It started with the land we already had.
Captain's Camp was born from a lifelong connection with nature.
The idea was simple — a nature camp set within a working plantation and surrounded by pristine forest. A place built to preserve the land, respect the ecosystem, and give people a way back to the Western Ghats without giving up comfort.
When the world slowed down during the COVID-19 pandemic, the chance finally came to make it real. What began as a dream on our family farm gradually became Captain's Camp.
Today, it remains first and foremost a working farm. Areca palms sway in the breeze, pepper vines climb their supports, streams run through the property, and the forest around it keeps thriving. We've added only what a traveller needs to be comfortable, and left the rest to nature.
More than a resort, Captain's Camp is an invitation to experience the Western Ghats as we have known them for generations — unhurried, authentic, and alive with the sounds of the forest. Whether you come for adventure, wildlife, birdwatching, quiet reflection, or simply an escape from the noise, you'll find a place here.
I'm Capt. Sujay Hegde (Retd), founder of Captain's Camp.
Born and raised in Sirsi, I grew up amidst the plantations, forests, and streams of the Western Ghats. My early fascination with nature led me to pursue a degree in Horticulture, but my professional journey would take me far beyond the forests of my hometown.
I was commissioned into the Indian Army and had the privilege of serving as an officer with the 18th Battalion of the Jammu & Kashmir Rifles. The Army shaped my outlook on life, teaching me leadership, discipline, resilience, and a deep respect for people and the environment. Those years remain among the most rewarding of my life and continue to influence how I approach hospitality and guest experiences today.
After completing my military service, I transitioned into the corporate world, working with some of the most respected organizations across hospitality, banking, healthcare technology, and enterprise software. My journey included roles with Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, where I learned the art of exceptional hospitality and guest service, followed by leadership and management positions with ANZ, Cerner, and Oracle. These experiences provided me with a unique blend of operational excellence, customer focus, and business expertise.
Yet, throughout my career, I carried a dream of returning home and creating something meaningful in the landscape that shaped my childhood.
That dream became Captain's Camp.
Located on our family's plantation in the Western Ghats, Captain's Camp combines my passion for nature, the values I learned in the Army, and the hospitality standards I experienced during my corporate career. The camp was designed as a place where guests can experience the beauty of the Western Ghats in comfort while remaining closely connected to nature.
Today, you'll often find me interacting with guests, sharing stories about the region, leading nature walks, discussing local wildlife, or simply ensuring that every detail of your stay is taken care of. I believe hospitality is personal, and my goal is for every guest to leave with memories of not just a destination, but an experience.
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, a birdwatcher, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, I look forward to welcoming you to Captain's Camp and sharing a small piece of the Western Ghats that I am fortunate to call home.
We keep it simple.
Good food, made with what's local. Rooms that are clean and quiet. A fire most nights. Trails that are looked after. Staff who remember your name by the second morning. None of it is complicated — it just has to be done with care, every single day. That's the whole philosophy.
Come see what we've made of it.