OT: Which is your favourite hotel in the world?
Purab Kohli: Nothing fancy, but a place steeped in history as well as mythology. I discovered the Kishkinda Heritage Resort, Anegundi (from Rs 2,400; kishkindaheritage.com) near Virupapur Island in Hampi quite by accident. And I fell in love with it. The resort is styled as a simple village stay. You can pick a cottage depending on the number of people in your group. You can cook your own meals or eat in their restaurant.

OT: What’s the USP of the resort?
Purab Kohli: Definitely the view! It is just across the Tungab­hadra river from the Hampi ruins. What else can you do but stare? It is ex­pansive — spread over 8 acres surrounded by beautiful hills. The water cascading down the rocks, the paddy fields, the splendour of nature all around — it is a sight for city-burnt eyes! You could go for long walks in and around the estate or walk to the Hampi ruins. You could go boating in the lake nearby or just sit with a bucket of hot milk with some jaggery in it, in the courtyard of your cottage and watch the world go by. There is also the Kishkinda water park for restless kids.

OT: Are the people friendly?
Purab Kohli: The staff go out of their way — guiding you to explore Hampi via roads less travelled or teach­ing you to bargain at souvenir shops. 

OT: What if I want more than a bucket of milk?
Purab Kohli: They have two restaurants — one that serves vegetarian fare and the other for meat eaters, and both boast of a multi-cuisine menu. But obviously local fare is the best. I had the best dosas at their south Indian café. Ask the cook to teach you how he makes the most amazing upma that doesn’t go stale and remains spongy for an entire day!

OT: When are you going there again?
Purab Kohli: I wish I could go there every month! I have been trying to get them to allow me to build my own cottage there.