10-Day Ayurveda and Yoga Wellness Escape in Kerala

Lakshmi Ayurveda runs this retreat from a traditional Kerala villa in the village of Vellar, a few minutes' drive from Kovalam. The property has a yoga shala, dedicated treatment rooms, an organic kitchen, and a terrace where evening sessions sometimes happen. Kovalam Beach and Vizhinjam Harbour are nearby, so you can wander out for a swim or a fish lunch on your free afternoons.

The core of the programme is Ayurvedic treatment. On arrival you sit down with Dr. Anand, the resident Ayurvedic doctor, who assesses your dosha (body type) and designs a treatment plan for the week. Treatments run 90–120 minutes daily and typically include oil massages, herbal steam, and other Panchakarma-style therapies depending on what you need — some people focus on joint pain, others on detox or skin issues.

Yoga and meditation happen twice a day, morning and evening, led on the rooftop shala or down at the beach. Sessions cover asana, pranayama (breathing exercises), and guided meditation. The style suits beginners through to experienced practitioners; instructors adjust for the group.

Meals are traditional Kerala vegetarian — think rice, sambar, coconut chutneys, vegetable curries, and the full sadya feast served on a banana leaf. The kitchen follows Ayurvedic principles, so dishes are built around digestibility and the six tastes (sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter, astringent). Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks are all included, plus water, tea, and coffee throughout the day.

Midweek there's a lecture from Dr. Anand on Ayurvedic lifestyle — practical stuff about diet, daily routine, and seasonal habits. Towards the end of the stay, you join a cooking masterclass to learn how to make some of the dishes yourself. The idea is that you leave not just rested but with a clearer sense of how to eat and live once you're home.

The retreat also arranges a local temple visit and optional excursions — cycling, kayaking in the backwaters, or visits to nearby markets. Airport transfers from Trivandrum International are included.

What's included

- 9 nights accommodation in a private Ayurveda villa - 3 daily vegetarian Vedic meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) - Water, tea, coffee, and snacks throughout the day - Welcome drink on arrival - Daily yoga classes - Daily meditation classes - Daily pranayama (breathing) classes - 30-minute daily massage - 90–120 minute daily Ayurvedic treatment - Initial and follow-up consultation with Ayurvedic doctor - Ayurveda lecture by Dr. Anand - Ayurvedic cooking class - Group excursions and activities - Local temple visit - Complimentary airport pickup and drop-off from Trivandrum International Airport - Pre and post retreat support from the team - Free parking - Free Wi-Fi

What's not included

- International flights - Travel insurance - Visa fees - Personal expenses - Additional spa treatments not included in programme - Alcoholic beverages