Chikmagalur – Weekend Espresso
The day I was told about visiting Chikmagalur, all I could think was how wonderful it would be to wander through the coffee plantations and lose myself in the beautiful surroundings. Hill stations always get me excited, for their unparalleled charm and natural cleanliness. After a week of mundane work, meeting deadlines, and commuting in pollution, escaping to a secluded and serene place like this will definitely be fun. Chikmagalur is a district in the western part of Karnataka, known for its Coffee plantations spread through the lush green mountains. Salubrious climate has made this hill station a favourite amongst tourists. This weekend escapade offers a chance to explore coffee in its various forms. It is believed that coffee seeds were first planted in Chikmagalur in India, and this hilly town also fostered the premier Indian Coffee chain, Café Coffee Day. According to famous folklore, a saint named Babu Budan came all the way from Yemen and brought coffee to this remote hill station in 1670, and thus started this godly cultivation.
Coffee has always been a special beverage – a kick-start to a morning, a balmy companion on work-laden nights, and a safe alibi to ask someone special out. Naturally, if you are a coffee lover, there is a whole lot to connect with this place, and its history. I can only imagine the fulfilling experience of inhaling the scent of raw coffee seeds and feasting my eyes on the lush green plantation.
For those of you, who are fascinated by coffee, The Wander Girls trip to Chikmagalur will definitely tickle your senses. You can check into a home stay amidst coffee plantations and lush green mountains. Wake up in the morning to enjoy a cup of coffee and breathe in the essence of coffee wafting in from the plantation, as you sit and admire the surroundings. The pleasant climate whets your appetite to try out the local Malanadu cuisine, which is rich, spicy and heavily flavoured with coconut milk. Akki Roti, and Kaikadbu are must try from the Malanadu cuisine.
Visit the local markets to buy some famous “Robusta” and “Arabica” coffee beans variety, well known for their uniqueness and taste all over the world. The former is renowned for its strong taste while those who prefer decaffeinated coffee like the latter. As a coffee lover, I believe everyone should visit Chikmagalur at least once in their lifetime!
