We came through Calicit from Allepey and en route to the hills of Wayanad. We expected to stay a night but ended up here for 3 nights. Like the other review say, it's hard to find but when we pulled in we were taken aback with the beauty of the grounds. The house is incredibly impressive: beautifully restored, architecturally intriguing. We travelled with our 9 month daughter: we had lovely pic-nics in the grounds, the staff played with our baby and generally made our stay very comfortable. We ate well (all vegetarian) and slept soundly. We were the only people there and found it a little roomy and the staff almost overly attentive. The town doesn't have a huge amount to offer and the restaurants in town were somewhat disappointing. But all in all a lovely stay.

The approach to this retreat is somewhat different to what you find when you drive through the gates as the city of Calicut is busy, noisy and somewhat chaotic. However, as soon as I was through the gates, I was transported to a tranquil gem of a place. The staff were wonderful; they went out of their way for me, showed me kindness, respect and great warmth. The food was the best I've ever had and if there was to be any complaint, it'd be that there was too much food and I didn't like to think it was being wasted. I didn't have the same dish twice, apart from at breakfast and my various dietary requirements were catered for no questions asked. I was able to relax in between my treatments but wasn't able to venture that far outside the retreat due to the treatments that I was having. I didn't really warm to the city of Calicut, although got to visit the vibrant spice market and wonderfully peaceful local temple. Talking to the staff made the experience even more special and although being there by myself, I left feeling like I'd never once felt alone. If I was to go again, I'd like to see more outside of Calicut. The local temple's music woke me up every morning at 5:30am, so if you like lie ins, maybe ask for a room further away from that side!

Difficult to find - get your driver to telephone ahead - but very worthwhile. We only had 2 days but loved the delicious quiet of this heritage homestay. The Ayurvedic massage was a special treat too. Beautiful gardens and delicious veggie food (you won't miss alcohol). Harivihar is set in a suburb of Calicut, so you would have to drive to get to the sights. We just stayed put, visiting the martial arts centre round the corner and strolling to the local temple. A unique experience.

A pricey hotel in the middle of a very busy city. Located in a residential area, it is very difficult to be found - taxi drivers appear to be confused at most and it is poorly indicated. Only vegetarian food served, with a bizarre menu selection, on which you have no options (set menu) - no restaurants in the proximity. Breakfast is the worst, with some unheard of dishes served. Nice lawn and manicured property although surrounded by people and cars: you are set for an early start in between mopeds, vehicular traffic and in general the noises of a congested city. This is especially true if you are unlikely enough to have your room next to the kitchen. Rooms are airy but no keys are provided: relying on safety of fellow guests when the gate is not manned appeared to be a security risk to say the least; same to be said for shoes to be left at entrance, which remain in same location (outside) unless you move them by your own. Staff and owners are not really accommodating - choose somewhere else if you have any special need/requirement (inclusive of children).