Makayiram Retreat

Our stay at Makayiram Retreat Resort in Munnar was exceptional. Surrounded by a beautiful cardamom plantation, the retreat is new and well-maintained. The staff's service was outstanding, and they went above and beyond to ensure our comfort. The Taurus Cottage was spacious, clean, and well-furnished. The food was delicious, and we appreciated the complimentary barbecue. Although we missed the plantation trail walk, the nearby sunset viewpoint was stunning. Overall, a fantastic experience with great amenities and service. Highly recommend!

Makayiram Retreat ambience is wonderful 💚 Rooms are nice,neat & classy .. Staff attitude is awesome✌🏼 ... Good food🍲🍛 .. Best place for bird watching & a peaceful place to melt in with nature🌳🐦🌱🌄

Shinrin-yoku. A Japanese term denoting immersion in the tranquility and peace of the forest, where one can absorb the sounds and sights that abound in nature- something city-weary souls are hankering for. It’s a universal experience that finds resonance in several cultures, be it the Nordic philosophy of hygge - a Danish word meaning “valiant, comfort, joy”- or the Advaitic concept of tat tvam asi – thou art that, to name just two. Each of these philosophical constructs points to the need of the human soul to connect with the natural environment and with one’s innermost self in pursuit of the all too elusive peace of mind. Shinrin-yoku is the driving force behind the Makayiram retreat - a green oasis nestled in a cardamom plantation surrounded by a primeval forest close to Pallivasal village in Idukki district in Kerala. It’s truly a state of mind rather than a place, a sanctuary where one can bury one’s anxieties and soak in the sensory experiences that can fuel creativity and renewal. Encapsulating 14 living spaces named after the various star signs and a central circular structure that is the dining area, the whole complex is an aesthetic delight, painted in gentle shades of green and grey and brown and white that merge with the environment in which it is encased. The pleasant décor of the cottages and buildings, the lovingly tended garden, the cardamom plantation, the bluish green hills that form a backdrop, and last but not least, the six acres of forest land that has been allowed to grow wild amid the 55 acre property, all feed into the feeling of well being and peace that engulfs the guest as soon he/she steps into the retreat. As also pleasant demeanour of the 17 staff who are anxious to pander to every wish of the guests. The longtime staff who tend to the plantation and the garden also exude a sense of contentment and ownership which is harmonious with the environment. A perfect example is Muniyamma, the septuagenarian gardener who insists on tending to her precious blooms long past her retirement. The theme of sustainability that marks out Makayiram from other retreats is extended to the culinary creations offered to guests. Most of the vegetarian dishes are prepared using organic produce grown in the garden. A further example of the ecological consciousness is the concept of repurposing and recycling that has been integrated into the structure. The buildings themselves are erstwhile cattle sheds which have been converted into habitats for human beings. Stumps of trees form seats where guests can relax after a walk. The emphasis on sustainability is also discernible in the poster which describes visually and in words the varied species of birds and butterflies that can be found in the retreat. Dotting the walls of the dining room are also maps of India’s traditional water conservation techniques, rare rice varieties found in the country, handloom fabrics that span several states and centuries. Alongside are also maps depicting t

Very good atmosphere with good service's, but in cast wise it was little bit high , good quantity in food but want to improve in quality and taste and we want some kids playing items, kids are gets boring, for working persons it's a good place to take peaceful rest

The whole property has a great ambiance for someone who's looking to spend some quality time in Munnar. I had a great time enjoying the quietness and the sounds of nature. Would highly recommend to someone who's coming with their family to Munnar.

I had a wonderful time in this hidden gem. The staff is extremly friendly and they are working hard to make your stay as pleasant as possible. The rooms are clean and spacious, with amazing views. And food was a highlight. They have bikes, badminton, bonfire and they will take you hiking to the (almost organic) cardamon plantation.

Our stay at Makayiram Retreat was nothing short of enchanting! Nestled in the midst of nature, it truly is a paradise for bird and butterfly enthusiasts. We enjoyed a wonderful time with our family and friends, surrounded by the serene ambiance that Makayiram Retreat offers. The service provided by the staff was exceptional, with the boys always ready to assist and ensure our comfort. The food was a highlight, prepared with a delightful homemade touch that left our taste buds thoroughly satisfied. Special commendation to the chef for the delicious culinary creations! Makayiram Retreat comes highly recommended for families seeking a fantastic getaway where the essence of nature is not just seen but truly felt.

I’m groping for an apt epithet to explain the paramount of hospitality we got at Makayiram retreat on our too short a stay there for two days. The rooms are cosy and built with an eye on syncing it with the serene ambience of undefiled streams, the cool mist blanketed canopy and the chorus of cute birds all day. On a cardamom farm trail, we could find flamboyance of butterflies which are Natural indicators of the purity of air and water. Mornings and evenings are lively by the chorus of numerous song birds all around that makes this a haven for bird enthusiasts. Special mention is due for the excellent chef who made lip smacking delicacies with a homely feel as he comes direct to our dinner table for our feed back on food served. The energetic boys of the hospitality section is also keen to cater to even our simplest needs on the table A must visit elysium, that lofts one to heights of ecstasy away from the dust and din of urban hurry.