Experience Heritage and Hospitality at La Maison Homestay
La Maison is a lovingly restored heritage homestay in Kotagiri, created by Benoit Siat, a Frenchman who first visited India in the 1970s and later made the Nilgiris his home. The property dates back to 1888, when it was built as a Scottish summer retreat, later owned and modified by a local Tamil family in the 1990s.
In 2000, Benoit acquired the crumbling colonial bungalow and restored it with great care, blending its historic charm with French elegance. By 2009, La Maison opened as a warm, character-filled homestay that combines old-world architecture with the simplicity of rural living.
Benoit is not just a host—he’s a guide, gardener, storyteller, and animal lover, leading tea-garden walks and sharing local tales over coffee or wine. His partner, Monu Damani, a trained nutritionist, adds warmth and thoughtful detail to every guest experience.
The homestay is a serene sanctuary enriched by nature, heritage, and heartfelt hospitality, where guests can meet the family’s many animals—geese, turkeys, rabbits, chickens, and friendly dogs—who are very much part of the home.
Tucked into the rolling hills of Kotagiri, La Maison offers a heritage homestay experience in a restored colonial bungalow where every corner evokes warmth, tranquility, and character. The décor blends old-world charm — antique wood furniture, vintage accents, verandahs — with the comforts expected by modern travellers.
Named after the morning light it receives, this room is the most spacious of all, with large windows opening to the hills and tea gardens. Warm rose-toned accents, classic furniture, and soft lighting create a welcoming atmosphere, making it ideal for families or couples with a young child who want room to relax in comfort and charm.
Garden View
345 sq ft
1 room
02 + 1
A monochrome palette and minimal colonial elegance define this peaceful, garden-facing room. Ideal for couples or solo travellers seeking calm and quiet.
Garden View
1 room
280 sq ft
02 + 1
As the name suggests, this is a cozy and intimate room with floral tones and soft lighting — great for couples looking for a quiet escape.
Garden View
1 room
02 + 1
236 sq.ft
This charming room features a spacious double bed positioned to enjoy the gentle light streaming in from its South- and West-facing doors. Thoughtfully designed for both comfort and character, it is enhanced by art prints, antique furniture, and carefully chosen details that add warmth and personality, giving the Rose Room a timeless and inviting atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Garden View
320 sq ft
1 room
02 + 1
Price Description: The price is for double occupancy and includes all taxes and accommodation with the following meals. This pricing is dynamic and may vary during Weekends, Public Holidays and Peak Season so please call us to get the latest quote.
Meals: Breakfast (✓), Lunch (₹), Dinner (₹)
Raahghar Payment Terms: Reservation is confirmed with an advance payment of 50% of the total amount at the time of booking. The balance payment is to be made 7 days prior to check-in.
Cancellation Policy (Indian Passport Holders Only):
In case of a cancellation due to any unforeseen circumstance a credit note will be issued by the property to the guest for the amount paid till date.
The credit note will be valid for use within one year from the period of booking. The guest can redeem the credit note against the amount of any future booking within a year and pay the balance if any as per the rates applicable on that date. This credit note is also transferable and can be used by the guest/transferee only once within the stipulated date.
Raahghar would keep your credit card information secured with us and it won't be charged unless needed.
Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) — approximately 2.5 to 3 hours / around 70 km from the homestay
Mettupalayam Railway Station (near Nilgiris) — about 1 to 1.5 hours / roughly 35 km away.
La Maison is located about 10 km (approximately 25-30 minutes) from Kotagiri town, nestled on Hadathorai Hill.
Restored 19th-century bungalow originally built in 1888, blending colonial-era charm with thoughtful modern design.Situated at 1,700 m on Hadathorai Hill, La Maison offers sweeping views of the Nilgiri slopes and the valley below.
A unique, open-air jacuzzi heated with a traditional wood-fired system, offering scenic valley views.
Low-plastic policy, use of repurposed materials (like bottle-based greenhouses), vermicomposting, and shade tree planting to conserve water.
Interiors feature original art and handpicked decor. The homestay also supports local artisans through an on-site boutique.
Large skylights and open spaces reduce the need for artificial lighting, keeping the interiors naturally bright and airy.
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