The resort's debut marks the first property in India for the Banyan Tree Group, notable for its unique setting on a private island in the backwaters of southern India, Banyan Tree Kerala is an all-pool villa retreat from which to explore the traditions and daily rhythms of a bygone era.

The Destination

Located on the private island of Nediyathuruthu in the Alleppey district of Kerala, Banyan Tree Kerala is an hour south of Kochi International Airport and a 10-minute boat ride from the resort's private jetty in nearby Vaduthala.  Framed by the palm-lined picturesque backwaters for which Kerala is renowned, the resort offers an idyllic setting to discover the beaches, canals, lush tropical greenery and Ayurvedic therapies that have garnered the state a high ranking on countless "must see destinations" lists around the world.

All Pool Villa Retreat

Each of the resort's 59 villas features a private pool and expansive views of the surrounding waterways and canals.  Boasting local architectural accents of gabled roofs and carved wooden facades, the villa interiors showcase indigenous materials such as coir - a natural fibre extracted from the husk of coconuts, ornamental wood carvings, paintings and frescoes as well as Kathakali art, referencing the traditional and highly stylized classical Indian dance-drama from Kerala.

World Class Facilities

Banyan Tree Kerala features the Group's first dedicated Ayurvedic Centre which offers personalised consultations by qualified Ayurvedic doctors who will recommend tailored treatments based on individual need.  Guests may enjoy these and a variety of other wellness therapies from the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa in one of four Ayurvedic treatment rooms or one of six Spa pavilions.  A Gymnasium and Yoga Pavilion enable fitness-minded guests to continue their routines while on holiday.  A Library and Game Room offer cosy corners to get lost in a good book or play a game of backgammon or chess.  The resort's Kids Club features activities to amuse children in the four to 12 age range, with unique classes in Kathakali face painting as well as various local games.

The Activity Island, situated just five minutes away from the main resort, is home to a multi-purpose deck that can accommodate groups of approximately 150 guests.  A grass function area is ideal for receptions, and a recreation zone offers a court for various sports, a climbing wall, archery range and an obstacle course.

The Banyan Tree Gallery showcases unique items sourced from local handicraft traditions and materials.

A houseboat offers leisurely evening rides on the tranquil backwaters; manned by a dedicated crew, the boat features ample seating for larger groups.

Banyan Tree Kerala is ideal for small to medium meetings and events.   A boardroom and two meeting rooms ranging from 25 to 40 sqm hold eight to 18 people each.  The 212 sqm banquet hall accommodates up to 150 guests and is ideal for sophisticated gatherings and gala functions.

Dining

Banyan Tree Kerala offers an array of dining options.  South Indian cuisine, with its emphasis on rice, lentils, dried red chillies and coconut, along with a healthy dose of tamarind, garlic and ginger, is available at the All Day Dining venue with both indoor and outdoor seating.  The Group's much-lauded Saffron restaurant features Thai cuisine, contemporary design and a gueridon service where ingredients for classic green and red curries are presented, prepared and served tableside.  The Pool Bar offers a swim up bar and refreshing cocktails.  Classical Indian dance performances are presented in the Bar Lounge nightly, where a selection of premium whiskeys and fine wines are also on offer.  The Spa Café features a menu inspired by the tri-dosha concept of Ayurveda and was created with the input of Ayurvedic practitioners.

Special dining experiences include dinner aboard a local palak boat typically used by royalty on which Keralan fish curry and a variety of other traditional dishes are served.  Guests may also dine atop a specially built tower, the tallest point on the island, while admiring panoramic views of the resort.