Spice Village - Cgh Earth

The cottages are beautifully built and designed, with nature all around, making this feel like a real eco-tourism stay. One thing to know before booking is that Spice Village is non-AC. We didn’t find ourselves needing AC, though, since the weather stayed naturally cool and pleasant. There were lots of activities for kids to learn about nature and wildlife. Tiger Club had engaging, informative activities that were well worth trying. Food was delicious, with a wide choice each day, and the evening cultural performances added a nice local touch. The staff were friendly and courteous, and made sure we were comfortable. I’d read comments saying foreign guests get more attention, but that wasn’t our experience. We were very well looked after, and the hospitality was outstanding. Kudos to the team. Be sure to try Woods Bar and 50 Mile Restaurant during your stay. I’d highly recommend it for a peaceful, authentic nature getaway in Thekkady.

The property has been so well preserved that it’s hard to believe it’s over two decades old. We had a clean, comfortable, well-maintained room, and the arrival and quick check-in went smoothly. The staff were warm and welcoming throughout our stay. Food costs a little more, but the hospitality, service, and ambience made up for it. We only stayed one night and wished we’d planned an extra day. I’d recommend Spice Village to anyone visiting Thekkady.

Spice Village sits on the Kottayam - Kumily Road in Thekkady and is a 5-star eco-resort managed by CGH Earth. Styled like a traditional tribal village, it has a 4.7-star user rating and a reputation for sustainable luxury. Independent cottages use elephant grass-thatched roofs, natural stone floors, and coir furnishings. There are no televisions in the rooms, allowing guests to hear the high ranges around them. The grounds are laid out like a spice plantation, with endemic trees, organic vegetable plots, and spice gardens. Guests often report seeing birds, butterflies, and giant squirrels from their verandas. The restaurants follow a farm-to-table approach, using produce from the resort’s gardens or sourced within 50 miles. Traditional Kerala spice-infused curries and interactive cooking demonstrations are among the highlights. Amenities include an outdoor pool, an Ayurvedic wellness center, a badminton court, and a paper-making unit where guests can take part in upcycling activities. The resort is also minutes from the main Periyar National Park entrance. Its naturalists and travel desk arrange guided spice plantation walks, tiger safaris, and birdwatching treks.

What made our visit stand out was the way guests of every age were cared for. The elders and kids were equally engaged and made to feel special, and every detail felt warm and comfortable. The staff and broad range of activities on the property made the stay memorable. The ambience, layout, lovely weather, and hospitality at Spice Village were exceptional. Of all the resorts we’ve visited, this was the best by far, and we’d certainly like to come back. A heartfelt thank you to the whole team for helping guests relax and making memories we’ll always cherish. You deserve a big shoutout.