Responsible Choice
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Dewalokam is the ancestral farm of the Alilakuzhy family, an ancient Syrian Christian family of Kerala. A simple, family-run homestay, it has a rural location in the spice belt of Kerala, only forty miles, or 90 minutes from Cochin Airport. For those wishing to experience the nature and landscape of the area, this is a perfect destination, nestled on the banks of the Kannadipuzha River.
Accommodation comprises eight traditional air-conditioned bedrooms in the main guesthouse, and three twin rooms in an adjacent traditional house. All rooms offer en suite bathrooms, and there is a lounge and restaurant on the ground floor of the main house.
Dewalokam is an organic farm run on sustainable principles, producing a variety of spices, meat, eggs, milk, fruits, and vegetables. The produce is purely for in-house consumption, and not intended for the market, meaning external demands do not have any influence on the farm and its products. Your hosts are Jose and Sinta, who are farmers by tradition, well educated, and teach in the local university and school. They, along with the friendly staff, will welcome you into their home and show you the beauty of the surroundings. In the past Dewalokum has been voted Best Responsible Tourism Property by the Responsible Tourism Society of India. Credit goes to the owners who ensure that the organic waste produced here is recycled with the help of fish, fowls, animals, and a compost unit. Cooking fuel is produced with the help of a biogas plant and solar energy is tapped for the water heating system.
Jose and Sita pride themselves on the quality of the Keralan cuisine provided. You will even have the chance to see how the chefs prepare your food and speak with them about recipes and cooking tips. You may also organize a cookery lesson during your stay.
A multitude of activities are included in your stay, such as walks in the spice plantations and forest, yoga, bamboo rafting (from late November, once water levels have decreased), cycling around the village, rubber processing, and milking the cow. There is a daily cooking demonstration, but you may book a private cooking course between April - September. You may choose these activities once you have arrived at Dewalokam. There is also a freshwater pool available for guests, as well as the option to enjoy ayurvedic treatments (advance booking required), which can be paid for during your stay.
Wi-fi is available in the common area.
OUR OPINION:
Dewalokam Homestay is an Audley favorite as it provides the best way to experience real Keralan lifestyle. The accommodation is simple, but your stay here is much more about the experience.
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Photos of Dewalokam Homestay
Rooms
There is a choice of two types of room. Rooms in the main guesthouse are all air-conditioned and spacious, with simple decoration. Forest rooms are in a house in the gardens.
Location
In a rural setting, located on the banks of a river surrounded by jungle, and rubber and spice plantations. One hour and 45 minutes from聽the airport by car.
Food and drink
Meals are served on long tables and guests all eat communally. Using fresh produce from the gardens the chefs produce a range of exquisite Keralan dishes. A speciality is the Sadya, a traditional dish served on banana leaf, which you are likely to be able to try at least once during your stay.
Families
This is a great place for children and teenagers, and there is plenty to keep younger people occupied.
Facilities and activities
There are plenty of activities on offer from the farm. Guests can venture out to explore the surrounding area on bicycle, or walk through the spice or rubber plantations. Accompanied jungle walks and village visits are also a great way to see the local area. There is also a freshwater pool available for guests and the option to take part in yoga, and receive ayurvedic treatments, which can be paid for during your stay. You can also try your hand at cooking, with a lesson from the chef.
Tour ideas in India
Our itineraries are there to spark ideas for how you could include a stay at Dewalokam Homestay as part of your trip. Treat them simply as suggestions, because every aspect of the trip we create for you will be yours to define.