Nature's haven
The Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa Coorg sounds like a breathtaking retreat nestled amidst the serene hills and lush greens of Coorg. With 180 acres of sprawling landscapes, including rainforests, meadows, and natural streams, the resort offers a truly enchanting experience for its guests. The emphasis on clean air with an AQI as low as 2.5 is remarkable, especially considering the stark contrast with the pollution levels often experienced in cities like Delhi.
A deep connection with Nature and local heritage
Upon arrival, I was greeted with a panoramic view of the Pushpagiri Hill Range from the extended lobby, setting the stage for a mesmerising stay. The infinity pool overlooking the valley adds to the allure, creating an unforgettable first impression.
The architecture reflects the local Kodava style, with elements like Blue Pearl flooring, C-shaped roof tiles, and furniture crafted from antique wood sourced from Coorg’s oldest Ain Manes. These details contribute to the authenticity and charm of the property.
Being located on the windward side of the mountain, the resort benefits from ample rainfall, making it an eco-hotspot and a haven for biodiversity. The fact that it receives approximately 200 inches of rainfall during the monsoon season underscores its status as a thriving rainforest ecosystem.
Overall, the Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa Coorg offers not just luxury accommodations but also a deep connection to nature and local heritage, making it a truly magical destination for travellers seeking tranquillity and rejuvenation amidst stunning natural beauty.
Pramod’s innate sense of aesthetics and his ability to visualise spaces
Pramod Ranjan emerges as the visionary force behind the Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa Coorg, adding a layer of depth and personal touch to its creation. As a quintessential dreamer, he embodies the spirit of turning imagination into reality, transforming the landscape into a masterpiece of design and tranquility.
His journey from envisioning the land to meticulously crafting every aspect of the resort reflects a profound commitment to his vision and a deep respect for nature. Despite lacking formal training in architecture or design, Pramod’s innate sense of aesthetics and his ability to visualise spaces have propelled him to create architectural marvels that resonate with guests on a profound level.
Pramod’s calm demeanour and deliberate approach to design echo the sentiment that quiet minds often harbour the most profound ideas. Like Stephen Hawking’s famous quote suggests, Pramod’s silence belies the richness of his creative vision and the depth of his imagination. His process of rough drawing his dreams and then refining them with his design team showcases his collaborative spirit and his willingness to blend creativity with practicality. By prioritising open spaces and preserving the natural habitat, Pramod ensures that the resort seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, offering guests an unparalleled experience of serenity and immersion in Nature.
In essence, Pramod Ranjan’s influence elevates the Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa Coorg from a mere destination to a living testament to the power of dreams and the beauty of harmonising with the environment. His legacy as a visionary designer will continue to inspire generations to come.
Kaveri Retreats and Resorts Limited and IHCL
The partnership between Kaveri Retreats and Resorts Limited and IHCL (Indian Hotels Company Limited) has proven to be a tried, tested, and lasting one, yielding remarkable results in the form of the Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa Coorg. This collaboration has brought about a magical synergy that has undoubtedly enhanced the appeal and success of the resort.
Deep respect for Nature, led by Pramod’s vision
The journey of creating this paradise involved meticulous planning, dedication, and a deep respect for nature. Led by Pramod Ranjan’s vision, the construction of the resort spanned seven years, during which not a single tree taller than six feet was cut, and no land movers were used. This commitment to preserving the environment ensured that only 30 acres of the 180-acre property were developed, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the untouched beauty of the rainforest.
One fascinating anecdote highlights the innovative approach taken in designing the pathways within the resort. Instead of cutting trees, Pramod and his team observed the trails of cattle in the forest and widened them to create the pathways, demonstrating their harmonious integration of human infrastructure with the natural surroundings. The resort’s unique features, such as the Batracharium (Frog Pond), further exemplify its commitment to biodiversity and conservation. Hosting a diverse array of frog species (thirty two counted), the Batracharium stands as a testament to the resort’s role in promoting ecological awareness and research.
The resort is rich with stories, each adding to its charm
At Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa Coorg, every corner holds captivating tales, guided by the adept and gracious General Manager, Vikas Kumar. Passionate about showcasing this hidden treasure to the world, Vikas orchestrates unforgettable guest experiences, positioning the resort as a top wedding destination. With prestigious events slated for 2024, he champions sustainability, aiming for 90 per cent green energy usage. As a devoted hotelier and fitness advocate, he remains driven for the journey forward.
