It is hard to describe how wonderful this place really is since it is so full of surprises. Getting to watch a beautiful and intricate Hindu ritual at the family home, swimming in the pristine river, a sunset hike and long conversations about Gandhi and India's history...these were all things that we had not expected but which made the time truly wonderful. The hosts are quite incredible and the history of this family provides a unique and rare window into the recent history of India itself. The meals were really the best I have had in India. The only complaint being that we were seriously overfed :)! This place is truly a must. We were particularly touched by how warmly they provided for and welcomed our driver, as this is an important thing for us.

A wonderful home stay with very gracious and attentive hosts. My husband had his birthday during our stay and we were welcomed with a birthday lunch and a special for gift. Mr Damodaran also arranged for a private ceremony to bless the 'birthday boy' which made this a very auspicious day for him (and us). This is a very unique property, one in which to savor past traditions and relax amidst the tranquility of the extensive grounds. Cuisine is very traditional, plentiful and prepared with skill and flair by Sree Devi (his wife).
A highly recommended stay to experience a side of Kerala not exposed to the normal tourist agenda.

We decided a short getaway from Bangalore.
While doing research for a previous trip came across this place. Right from initial stage of
Enquiry till we finished the trip, we got excellent response from Mr. Damodaran.
Within a few minutes and without doubt we were welcomed and became a part of their family.

Mr. Damodaran is highly knowledgeable person with lots of information about the area, spends
time with Guests explaining their Ancestral Home and traditions of yesteryears.
It is a true delight hearing these things from him. Gives lots of input regarding local
sightseeing, arranges all trips for guests.
The home itself is quite an enchanting place. The adjoining Trust property, temples in the
Plantation has lot of history behind them, all well explained by the Host.
What makes this place truly special is the team of Mr. Damodaran and his wife
Mrs. Sreedevi. Her cooking is superb. She has a deep knowledge of vegetarian cooking. Quite willing to share all the recipes with the guests.
Every meal we had was delectable and something to talk about.
Only food prepared with lots of love and care will be this tasty. Never an item was repeated
They are extremely hospitable, make for great company and dine with the guests and this truly is an experience.
Also we were lucky to have trip to Angadipuram temple, family deity of the hosts, a truly amazing
Place.

We are fortunate to have chosen this place. We are planning a trip for our son and this will be on the list for sure. We are certainly enlightened by this trip.

The moment you touch your feet on Olappamanna Mana, your innate spiritual feeling comes to the fore front and the materialism in your mind takes the back sea!. As you shake your hands with the host Sri. Damodaran Namboodiri, you are welcomed as part of their family of feudal lords! As you meet his better-half at his Mana (which is a little away), you can feel the hospitality flowing out in dignity! As you savour the authentic keralite brahmin food (of course vegetarian!), your taste buds experiences a pleasure that they have never felt before! As your eyes are treated with " the kalam ezhuthum paattum" and other traditional art forms, they sparkled with amusement! At the end of the day, your body and mind rests in tranquil atmosphere in the neat and tidy rooms! In the morning, you wake up with increased energy and enthusiasm! Over all, a must see/experience place for all those who value, spirituality, tradition and authenticity!

Anil Thomas,
Advocate
High Court of Kerala.