Elephant Valley -
Harmony Personified
Nestled in the Palani Hill, considered the home of Murugan, who is worshipped as the primary god in Tamil Nadu, its 20 living spaces co-exist with the flora and fauna all around them making it seem like an intrinsic part of the jungle it sits amidst. The living spaces have replicated local architecture fused with sturdy sustainable eco-friendly material from the outside while the insides are contemporary. Though they are well-spaced out, the living spaces are close enough to each other to bring about a sense of security for a property without any boundary or fencing. The gushing stream that cuts across the hotel sets the background score for an orchestra comprising of crickets, birds and rustling leaves - a constant in each of the living spaces and the outdoor restaurant.
With a generous view of the open space leading up to the stream is the restaurant that sits right between the coffee production unit and the vegetable garden, not forgetting the activity hut next door. While the menu is limited and offers both European and Indian fare tipping more towards home style cooking, the farm to fork concept is applied here in everyday cooking. The chef peeps out once in a while for a quick feedback. The food is prepared not just with the fresh ingredients from the farm but also with healthy substitutes like millets and quinoa.
Activities: Clients can enjoy a short guided hike to a nearby waterfall or a longer hike – also guided- that will take them to the town of Kodaikanal. They can visit the coffee unit on a guided tour or simply walk around the property which stretches far and wide.
How do you fit it in: Perfect for the right kind of FIT client to spend 2 nights after Madurai enroute to Munnar/Thekkady providing a much needed break after all the history and culture of Tamilnadu.
Reviewer’s note: While my overall sentiment regarding the hotel resonates in the piece above, I do feel there was a lack of upkeep and maintenance within the living spaces and the surroundings. However, the task to improve the place was already underway when I visited in the month of June and is now complete.
