We recently spent a couple of nights at the Machaan.
Located in the south Kodagu (Coorg) district of Karnataka, the resort is within a 30-minute drive from both the Nagerhole NP (in Karnataka) and the Wyanad (Muthanga) NP (in Kerala), with both sanctuaries offering wildlife sighting opportunities. It is a comfortable 6-hour drive from Bangalore (Kengeri) on excellent National and State highways. One also gets a feel of dirt-track driving for the last 500m or so, as one gets away from paved roads to drive into the estate.

Situated amongst the serene greenery of a Coorgi coffee plantation just next to the Nagerhole NP, Machaan lives up to the expectations of a relaxed weekend getaway that does not deplete the wallet.

The staff is enthusiastic and helpful, Mr Basil the resident Manager is courteous and professional and well acquainted with the local flora and fauna - specially birds and butterflies. A very helpful guide for walks and field trips.

The cottages are discretely located and each cottage building has twin units, ideal for two families on a weekend. The rooms are modern, well-appointed, spacious and airy. Our room (Room #1) also had a sit out. The skylighted bathroom was executive quality and styling. There is a DG set for power backup and a central boiler to provide hot water in the taps.

The food is simple and delicious, specially after long walks. And thankfully the rooms don't have TV !

The Staff is very helful and we had a Dedicated person through out the trip and accompanied to all the places of IRUPU Falls to the Water Rafting. Cant Afford better place than this for the Peaceful stay. The rooms are very spacious with all the best Amenities and the Bathroom is as new as it was built few weeks back...........though the finding route is a bit difficult once found its heavenly to stay.

We went for the long weekend to Coorg by car-took us abt 6 hrs,went past Nagarhole national park and it turned out to be an impromptu day safari my son loved-spotted elephants,wild boars and some rare birds.Machaan was abt an hr's drive away.It is a small resort-more a homestay really though they are planning to expand.Facilities are basic-the cottages were clean and adequate for our family of 4 .Food was simple.What stood out was the hospitality of the staff.They were eversmiling and obliging,even took good care of our driver.We went on a natute walk and did some bird watching thanks to Mr.Basil,the naturalist.It was good to be away from the city.There was no tv/computer.Cell phone coverage was erratic.No swimming pool/kids activities/massage on site.But,even without all this,We felt satisfied just to be amidst mother nature among friendly people.There are only abt 4 cottages,so it is a small place,but can spend 2 days easily.There are a lot of insects,so carry repellant.The irukkal falls nearby was beautiful.This was a last minute vacation,but considering its cheaper than orange county and other resorts,it is a good bet for those who wouldn't mind simplicity.

We were greeted at the carpark. A very helpful staff helped with our luggage to our cottage some 500 metres away from the car. The very first thing that we noticed was the green lush everywhere. Very peaceful.

The restaurant is open-space hence no air-con. But, the fresh air is cooling. Bring a sweater for dinner. It could be chilly after sunset. The food was alright and the staff was great.

The cottage is reasonable size for 2 persons. Very comfortable bed. The toilet is fantastic. In fact, we were very surprised with the toilet installation. A definite 5 stars if the roof is a clear glass/plastic for sunlight to shine thru.

It was raining heavily but umbrella was provided. Just remember to keep it close to you. Other guests might just grab and go, leaving you without one later.

Overall, I will be back to the resort again.