We have used sustainable hardwood throughout the construction and the palm thatch is renewed annually which provides input into the local economy. We are completely solar powered (probably the first and only in Kerala), all rooms having 220v.a.c. With sensible use, the lights, well pump and fans, work well with a small excess of power for music and hair dryers!

Our sewage system is a first in India. Our bio-electric plant ensures clean outfall water with low B.O.D. (Biological Oxygen Demand). Water for washing is pumped and filtered from the canal, clean but occasionally brackish. Drinking water is by Reverse Osmosis Plant which ensures complete safety. We have our modern kitchen but do enjoy cooking outside on open fires (chulas) fuelled by palm waste. It’s good fun and the food tastes better!

This haven is constructed within fifty acres of unkempt palm garden. It is a little wild. We are blessed with indigenous flora and fauna. Three species of Kingfisher, Kites, Honey buzzards, Woodpeckers and a whole gamut of water foul, flit, swoop and wade through our sanctuary. The river and canals are teeming with fish and quite edible crabs.

However this is real India! To be truly eco friendly we cannot slaughter or squash some of our other visitors. Legged are spiders and palm mice which seem to like our palm thatch roofs. The spiders are harmless unless sat on, and spend their time eating bugs in the roof that might otherwise eat the timber. The mice are pretty but we do our best to discourage them. Legless are snakes. It would be irresponsible if they were not mentioned.

Around our land the Chera is the common species. It resembles a large grass snake and is completely harmless. They eat palm mice and so really are our friends. Coastal Kerala is not really Cobra or Krait country; however a general awareness is prudent when travelling in India. For your peace of mind we keep Haffkine’s Serum in the fridge. No one else does...no hotels or hospitals for twenty five miles.

Click images for enlargement