Adopting a holistic approach to healing, Ayurveda is the oldest medicinal system in the world, dating back some 5,000 years. Derived from the Sanskrit root “Ayur” which means life, and “Veda” which means “science or knowledge,” it is the science of life.
Ayurveda attempts to heal not just the body, but also rejuvenate the soul. It uses a mix of organic plant-based diets, herbal remedies, exercises, massage therapies, meditation, yoga, and lifestyle interventions to help you become your better self.
As per Ayurveda philosophy, your mental and physical well-being depends upon the interplay of 5 elements: Vayu (air), fire (Agni), earth (Prithvi), water (Jala), and Akasha (space/ether). It is only when all these forces of nature are in perfect harmony that you get the ultimate peace and well-being.
Before making a diagnosis, an Ayurveda doctor or expert factors into your emotional well-being, stress levels, body type, living environments, social factors, and other factors. The ultimate goal of Ayurveda is the well-being of your body, mind, and spirit.
God’s Own Country Kerala is regarded as the hub of Ayurveda in India. Let’s look at some of the frequently asked questions about Ayurveda before we get into the best Ayurveda resorts in Kerala.
What are Ayurvedic Resorts?
An Ayurveda Resort is the Keralan answer to a western “Destination Spa.” They are typically located in picturesque and idyllic locations—stunning beachfronts, scenic backwaters, or Western Ghat hill station—and provide specialized Ayurveda-themed programs and stays.
In recent years, the Ayurvedic Resort trend has caught on, with many travelers from the Western World, and other parts of the globe checking into the healing and rejuvenation programs offered by Kerala’s splendid Ayurveda resorts.
Is Kerala the best destination for Ayurvedic treatment?
Kerala is considered to be the home of the Ayurveda tradition of India. It is the most coveted region in all of India for Ayurveda-inspired tours due to excellent resorts offering high-quality Ayurveda programs and treatments.
As a tropical lush green region, the state produces many rare herbs and plants that are used in Ayurveda therapies. Kerala is particularly famous for its “Panchakarma Centers” where trained practitioners provide ancient treatments.
What is the cost of Ayurvedic treatment in Kerala?
The cost of Ayurveda treatment in Kerala may vary, depending upon the resort you select, the duration you want to stay, and the specific program you want to avail of.
In general, for a weeklong stay in a 5-star Ayurveda-inspired resort, you should expect to pay around USD 1500 per person including all meals, doctor consultations and daily treatments on double sharing basis.
Following are the top 15 our expert choices for your ayurvedic wellness experience.
Contents
- 1. Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kumarakom
- 2. Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, Kovalam
- 3. Softouch Ayurveda Village, Chalakudy, Kerala
- 4. Taj Bekal Resort & Spa, Kerala
- 5. Carnoustie Ayurveda And Wellness Resort, Mararikulam
- 6. Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort, Kerala
- 7. Kairali – The Ayurvedic Healing Village
- 8. Nattika Ayurveda Beach Resort, Thrissur
- 9. River Retreat Resort, Cheruthuruthy
- 10. Estuary Sarovar, Poovar Island
- 11. Spice Village – CGH Earth, Thekaddy
- 12. Mekosha Ayurveda Spasuites Retreat, Thiruvananthapuram
- 13. Nikki’s Nest, Vizhinjam
- 14. Rhythm Kumarakom
- 15. Jeevess Ayurveda Resort, Wayanad
1. Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kumarakom
The Kumarakom Lake Resort snuggled on an island on the banks of Lake Vembanad, is one of Kerala’s favorite honeymoon destinations. Housed in a heritage establishment, it features 25 acres of manicured gardens and is set in a canopy of palm trees. It has won the World Travel Awards “India’s Leading Resort” award four times.
The Kumarakom Lake Resort is the ultimate backwater experience with its 8-acre lake Vembanad-facing waterfront. Its infinity swimming pool that overlooks the lake is a joy! It even has a conference houseboat for events and gatherings. The property also offers lake cruises and other water activities like speedboating and banana boating.
