In the heart of Karnataka’s Coorg district, nestled amidst verdant hills and pristine wilderness, lies Evergreen County—a sanctuary crafted by the vision and passion of Bajan Bopanna. Born and raised in this idyllic region, Bajan’s childhood was steeped in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Coorg. It was here, amidst lush coffee plantations and misty mornings, that he developed a deep-rooted connection to the land, its traditions, and its people.
From an early age, Bajan’s parents imparted invaluable lessons in resilience and determination. Their own experiences navigating the challenges of rural life and economic fluctuations instilled in him a profound respect for hard work and an unwavering belief in the potential of their homeland. However, as Bajan grew older, he witnessed the gradual transformation of Coorg. Urbanization encroached upon the traditional way of life, and the serenity of the countryside began to give way to bustling towns and tourist developments.
This transformation sparked a desire within Bajan—a desire to preserve the essence of Coorg’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, to offer others the chance to experience the tranquility and authenticity that he cherished. Armed with a vision and a modest initial investment, Bajan took his first steps into entrepreneurship at the age of 24. With determination as his compass, he set out to create a haven where city dwellers could escape the chaos of urban life and reconnect with nature.
In 2009, Evergreen County was born—a labor of love that would grow from humble beginnings into a renowned adventure resort. Set against the backdrop of Coorg’s rolling hills and dense forests, Evergreen County embodies rustic charm and tranquility. The resort’s architecture pays homage to Coorg’s traditional dwellings, with wooden cottages and stone-age accommodations seamlessly blending into the natural landscape.
What sets Evergreen County apart is not just its picturesque setting or comfortable accommodations, but the immersive experience it offers. Bajan envisioned more than just a place to stay; he envisioned a retreat where guests could engage with nature through unique adventure activities. From night plantation walks lit by lanterns to exhilarating water sports and traditional Coorg cuisine, every aspect of Evergreen County is designed to awaken the senses and rejuvenate the spirit.
Over the years, Evergreen County has garnered acclaim for its commitment to sustainable tourism practices and exceptional guest experiences. Awards such as the Better Holidays Award by Holiday IQ and multiple Excellence Awards from TripAdvisor stand as testament to Bajan’s dedication and the team’s unwavering hospitality. The resort’s induction into TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame for three consecutive years further underscores its status as a leader in specialty lodging in Coorg.
Yet, for Bajan, success is not measured solely in awards or financial metrics. It is found in the smiles of guests who rediscover the joy of simplicity, in the stories shared around a bonfire under the starlit Coorg sky, and in the connections forged between people and nature. His journey as an entrepreneur has been marked by challenges—from convincing his family to support his venture to building a team from scratch. Each obstacle has been a lesson in resilience and adaptability, reinforcing his belief that entrepreneurship is a continuous journey of growth and learning.
Looking ahead, Bajan sees Evergreen County not just as a retreat, but as a global destination for travelers seeking meaningful connections with nature. As society becomes increasingly mechanized and disconnected from the natural world, he anticipates a growing demand for authentic, nature-based experiences. His vision for the future includes expanding Evergreen County’s footprint while staying true to its core values of sustainability, community engagement, and guest satisfaction.
Through his entrepreneurial journey, Bajan Bopanna has not only realized his childhood dreams but has also become a steward of Coorg’s natural and cultural heritage. His story is a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and a deep-rooted connection to one’s roots. As Evergreen County continues to evolve and inspire, it remains a beacon of hope for those who seek to embrace nature’s beauty and rediscover the simplicity of life amidst Coorg’s timeless landscapes.
