Evolve Back, Coorg is the undisputed destination for some R&R

The City life has a way of wearing you down. After countless 10-to-6 workdays, I was desperate for a change of scene—somewhere I could switch off, breathe crisper air, and immerse myself in nature to allow myself some time to relieve my stress. A quick decision later, flight tickets were booked, and we were headed down south to Evolve Back, Coorg, previously known as Orange County, for a four-day getaway promising rest, relaxation, and a dash of adventure.

Getting There
We flew to Bangalore and embarked on a smooth and scenic five-hour journey to Coorg. Along the way, with Karnataka villages flying by, our driver curiously asked about the purpose of our visit, and I simply replied that I needed some downtime. With a knowing laugh, he assured me that this was the perfect experience, ‘Evolve Back offers pin-drop silence,’ he added.

A Sanctuary for the Soul
As I stepped into the property, I was embraced by an aura of serene luxury and calmness. A signboard at the retreat read, “We want to leave you with an experience that money can’t buy.” This sentiment resonated through every thoughtfully curated activity during our stay.
True to its name, Evolve Back gives you the chance to look back and reflect, allowing you to evolve. Whether you find it in a quiet moment in the reading room overlooking lush paddy fields, during a sunrise encounter with exotic birds on a tree appreciation walk, or while savoring fresh brews from their coffee plantation, Evolve Back offers a rare opportunity to reconnect with nature—and yourself.

A Feast to Remember
This isn’t just a retreat to relax but a haven that’ll appeal to every foodie. Dining in all three of the property’s distinctive restaurants was a culinary journey through Coorg’s rich flavors and diverse ingredients.
We began with The Granary, a multicuisine restaurant with views of the main pool, offering a welcoming atmosphere for all meals. This restaurant celebrates regional specialties with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, making it our go-to spot for breakfast and evening snacks. The must-try items? Their pillowy Podli idlis and the crisp, flavourful Mysore-style dosa are perfectly washed down by the famed South Indian filter coffee.
For an elevated vegetarian experience, Plantain Leaf offers authentic South Indian fare with sweeping views of the surrounding plantation. We were lucky to dine here during Onam and enjoy a traditional Sadhya meal, an unforgettable spread of vibrant, beautifully arranged dishes that highlighted the rich culinary heritage of Kerala.

But perhaps my favorite dining experience at Evolve Back Coorg was at Peppercorn, a specialty restaurant nestled by a private lake. This serene setting was the perfect backdrop for an indulgent meal of the most succulent kebabs I’ve ever sampled, along with sizzlers, steaks, and more. Each dish here was crafted with care and flavors that lingered long after the meal, making this a highlight of my stay and a tempting reason to return.
To delight the epicurean in me, the staff was kind enough to even arrange an unforgettable Machan dinner— an intimate, private dining experience in a treetop restaurant. With a personal chef, attentive butler, and a menu tailored to our tastes, it was a meal curated exclusively for us. While the setting was magical, I’d recommend booking this experience during daylight hours to appreciate the lush, panoramic views that surround you.

A Nod to Kodava Culture
Nestled on a 300-acre coffee and spice estate, Evolve Back’s accommodation is crafted with a deep respect for Kodava heritage. The property offers a variety of room types—Heritage Pool Villas, Lily Pool Villas, Lily Pool Bungalows, Lily Pool Cottages, and Lily Pool Duplexes—all thoughtfully designed with a common theme to provide the perfect blend of homely comfort and indulgent luxury.
We stayed in a Heritage Pool Villa, a spacious sanctuary with its outdoor jacuzzi, a private sit-out area, and sweeping views of the lush surroundings. The villa’s interiors celebrated the Kodava design and culture with earthy tones and textures. The sitting area of the villa was an ode to traditional architecture with sloping red-tiled roofs, wooden beams, and cozy benches, it exudes warmth. Natural light streamed through a glass roof and Kodava-style jaali (lattice) screens, casting a dappled glow across the room. The space felt like a blend of nostalgia and serenity, inviting you to settle in and let the day slip by.

Onto The Wild Side
The in-house naturalists at Evolve Back were dedicated to deepening our connection with the natural beauty of Coorg. Each day, they lead immersive excursions through the property’s sprawling landscapes, whether by e-bike, on foot, or in a jeep. During a memorable sunset drive in an open-roofed jeep, Jackson, one of the naturalists, guided us through the enchanting Chikkana Halli for a tour of the estate.
As we ventured through the coffee and spice plantations—an impressive 2,500-acre expanse—Jackson shared stories about the region’s flora and fauna, local history, and the traditions that shape life here. I’m not usually drawn to the outdoors, but here I found myself captivated by the tales of Coorg's wildlife, the towering sandalwood and rosewood trees, and the legacy of coffee cultivation. It was also fascinating to learn that around 40% of India’s coffee comes from this region.

A special mention to the staff at Evolve Back, who go above and beyond to ensure every request is met and one has an unforgettable experience here. A simple reflection of this was Jackson who packed a picnic for me and my sister to enjoy atop the hill of the estate, where we took in the sweeping views against the backdrop of the setting sun—a memory I will always hold close to my heart.