Kumarakom’s exquisite Ayurveda retreat is known as “Ayurmana” and is housed in a 200-year-old heritage site that has been the home of the Chathamangalathu Mana family—renowned practitioners of Ayurveda. It offers a wide range of therapies like Abhyangam, Sirodhara, Pathra Podala Swedan, Njavarakkizy, Pichu, and Pizhichil.
Our Expert Rating: 9.5
Amenities: Swimming pool, Ayurmana Ayurveda Spa, 200-year-old heritage property.
Cost: Rooms start at $ 350 per night per room.
2. Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, Kovalam
This Relais & Chateaux property is located on an elevated cliff in Kovalam that overlooks the Arabian Sea. Down below, the resort has a private beach that stretches for over a kilometer. Your accommodation at the Niraamaya are well-maintained deluxe cottages inspired by local architectural tradition.
Set in the secluded village of Kovalam, the Niraamaya is located at an ideal confluence of the Arabian Sea and the Keralan backwaters. With an expert team of Ayurvedic doctors, expert therapists, chefs, and yogis, this resort provides a luxurious holistic healing program that focuses on both the physical as well as mental aspects of well-being.
Our Expert Rating: 9.5
Amenities: Banyan Tree Bungalows, Heritage Classic Cottages, Niraamaya Ayurveda Spa, cliff-side location overlooking the Arabia Sea
Cost: Prices start at $ 318 per room per night.
3. Softouch Ayurveda Village, Chalakudy, Kerala
The Softouch Ayurveda Village is snuggled in a quiet corner of Chalakudy. With a design inspired by the traditional architecture of this part of Kerala infused with modern amenities, it combines traditional Ayurveda therapy with modern luxury.
The Softouch offers a range of treatments like Abhyanga, Shirodhara, and Pachakarma treatments. Its pristine location on the banks of the Chalakudy River is an ideal place for the body and the spirit to heal.
Our Expert Rating: 9.5
Amenities: Ayurveda Spa, swimming pool, home theatre, yoga and meditation centers, cottages and pool villas.
Cost: Prices start at $ 288 per room per night.
4. Taj Bekal Resort & Spa, Kerala
The Kasaragod region is snuggled along with the southern shoreline of the state and is dotted with stunningly beautiful beaches that merge into the sleepy backwaters of the mainland.
The Taj Vivanta Bekal Resort & Spa is a remarkable property that has the backwaters flowing through. Its locally-inspired architectural design is inspired by the houseboats of Ketuvallam and the architectural tradition of Bali/Indonesia which Kasaragod has historical ties. It offers 75 exquisite rooms and suites equipped with state-of-the-art modern amenities.
With modern facilities like an on-site spa, a sauna, a spa, an outdoor swimming pool, a steam bath, and multiple dining options, the Taj Vivanta is a splendid resort. But what makes it a remarkable Ayurveda resort is the famous “Alepa” program offered at its J Wellness Circle.
Our Expert Rating: 9.5/10
Amenities: Backwaters flowing through the property, spa, sauna, swimming pool, gym, doctor-on-call.
Cost: Prices start at $ 230 per room per night.
5. Carnoustie Ayurveda And Wellness Resort, Mararikulam
The Carnoustie Ayurveda and Wellness Resort boasts itself on its exquisite private beach located on the Mararikulam beach, and 25 acres of landscaped gardens. In 2017, Forbes magazine listed it as one of the “Top 5 Wellness Retreats for Ultimate Renewal.” It has also won the “World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards.
The pride of the Carnoustie Ayurveda and Wellness Resort is its award-winning Aryavaidyasala Spa which offers Ayurveda, marma, naturopathy, yoga, and pranic healing therapies.
Our Expert Rating: 9.5/10
Amenities: Beachfront location, 25 acres of landscaped lawns, Wellness Spa, Houseboat tours.
Cost: Villas start at $ 250 per night per unit.
6. Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort, Kerala
Somatheeram is located on the scenic Malabar beach in Kerala. It has an expert team of renowned Ayurveda doctors and masseurs with over 30 years of experience in the field. Set in a canopy of lush green landscape, the rooms and cottage in Somatheeram are equipped with modern facilities. It has won numerous awards for the quality of its Ayurveda treatments from the Government of Kerala.
With a team of 13 doctors and 70 therapists, the Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort offers no less than 30 Ayurvedic treatments for holistic rejuvenation. It has a cosmopolitan staff, with an Indian-German management team.
Our Expert Rating: 9/10
Amenities: Team of expert Ayurveda doctors and therapists, tropical cottages, beach-facing swimming pool, special wellness packages and programs.
Cost: Cottages start at $170 per night.
7. Kairali – The Ayurvedic Healing Village
The Nilgiri mountains in the Western Ghats are a gorgeous realm of lush green rolling hills, rich fauna & flora, misty landscapes, a serene climate, and picturesque tea plantations.
Kairali has modeled itself as a healing village in the lap of the Nilgiris mountains. It offers 30 premium villas with splendid views of the valley. The indigenous Pala trees dot the landscape of the property.
Kairali Healing Village offers a variety of Ayurveda and yoga programs conducted by expert gurus. In addition to Ayurveda treatments, the resort also arranges bespoke private tours to the town of Palakkad (known for its tropical jungles, wildlife sanctuaries, rare avian species, and ancient temples). You can also go on heritage tours to the ancient town of Thiruvalathoor (10 km from the resort), the Thenarai natural spring, or witness a Kathakali and Mohiniyattam performance.
Our Expert Rating: 9/10
Amenities: Ayurveda Spa, Treatment Centers, swimming pool, luxury villas.
Cost: Units begin at $ 240 per night.
8. Nattika Ayurveda Beach Resort, Thrissur
The Nattika Beach on the shoreline of Thrissur is gorgeous. Crystal-clear sands, lovely coconut palms, blue skies, and perfect weather. The Nattika Ayurveda Beach Resort is a vast sea-facing resort that provides traditional Ayurvedic treatments. It has won the Traveller’s Choice “Best of the Best” Award for 2021 and 2022.
Nattika Ayurveda Beach Resort is an excellent property that is famous for its special Ayurvedic massage called Udwartanam. Its beachside yoga sessions are also a hit with guests.
Our Expert Rating: 8.5/10
Amenities: Ayurveda Spa, gym, yoga center, swimming pool,
Cost: Prices start at $ 170 per unit per night.
9. River Retreat Resort, Cheruthuruthy
The River Retreat Resort in Cheruthuruthy (Thrissur) was once the summer palace of the Maharaja of Cochin. Now repurposed, it serves as a 4-star heritage resort that has preserved its glorious past with tasteful renovation and preservation efforts.
The River Retreat offers a wide range of Panchakarma treatments aimed at holistic rejuvenation and well-being that feature yoga sessions, meditation practices, traditional massages, and herbal therapies. Its exotic river-side location is the perfect destination for healing and relaxation.
Our Expert Rating: 8.5/10
Amenities: Heritage property (former summer palace of Maharaja of Cochin), Ayurveda spa, gym, multi-cuisine restaurant, beauty salon, meeting hall
Cost: Price start at $ 85 per room per night.
10. Estuary Sarovar, Poovar Island
The hamlet of Poovar is located at the junction of the Western and Eastern Ghats. It is a lovely part of Kerala blessed with sunny beaches, scenic backwaters, the lovely Arabia Sea, and the beautiful Neyyer Lake.
The Estuary Sarovar features 105 units—stone cottages, pool villas, and garden-facing rooms. All units come equipped with the finest facilities.
Sarovar’s signature spa uses a two-pronged Ayurvedic approach: Paridisi and Vaidhyashala. The former attempts to relieve stress and the latter is a series of treatments and massages.
Our Expert Rating: 8.5/10
Amenities: spacious rooms, fitness center, spa, multi-cuisine restaurant, banquet halls, Ayurveda facility, swimming pool, boat rides.
Cost: Per unit prices start at $85 per night.
