Munkudil Ayurveda Yoga Retreat — Hotel in Kerala

Highly recommended. Friendly and helpful staff. Stunning location in nature. Much more of a retreat-feeling than a clinic-feeling, very nice treatments nevertheless (disclaimer: I have no previous ayurveda nor yoga experience, but it felt very good!). Stayed a week, could easily have extended!

I went to Munkudil to get some help winding down and to try out ayurvedic treatments for depression, anxiety and stress. I had a fairly brief consultation with a doctor who (via an interpreting secretary) prescribed various herbal medications, treatments and yoga. While my ailments aren't fully treated or gone (that wasn't my expectation or hope) I definitely do feel lighter and less stressed. I would attribute it partly to me just taking a break in this serene place away from the everyday bustle, but I believe the care and attention I received definitely played a major role.

The house is fantastic. It's a small mansion, or a large villa. There are 5 or 6 riverside rooms, a tree hut (on the roadside) and a room on top of the house. The house overlooks a swimmable river with clear water. From my terrace I saw many wild animals, including a herd of wild elephants!! And the property is filled with various artwork, making it just a little bit more interesting.

My room was clean and fresh with decent beds, clean sheets and blankets. There was air-conditioning and a fan in the room. I did need to chase out the odd critter (expect it - you're basically in the forest!), but when the staff saw one of my attempts they hurried to help. There are only a few signs of the house aging, like a leaky shower faucet and some broken lights - but the staff were quick at fixing whatever I asked for. There are plants and green everywhere around the house. There's also a small pool with natural water from a well on the property, but I never used it (I preferred the river!). There are CCTV cameras in and around the house (but not in the room, of course).

Apart from an English woman also staying to help set up shop (the house was previously leased, and is now run anew by the owner) I was the only person staying here most of my week, so I basically had the place to myself!

There are neighbouring houses but you don't see them and rarely hear them. The occasional moo or honk can be heard but it's nothing compared to most of India - or to the sound of nature when the sun has set.

Not all, but most of the staff speak only little English - communication was never a problem though.

My only piece of criticism would be the aquariums, albethey beautiful I don't subscribe to any animal living in cages. Apart from that, the feeling you get from Munkudil is a very nature-loving, caring and organic one.

My standard day: ~06:30 - Wake up, have a cup of tea with a slice of lime overlooking the river and the jungle, saying good morning to birds flying upstream. ~07:30 - Yoga for about 60-90 minutes. I'm a newbie but enjoyed it a lot! ~09:00 - Medications followed by breakfast, often a tasty curry and a chutney with dosa or idli. (I can imagine this would depend on whether you get prescribed a strict diet or not, I was not. All food is vegetarian though.). ~10:00 - Ayurvedic treatment: full body hot herbal oil massages and pouring of medicinal liquids (cold buttermilk, I think it was) over my forehead. Total somewhere around 60-90 minutes. (I definitely lost my perception of time during treatments!) ~13:00 - Lunch, usually curries, veggies and chutnies with rice and some fruit for desert. ~16:00 - Tea. ~19:00 - After saying goodbye to the birds flying back downstream it's time for more medication and dinner. Very varied dishes (again, probably depends on your diet) ranging from tasty to incredibly delicious.

There's isn't a whole lot to do in between the semi-scheduled activities. Even I could find the calm to read a book here.

Many heartfelt thanks to the lovely staff Hari, Lalu, Praseedha, Omana, Debena and Regani and good luck with Munkudil! ♥

PS. I got nothing for writing this short essay, in case you were...

I recently had the pleasure of spending a weekend at this enchanting Ayurvedic resort, and I can't express enough how serene and rejuvenating the experience was.

Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by the incredible sense of tranquility that enveloped the entire place. Nestled in the heart of nature, our room offered a breathtaking view of the dam, with the forest on the other side creating a captivating backdrop.

The room itself was a haven of relaxation, complete with wooden flooring and a spacious balcony that allowed us to unwind while gazing at the calming waters of the dam. The resort thoughtfully incorporated elements of traditional Kerala architecture, which added a touch of authenticity to the overall atmosphere.

For those seeking a unique stay, the resort also offers accommodations in treehouses and bamboo houses, allowing guests to truly immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.

One of the standout features of this resort was its expansive garden, teeming with lush trees and vibrant plants. This green oasis provided the perfect spot to sit, unwind, and connect with nature. On the opposite side, the resort boasts a sizable water reservoir that not only offers a mesmerizing view of the water but also the serene forest beyond.

The Ayurvedic massages provided here were a highlight of the visit, offering a holistic and rejuvenating experience. The therapeutic treatments, along with the resort's peaceful ambience and the picturesque views, made this a truly unforgettable weekend retreat.

In summary, this Ayurvedic resort is a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful getaway in the lap of nature. With its stunning views, traditional architecture, and serene atmosphere, it's a perfect destination for relaxation and...

Munkudil is an enchanting and highly unique retreat house, run by an equally extraordinary family. My week there was truly magical. It’s clear that the owner put a lot of thought and effort into creating the retreat —from the eco-architecture to the art and the one-of-a-kind rooms— located in a gorgeous part of Kerala between the coast and the mountain hill stations about 1.5 hours east of Cochin airport. Birding, paddle boarding, wildlife watching, swimming, and temple visits are all in the vicinity. The weather is ideal and there are almost no mosquitos (at least when I was there in February).

The property defies easy categorization. Though it is not an Ayurvedic clinic per se, two highly capable and articulate Ayurvedic physicians visit regularly to consult with guests seeking treatments (massage therapists are available). A kind yoga instructor comes by daily for a gentle asana, pranayama, and meditation session, held in a hall just above the treatment rooms. But the caretaker family and house itself make the place much more personal and endearing than a typical Ayurvedic retreat. Lalu, Mini, and their son Unni are intimately involved in ensuring that guests are comfortable, well-fed (food is outstanding), and attended to for any excursion. They are big-hearted and dedicated, supported by several equally wonderful staff who are warm and caring. Manju, the reservation coordinator, was also gracious and thoughtful from start to finish. After my one week stay, I miss them all already!

For those who seek a more intimate, unique, and artful Kerala retreat with wonderful food and caretakers in an inspiring and quiet riverside setting, I can think of no better place. I hope to bring my family...