Somatheeram: Ayurvedic Wellness Amid Kerala’s Tropical Paradise

Somatheeram. From Personalized Treatments to Tropical Beaches – A Meaningful Stay in India

When seeking a vacation that combines relaxation with health, Ayurveda offers effective solutions for the body, mind, and soul. In Kerala, India—the homeland of this ancient science—lies the Somatheeram Ayurveda Group, an award-winning Ayurvedic resort internationally recognized for the authenticity and quality of its treatments. Considered a leader in medical and wellness tourism in India, Somatheeram has been named “Best Ayurvedic Centre” ten times by the authorities of Kerala and holds multiple international accreditations: India Government Hall of Fame, Ayurveda SPA Europe certification, NABH accreditation (India), ISO 9001 and ISO 22000 standards, and GMP for medicines. These recognitions confirm the professionalism and quality of the experience offered by the resort.

Location and Spectacular Scenery

Located on Chowara Beach, approximately 9 km south of the famous Kovalam Beach, Somatheeram  spans 15 acres of lush vegetation, palm trees, and tropical flowers, on a hill overlooking the Malabar Coast. Founded in 1985 by Mr. Baby Mathew, Somatheeram pioneered the concept of an “Ayurvedic hospital with a resort ambiance,” a unique combination of traditional medical treatments and the comforts of an exotic vacation.

Philosophy and Holistic Approach

Somatheeram combines traditional Ayurvedic medicine with prevention, detoxification, and personalized treatments in a holistic setting focused on body–mind–spirit balance. Each guest is individually assessed according to their dosha and imbalances, and therapies, vegetarian meals, and yoga sessions are tailored for optimal results. The resort is therefore not just a vacation spot but a wellness and medical tourism destination in India, ideal for those seeking health, relaxation, and revitalization.

Accommodation and Facilities

Somatheeram offers several types of accommodation to suit different preferences:

• Special Cottage – round cottages with thatched palm roofs near the beach, with a private terrace (approx. 18 m²).
• Other options include Kerala Deluxe Suite, Kerala Standard Unit, Deluxe Cottage, or Standard Cottage, all with private bathrooms, air conditioning, ventilation, tea facilities, and quick beach access.

The tropical garden delights guests, and the resort’s restaurants offer diverse menus with Ayurvedic, local, and international dishes—over 200 items. Facilities include three restaurants (one with a sea view), swimming pools, a yoga platform overlooking the ocean, and an open-air stage for cultural performances. Additional services include local excursions, boat rides, elephant interactions, cultural activities (mehndi), currency exchange, airport transfers, and safes for valuables.

What is Ayurvedic Medicine?

Ayurvedic medicine is an ancient Indian system that has existed for thousands of years, aiming to balance body, mind, and spirit to prevent and treat illnesses. It is based on three fundamental energies called doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—and treatments are personalized for each individual. Practices include massages with medicinal oils, therapeutic herbs, tailored diets, and yoga and meditation exercises, all designed to support natural healing and overall well-being.

Personalized Ayurvedic Treatments

At Somatheeram, each guest undergoes a detailed assessment by qualified Ayurvedic doctors to identify their dosha type and imbalances. Based on this analysis, a personalized treatment plan is designed.

Popular therapies include:

• Abhyanga – deep massage with warm medicinal oils to relax muscles and stimulate circulation.
• Shirodhara – continuous oil flow on the forehead to calm the mind and reduce stress.
• Pizhichil – warm oil bath combined with massage to revitalize the entire body.
• Panchakarma – a complex detoxification process that purifies the body and restores inner balance.

All treatments are accompanied by careful care with natural oils and medicinal plants grown in the resort’s gardens, ensuring a complete wellness experience to relax the body, calm the mind, and rejuvenate vital energy.

Diet and Yoga

A key element of the Somatheeram experience is the Ayurvedic vegetarian diet, designed by doctors to support dosha balance and treatment effects. Meals are prepared with local, natural ingredients, providing flavor and nutrients for optimal detoxification and revitalization.

Complementing the diet, the resort offers daily yoga and meditation sessions at multiple locations, including a platform with ocean views. These exercises help relax the mind, improve body flexibility, and restore vital energy, offering a complete experience of balance and wellness.

Holistic Wellness Experience

A vacation at Somatheeram is far more than relaxation. It is a journey to reconnect with body and mind, dedicated to health, inner balance, and revitalization of vital energy. Authentic Ayurvedic traditions, personalized treatments, doctor-designed vegetarian diets, and yoga and meditation practices provide a comprehensive holistic experience.

The natural beauty of Kerala—soft sandy beaches, lush vegetation, ocean sounds, and tropical landscapes—enhances this experience, creating a setting of harmony and deep tranquility. Attentive and hospitable staff make every stay a personalized wellness experience, where every detail matters.

How to Reach Somatheeram

Travel involves flights with layovers through international hubs such as Doha, Abu Dhabi, or Dubai. The final destination is Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) International Airport, about a 20-minute drive from the resort. Somatheeram offers free airport transfers for stays of 7 days or more.

Estimated Stay Costs

• 7-day all-inclusive: from USD 1,016 (approx. €930) per double room, including accommodation, medical consultations, Ayurvedic treatments, personalized vegetarian diet, yoga and meditation sessions, and airport transfer.
• 14-day: from USD 1,792 (approx. €1,650) per person, with up to 10% discounts for returning guests.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal period is September to March, with dry and pleasant weather for relaxation and treatments. Monsoon months (June–September) are excellent for Ayurvedic therapies due to humidity, which enhances oil absorption and alleviates conditions such as arthritis or skin problems.

Recommended Stay Duration

To fully benefit from Ayurvedic treatments and the holistic experience, a 14-day stay is recommended, allowing time for health assessment, personalized treatments, and complete relaxation.