Prior to gaining independence in 1947, India was a British colony for nearly 200 years. During this period, many British planters established coffee and tea estates in places where the climate was suitable for their cultivation. Set amidst the scenic splendour of Western Ghats, Honeyvale Estate is one of the oldest British established coffee estates in India, dating back to the 18th century. The Honeyvale Bungalow, well known for its typical colonial architecture, was constructed in 1890 by Sir J. P. Morgan. It has five spacious bedrooms, a parlour and a lounge. After India gained freedom, the estate changed hands from the British to Indian owners. The family of Mr. Sadashiv Rao, its present owner acquired the property from its previous Tamilian owners in 1977.