Neelambari is a charming boutique resort in the heart of Kerala, Thrissur. Since its inception Neelambari has catered well to discerning travellers looking for a relaxed and serene holiday and to the explorers seeking authentic experiences - be it culture, nature, cuisine, festivals "or rejuvenation"
We envisaged Neelambari as a showcase for the best central Kerala has to offer - especially Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala. Away from the mad rush of ‘touristic’ destinations, shunning synthetic ‘experiences’ meant only for tourists - we wanted to create an ecotourism destination where our guests would feel like they are visiting friends.
Neelambari today is the realisation of this vision, but not by any means the end of our journey. We are constantly discovering new facets in our own culture and traditions, new delights to be explored our own backyard, and new ways to improve on our experiences. We are fresh on the trail, but it is already apparent to us that we have started a joyful journey without end.
In a serene, verdant landscape Neelambari blends traditional aesthetics and modern sensibilities in its architecture. Across our buildings we have reproduced the classic architecture of Kerala in all its richness. Our central building that houses the theatre, Yoga hall, library, reception and lounge is a combination of a Koothambalam and a Nalukettu. The Koothambalam (temple theatre) incorporates several exquisite works of art in its folds – in wood, stone and murals. Nalukettu (traditional courtyard) brings to life the charm and simplicity of old Kerala households. Lots of wind and light, an informal ambience and high aesthetic quotient all blend to form a dining and lounging space of great warmth and tranquillity. Our cottages continue the same traditional theme in their demeanour. They however hold spacious bedrooms and bathrooms that appeal to contemporary norms of comfort and luxury.
Arattupuzha, our home is a quaint little village in the outskirts of Thrissur. The name Arattupuzha is derived from its annual temple festival and signifies the ritual bath that takes place in the river at the end of the festival. Karuvannur puzha, a beautiful river meanders through much of the village as it heads west into the Arabian Sea. Vast expanses of paddy fields surround the village and its green landscape. The city of Thrissur is just 12 kms away. An array of magnificent temple festivals in the region, proximity to the rich cultural centres of Thrissur and Irinjalakuda, beautiful landscape all around and a charming river - all these factors make Arattupuzha (and Neelambari) a great vantage point to explore some of the best experiences in Kerala. Despite its thoroughly rural setting, Arattupuzha is easily accessible by air (Cochin Airport), rail and road.
Neelambari is not a haven of exclusivity. We thrive in our village ecosystem and wholeheartedly share the joys and throbs of local life. The entire Neelambari team is from our village and proudly shares its fortunes and traditions. We have curated and in some cases distilled beautiful experiences from our village and neighbouring villages and towns. These experiences combine to offer a joyous yet realistic flavour of the local life, culture, traditions and festivals to our guests. Be it nature, culture, Yoga or Ayurveda we ensure that we do not adulterate or mystify anything because they are being offered to “tourists”.
Sreeni and Meera made our stay at Neelambari feel more like visiting close relatives than staying at a resort. They made every effort to make us feel welcomed, comfortable and happy. Sreeni was very kind to take us on multiple occasions to the local music and dance festival with him aswell as organising day trips around the area to keep us entertained and excited. Meera spoilt us rotten with a desgistation of delicious local dishes for every meal! We were there for 7 days and not one meal was a repeat from the other and much of the produce was grown on the property or region. She even gave us a cooking lesson so hopefully we can recreate some of the meals at home. The resort itself is a work of art, literally! It feels like it has been part of the landscape for centuries. That being said the accommodation was luxurious and has all the comforts and percs you would expect from a 5 star resort. We had booked in for daily yoga and Ayurveda treatment, our Yogi and and Dr were really great and our daily routine left us invigorated and relaxed. I would stay at Neelambari again in a heartbeat.