Whilst the Turkish interpretation of Serai is 'a palace of the Sultan', the Persian version speaks of comfortable, accommodating environs for intrepid travelers and battle-weary soldiers to rest and recuperate after their travels across inhospitable terrain.
The Serai, is the perfect blend of both those definitions - A tranquil oasis of luxury and peace, to refresh mind and body; a well deserved respite from modern day travails, trials and tribulations! It is a fine example of seamlessly integrating luxury and fecundity of nature, each enhancing the other; a unique building typology that makes its a one-of-a-kind, world class resort.
To simply describe The Serai Chikmagalur as a haven of rejuvenation is an understatement! Here, ensconced in the fecundity, tranquility, serenity embrace of nature, one aligns with nature and reconnects with oneself - physically, mentally and emotionally. It is a one-of-a-kind destination to discover the Lap of Luxury and the Lap of Nature, in the self-same instant.
The contemporary minimalist architecture & interiors blends effortlessly with the coffee estate. The central edifice that houses the reception, the restaurant, the bar, the spa and other facilities is fronted by an elegant vanishing edge pool with the cottages laid out along an axis that blends with the hills on the horizon. The cottages have been planned with utmost care incorporating some of the most modern amenities that is comparable with the best in the world. The natural scenery has been integrated with the design, giving it an open feel. Nature has been brought into the interiors. This is best exemplified by the open wash room, open shower among others.
The Residence
The Residence is a retreat offering refined elegance along with exclusivity and privacy. It occupies its own private area at the end of the central axis of the resort comprising of a master bedroom, a second bedroom, living & dining room. One can entertain family and friends in the private dining room and in the large pool. You have a great view of the thick green foliage which surrounds the coffee estate, letting you be one with nature.
The Estate Terrace
Each of these two tiered villas has elevated positions with glorious views of the coffee plantations and the surrounding greenery. The room on the upper tier provides ample space to contemplate the beauty of your surroundings and find inner harmony.
The Estate Villa
These single-floor villas are havens of tranquility. The interiors are an elegant combination of modernity and local architecture. Open large sliding glass doors to reveal the room's interiors which feature a combined living room and bedroom with a generous view of the landscape outside. The tastefully designed bedroom and luxurious bathroom place onus on privacy and comfort.
Oma- The Spa
With a unique blend of Indian and international treatments and approaches, OMA is the place for physical, mental and spiritual rejuvenation.
Odyssey- The Cuisines of the world restaurant
Let your taste buds paint an evocative picture of faraway places, fond memories and great company. While the décor and the unique, organic paper-shaded lamps make for a beautiful setting, our menu reflects the diversity of recipes, ingredients, seasonings and preparations that have made their way from every corner of the globe. The chefs will conjure up dishes that celebrate the roots, spirit and fundamental flavors of a particular region whilst maintaining a singular style.
Blue Sky Lounge
After you peruse our collection of the finest liquors and wines, and settle down with your beverage of choice, like its name promises, the lounge and the views it affords you, instantly relaxes you.
Conference Facilities
While letting employees relax and unwind and work does not seem like work, The Serai offers conference facilities for small and large groups, with a capacity of seating of over 200.
Fitness Gym
Fitness freaks can work up a sweat at the fully-equipped gym, or choose to cycle or jog on the track around the resort, or a cross country run, too, if you so wish.
Bean to Cup - The Coffee Tour: Visit the coffee plantation located on
the mountains of western ghat; the whole terrain is exploratory and
requires a good pair of footwear before scaling these hills.
Experience a view that is absolutely stunning; once amongst the
plantation lend your ears to the call of birds and insects living in
this vegetation.
Arabica, Robusta & many other spices are grown in abundance in these part of the region, see how the secondary plants like orange, pepper, cardamom & vanilla are grown along the coffee plantation to balance and support the ecosystem. A trip to coffee museum showcases the history; beautifully narrating the origin of coffee. One can taste the various blends and variety of coffee at their coffee lounge and buy their favorite blend at 'Fresh and Ground' our retail outlet.
View from the Skies - The Heli Tour: Take a tour of verdant Chikmagalur, and have birds eye view of the rolling hills and the lush vegetation carpeting the hill slopes! Get an overview, literally, of the plantations and estates, the coffee works, the history and culture of one of Indias most fertile and picturesque landscapes!
Rejuvenating Coffee - The Oma Spa Experience: Relax at OMA Spa with one of their signature treatments which features hand-picked coffee from the estates as one of the main ingredients!
Or, visit any of the interesting places around:
Historical - History beckons those who visit Chikmagalur. You could visit Belur, Halebid or take a trip to Sringeri, even!
Adventure - Take a trek to Mullayanagiri - the highest peak in Karnataka. The wildlife sanctuary at Bhadra is within an accessible distance.