Aanavilasam

Spoiling plantation retreat with 4 romantic suites, set high in the hills near the Periyar Tiger Reserve

The cooling flannels and chilled glass of papaya juice offered as you roll up set the tone. Even if the encircling lush foliage, enthusiastic birdsong, and nightly ticking of frogs and crickets make you feel you’re lost in the jungle, the stylish décor, pampering touches and delicious food are 5 star - and prove you’re anything but. Opened in August 2009, this is the start of photographer Salim Pushpanath’s dream: a luxurious homestay on his tranquil 7-acre working plantation near Thekkady.

Designed and built by Salim himself, there are 2 beautifully light Suites in a large villa, both sleekly furnished and separated from one another by a lounge and open-sided dining area. And there are 2 large Pool Villas sleeping 2-3 apiece, reached by a footbridge, with verandas, steam rooms and private swimming pools.

Salim’s artistic eye is clearly in evidence, from the graceful design and elegantly coordinated palette, to his black and white art prints on every wall. And though you can buy any of his 12 Kerala photography books to date, he’ll give you at least one as a present for booking through i-escape.

Highs

• The sweet, fresh mountain air and serene leafy plantation surroundings
• The abundant attractions nearby - spice gardens, elephant treks and the Periyar Tiger Reserve
• The delicious Indo-Continental fusion food
• The spacious and tastefully decorated bedrooms, with excellent showers and candelit garden baths in the Suites
• The enthusiasm and hospitality of the cultured Salim and manager Pirkko; especially helpful when arranging trips around the countryside

Lows

• The dense plantation foliage obscures the mountain views
• A problem only for the bug-phobic: large moths, spiders and exotic beetles feel quite at home on your shoulder, veranda or bathroom floor
• The sounds of dawn devotions at distant temples can carry rather too loudly on the clear mountain air
• The concrete reservoir to the right of the villa looks a little unsightly when half empty, and there’s some rubbish in the surrounding woods
• It is a bit of a trek to get to as the nearest public transport is 3-4 hours so your only option is a car with driver or an expensive taxi transfer