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From indulging in organic jams in Mysore to enjoying a refreshing digital detox in Pondicherry, these homestays in South India offer the perfect home-away-from-home experience.
I never considered solo travel until I read Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. It is a heartwarming story about a woman’s journey of self-discovery across the world. Her travels took her from the enchanting streets of Rome to the lush forests of Ubud and the banks of the Ganges in Mirzapur. Her adventures inspired me to embark on my solo journey through South India. The vibrant cities, exquisite temple architecture, and green mountains of this region have always brought joy to my heart. As I began planning my journey, I knew that this combination of natural and cultural treasures would make for a superb solo adventure. Following some research, it became clear that homestays are the ideal choice for solo travellers, thanks to their homely atmosphere and the personalised assistance they promise to offer. I found several attractive homestay options across South India, each possessing a unique charm. Read on to discover my carefully curated selection of homestays in Mysore, Ooty, and Pondicherry, based on both my personal experiences and recommendations from locals. Remember that all prices are subject to seasonal variations; check the official websites of the homestays for details.
I began my journey in Mysore, popularly known as the City of Palaces. The dazzling City Palace, the imposing 75-ft clocktower known as Dodda Gadiyara, and the irresistible charm of Mysore silk sarees piqued my interest in the city. I was pleasantly surprised to find a wealth of homestays in the city.
Notably, Gitanjali Homestay (Lalitadripura Road; GeoTag: 12.292046391636708, 76.69081240707753) is just a 15-minute car ride from Mysore Palace. Located at the foot of Chamundi Hills, the homestay looked like an idyllic retreat surrounded by lush green gardens. Upon arrival, the owner's family extended a warm welcome and promptly escorted me to my room. Soon, I was served a delicious homemade breakfast, which included organic jam and coffee sourced from their estate in Coorg.
Gitanjali Homestay would be my home away from home for the next three nights and four days. My cosy Standard Double Room was equipped with air-conditioning, WiFi connectivity, a tea/coffee maker, and a microwave. The spacious common verandah became my favourite spot to start my mornings, amidst the soothing sound of bird calls. As a pet lover, I found the house even more welcoming because of the host family's dogs and cats.
My package at the homestay cost around Rs. 18,547 (net), inclusive of breakfast. The homestay also offers yoga classes and Ayurvedic treatments on request. In addition to this, they also organise cultural programmes, with performances by Dollu Kunitha dancers, as an introduction to the folk dance culture of northern Karnataka.
I also learned about another superb homestay in the city, called Tulips Homestay (No. 922, Tulips, 6th Main Road, 10th Cross Road; GeoTag: 12.330956011706512, 76.61488666614164), conveniently located in the Vijayanagar area. With room tariffs starting at Rs. 2,185 (net) per night, this homestay looked like a modest option. The place exuded a peaceful atmosphere.
Ooty has always been my favourite mountain getaway. Its stunning valleys and crisp air never cease to lift my spirits. This time, I opted for a homestay at the quaint Marlborough House (123, Havelock Road, Bandisholai, Opposite Old Vigilance Office; 11.419641564454981, 76.7048885530997). This century-old bungalow stands as a testament to Colonial-era craftsmanship.
As I made my way towards the charming bungalow, surrounded by well-manicured gardens, I couldn't help but feel like I had stepped into a bygone era. Inside, the decor radiated a sense of grandeur, adorned with elegant carpets and tapestries. The numerous French windows bathed the interiors in natural light, offering lovely views of the gardens and lawns.
Upon entering my Superior Double Room (sleeps up to two guests), I was awestruck by the fusion of timeless charm and contemporary elegance. The room boasted wooden flooring and Victorian-style furnishings, creating an inviting ambience. The en-suite bathroom featured modern fixtures. For a two-night and three-day stay at this Ooty homestay, I paid around Rs. 8,064, inclusive of breakfast.
If you are looking for an experiential stay, consider The Bungalow in Ooty (160, Davis Dl, Davisdale; 11.400721451772188, 76.70366080099248), which overlooks the Ootacamund Race Course. The early 19th-century property is run by Tranquilitea, a family-owned tea company that also offers boutique stays.
I explored its luxurious rooms, fitted out with teak and rosewood furniture, a fireplace, and all the modern amenities one would need. They also offer the option to rent the whole villa—prices vary based on the number of guests—making it a superb choice for those travelling in large groups. What truly stood out for me at the homestay was the delectable traditional Badaga cuisine they served during meal times. Tariffs begin at around Rs. 10,620 (net) per couple per night.
Solo travelling in Pondicherry was a delightful experience. I spent time wandering the streets of the charming French Quarter, relaxing on the beaches, and immersing myself in the divine energy at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Auroville. The cultural richness of this coastal town felt truly magical. Time and again, I have endeavoured to rediscover the essence of Pondicherry and have experienced joy, each time, during my explorations.
My long-time favourite here has been the La Maison Bleue (Viluppuram Auroville, Chinamudaliar Chavadi; 11.975166237727825, 79.84757967777409), an eco-homestay located in Auroville. I checked into Casa Maé, a rustic-style oceanfront cabana at this homestay. My room (sleeps up to two guests) was part of a two-storeyed cottage and came with a king-sized bed, a private kitchenette, a patio, and a shared bathroom. The sound of the waves lulled me to sleep every night. The best part was that there was no WiFi here, making it a great place for a digital detox. A two-night and three-day package at this Pondicherry homestay cost me around Rs. 4,872.
Every homestay in Mysore, Ooty, and Pondicherry filled me with warmth and provided invaluable security and ease for a solo traveller like myself. These homestays also helped me to connect deeply with the essence of the city or town. Sharing meals and engaging in conversations at these homestays in South India enriched me with great memories, valuable insights, and meaningful connections.
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