Amritara Shalimar Spice Garden Resort & Spa

The hotel we were meant to be staying at could not accommodate us for some reason so we were moved here last minute. We were not at all disappointed. The staff were so lovely, the food was excellent, the pool was very cold but it meant I had it to myself. The rooms were mini cottages amongst the trees so were secluded and not overlooked. The only sounds were of the tuneful birds in the trees. There were 54 steps to our cottage so quite a keep-fit regime to breakfast but I am assured that for those less mobile there are other routes. This is an ideal place for those wanting relaxation after a days sightseeing. There is nothing more to do other than sit back and enjoy the birdsong or swim, eat and drink. Unlike many places they DO sell a limited choice of beer and wine.

The resort is nestled in a jungle and the cottages are charming. The vibe of being inside a jungle is fantastic. The service was beyond excellent and the staff were friendly but not intrusive. The pool is small but nice. It’s perfect if you want relaxation in a beautiful setting.

A peaceful retreat in the hills of Thekkady, Shalimar Spice Garden offers a serene, jungle-like environment with great hospitality. Sneha at reception was so warm and wonderful—she not only ensured our stay was comfortable but also arranged a 5-hour private transfer to our next destination with ease. When we arrive, we received a tour of the property with an explanation of all of the different spices and fruits grown. We loved this! We also were able to meet the properties cow, Malu, and her baby. The food was very good. A buffet for dinner offered lots of traditional dishes. The breakfast was delicious! Omelette and dosa and fresh juices. Yum. The biggest draw here is the wildlife experience. We went on a guided trek and saw elephants in the wild on foot at Periyar National park (a short drive from hotel) —a breathtaking experience. However, if you’re keen on seeing more animals, it’s best to go early in the morning or take the last evening slot, as that’s when wildlife activity is highest. The property itself has a charming, rustic feel with comfortable accommodations. The pool is great! If you’re looking for an immersive, nature-focused experience, this is a great option, but be prepared for limited connectivity and some insects due to the forest setting.

The resort is a peaceful retreat surrounded by trees and spice plantations. A bridge greets you when you enter the resort, transporting you to the hotel lobby. I stayed in a villa with a temperature controlled pool. The villa was located close to the restaurant and reception, making it suitable for people with mobility issues (I have read other reviews of the property and learnt that some other rooms in the are not as accessible). The private pool in the villa was well-maintained and cleaned again upon my arrival. It was a cloudy and windy day, and the sound of rustling leaves added to the tranquil ambiance while I relaxed in the pool. The villa also featured a spacious bathroom. I had opted for the Modified American Plan (MAP). The restaurant was okay, with an artistic outdoor seating area, though the food could certainly use some improvement. I stayed for just one night and was overall satisfied with my experience. The plunge pool villa was definitely the highlight of my stay. P.S. This resort is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, as it lacks entertainment options (there is no TV in the rooms, and the hotel offers few activities.). If serenity is what you seek, this is a good place.

Worst experience with showering, limited food in buffet, even 2 star hotels or resorts give good services. Staff is worse, even themselves doesn't know what service the resort provides. Very poor staff and hospitality, when complaining to them, they give silly reasons and laugh at our back. I read google reviews, many have specified bad experience with showering but then too very strange that the resort is not taking care of the issue. Seems they least care for the reviews or for the guests convinience. Never to go at any Amritara property from now on. Seriously never been to anything this bad ever.

Nice place. The food was nice and the place is very beautiful. The only problem is that when we had gone there to book, we asked them to show us a room for 2, the elegant room. They showed us the room they have for 3 occupants which is a little bigger and bathroom was better, at the time they did not say it was for 3 occupants and when we payed and were going they gave us a smaller room. We had to fight a little and tell them that they should have shown us the room that they were going to give not some random room. In the end we got the room we had liked initially. But it was a little unpleasant. Overall the people were very nice. The house keeping staff is friendly. Apart from this little hiccup I would say it was a good place. They have rabbits and ducks at property and we could go and see them as well.