Our Journey to KaatiKaadu!

Hey there, nature enthusiasts! Dhanush and Subeeth here, the founders of Kaatikaadu, and we're thrilled to take you on a journey through our incredible experience discovering this hidden gem nestled in the heart of Bisle Ghat.

It all started back in 2015 when we embarked on a quest to find a piece of land that would allow us to connect deeply with nature. Little did we know that non-agriculturists could also purchase agricultural land, and this realization opened up a world of possibilities. After visiting more than ten properties and encountering a few disappointments, we stumbled upon Vanagoor Estate during a serendipitous encounter while driving through the breathtaking Bisle Ghat route.

From the moment we set foot on the property, we knew we had found something truly special. Our hearts skipped a beat as we marveled at the picturesque landscape—rivers meandering through the lush greenery, imposing boulders dotting the terrain, and an atmosphere that exuded the untamed beauty of a jungle. It was love at first sight, an enchanting paradise that beckoned us to share its magic with others.

Our initial visit in November 2020, just after the monsoon season, left us awe-struck. The Western Ghats were adorned with a vibrant tapestry of green hues, and we couldn't help but be captivated by the sheer magnificence of nature. As we crossed the stream and entered the property, we were greeted by an enchanting sight—tadpoles, the size of which we had never seen before, swimming gracefully in the water. It was a clear indication that we had stumbled upon a dense forest teeming with life.

The previous owners had left this land untouched for over 15 years, allowing nature to thrive in its purest form. Walking through the thick foliage, we felt as though sunlight barely touched the ground, creating an ethereal ambiance. The symphony of frogs croaking, birds chirping, water flowing, and the gentle rustling of the wind in the midst of this jungle setting was a sensory overload that we couldn't resist.

Excitedly, we shared our discovery with one another. Subeeth, my cousin and co-founder, wasted no time in visiting the property the following week. And just like me, he was immediately captivated by its mesmerizing allure. We knew deep in our hearts that Kaatikaadu was destined to become more than just a piece of land—it was our calling to create a haven where people could immerse themselves in the wonders of nature.

The journey to establish our presence here wasn't without its challenges. No roads, no electricity, dense vegetation that made it nearly impossible to navigate, and leeches aplenty—building our existence in this remote location required dedication and perseverance. Yet, with each visit, we delved deeper into the soul of the property. We discovered an old abandoned house foundation, towering trees that seemed to touch the sky, stunning boulder patches, coffee plants that had grown wild and tall, and a small seasonal creek that danced through the property during the monsoon. The diverse array of wild-grown trees added even more charm to this enchanting landscape.

But it wasn't just the flora that fascinated us—the fauna of Kaatikaadu left us in awe. Wild jackfruit trees, known as "Tuluve," offered a unique flavor and texture, while majestic mango trees tantalized our taste buds with the region's sweetest mangoes. Brindle berry trees, locally known as "Kachampuli," added to the rich biodiversity. And the abundance of wildlife we encountered—porcupines, wild boars, wild goats, wild cats, civet cats, mongoose, peacocks, jungle fowls, and countless birds—served as a reminder of the untouched beauty that surrounded us. Among them, the traces of the Indian Gaur, fondly known as "Kaati," always filled us with excitement and reinforced the choice of our name.

And let's not forget the monsoons—a time when nature truly comes alive in all its glory. With an average rainfall of approximately 230 inches annually, Kaatikaadu experiences some of the highest rainfall in Karnataka. As rain poured from the heavens, frogs croaked in unison, water flowed with unparalleled vigor, and the creek inside the property came alive, making it the perfect backdrop for a scenic drive or thrilling off-roading adventure. As avid off-roading enthusiasts, exploring the property amidst the encompassing jungle became our favorite way to immerse ourselves in the beauty that surrounded us.

Camping at Kaatikaadu became a regular affair for us, a chance to experience the thrill of staying overnight and anticipating encounters with wildlife. Cooking over a crackling fire and enjoying a refreshing beverage while sitting by the water became cherished moments of escape. We recall one particular camping trip that lasted five consecutive days, during which we didn't even step out of the property. It was then that we realized the unparalleled calmness and freedom that Kaatikaadu offered, providing a space where the mind finds solace and freedom from the chaos of the world.

Inspired by these transformative experiences, we made it our personal mission to ensure that others could also savor the magic of Kaatikaadu. And today, we are beyond excited to share that this dream has become a reality. We invite you to immerse yourself in the symphony of nature—croaking frogs, chirping birds, abundant wildlife, and the gentle rustling of the wind amidst the lush green jungle vibes of Kaatikaadu. It's an experience that promises to rejuvenate your spirit and ignite a lifelong love affair with Mother Nature.

So, come join us on this extraordinary journey, where every corner of Kaatikaadu has a story to tell, and where you can find a piece of your own serenity in the embrace of nature. See you soon amidst the wonders of Kaatikaadu!

With love and gratitude, Dhanush & Subeeth