Camouflaged by 30 acres of lush coffee plantations and pleasantly tucked away from the main road, Aranyakam Homestay is a haven for those looking to be in the middle of green and peaceful environs. Almost a century old typical Hindu Kerala house, renovated into a comfortable stay, still maintains its old world charm with large verandahs called ‘Charupadi’, wooden flooring, ‘poochi pura or cat house’, a creeper covered door to the garden (Padipura) and original colourful tiles. Neema and Rajesh have maintained the aesthetic appeal of the place with blending the homestay aptly between its earthy surroundings, also meaning ‘of the forest’. A narrow road with plantations on either side leads upto the gate which further ushers you into a sunny garden before the home.

Simple yet spacious suites and rooms make for a quiet stay, but for the chirping of birds in the mornings. Though, to really plunge into the beautiful Nilgiris, one must opt for the cottage by the valley.  It stands right at the edge of the property, looking down at the verdant area below.

A common area with a thatched roof and an old wooden aquarium is great to catch up with fellow travellers. The food is made under Neema’s supervision and is a must for Kerala delicacies. Rajesh, a photography enthusiast himself is full of stories from the wild. He is also keenly interested in organic farming and spends quite a lot of time in researching the topic.

The afternoon warmth hangs still in the air with only the sounds of the forest – perfect to catch up on a good book or just soak in the peace.

Pets are not allowed as the couple have their own dog.

Non -vegetarian food cannot be eaten in the main house, but can be brought to the common area.

Activities:

1. Birding is what first comes to your mind in this conducive environment for the birds. Ornithologists have re-discovered some species after a long hiatus here.
2. The 40 acre plantation makes for a great place to stroll.
3. The Kanthanpara, Soojipara and Meenmutty falls are at a close distance and customised trips with some trekking thrown is a good way to spend the day.
4. A cardamom plantation is part of the day trips, where one can trek through the Nilgiris ( 5.5 kms) and then experience a smoke house where local food like tapioca and black tea can be prepared – just how the farmers eat it.
5. With the Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary close by, it’s a great place to commonly spot wild hare, deer, wild hogs and elephants.
6. Edakkal Caves, Banasura Dam, and Kuruva Island are a short drive away and make for good day trips with kids. Guides can be arranged for on prior notice and marginal additional cost.
7. The Chembra Peak, the highest one on Wayanad at 2100 meters above sea level, calls for a mild trek. Again, forest guides can be arranged for.
8. Off-roading in Rajesh’s jeep is also a thrilling experience.
9. A short walk in the country lanes to see the tea plantations & local life of the area can be arranged for.

 

 Facilities:

1. Pick Up and Drop from the nearest railhead, Calicut. This can be arranged on special request.
2. Ample parking space.
3. Internet
4. There is a pleasant absence of TV for those who want to just absorb the tranquillity.