Aanavilasam Luxury Plantation House

Aanavilasam has just six rooms and is the most boutique and luxurious option if you are wanting to explore Periyar and the local area. It was established by Salim Pushpanath, a renowned photographer, whose creative artistic instincts helped shape this superb boutique hotel. He blended both traditional Keralan and sleek Western design in the rooms and suites, all which have lovely verandas and large bathrooms set within the lush foliage of the estate. It is almost like living in the jungle, with an eclectic mix of birdsong, frogs and crickets welcoming you set within the cardamom and pepper plantation. The standard Suites and Deluxe Room are housed within the main house, which also features the dining room and library. The Suites have the addition of a living area. The Pool Villas are accessed along a wooden walkway so are more private and obviously have a lovely small pool. The Presidential Suite has its own private walkway and a much larger living room, but does not have its own pool.

Dining is mostly a fusion between Keralan, north Indian and continental cuisine, and in room dining can be taken in the Pool Suites. There is a 4-course set dinner on offer each night. Activities include heading off into the the Periyar National Park, walks through the plantation, visiting a spice plantation, taking a bullock cart to the villages of Cumbum or Lower Camp or having a photography class with Salim. Do note that the hotel does not have an alcohol licence, so it is worth bringing your own supply.