Chikmagalur, which literally translates to the Ccity of the younger daughter, is a mere 5 hours from Bengaluru. But in terms of peace, pollution and greenery, it could as well be another planet. This little town is internationally renowned for its coffee and coffee tourism. It also has much to offer in terms of its spectacular views, food and peaceful forests. I was recommended to stay in a coffee estate called 'Karthik Estate.' There were various such estates in the area that offer homestay facilities. Most of the people are warm and welcoming and ensure that you have a wonderful stay. But this particular place was recommended for its fabulous views, an idyllic setting as well as a swimming pool –the only private one in the hills, I was told. I was also told that I would “literally be above the clouds” here, without trekking much to get there.

As we drove up, I wondered about the authenticity of that statement. The best way to travel to this region is in a jeep. Though the SUVs can bear some of the roads, the rocky roads can damage the best of the cars. A thin rain followed us up the hill and the road ahead was shrouded in a thick mist. It was late in the night and seemed more of a setting for a horror movie than the idyllic slopes that had been promised.

The car pulled over at some place, with more darkness around us. “Look ahead” someone said. And there, in the utter darkness, framed by the car lights was my shadow falling on the mist. The rock suddenly dropped down to form a vast valley, and the mist was strong enough to make you believe you could walk on it.

We were literally in the clouds.

The monsoon season make it a little difficult to enjoy a trek in Chikmagalur. The paths are slippery and you never know when sunshine makes way for rain. The winds are strong and it can get quite chilly. There were several spots that were recommended to me for a good shot, to relax or just an easy trek. Temples that looked like a lost relic from Indiana Jones' movies, viewpoints that surpassed each other in beauty and walks through the coffee estate surrounded by sheer greenery and dripping leaves.

Chikmagalur has something for everyone. If tourists are interested in coffee tourism, they can visit several estates where they are taken through the procedure of how coffee is made, ending with a steaming cup of home-made coffee. For photography enthusiasts, the beautiful landscapes and birds in the area make interesting subjects along with the workers in the estates. Biking enthusiasts particularly love the hilly stretch in the area for the challenges it provides both on Bikes or bicycles.

You must remember to carry all that you think you might need to survive. The nearest shop is generally a few kilometers away. Electricity can be quite elusive, particularly in the monsoons and cell phone network is generally absent.

You also would need slightly thicker skin if you intend to make use of the pool in the evening. The sun sets early and the mists crawl in. But if you are adventurous enough to dip your toes into the pool, there is always a campfire awaiting you when you step out, with a hot barbeque arranged by the hosts.

Chikmagalur is the best possible quick and cheap getaway when the pressures of the city get too hot. October through March is the best time to visit the place. The weather is cool and perfect for chilling over coffee and there are even pockets of sunshine that warm your bones. However, a visit in the monsoon gives a completely different perspective to the place.