Wellness spa with a view
In hillside structures, the lobby sits atop the building, overlooking a temperature-controlled infinity pool flanked by jacuzzies, a kids’ play area, spa, and gymnasium below. The J Wellness Spa, with its panoramic views and expansive 24,000 sq ft area, exemplifies the resort’s dedication to providing guests with unparalleled relaxation and rejuvenation experiences.
The story of the architects finding relaxation as they walked through the natural streams within the resort’s periphery encapsulates the essence of harmony with nature and the inspiration it can provide. This simple act of removing their shoes and feeling the cool water against their feet sparked an idea that would eventually become the unique Spa Entrance — a walkway adorned with stones and a flowing water stream.
By incorporating elements from the surrounding environment, such as natural streams, stones, and flowing water, the Spa Entrance offers guests a seamless transition into the realm of wellness. It serves as a gentle reminder of the restorative power of nature and sets the tone for the holistic experiences that await within the spa.
A beacon of sustainability, deeply ingrained in its ethos and operations
Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg stands as a beacon of sustainability, deeply ingrained in its ethos and operations. With a firm commitment to environmental and social responsibility, the resort has partnered with EarthCheck, a benchmarking and certification provider in the travel and tourism industry.
Recognising the potential negative impacts of its activities on the environment and the community, the resort has implemented a robust environmental management system in accordance with the EarthCheck Company Standard. This system is geared towards continual improvement, as evidenced by annual benchmarking assessments aimed at minimising the resort’s footprint on the environment.
A rich array of responsible F&B options
In line with its sustainability efforts, the resort offers a rich array of responsible F&B options, catering to diverse tastes while prioritising freshness, health, and taste.
Ferntree: A vibrant, all-day dining haven offers global cuisine and regional delicacies. Dine indoors or opt for a romantic meal on the wooden terrazzo, soaking in spectacular views.
Nellaki: You can immerse yourself in the soulful essence of Kodava cuisine at Nellaki Restaurant. Rustic charm meets culinary brilliance as you indulge in fresh flavours and unique ingredients, embraced by regional traditions.
Grills: Experience sophistication at ‘The Grills’ during dinner hours. Delight in their modern culinary concept featuring premium marinades and signature cocktails. Under a starlit sky, surrounded by a warm bonfire, elevate your dining experience to new heights.
Dew: Recharge your body at Dew, the resort’s wellness-focussed restaurant open for lunch. Embark on “A Walk with the Chef” through their lush organic garden, handpicking the freshest vegetables for a farm-to-fork experience in the healthiest spot in Coorg.
Hive Bar: An intimate bar perfect for savouring cocktails amidst nature’s spectacle. With locally sourced ingredients, raise a toast to happiness at Hive Bar.
Ideal destination for weddings
Furthermore, the resort’s stunning natural backdrop and luxurious amenities make it an ideal destination for weddings. With venues like Soirée, a spacious indoor banquet hall, and vast open areas featuring an amphitheatre and swimming pool, the resort can accommodate both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations with style and elegance.
In essence, Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg seamlessly combines luxury and sustainability, offering guests an unforgettable experience that not only indulges the senses but also nurtures a deep appreciation for the environment and local culture.
Profound commitment to local catchment and community
Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg exemplifies a profound commitment to its local catchment and community, manifesting through various initiatives aimed at empowerment and sustainability.
The resort places a special emphasis on employing and empowering local individuals, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and pride within the community. By providing both direct and indirect employment opportunities to locals, including Kodavas, the resort not only contributes to the local economy but also benefits from the rich cultural heritage and knowledge of the region. Col PS Muthanna, an Army veteran, a Kodava, entrusted with overseeing the Conservatory, represents the resort’s dedication to preserving and promoting local culture and history. His presence offers guests a unique opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of the region’s traditions and heritage, enriching their overall experience.
Asha Vishnu Kamath, a Kodava and a longstanding member of the resort’s team, epitomises the commitment to skill development and sustainability. Through her efforts in enhancing the spoken English skills of local employees and maintaining the resort’s expansive landscape and farmland, she not only contributes to the resort’s success but also empowers individuals within the community to thrive and excel in their roles. In essence, Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg serves as a shining example of responsible tourism, where sustainability, community empowerment, and cultural preservation converge to create a truly immersive and enriching experience for guests and locals alike.
