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).

We had no idea what to expect when we came here, A friend had arranged it for us. We travelled with a two year old who just drove for seven hours in a car. I must say that the place was very pretty. A classic house in very interesting surroundings. The room was very good. The shower basic, but OK. No aircon etc, but the house is cool. The couple that runs the place has a very clear intention: a very authentic and spiritual experience through relaxation and enjoyment of excellent vegitarian food. The place oozes peace and quiet (apart from the temple next door that starts its prayer at 5.30 in de morning). The house has a natural pool (including fish and a turtle). We had a very nice swim in it. The staff is more than friendly and helpfull. We had very good food and enjoyed the local specialities. Sadly my wife could not have any of the treatments (she looked forward to them) as she is pregnant.
The only thing is that we felt was that going to this oasis is not a very good idea for young families. It is clearly a grown up place. Our toddler loved the staff (and they loved her apparently), but I think that none of us got the chance to enjoy the place as it should be: in peace and quiet.