guide informed us about the rules and regulations regarding the trees, adding to our understanding of the estate's conservation efforts. The estate also boasts an exotic variety of flowers we had never seen before. We even came across a massive ant nest on a low branch, demonstrating the thriving ecosystem of the plantation. The plantation, home to various birds and insects, makes it a paradise for nature buffs. Like many others in Kodagu, the plantation cultivated both Robusta and the Arabica variety of coffee. The Robusta, a short, bushy plant with an umbrella-like top, and the Arabica, a tall plant, have unique characteristics. The latter, known for its superior taste, is highly esteemed. After sun-drying, the coffee beans are ground into powder and roasted to a dark brown hue.

 

The estate’s signature coffee, made from the finest Arabica beans, was a testament to the quality of coffee produced here. Various coffee powders and wines with unique flavour profiles were available at the outlet inside the estate. The plantation boasted elevated viewing points at different points on the estate, offering a picturesque view of the surroundings. At the end of the plantation tour, we were treated and indulged with a complimentary cup of their signature coffee, a perfect way to end our walk. Besides, a shop at the endpoint sold a wide array of chocolates, spices, fine wines and souvenir items like sandalwood, allowing us to take a piece of the experience home. The tour was not just a delightful and truly memorable experience but also an affordable one, making it a perfect addition to our itinerary. It left us with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that we had experienced something unique without breaking the bank.