Kalindi River Resort

Kalindi is a charming place tucked into nature, just right for an offbeat stay. I was there solo from May 22, 2015 to May 23, 2015, and enjoyed it a lot. The hospitality and food were superb, and local people were friendly. It felt divine and was worth it. I'll definitely return with family and friends.

The caretakers were lovely and the food they cooked was great. The three stars are for them. The resort itself gets none from me. Even the "villa" rooms were damp and smelly, never mind the cottages or tree houses. Not worth the money.

The way to the resort runs through the forest, so get there before dark. Driving at night is risky because elephants may be on the roads. I had a great time visiting. The hospitality was excellent and it's a very good place to stay. Do visit.

This homestay is a quiet, simple place for enjoying the greenery and calm of the Tirunelli forest, rather than a posh hotel. The rooms in the main building are decent, with two beds and the needed facilities, including a western toilet and hot water. The building's outside follows the traditional historic Kerala house style. There are three or four rooms there, plus two tree houses. Each tree house has two beds, a balcony looking toward the Kalindi river, also known as the papanashini river, meaning water that can cleanse your sins. The toilet is separate, down below the tree. My favourite part was sitting by the riverbank. You can have a campfire set up and enjoy your booze there. The cool breeze from the water rushing against the rocks makes a lovely combination for a drink and gives the night an extraordinary feel. A morning bath in the river is nourishing for the mind. The place is calm and peaceful, and most of the time there isn't much of a crowd. September to January is the best season to go. From Manathavady, travel to kattikulam, then take the 25 km forest road. In daytime, the scenery and greenery are lovely. Avoid travelling at night, especially on a two-wheeler, because there are more chances of meeting elephants face to face on that forest stretch. You may spot a herd of deer. Parking is available a little away from the homestay, where you can safely leave a two-wheeler or car. The menu isn't extensive, just regular Kerala dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The staff are cooperative and take into account requests for particular dishes. It's a good enough place for the serenity, but keep in mind that it's not a fancy hotel and bargain for a good deal.