Plethora of activities and USPs
Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg offers a plethora of activities and unique selling propositions (USPs) that cater to guests seeking immersive experiences, adventure, and cultural enrichment:
Nature Sensitisation: The resort conducts various in-house activities to sensitise guests about nature and the importance of preservation, including visits to the Butterfly Garden, Herbal Garden, and guided walks through the rainforest with an in-house Naturalist.
Outdoor and Indoor Activities: Guests can engage in a variety of recreational activities such as Table Tennis, Foosball, Pool Table, Carrom, Board Games, Paper crafts, and coloring for kids.
Cultural Performances: Experience the vibrant Kodava Dance Performance at the Amphitheatre, providing insights into the local culture and traditions.
Conservation Efforts: The resort’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its construction methods, such as using hand-pressed sun-dried bricks made from local mud and natural paints sourced from laterite soil. The resort also operates its own kitchen garden to cultivate seasonal produce.
Unique Dining Experiences: Enjoy dining under the star-studded sky at the outdoor Grill restaurant, overlooking the resort’s outdoor pool, Amphitheatre, and Lotus Pond.
Heritage Conservation: The resort preserves local heritage by converting existing houses into the Conservatory and Activity Centre, housing a museum with artefacts showcasing the rich history and culture of Coorg.
Pottery Studio: Learn the ancient art of pottery at the in-house pottery studio, allowing guests to engage in hands-on creative experiences.
Adventure Activities: Experience the thrill of zip-lining, with the resort boasting the second-largest zipline in South India. Guests can also explore the rainforest through guided walks and partake in mountain biking adventures amidst Coorg’s picturesque landscapes.
By offering a diverse range of activities and experiences, Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg creates memorable and enriching stays for guests, while also promoting sustainability, cultural preservation, and environmental conservation.
Prestigious array of celebrities and notable figures from around the world
Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg has attracted a prestigious array of celebrities and notable figures from around the world, including:
Hollywood: Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones, along with their son, have graced the resort with their presence.
Sports Stars: Renowned cricketers Anil Kumble, Javagal Sreenath, and football icon Sunil Chhetri have chosen Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg for their retreats.
Indian Cine Stars: The resort has been frequented by a constellation of Indian cinema stars, including Sanjay Dutt, Suniel Shetty, Ram Charan Teja, Venkatesh Daggubati, Puneeth Rajkumar, Manisha Koirala, Dia Mirza, Namrata Shirodkar, Sushmita Sen, and Manushi Chhillar.
Writer: Ashwin Sanghi, the acclaimed author known for his gripping novels, has also found inspiration amidst the serene landscapes and cultural richness of Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg. The patronage of such esteemed personalities underscores the resort’s reputation for excellence and its ability to cater to the discerning tastes of both domestic and international celebrities.
Glimpse of the accommodation options
The accommodation choices at Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa offer an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and immersion in nature’s beauty. Here’s a glimpse of the accommodation options available:
Presidential Suite (3 bedrooms, 836 sq m): This expansive suite is a lavish retreat spread over 9000 square feet, featuring three master bedrooms, a private swimming pool, jacuzzi, large sitting area, and pantry.
Luxury Pool Villa (307 sq m): With five luxury pool villas available, guests can indulge in spacious accommodations featuring private pools.
Premium Villa (130 sq m): The resort offers 18 premium villas, providing guests with spacious and elegantly appointed accommodation.
Deluxe Cottage (92 sq m): Guests can choose from 19 deluxe cottages.
Superior Cottage (79 sq m): The resort features 20 superior cottages, providing guests with comfortable and stylish accommodations.
The resort’s strategic location, just 8 km from the historic Madikeri Fort and 13 km from the picturesque Abbey Falls, offers guests easy access to some of Coorg’s most iconic landmarks and attractions.
Additionally, the convenience of being served by an extensive network of airports, including Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore and Coonoor, ensures seamless connectivity for travellers seeking to experience the splendour of Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa. Whether guests seek relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, the resort’s accommodations and surroundings offer an unforgettable retreat in the heart of Nature.