11. Spice Village – CGH Earth, Thekaddy
Spice has played an instrumental trade in chalking the course of Kerala’s history. Spice wars and maritime trade have shaped the culture, economy, and heritage of the region. The Spice Village CGH Earth is modeled after the spice villages of Thekaddy—Kerala’s eminent spice-producing region.
It features cottages put together by the local artisans of the Mana tribe using local environmentally-friendly sources like elephant grass thatch, and indigenous techniques.
The Spice Village is an opportunity, not just to treat yourself to some Ayurveda wellness, but to also go on exciting wildlife safaris to the nearby Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve.
Our Expert Rating: 8.5/10
Amenities: Ayurveda Center, swimming pool under a tree, spice village tours, gifts and souvenir shop
Cost: prices start at $100 per night.
12. Mekosha Ayurveda Spasuites Retreat, Thiruvananthapuram
The Mekosha Ayurveda Spasuites Retreat claims to be India’s first resort to offer an all-inclusive Bespoke Wellness Regime. This boutique luxury resort is located 45 minutes from Trivandrum Airport. It is nestled quietly on the banks of a river and offers all-inclusive Ayurveda packages that come with yoga, meditation, gourmet meals, and stay included.
Mekosha offers only 11 spacious spasuites, each of which comes with a private spa area and treatment room, and a balcony that overlooks the river. Other amenities include an amphitheater, an organic garden, a pool, a roof spa, a bamboo grove, and a splendid restaurant.
Our Expert Rating: 8.5/10
Amenities: Ayurveda retreat, botanical shop, yoga and meditation center, backwater tours.
Cost: Spa suites begin at $110 per unit per night.
13. Nikki’s Nest, Vizhinjam
Nikki’s Nest is a sea-facing Ayurveda resort located in the capital, 20 km from the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, that has been around since 1996. This resort is located at the site of an ancient fishing village. The establishment offers 47 rooms, two vegetarian and seafood restaurants, a spacious sun deck, a sea-facing yoga floor, an outdoor swimming pool, a beauty parlor, and a compact library.
Nikki’s Nest has a dedicated team of 25 Ayurveda practitioners (doctors, masseurs, and therapists), 17 treatment rooms, a wholesome Ayurveda kitchen, and a yoga space. Nikki’s Nest is an excellent resort located close to the capital.
Our Expert Opinion: 8.5/10
Amenities: Swimming pool, Ayurveda spa, two restaurants, a sea-facing yoga floor, spacious sun deck, beauty parlor, souvenir shop, a library.
Cost: Villas start at $ 150 per night per unit.
14. Rhythm Kumarakom
Rhythm Kumarakom’s tagline is “On the Water, By the Water.” This splendid resort prides itself on India’s longest swimming pool in a resort. All of the rooms in the resort have access to the pool.
Other amenities include a high-end Health Club, and outdoor activities like Kayaking, temple tours, guided village walks, fishing, and backwater tours.
Rhythm Hospitality’s signature Spaveda offers a range of therapies (like Abhyangam, Shirodhara, and Panchakarma) under the supervision of an expert-certified Ayurveda Doctor.
Our Expert Rating: 8/10
Amenities: Spa, fitness center, health club, swimming pool, guided tours, backwater tours, kayaking.
Cost: Villas start at $ 100 per night per unit.
15. Jeevess Ayurveda Resort, Wayanad
The Jeevess Ayurveda Resort is set on 14 acres of land in Wayanad and features 16 stone cottages. The region is famous for its lush green mountains, wildlife sanctuaries, coffee & tea plantations, Chembra Peak, ancient caves, and lakes—the ideal backdrop for a well-being-oriented stay.
Jeevess Ayurveda Resort takes a lot of pride in its signature Abhyanga Massage therapies and its Panchakarma treatments. With 11 treatment rooms, it offers Ayurveda Chikitsa, Kalari Chikitsa, Panchakarma, and other ancient treatments.
Our Expert Rating: 8/10
Amenities: 11 treatment rooms, a diet restaurant, cottages, 14 acres of lawns,
Cost: Cottages begin at $ 115 per night.
