CGH Earth Ayurveda offers specialised holistic treatments for a range of ailments based on the traditional and authentic Ayurvedic system of healing. These treatments, often exceeding two weeks, are bespoke for each individual.
The length and particulars of each treatment regime are based on the assessments made by the in-house Vaidyas (Ayurvedic doctors). Guests have the option of choosing between two CGH Earth Ayurveda properties – Kalari Kovilakom or Kalari Rasayana – to undergo their treatments.
CGH Earth Ayurveda is the Ayurveda wellness subsidiary of CGH Earth hospitality group, one of the pioneers of responsible tourism in India. The group began its operations in 1954 with its flagship property, the Casino Hotel, in Willingdon Island, Kochi. Today, it manages a portfolio of over 15 properties in Southern India, each offering unique and highly immersive experiences in the local culture and environment.
The two CGH Earth Ayurveda properties offer holistic Ayurvedic treatments as prescribed by the resident Doctors following an in-depth consultation. As Ayurveda focuses on treating the causes of an ailment rather than its symptoms, each guest undergoes biological, psychological, emotional and spiritual analysis to determine one’s prakruti – the fundamental constitution or nature.
Some of the treatments offered at CGH Earth Ayurveda include Complete Detox (21 to 28 days), Body Purification (14 to 21 days), Weight Management (14 to 28 days), Stress Management (14 to 21 days) and Healthy Aging (21 to 28 days). The treatments prescribed, although bespoke, all comprise three fundamental components: yoga and meditation, diet, and satsang.
Yoga is an essential booster of the Ayurvedic treatments prescribed as it acts as a channel for integrating the body, senses, life forces, the mind and consciousness. The slow and steady Aasanas help gain control over the mind and help sharpen it. Pranayama (breath regulation) and meditation techniques are used to calm and relax both, the mind and the body. Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep or effortless relaxation) helps relax the body.
Guests are served Sattvic-compliant meals – a vegetarian diet based on local seasonal produce and whole grains. Each meal is tailored to each individual’s body constitution, medical history and the doctor’s diagnosis. The meals are prepared using traditional recipes and locally sourced organic produce. Many of the fruits and vegetables are grown in-house. Since Ayurveda does not recommend consumption of milk, sugar, bread, tea or coffee, they are not served. Guests are also encouraged to refrain from consuming alcohol, tobacco and food from outside during the course of the treatment.
Satsang – which roughly translates to positive gatherings – is one of the fundamental elements of the Ayurveda philosophy. It refers to an assembly of people who listen to, talk about and assimilate the truth and is, therefore, a significant aspect of the healing process. Guests are encouraged to partake in enlightening discourses, classical music, dance performances and other such events as part of their treatment.
A typical day at CGH Earth Ayurveda begins with a wake-up call in the morning, followed by basic Yoga Aasanas and breathing exercises. The first meal starts with a Sattvic breakfast. All meals are served in the dining hall and guests are expected to follow the specified meal timings.
Breakfast is followed by a doctor’s consultation and treatment course for the given day. There are two sessions of therapeutic massages, which are done as per the prescribed treatment course. Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep), as an integral part of Yoga therapy, is included in the daily schedule.
Basic Yoga Aasanas are repeated in the evening as well. Guests are encouraged to take walks around the property, read books, and feed fish as part of Karma yoga activities. The day ends with an early dinner followed by meditation or Satsang.
Kalari Kovilakom
The property is set within the 200-year-old Kollengode Palace grounds of the old Vengunad kingdom with the hills of the Western Ghats forming a majestic backdrop. CGH Earth took over the reins of this palace and converted it to a traditional Ayurveda healing facility, while keeping its historic legacy intact.
Kalari Kovilakom offers 19 unique palace rooms with modern amenities and a treatment facility with 12 treatment rooms. The living spaces and the gardens at Kalari Kovilakom complement the healing process with its nurturing and warm environment.
The Vengunad kings were patrons of the classical arts, especially Kathakali dance and Carnatic music. In remembrance of this past, dance and music performances, with the use of traditional Indian instruments, depicting mythological stories are an essential part of the daily ritual at Kalari Kovilakom.
The property is located near Kollangode in the Palakkad District of Kerala State. The closest airport is Coimbatore, approximately two hours by road, and Cochin airport is 2.5 hours away.
Kalari Rasayana
Spread over eight acres of lake-front coconut-grove land, Kalari Rasayana offers 22 cottages and rooms, well-equipped with modern amenities. The wellness facility has 11 treatment rooms. The property is located in the heart of the Paravur backwaters, in the Kollam district of Kerala State. The closest international airport is Trivandrum, approximately 1.5 hours away
The property’s location complements the healing process with its nurturing and tranquil environment. The only distractions here are the fishermen going about their daily chores, the birds seeking their sustenance, the muted sounds of the ocean waves, or the sight of the trains as pass by in the distance.
Kalari Kovilakom and Kalari Rasayana are certified by the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH). The NABH is a constituent board of Quality Council of India (QCI) which oversees an accreditation programme for healthcare organisations.
