High on a plateau lies Tamara Kodai, a 160-year-old Jesuit monastery- turned-luxury resort. It’s located in Kodaikanal, a hilly, crisp-aired and pristine region in the southernmost Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
Sensitive restoration of the historic structure meant retaining the high ceilings, and restraint in the interior styling. The result is an understated look, where effusive finery cedes to a liberating sense of space. This is complemented by retro-chic earth-coloured leather sofas enclosing stone firepits.
The resort’s suites are located within a two-tiered lot on the property, with each tier comprising four lake-view suites. To access them, visitors take a path along a flight of dark wood stairs tessellated with vibrant Spanish tiles.
A lotus-like pool lies monumentally on a raised platform surrounded by lofty walls and is connected to the award-winning Tamara spa next door.
Under the vivid red-tiled slanted roofs lies an elaborate geometry of dark wood beams resting on vintage metallic wrought-iron poles.
Pampered with the best that man and nature provide, it’s little wonder why many are flocking to this getaway, making it a top destination for well-heeled holidaymakers.