Property Overview

Set in the misty highlands of Thekkady, Spice Village is a premier eco‑wellness resort where ancient traditions, forest rhythms, and mindful luxury converge. Operated by the CGH Earth group, the resort is nestled in 12 acres of spice plantations, just outside the Periyar Wildlife Reserve. The architecture draws its inspiration from the indigenous Mannan tribal dwellings—brick and log structures, elephant‑grass thatched roofs, wide eaves, stone floors, and coir carpets—all designed to harmonize with the forest and climate.

Spice Village comprises 52 thatched cottages, including “Spice Garden Cottages” and “ Private Garden Villas,” each with verandahs or private sit‑outs surrounded by fruit trees and herb beds. While there is no air conditioning or television in the cottages, modern comforts like hot showers, comfortable beds, solar‑powered hot water, and private gardens are seamlessly provided.

Wellness features include a fully‑equipped Ayurvedic spa, yoga & meditation programs, and nature walks with naturalists. The dining is deeply local and seasonal: the “50‑Mile Diet” ensures most ingredients come from within 50 miles, farmed or sourced locally; there are also cooking classes using regional spices.

Sustainability is built into every fibre: solar energy for hot water and some electrical needs; biogas from biodegradable waste; effluent & sewage treatment; handmade paper from recycled waste; composting; waste management; locally employed artisans.

For guests seeking to disconnect from the rush and reconnect with nature without forgoing comfort, Spice Village offers a rare balance—forest sounds, spice aromas, cool mountain air, wellness rituals, and a design that honors place and people.

Accommodation / Room Categories Summary

• Spice Garden Cottages – Thatched cottages inspired by Mannan tribal dwellings; veran­‑dahs or sit‑outs; bathrooms with hot water; built with natural materials; view of plantations & forest.
• Private Garden Villas – Similar style but with more privacy; set with their own small gardens, benches, more seclusion; likely larger sit‑out spaces.

All cottages/bungalows are non‑AC, no television in rooms, emphasizing a natural climate and simpler living. Interiors use pinewood up‑cycled furniture, stone or terracotta floors, natural fabrics, wide eaves and ventilation.

In‑house & Resort Facilities

• Fully‑equipped Ayurvedic Spa centre, with herbal massages, rejuvenation, traditional therapies.
• Yoga & Meditation Spaces – Regular sessions, nature‑based settings, forest sounds, tranquil atmosphere.
• Swimming Pool (outdoor) for relaxation.
• Restaurant(s) – Main restaurant with verandah & al fresco options; “50‑Mile Diet” approach (ingredients sourced nearby); specialty kitchens; cooking classes.
• Nature / Wildlife Experiences – Guided walks in forest, spice plantation tours, wildlife & bird watching; binoculars, naturalists and interpretation centre (“Tiger Club”) for flora‑fauna studies.
• Sports & Leisure – Tennis / badminton courts; traditional games; a billiards table; reading/library lounge

Eco‑Friendly Concept, Unique Design & Stay Experience

Spice Village’s uniqueness lies in its immersive eco‑design and its philosophy of “living lightly.” Cottages are built using local materials and skills: elephant grass thatching, wide eaves, natural stone floors, upcycled pine wood furniture. There is no air‑conditioning or television, so guests are nudged to tune into nature—the rustle of leaves, chirping of birds, spice scents.

The resort runs multiple sustainability programs: solar panels, biogas from organic waste, sewage & effluent treatment plants, composting & vermiculture, handmade paper from waste, reuse of glass bottles, strict waste segregation, local sourcing of food.

Stay experience is deeply immersive: a simpler rhythm of life; wellness rituals (Ayurveda, yoga, meditation); cooking classes; slow dining; walks in plantations; wildlife watching; disconnecting from digital noise; reconnecting with senses. Guests often report feeling refreshed, more mindful, grounded.

Locational Advantages

• Near Periyar Wildlife Reserve / Sanctuary – The resort is just outside or very close by Periyar National Park, so wildlife, forest experiences are easily accessible.
• Setting in Spice Plantations – Surrounded by spice gardens, herb beds, fruit trees, forest trees – Mesmerizing views, aroma, nature right at the doorstep.
• Airport & Railway Access:
  • Nearest major airport: Cochin (Kochi) International Airport (~~ 130‑150 km depending on route) / maybe Madurai etc. (adjust based on your exact measure, you can get details)
  • Nearest railway station: Kottayam station is referenced in reviews; also Kumily road is local focus.
• Because of its altitude and forest environment, climate is cooler; no need for AC. Also helps with serenity & peacefulness away from urban noise.

Wellness & Holistic Features

• Authentic Ayurveda therapies under trained practitioners. Herbal oils, massages, rejuvenation programs.
• Daily yoga & meditation sessions set in nature, simple pavilions or open verandahs.
• Organic, Locally‑Sourced Cuisine – The 50‑mile diet, use of spices, herbs, vegetables from gardens or local farmers; cooking classes.
• Sustainability & Eco‑Practices: Solar power, biogas, hot solar water, toilet and waste water treatment, composting, reusing materials, handmade paper, eliminating plastic, etc.
• Mind‑body connection via nature immersion, forest walks, silence, space, simpler living.

Spice Village by CGH Earth is more than a resort—it’s a way of life that celebrates harmony with nature. Nestled amidst Thekkady’s spice-scented highlands and bordering the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, it offers an authentic eco-wellness experience that blends Ayurveda, yoga, and organic living. From sustainable cottages inspired by tribal dwellings to farm-fresh cuisine and guided nature walks, every detail invites you to live mindfully.
Book your stay with India Holistic Retreats, a subsidiary of Globes Travel, specializing in curated eco-retreats, Ayurveda wellness programs, and responsible travel experiences across India.