A simple remedy for the heat and humidity of the plains of Kerala is a trip to the mountains of Thekkady. Shalimar Spice Garden Resort is located at a height of 800 meters at the edge of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The air here is relatively cool and life is simple. The straw covered cottages stand in the midst of bright green spice plantations that are surrounded with trees laden with mangoes, nutmeg and cardamom.

Originally conceived by Maria Angela, a passionate Italian designer, Shalimar rates among the finest special places to stay in this quiet and peaceful destination. Built on lush green land unscathed by modernization, the Shalimar Spice Garden is a perfect blend of European and Indian living. The resort merges with the spice gardens and gets encompassed in the verdant landscape bordering the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. A gurgling mountain stream meanders through the property and a wooden bridge built over the stream connects the resort to the outside world.