Discover Kerala

From the palm forests via the backwaters to the tea plantations around Munnar: Kerala is world-famous for its breathtaking natural environment. In 2000, this Indian federal state was selected in National Geographic Traveller Magazine’s list of 100 places you need to see before you die. In addition to the natural environment, there are countless temples and fascinating cultural traditions which make a visit to Kerala an unforgettable experience. It is our pleasure to get you acquainted with this region, creating memories that will last a lifetime. We are also happy to provide information about longer trips into the inland areas.

Location & climate

Somatheeram is located on the picturesque Malabar coast in the southern Indian federal state of Kerala. Our premises are about 30 minutes or 21 kilometres from Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) international airport. The resort itself is located directly on the beach – far removed from mass tourism, in the peaceful neighbourhood around the village of Chowara.

Kerala is the southernmost state in India – and, thanks to its tropical forests, it is probably also the greenest. The appeal of this region as a holiday destination is owed in great part to its flora and fauna, its palaces and temples, its traditional villages, national parks, rice paddies and tea plantations. A particular attraction are the romantic houseboat trips on the renowned backwaters.

Kerala is close to the equator and so its climate is always pleasant. The
seasons can be roughly divided into three categories:

SUMMER: MARCH TO MAY:

temperatures rise steadily from March, reaching their highpoint in May with
an average temperature of 30° C. During these months, precipitation
gradually decreases and in May there is hardly any rain.

MONSOON: JUNE TO OCTOBER:

humidity is high, temperatures are around 29° C. According to traditional teaching, this period is particularly recommended for Ayurvedic treatments. This is because the climatic conditions support the therapy, increasing the efficacy of the treatment.

WINTER: NOVEMBER TO FEBRUARY:

thanks to the temperate climate, these months are classified as the high season. Low humidity and barely any rain ensure comfortable temperatures around 24° C.

	JAN	FEB	MAR	APR	MAY	JUN	JUL	AUG	SEP	OCT	NOV	DEC
MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE (C)	28	30	34	35	36	32	32	31	33	32	25	22
MINIMUM TEMPERATURE (C)	18	20	28	28	28	26	24	26	23	22	18	16
AVERAGE NUMBER OF RAINY DAYS	1	1	3	7	10	17	14	9	8	12	9	4
SUNNY DAYS	10 - 12	10 - 15	20 - 25	20 - 30	20 - 31	05 - 10	02 - 10	05 - 10	10 - 15	10 - 15	10 - 20	10 - 15

Cultural shows

Various productions that are steeped in tradition take place regularly in Somatheeram.

Traditional folk dance
and theatre

Kerala is world-famous for its art, poetry and classical dance. You will be enchanted by these elaborate, traditional performances.

Authentic
concerts

Whether they play the tabla or sitar – our musicians will guide you through astonishingly diverse Indian musical genres from all over the country.

Bollywood
film screenings

Would you like to find out more about Ayurveda or immerse yourself in the world of Bollywood - then come along to our film screenings.

Day trips in Kerala

There is plenty to explore in Kerala: picturesque river landscapes, cultural monuments and vibrant city life. Most destinations can be reached on a day trip. Our advice: consult your allocated doctor about the trip beforehand to ensure your treatment is not compromised and you can get full enjoyment from your day.

Varkala

A day trip to Varkala takes you along the picturesque coastal road to the spiritual and scenic pilgrimage center in the north of Kerala. The journey offers interesting stops along the way: an old fortress, an ashram, a temple with a venerable banyan tree and a lighthouse with a magnificent view of the Arabian Sea. The famous Papanasham beach awaits you at your destination – a sacred place where, according to tradition, sins are washed away by bathing in the sea water.

Varkala is not only known for its spiritual significance – with the 2000-year-old Janardana Swami temple and the Sivagiri Mutt, founded by the important reformer Sree Narayana Guru – but also for its spectacular laterite cliffs, which rise uniquely above the sea. Whether a stroll through the lively Tibet market, a relaxing stay on the beach or a moment of contemplation: Varkala combines nature, spirituality and culture in an impressive way.

THE EXPERIENCE:

Drive along the coast with stopovers (fort, ashram, lighthouse), visit to Papanasham beach, Janardana Swami temple and Sivagiri Mutt, walk along the northern cliffs with market, stores and views of the sea.

