An unexpected break in our regular schedules provided instant fuel for a holiday plan. With the summer heat beating down on most regions in India, an escape to cooler and verdant climes would be a welcome change. We decided to explore the Malnad region of Karnataka. Sakleshpur and Chikmagalur were the chosen destinations. This time we were willing to explore more “remote” locations with “Junior”. It would be his first “homestay” experience in the lap of nature.