Detailed Review
Maria Angela Fernhof, and Shaji Antony exchanged their cultural ideas and woked together to build this small paradise in the verdant land unscathed by modernisation. Shalimar Spice Garden is a perfect blend of European and Indian living without diluting the rich heritage of Kerala.
The resort merges with the spice gardens that encompass it, is the verdant landscape bordering the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The architecture of the cottages is a fusion of Indian concepts and Western comfort.
With its natural environment and ambience, Shalimar is the perfect place to be, for you to get closer to nature. The pace of life here is so easy and peaceful that even the birds and the butterflies do not seem to be in a hurry.
The gentle mountain stream meanders through the property and a wooden bridge built over the stream connects the resort to the outside world.
The lush foliage of the coffee, cardamom and other spices plants surrounding the cottages provide privacy for each cottage.
Moreover, care has been taken to provide all the luxuries needed to cosset the guests. The en-suite bathrooms are absolutely top-class.
The in-house restaurant provides a cosy atmosphere. The swimming pool and surrounds transport you into another world seemingly untouched by man. The excellent Ayurveda and Yoga center with accent on hygiene completes the facilities. There is even a library with a fireplace where one can curl up with a book during the chilly evenings.
Press Quotes
"The hotel feels modern and contemporary, with carefully placed objets d'art and simple platform beds, Indian-style thatched roofs and in some cottages, teak and rosewood door frames salvaged from Kerala's traditional tharavad houses." Conde Nast 02
Independent Reviews
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"Inspired jungle backwater with contemporary feel"
Designed and run by an Italian architect, this jungle hideaway offers peace and quiet in exotic surroundings. Small spa and massage therapies add to the feelgood factors.
Shalimar Spice Garden
By Mahoot
Nestling in a valley in the low hills of the Southern Ghats and surrounded by tropical jungle, this rustic retreat is ideal for visiting nearby Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It comprises a main lodge which houses an airy verandah, a dining room, a cosy sitting room and a hall. Sprawling up the hill behind are rooms and cottages which are decorated simply but stylishly and in keeping with traditional, local styles. At the top of the hill is a pretty swimming pool, surrounded by the jungle and a small Ayurvedic massage centre. Throughout the peaceful grounds, the trees and spices are named and this makes for an enjoyable and informative walk. In the evenings sit by a cosy log fire, after a day out walking in the spice plantations or at Periyar. Beautiful antiques, artefacts and woodwork, dominate the premises, which is softly lit and has a very spiritual air about it. Shalimar Spice Garden is renowned for its delicious food which combines local recipes with western touches. It has recently undergone a change of management and promises to go from strength to strength. A perfect entry or departure point for Kerala, with great charm.
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