Founder Magazine Team
In the heart of Coorg, amidst the mist-clad hills and verdant valleys, lies Evergreen County—a testament to my journey as an entrepreneur and a homage to the beauty of my homeland. My name is Bajan Bopanna, and I founded Evergreen County in 2009 with a vision to reconnect people with nature and offer them an escape from the stresses of modern life.
Born and raised in Coorg, I grew up surrounded by the serene beauty of this land. My childhood was filled with adventures in the forests, fishing in the streams, and listening to stories passed down through generations. These experiences instilled in me a deep love for Coorg’s natural environment and a desire to share its tranquility with the world.
At the age of 24, armed with a modest investment of Rs. 50,000 and fueled by a passion for preserving Coorg’s heritage, I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey. Evergreen County started small, with rustic wooden cottages and a commitment to offering guests an authentic Coorg experience. Today, our resort boasts a turnover of 2 to 3 Crore INR annually and is recognized as the top-ranked specialty lodging in Coorg.
Evergreen County is more than just a business; it’s a gateway for guests to rediscover their connection to nature. In a world where many are disconnected from the natural world, our resort provides a sanctuary where guests can rejuvenate their spirits through adventure activities, rustic ambiance, and home-cooked Coorg cuisine. We aim to restore balance and harmony in people’s lives by offering them a glimpse into the simpler, more authentic way of living.
What sets Evergreen County apart is our unique blend of heritage-inspired accommodations and exclusive adventure experiences. From night plantation walks under lantern light to thrilling water and jungle activities, every aspect of our resort is designed to offer guests a memorable and transformative stay. Our future prospects are bright as we anticipate growing demand for sustainable and nature-based tourism experiences.
My inspiration stems from my parents, who taught me the value of resilience and determination. Their own struggles in life, including setbacks in business, motivated me to pursue my dreams without compromise. Starting Evergreen County was not without its challenges—from convincing my family of the viability of my venture to building a dedicated team from scratch. Each hurdle taught me valuable lessons in perseverance and adaptability, shaping both my personal and professional growth.
Entrepreneurship, to me, is a journey of continuous learning and growth. It’s about nurturing an idea from inception to fruition, weathering storms along the way, and celebrating successes, big and small. My approach as an entrepreneur goes beyond business; I strive to entertain, educate, and influence through social media and community engagement, fostering a global audience and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
To aspiring entrepreneurs, I offer this advice: embark on your journey only if you are prepared to persevere through challenges and setbacks. Success in entrepreneurship requires unwavering determination and a steadfast commitment to your vision.
Our efforts at Evergreen County have been recognized with several accolades, including the Better Holidays Award by Holiday IQ and multiple Excellence Awards from TripAdvisor. These honors validate our dedication to providing exceptional guest experiences and pushing the boundaries of innovation in hospitality.
As I look ahead, I see Evergreen County not just as a successful venture but as a beacon of hope and harmony in a world increasingly disconnected from nature. My dream is to continue expanding our offerings while staying true to our values of sustainability, authenticity, and community engagement. Through Evergreen County, I hope to inspire others to reconnect with nature, preserve cultural heritage, and embrace a more meaningful way of life.
In closing, my journey with Evergreen County is a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance. It is a journey that continues to unfold, offering new challenges and opportunities for growth. As I navigate the path ahead, I remain committed to upholding the core values that define Evergreen County—a commitment to nature, hospitality, and the enduring beauty of Coorg.
