This is not just your usual homestay. The house is beautifully situated overlooking fabulous gardens and panoramic views, with many species of birds paying regular visits. Chris and his staff are welcoming, knowledgable, entertaining and fabulously hospitable. There are several walks of varying lengths and difficulties for those who are keen, and the staff or the friendly local dog will... More

A very relaxing couple of days watching fabulous wildlife around Kamarajar Lake. Within a few minutes spotted 3 stunning types of Kingfisher. Very good and attentive staff with a great chicken curry one night. Nicely tucked away with no through road and just able to chill. More

We had a lovely relaxing two days at this little tropical paradise. This is when the relaxation part of our holiday really kicked in. Cardamom House is lush with greenery, open, simple and homely in design, and the views of the lake are stunning. What made our stay most comfortable (apart from the really comfy hard beds) was the warm,... More

An oasisof peace surrounded by natural beauty with the imposing western ghats reflected in the still waters of Kamarajar lake. Extremely comfortable and homely, with abundance of flowering plants,and interesting wildlife; a naturalists dream. The local people are, warm colourful and welcoming; Chris is an intelligent and entertaining man and his fabulous staff felt more like friends. Our time here... More

The Cardamom House is definitely something off the heaten track. It was started by Chris Lucas as a social enterprise. His staff are all farm laborers who have been with him for over 14 years (talk about employee retention) and trained to run this home stay. Cardamom House is not the usually resort with room service and fawning staff. You... More

Cardamom House is the best place I have found anywhere in my (extensive) travels to switch off and relax, which is why I return every year. From the house the view of the lake and the distant mountains is very calm and beautiful. Many different species of exotic birds and butterflies flit in and out of the Hibiscus and Bougainvillea... More

Set in the middle of the countryside with wonderful views. A great place to relax and spend time exploring the local area. Very nice spacious bedroom and outdoor terrace. Let down by the food unfortunately which was rather plain and unadventurous. Worth an excursion to stay here. More

A small hotel overlooking a reservoir, backed by steep hills and fairly isolated - don't come here if you are seeking night life unless it is of the animal type! The hotel is run by an Englishman, we had a full roast chicken dinner on our first night but they will cook local dishes on request. Our room was fairly... More

but after the heat and bustle of temple cities in southern India, that's exactly how it felt to land at Cardamom House. I stayed for two nights and would have been happy with another two or three. Chris and his excellent staff are more like a family, and that feeling extends to the guests. My room was surprisingly large for... More