A one-hour drive from Bangalore, “The Little England of India” is a charming destination known for its distinctive character.
Thalli, the Little England of India, is a place of wonder and beauty. Surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests, and thriving farmlands, it is a tranquil escape from the chaos of city life. With its British heritage and historical landmarks, Thalli has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The climate in Thalli is perfect for the cultivation of crops like cabbage, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and beans, as well as exotic roses. The dense forests, long rainy season, and freezing misty winter season are just some of the reasons why Thalli has been able to maintain its reputation as a calming retreat.
Before independence, the British rulers used to reside in and around Thalli. They built many buildings for administration purposes due to the ideal temperature compared to other places, and the pleasant weather, along with the architecture of the buildings, reminded them of their motherland. They named it “Little England,” a name that soon caught on with the locals and has since become a permanent part of the town’s identity.
Things to do around Thalli:
- Obtain divine blessings at the exceptional Maa Pratyangira Kalika Alayam
One of the must-visit attractions in Thalli is the Maa Pratyangira Kalika Alayam, a temple located in Moranapalli, famous for its statue of the goddess Pratyangira, who represents the union of Shiva and Shakti. The temple attracts many devotees who line up in long queues every day to seek blessings.
- Immerse yourself in the lush and fragrant atmosphere of the beautiful rose gardens.
Hosur is known for its rose gardens and flower exports, and visitors can take a stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens to see a variety of different roses. TANFLORA Infrastructure Park in Madhagondapalli is one of the leading exporters of high-quality cut roses to Europe, and their “Taj Mahal” variety is one of the most in-demand roses.
- Appreciate the splendor of Brett’s Fort, the Indian counterpart of Kenilworth Castle.
Brett’s Fort, also known as the Indian version of the Kenilworth Castle, is another must-visit for architecture enthusiasts. The fort was built by Mr. Brett, who was engaged to a Scottish lady of noble birth. She refused to come to India unless she was provided with a residence as beautiful as the castles in Scotland, and she was fascinated by the Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire. Mr. Brett built a model of the Kenilworth Castle in Hosur, and the town boasts of the Kenilworth Fort, which is the only fort in the country that looks like an English castle.
- Feast on the mouth-watering goodness of crispy Dosas and pillowy, freshly made Idlis
For a delicious breakfast of crispy dosas, soft idlis, and strong filter coffee, visit Meenakshi Bhavan, located opposite the Hosur bus stand. This budget-friendly eatery is a must-visit for foodies.
- Devarabetta Hills: A Blend of Nature, Culture, and Spirituality
Devarabetta Hills is located in Thalli at an altitude of around 967 meters above sea level and offers a scenic view of the surrounding landscape. The hills are surrounded by lush green forests and are dotted with tea plantations, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can trek up to the hilltop, and take in the breathtaking views of the sunset. The area is also known for its rich cultural heritage and is a popular destination for spiritual seekers. The peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of Devarabetta Hills in Thalli make it a perfect escape
- Relax with companions or solo at the Thally Garden and Lake.
Located 25 km from Hosur, the Thally Garden and Lake is a perfect place to relax and unwind with friends or even solo. The garden is fully surrounded by hill stations and is located 1000 ft above sea level, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Muthyalu Maduvu a Peaceful Oasis Amidst Hills and Clear Waterfalls.
Muthyalu Maduvu is another secluded spot, located in the midst of hills and nestled deep down in a valley. It is a fascinating picnic spot, known for its verdant surroundings and crystal-clear water that falls from a height of over 100 ft. Muthyalu means Pearls and Maduvu means Pond or Pool in Kannada
8. Shantivanam- Organic Farming & Sustainable Living Resort in the Heart of Deccan Plateau
Shantivanam Farmlands, spread across 60 acres in the heart of the Deccan plateau, is another must-visit destination. The farm offers a unique opportunity for nature lovers to own a piece of farmland and grow their own crops. These farmlands come in various sizes – ¼ acre, ½ acre, and 1 acre – and provides resort-like amenities, ensuring that guests can enjoy a comfortable and peaceful stay while farming.
At Shantivanam, the focus is on promoting organic farming and providing a community of managed farmlands. The resort also offers opportunities for capital appreciation on land and commercial plants built in the plots, making it a wise investment for the future. For those who are interested in learning about organic farming and sustainable living, Shantivanam offers workshops, courses, and training programs. The resort also has a library filled with books on various aspects of organic farming, from soil management to crop selection, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to learn more about sustainable agriculture.
The resort has a restaurant that serves delicious, organic meals made with produce grown on-site. The menu changes with the seasons, and the resort uses only locally sourced and organic ingredients to create nutritious and flavorful dishes. The restaurant also offers cooking classes, where guests can learn to cook traditional dishes using organic ingredients.
In addition to organic farming, Shantivanam also offers a range of activities and experiences that allow guests to connect with nature and rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul. Guests can take a guided nature walk, go bird watching, or meditate in the beautiful surroundings. For those looking for a more physical activity, there are opportunities to go mountain biking, rock climbing, or trekking. The resort also has a yoga and meditation center, where guests can participate in daily yoga and meditation classes, or enjoy a relaxing spa treatment.
In conclusion, Thalli with its lush green farms, dense forests, and pleasant weather, provides a perfect destination for anyone looking to connect with nature and experience a sustainable lifestyle. From the Maa Pratyangira Kalika Alayam temple to the Indian version of the Kenilworth Castle, from the crystal-clear waters of Muthyala Maduvu to the farmlands at Shantivanam, Thalli has something for everyone. Explore the beauty of Thalli for yourself.
So, whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or just someone who loves a good cup of coffee, Thalli is the perfect destination for you. With its peaceful surroundings and rich cultural heritage, Little England of India is sure to leave a lasting impression. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to escape the city and experience a sustainable lifestyle in the heart of nature. Visit the website of The Shantivanam Group at www.theshantigroup.com for more information.