Intuitive Yoga Biodynamics at Garden Hotel Rajakkad

Originally constructed in the 18th century, this building is a fine example of the southern vernacular, a jigsaw of wooden parts influenced by the house building traditions of Kerala. Drawn from the forests of the Western Ghats, it is a construction of many thousands of interlocking beams, panels and screens, sheltered by a roof canopy that appears to float above, making light of a structural complexity that reflects a forgotten refinement. Rajakkad's Pallam Palace began life in a very different environment. It settles now with quiet authority upon its hill, having found its way here. Twice dismantled, twice transported, twice re-assembled, a living testimony to its wondrous construction. What you see today has been very much guided by a dedicated team of friends of Rajakkad. This is a journey to the hill country of Southern India. It is a world to be found in the lush forests, the coffee estates and the grandeur of the Palani Hills. Pallam Palace is the house that sits at the heart of the old Rajakkad plantation. A small garden hotel with 7 unique bedrooms within an 18th century wooden structure that perfectly expresses its rich architectural heritage. At 1000 meters above sea level and set in the foothills of the Western Ghats, Rajakkad Estate offers a sense of serenity and tranquillity. Life here has changed very little over the last century. For the traveller seeking a world apart or for the explorer in search of adventure, there can be no better setting. As for those in search of peace, look no further. Let the birds bring your day into sharp focus. At Rajakkad breakfast is served in the terraced gardens. Being at Rajakkad offers a close relationship to the natural environment of the South Indian hill country, with a wonderfully healthy population of animals, birdlife and diverse plant species all to be found in this special area of Tamil Nadu. Days can be spent relaxing beneath the shade of the garden trees in a hammock, reading and looking for birds or exploring the estate paths, visiting the farm with its animals and coffee drying yard and to the village beyond. The climate of the hill country brings gentle warmth and at this elevation, the air at Rajakkad is refreshing and balanced. Guided excursions are offered; river walks through rocky gorges beneath the tree canopy; over escarpments of craggy pink granite with panoramic views; through coffee plantations and on into the surrounding hills, where waterfalls and isolated swimming pools offer a glimpse of undisturbed peace. Very good picnics can be packed to fully explore the different places that make this world so enchanting.