Ekkodlu Homestay

The setting by the river is quiet, and the property is kept in good shape. The newer river-facing rooms are really nice, though the older block isn't as good. Food is the main downside: it's brought in from a restaurant on the main road, and it wasn't great.

This ruined the plans I had made for my wife's birthday, and left me embarrassed in front of friends and family. I had booked in the first week of October for New Year, received confirmation, and paid an advance. Then, in the last week of October, a man called to say the owner wanted to give the property to someone else, so my booking was cancelled. If the owner wanted to offer it privately, why accept online bookings and advance payments? Prices for New Year dates are higher everywhere now. I don't consider this fair, and they showed no care for customers or basic business sense. I suggest families avoid booking here, since it could be cancelled at any time, even the day before you leave. I wouldn't give them even one star.

We stayed among fruit farms and trees all around, with the Sitanadi river right beside the homestay. You could hear it from bed, and the water was clear and full of fish. We even saw eels under rocks. Some of us swam there; the water felt refreshing without being too cold. My dog had a great time too. Ekkodlu really welcomed pets, and there were plenty of friendly animals to meet. We could feed or gently pet them, and my dog made friends with them, as did we. It felt like a little animal kingdom. The rooms were clean and hygienic, with comfortable beds and spotless bathrooms. They're cozy and well looked after, though not luxurious. There are different stay options, including dormitory rooms. The people running the place were relaxed and friendly, happy to chat or answer questions about nearby places and feeding the animals. Agumbe is lush, but this spot felt especially green and peaceful, with a bit of adventure and lots of cute animals. The owners clearly take pride in making guests feel at home.

A clean place with good hospitality, and a great stay for families. Definitely worth visiting.