There are some places that keep popping up again and again — in Google searches, and even when you ask ChatGPT for pet-friendly, eco-friendly places around Bangalore.
Chukki Mane was one such name.

It’s usually described as an eco-friendly village stay, good for families and kids, with team activities and rustic charm. I had seen the photos on their website — star-shaped cottages, lots of open space, people just slowing down. It had been on my list for a long time, but like many such plans, it never really materialised.

This time, there was no planning at all.

It was the end of December, right between Christmas and New Year. Travel options were limited, most decent places were already booked out, and we didn’t have the luxury of researching endlessly. Almost instinctively, I called Chukki Mane. They had availability for the night of the 30th. That was good enough. We booked it.

Sometimes, the best trips are the least planned ones.

The Drive: Easy, Familiar, Unhurried

Chukki Mane is about 2 to 2.5 hours from Bangalore, depending on traffic. We took the usual route via Kanakapura Road — smooth roads for most part and very easy to navigate.

As you get closer, the city noise fades away. Trees take over. The surroundings start feeling distinctly rural, in a comforting way. When we finally entered the property, the village vibe was unmistakable — open spaces, mud paths, trees everywhere, and birds all around.

First Impressions: Trees, Birds & Nothing Urgent to Do

We reached around late morning, roughly 11–12ish, and settled in before lunch. The place invites you to do one thing really well — nothing.

There were traditional cots laid out under trees. Birds kept flying across and calling out. We just sat, lay down, and let time stretch a little. No schedule, no checklist.

Lunch was served soon after.

Food: Simple, Homegrown & Surprisingly Elaborate

The stay (3,500 Rs. per head, and 1750 per kid) includes all meals — lunch, dinner, breakfast, and that takes away a lot of planning stress. The food here is pure vegetarian, cooked using ingredients grown within.

What surprised me was how elaborate it was. Multiple dishes, well-balanced flavours, and food that felt both hearty and light. It wasn’t fancy, but it was tasty, and satisfying — the kind of meal after which you want to go lie down under a tree and do nothing else.

Which is exactly what I did.

The Bullock Cart Ride: Slow, Skillful & Memorable

Post lunch, we went for the bullock cart ride, and this turned out to be one of the most memorable parts of the stay.

The ride went on for more than an hour, through narrow village roads and open fields. What stood out was the skill of the bullock cart driver. He navigated tight paths, passing tractors, JCBs, and oncoming vehicles with remarkable ease. Watching him manoeuvre that cart through such roads was an experience in itself.

A small but important tip: carry some cash. We hadn’t carried enough and genuinely wished we could have tipped him better.

The ride itself was relaxing, though a bit taxing on the back 🙂 — but that’s part of the charm.

The Star Cottage: A Big Hit with Our Kid

The cottages are shaped like stars — “Chukki” in Kannada, which is where the name Chukki Mane (Star House) comes from.

This was a clear highlight.

Our daughter absolutely loved it. The stairs leading up to the beds, climbing up and down, exploring every corner — she was in her element. For kids, this alone makes the stay special.

In the evening, we rested inside the cottage, followed by another delicious, filling dinner.

Later, there was a bonfire, and people just gathered around. No loud music. No rush.

Morning Walk by the River & Birds Everywhere

We woke up early the next day. Mr. Sanjay, the proprietor, took us on a morning walk towards the banks of the Kaveri River.

We walked through fields, listening to him talk about birds — their habits, calls, and unique characteristics. His love for birds was evident. In fact, even the previous evening before dinner, he had given us a small informal talk about birds.

It felt less like a “guided activity” and more like walking around with someone who genuinely enjoys what he does.

Wrapping Up: A Short Stay That Felt Complete

After returning from the walk, we had breakfast, packed up, and headed out.

Chukki Mane is not a place meant for ticking off attractions. It’s a place to slow down, especially if you’re travelling with family and kids. One night is good. Two nights is probably better. Anything more might be unnecessary unless you’re specifically looking to disconnect for longer.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for:

  • An easy weekend getaway from Bangalore
  • A kid-friendly, pet-friendly, eco-friendly stay
  • Good food, open spaces, birds, and village vibes
  • A place where doing nothing feels like doing enough

Chukki Mane fits the bill beautifully.