TRIP DURATION:

Full day
including travel time 120 min. (each way)

HOW TO BOOK:

Contact the Travel Assistant at reception. They will be able to give you detailed information and will make all the arrangements for you.

Kanyakumari Tour

An excursion to Kanyakumari takes you to the southernmost point of the Indian subcontinent – where the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal meet. The coastal town is an important spiritual place that pilgrims and travelers alike visit to experience the unique panorama at sunrise and sunset. A ferry takes you to two offshore islands with the imposing Tiruvalluvar statue and the Vivekananda monument – a place of silent meditation. Another highlight is the Gandhi memorial, which commemorates the symbolic burial of his ashes at sea.

The artistically designed wooden palace of Padmanabhapuram, once the royal residence of the Travancore rulers, is already impressive on the way. On the way back, a visit to the magnificent Thanumalayan temple in Suchindram – an architectural jewel that unites the gods Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma in a single figure – rounds off this eventful day.

THE EXPERIENCE:

Drive to the southernmost tip of India, ferry ride to the island monuments of Vivekananda and Tiruvalluvar, visit to the Gandhi memorial, stopover at the historic Padmanabhapuram Palace, visit to the ornate Thanumalayan Temple.

TRIP DURATION:

Full day
including travel time 120-180 min. (each way)

HOW TO BOOK:

Contact the Travel Assistant at reception. They will be able to give you detailed information and will make all the arrangements for you.

Azhimala Shiva Temple

A visit to the Azhimala Shiva Temple takes you to one of the most impressive spiritual places on the coast of the Arabian Sea – just a few minutes away from Somatheeram. Majestically enthroned here is the 19-meter-high statue of the god Shiva in the form of “Gangadharewara”, with flowing hair and the goddess Ganga in his hands. This powerful representation gives the temple a special aura and makes it a popular place of worship and admiration.

THE EXPERIENCE:

Walk to the Azhimala Shiva Temple, admire the monumental Shiva statue, spiritual atmosphere on the seashore, time for quiet contemplation or for impressive photos.

TRIP DURATION:

Short excursion (can be planned individually)
Walk or short drive, approx. 5-10 minutes (one way)

HOW TO BOOK:

Contact the Travel Assistant at reception. They will be able to give you detailed information and will make all the arrangements for you.

History trails in Trivandrum

A tour of Trivandrum takes you into the legendary past of the capital of Kerala. Accompanied by a local guide, you will explore the surroundings of the venerable Padmanabha Swami Temple – a place where history and myth come alive. Listen to fascinating tales of warriors, saints, ancient dynasties, betrayal and divine curses – stories that have shaped the character of this city to this day.

THE EXPERIENCE:

Walk around the Padmanabha Swami Temple, exciting stories about the history and mythology of Trivandrum, authentic insights with a local guide, leisurely pace over a short distance.

TRIP DURATION:

1/2 day
including travel time 30-45 min. (each way)

HOW TO BOOK:

Contact the Travel Assistant at reception. They will be able to give you detailed information and will make all the arrangements for you.

Neyyar

Ein Ausflug zum Neyyar-Staudamm führt Sie in die üppig grüne Natur am Fuße der majestätischen Western Ghats, rund 30 Kilometer östlich von Thiruvananthapuram. Der 1958 errichtete Staudamm liegt malerisch eingebettet in eine Landschaft aus Wasser, Dschungel und Bergen – ideal für Erholung, Tierbeobachtung und unvergessliche Naturerlebnisse. Besonders eindrucksvoll ist eine Bootsfahrt auf dem Neyyar-See mit Blick auf die dichten Wälder und die dahinter aufragenden Berge.

DAS ERLEBEN SIE:

Fahrt zum Neyyar-Staudamm, Bootstour auf dem See mit Dschungel-Panorama, Besuch im Wildreservat mit Krokodil-, Hirsch- und Löwenpark, Beobachtung der Elefanten beim Waschen und Füttern

DAUER DES AUSFLUGES:

1/2 Tag
davon Fahrzeit 60-75 min. (einfache Strecke)

WIE BUCHE ICH:

Wenden Sie sich in unserer Rezeption an den Travel Assistant. Er kann Ihnen detailliert Auskunft geben und organisiert alles weitere für Sie.

