Vythiri Resort: Primordial Magic

Vythiti Resort in the Wayanad district of North Kerala is a jungle retreat set on 30 acres of land that was once a coffee plantation, which one can reach by crossing over a gurgling stream on a rope bridge. The Resort was developed in several phases.

In the first phase, six cottages were remodeled into comfortable guest accommodation from the plantation workers' living quarters. The entrance was shifted so that it could face the stream flowing behind the rooms. A reception area, conference hall and cottages on the other side of this stream were also constructed. Since the workers' quarters were built by mud, the architects decided to retain this and extend it to the other buildings as well. However, this experience of working with mud had its practical difficulties and hence the technique was changed for phase two. Local mud was used as mortar for plastering and consolidated earth blocks and granite as the chief construction materials. During this phase, 12 more cottages were added and a tribal village was created. Tribals, who used their indigenous techniques of construction on a given foundation, built these cottages.

The cottages have walls made with bamboo weave that is plastered with mud. The flooring is red oxide and with built in beds. Bamboo has been extensively used here, for doorframes and bathrooms. The cottage overlooking the stream have been designed in a way that one can enjoy the serenity of the forest to the maximum. The interiors are spacious, with large openings that virtually bring the forest inside the room. Some cottages are built on stilts with a staircase joining them and these can be turned into duplex accommodations for families.

The positive aspect of this renovation at Vythiri is that not a single tree was cut to build this resort. Natural spring is the source of water to all rooms, along with solar heating. All timber used for construction was commercial timber. Natural material find their way into the interiors also, with cane furniture's, terracotta figures of wild animals and bamboo log fixtures.

For a memorable, hassle free holiday, away from the urban noise and pollution - Vythiri is the place to be next time.