This was a family trip and I must say the road trip was awesome. We were driving from Bangalore- Mysore- Waynad so there was plenty to do along the way. The only trouble is the time it can potentially take. In all We had 2 hours of pit stops on the way to wayanad which added to the total travel time of about 6 hours. The moment you trun toward sultan Bathery from gundlepet, the landscape changes. Superb views of sunflower, marigold and vegetable fields. You can stop by and get some great deals. The roads are really good hereon. I though the forest was much quieter than on the masinagudi side. Didn’t see any animals. There is a possibility of long waits at the Kerala border check post so you should budget and additional half hour to get through, Sultan Bathery to my surprise is a quite a large town and you can find whatever essentials that you need. Also some good authentic kerela restaurants. We stopped at one called mintflower, good seafood. If you have kids with you I suggest stopping here as the place is quite clean and hygienic.
The mountains loom large once you cross sultan bathery and there are stunning views in areas of lakkidi. Quite nice to find a coffee day cafe along the roadside even here. Soon after you cross the cafe on your left be careful as you might miss the turn into the rain country resort which is a very very steep uphill/ downhill narrow path. You will need to be really cautious on this path as it is very narrow. But big enough to allow a vehicle like innova. You will wonder when the road will ever end as the slow ride aqnd drop will continue for over half hour as you desend into a pristine valley.
The resort itself very beautiful. In fact it is awesome with its traditional architecture and the rugged landscape that includes a waterfall and meandering stream in the resort itself. A large water body is supposedly used for swimming but we gave that a pass as it was constantly raining. Stunning views from the cottage especially when the fog rolls in which can be anytime. Lots of jungle noises.
The rooms are very basic, no hot water ( they said there would be)but clean and with minimal furniture. The sit out is perfect. Food is below average. I thought the cuisine would be superb and exotic but exactly the opposite. The restaurant again is traditional and takes you back but the quality of food dosent let you appreciate the decor ( which can get quite messy when raining). The staff are very friendly and couteous.
The activity room doesn’t have much either. It is just one large room which is enclosed and has worn out equipment - no fun at all. You cant do anything in monsoon season as the place is infested with leeches ( got hooked on by three) so no trekking, outdoors in the jungle.
The charges at the end of this seems too much. We payed Rs. 6000 for a night with food for 3 adults and 2 toddlers.
Frankly I am glad we stayed only for a night as it would have been terrible boring to stay for another. It’s good for just that much. I dont think I would be going back but I do think that it is a must see just once for the natural beauty in full view. Thats the only thing that made this trip worth it.