Kovalam tour

An excursion to Kovalam takes you to one of India’s most famous seaside resorts, just a few kilometers from the Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort. The lively coastal town delights with its tropical flair, lively beach promenades and the gentle sound of the Arabian Sea. The view from the lighthouse over the wide bay and the surrounding palm groves is particularly unforgettable.

THE EXPERIENCE:

Walk along Hawah Beach and Lighthouse Beach, stroll along colorful souvenir stalls, time for refreshments in small beach cafés, climb up to the lighthouse with magnificent panoramic views

TRIP DURATION:

1/2 day
including travel time 15-20 min. (each way)

HOW TO BOOK:

Contact the Travel Assistant at reception. They will be able to give you detailed information and will make all the arrangements for you.

Excursion to Neyyattinkara

An excursion to Neyyattinkara takes you to the spiritual and cultural heart of the region south of Trivandrum. The Sreekrishnaswamy temple, built in the 18th century by the legendary Maharaja Marthanda Varma, is an important testimony to royal gratitude and a deep history of faith. Not far away, you will discover a fascinating collection of artifacts in the Charithra Malika, which bring Kerala’s glorious past to life. Another highlight is a visit to a traditional pottery, where you can experience ancient craftsmanship up close.

THE EXPERIENCE:

Visit to the venerable Sreekrishnaswamy temple with the legend of the “Ammachi Plavu”, guided tour of the Charithra Malika with over 4000 historical exhibits (on request), insight into the traditional craft of pottery with a practical demonstration.

TRIP DURATION:

1/2 day
including travel time 30 min. (each way)

HOW TO BOOK:

Contact the Travel Assistant at reception. They will be able to give you detailed information and will make all the arrangements for you.

Ayurvastralaya factory tour

A visit to the Ayurvastralaya manufactory gives you a fascinating insight into the millennia-old wisdom of Ayurveda and its connection to textile art. Here you will discover how natural fabrics are processed into soothing clothing with the help of Ayurvedic medicinal plants – without any chemical additives. Ayurvastra, the ‘healthy fabrics’, promote balance in the body and strengthen the immune system – a unique combination of textile craftsmanship and holistic health.

THE EXPERIENCE:

Guided tour of the Ayurvastralaya manufactory, insight into the traditional dyeing technique with medicinal plants, interesting facts about ayurvedic principles and sustainability.

TRIP DURATION:

Half day
including travel time 30 min. (each way)

HOW TO BOOK:

Contact the Travel Assistant at reception. They will be able to give you detailed information and will make all the arrangements for you.

Backwater tour

The backwaters are an intricate network of waterways in the interior of Kerala. Damp forests and mangroves border the waterways, which consist of 29 lakes and 44 rivers. At some places along the banks, you will see local people going about their daily work. The highlight of this trip is the estuary. This is where the backwaters meet the Indian Ocean.

THE EXPERIENCE:

a boat trip through a unique ecosystem with original vegetation and subtropical fauna.

TRIP DURATION:

3 hours
Including travel by car: 15 mins. (each way)
9.30 Time – 12.30 pm or
14.30 Time – 5.30 pm

HOW TO BOOK:

Contact the Travel Assistant at reception. They will be able to give you detailed information and will make all the arrangements for you.

Trivandrum Tour

A visit to Kerala’s capital city brings you up close to the colourful, never restful, vibrant atmosphere of a major Indian city. Trivandrum is over a thousand years old and is home to an abundance of cultural riches. Over the years, Roman, Chinese, Arab and Portuguese influences have all had an impact on the city’s fascinating appearance.

THE EXPERIENCE:

vibrant city life, visit to the traditional Chalai bazaar, tour of the Travancore royal palace, museum & temple visits.

TRIP DURATION:

1/2 day
including travel time 60-90 min. (each way)

HOW TO BOOK:

Contact the Travel Assistant at reception. They will be able to give you detailed information and will make all the arrangements for you.

Golden Valley

The hill station of Ponmudi is located 1,100 metres above sea level and offers breathtaking views over the “Golden Valley”. Surrounded by dense, tropical forests, this is one of Kerala’s most attractive areas. Over 280 species of bird are indigenous to the region, including the partridge, the Malabar hornbill and the Wayanad laughing thrush.

