6 Extraordinary Heritage Stays in South India

Planning a summer holiday in southern India? Here are six addresses for a tranquil holiday, far from the crowd and noise.

Anugraha, Aymanam

Step back in time at this restored heritage villa in Kottayam district of Kerala. You can either stay put in the separate bungalow (they accept only one booking at a time) or explore the 7.5 acre property which includes tropical fruit trees, hardwoods, bamboo, vegetable garden, pond and canals. Their meals consist of Kerala’s Syrian Christian fare. While there, why not opt for Kerala’s famous therapeutic massages.

Where: Anugraha Puthenpurayil Prapuzha Kadavu Pulikkuttissery, Aymanam, Kerala 686015

Website: https://anugrahakerala.com/

Gravityville, Udhagamandalam

Filled with antique pieces, quirky designs and upcycled objects, this 1936 bungalow sits pretty in the middle of a landscaped garden. The theme-based rooms are luxuriously appointed and are reminiscent of what they stand for – the purple-and-white colour palette of Neelakurinji is a reminder of the flower which grows here once in 12 years; Sullivans Oak honours John Sullivan, who is said to have built the first bungalow in in Ooty (now Udhagamandalam); a bunk bedroom which is christened after the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (A UNESCO World Heritage) which connects Ooty with the plains.

Where: 264, Fingerpost, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643006

Website: http://www.gravityville.in/

Laika Heritage Stay, Mysuru

Housed in a 108-year-old building, this boutique bed and breakfast is shut out from rest of the world by a huge garden. But you will get Wi-Fi to stay connected if you have to. Some of the activities that you may undertake include bird watching, star gazing, morning yoga class, yoga lessons, therapeutic massages, etc. Located in Laxmipuram, you can easily reach some of the top attractions of Mysuru (Mysore), such as Kukkarahalli Lake, Chamundi Hills, Mysore Palace, etc.

Where: 942, Second Main Rd, NR Mohalla, Lakshmipuram, Mysuru, Karnataka 570004

Website: https://laika.in/mysore/

Varikatt Heritage, Trivandrum

One of the most charming places to stay in Trivandrum, the Varikatt Heritage homestay lies in the heart of the city at kissing distance from all major sites. The over 150-year old Indo-Sarcenic style villa has been beautifully restored and will take you back to the days of the Raj era. The villa served as an important meeting point of politicians during India’s freedom struggle. Today, it is managed by Col Kuncheria and his wife, who are members of the present generation of the Varikatt family. The house features airy high-ceilinged rooms, tiled roof to beat the tropical heat, spacious verandahs and a kitchen connected to the main house by a covered verandah. While here, you can visit fascinating temples and museums, handicraft shops and zoological gardens located in proximity to the homestay.

Where: Poonnen Road, Trivandrum, Kerala. Phone: +91 4712336057, 09895239055.

Website: https://www.varikattheritage.com/

Pepper Trail, Wayanad

Tucked within the lush green hills of Wayanad, nestles this almost 140-year-old colonial bungalow in the middle of a coffee and spice plantation. The restored bungalow is filled with antiques, family heirlooms and colonial furniture. Or, you may like to stay in their tree house, about 40 feet up, built on sturdy jackfruit trees. The tree houses can be reached by a meandering walkway through the dense canopy.

Where: Mangalam Carp Estate Chulliyode, Sulthan Bathery-Chulliyode Road, Sultan Bathery, Kerala 673592

Website: http://www.peppertrail.in/

The Bangala, Chettinad

Chettinad in Tamil Nadu is known for its culture and cuisine. You can enjoy both at The Bangala, located in Karaikudi, in the heart of Chettinad. The owners of this over 100-year-old family home have retained the old world charm (antique furniture, spacious verandas, etc) and introduced modern amenities (swimming pool, gym, etc.). Do not forego any chance to learn the basics of Chettinad cuisine in this heritage stay. Karaikudi is about seven hours’ drive from both Chennai and Bengaluru. The nearest airports are Madurai and Trichy.

Where: Devakottai Rd, Senjai, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu 630001

Website: http://www.thebangala.com/

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