THE EXPERIENCE:

Ponmudi hill station, tropical forests, tea plantations, waterfalls and wilderness

TRIP DURATION:

whole day trip
Travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes (each way)

HOW TO BOOK:

Contact the Travel Assistant at reception. They will be able to give you detailed information and will make all the arrangements for you.

Round trips in Kerala

Some of Kerala's interesting attractions are best explored on trips lasting several days. But don't let that put you off – quite the contrary: this is the best way to really get to know the country and its people and to experience Kerala's fascinating culture at close hand. Plan your round trips either before or after your Ayurvedic treatment so that the therapeutic process isn't interrupted.

Houseboats

Explore Kerala’s backwaters in maximum comfort on a traditional houseboat. The on-board navigator and chef will cater for your every need. You can make yourself at home in your comfortable cabin, or sip a lassi on the sun deck while watching the scenery slip by. Onshore trips are available on request – e.g. to visit churches or temples.

THE EXPERIENCE:

Kerala’s backwaters, exceptional on-board service, romantic hours in the evening sun.

TRIP DURATION:

two to six days
Journey: 4 hours 30 minutes (each way)
Houseboat departure from 12 pm (check-in)
Check-out on date of return: 9:30 am

HOW TO BOOK:

Contact the Travel Assistant at reception. They will be able to give you detailed information and will make all the arrangements for you.

Periyar National Park

Periyar National Park is a sanctuary for elephants and tigers which extends over 900 square kilometres. The park is located in the South Western Ghats, along the border with Tamil Nadu. Lots of other animal species also enjoy living in these tropical forests with their vital supply of water. In addition to Indian bison, you can find Travancore flying squirrels, jungle cats and lion-tailed macaques. The park is surrounded by agricultural regions, particularly plantations cultivating tea, cardamom and coffee.

THE EXPERIENCE:

Kerala’s wildlife in the Periyar National Park.

TRIP DURATION:

two days
including travel time: 5 hours 30 minutes (each way)

HOW TO BOOK:

Contact the Travel Assistant at reception. They will be able to give you detailed information and will make all the arrangements for you.

Munnar

Munnar – the Kashmir of South India – is a hill station in the Western Ghat mountain range. Back during British colonial rule, this was already a popular summer resort. Munnar is surrounded by gentle hills, on which tea plantations were set out in the late 19th century. Lots of endangered animals live in the neighbouring Eravikulam National Park, including the Nilgiri tahr mountain goat.

THE EXPERIENCE:

Munnar hill station, tea plantation visit and trip to Eravikulam National Park.

TRIP DURATION:

two to three days
including travel time: 8 hours (each way)

HOW TO BOOK:

Contact the Travel Assistant at reception. They will be able to give you detailed information and will make all the arrangements for you.

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Discover Kerala

Location & climate

SUMMER: MARCH TO MAY:

MONSOON: JUNE TO OCTOBER:

WINTER: NOVEMBER TO FEBRUARY:

Cultural shows

Traditional folk dance and theatre

Authentic concerts

Bollywood film screenings

Day trips in Kerala

THE EXPERIENCE:

TRIP DURATION:

HOW TO BOOK:

THE EXPERIENCE:

TRIP DURATION:

HOW TO BOOK:

THE EXPERIENCE:

TRIP DURATION:

HOW TO BOOK:

THE EXPERIENCE:

TRIP DURATION:

HOW TO BOOK:

DAS ERLEBEN SIE:

DAUER DES AUSFLUGES:

WIE BUCHE ICH:

THE EXPERIENCE:

TRIP DURATION:

HOW TO BOOK:

THE EXPERIENCE:

TRIP DURATION:

HOW TO BOOK:

THE EXPERIENCE:

TRIP DURATION:

HOW TO BOOK:

THE EXPERIENCE:

TRIP DURATION:

HOW TO BOOK:

THE EXPERIENCE:

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HOW TO BOOK:

THE EXPERIENCE:

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HOW TO BOOK:

Round trips in Kerala

THE EXPERIENCE:

TRIP DURATION:

HOW TO BOOK:

THE EXPERIENCE:

TRIP DURATION:

HOW TO BOOK:

THE EXPERIENCE:

TRIP DURATION:

HOW TO BOOK:

Traditional folk dance
and theatre

Authentic
concerts

Bollywood
film screenings