Nikki's Nest

Komfort

Nikki's Nest, run with great dedication, is in south-west India, around 30 minutes by car from Trivandrum Airport (TRV), right on the Indian Ocean. Set on a hill, it offers stunning views of the picturesque coastline and is close to the well-known beach at Kovalam (around 9 km). The idyllic resort is thoughtfully nestled within the existing vegetation and has welcomed Ayurveda guests and their companions exclusively since 1996. A tropical garden filled with magnificent orchids surrounds the property, creating a private and peaceful atmosphere. A Hindu temple lies below Nikki's Nest, which is built around it. Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the grounds. Sustainability and recycling are key priorities at Nikki's Nest. Alongside water treatment and the use of rainwater for the garden and laundry, the resort’s sustainability programme includes a biogas plant and the supply of used Ayurveda oil to local companies for use as machinery grease. The resort also supports regular litter collection on roads and beaches, as well as animal welfare.

In southern Kerala, relaxed coastal living meets the region’s traditional Ayurveda culture. Palm trees, temples and the Arabian Sea shape the atmosphere around the capital, Thiruvananthapuram.

At Nikki's Nest, the two restaurants, Hibiskus and Orchid, serve vegetarian and Indian cuisine. Ayurveda guests can enjoy buffet dishes tailored to their dosha type. Lactose-free, gluten-free and vegan meals are also available if requested in advance through SpaDreams. The communal table for solo travellers is an ideal place to meet like-minded guests. From time to time, the head chef runs Ayurvedic cookery classes – well worth attending!

The Ayurveda centre is located in the upper part of the resort and can be reached via steps or gentle slopes, depending on where you are staying. Authentic Ayurvedic programmes are carried out in 20 treatment rooms. The experienced team comprises the respected Ayurveda doctors Dr Praveen and Dr Geetha, five junior Ayurveda doctors, around 50 therapists, several pharmacists and nurses. In 2003, the Ayurveda centre was recognised by the Government of Kerala as Green Leaf Ayurveda; it is now rated Ayur Diamond Ayurveda, the highest award level. Since 2021, Nikki's Nest has also been accredited as an Ayurveda hospital by NABH – this is equivalent to an Ayurveda clinic with medical oversight, a daily treatment plan and structured care.

Hosts Maria and Nikki place particular importance on ensuring that not only the Ayurveda treatments but also the surroundings are traditional and sustainable. The oils and powders used for treatments are made in licensed in-house production at the sister resort, Duke's Forest Lodge (approx. 50 km, approx. 1.5 hours), under the alternating supervision of the junior Ayurveda doctors. Visits to the plantation are impressive and can be arranged for you (transfer included).

Yoga

The pavilion, with its sea views, is an inviting setting for group yoga (Sivananda) and meditation (Monday to Saturday mornings). Additional yoga sessions can be booked on site (approx. £13–£21 per hour (€15–€25)).

Enjoy the gentle waves of the sea from the pool or the beach, which is directly accessible from the resort. Before taking a dip, we recommend asking the beach attendants about any possible currents – safety comes first.

During the high season (approximately November to March), you can enjoy not only breathtaking sunsets but also fascinating cultural and dance events that offer a glimpse into local life. Take time to browse the hotel library or use the internet computer to get in touch with your loved ones. Browse the souvenir and spice shop to take a little piece of India home with you. And if you have laundry to take care of, our reliable laundry service is available.

For those seeking adventure, we offer a range of excursions. Explore the picturesque backwaters, discover village life or admire the region’s magnificent temples and palaces. If you fancy a little shopping, there are small shops nearby where you can enjoy a leisurely browse. Welcome to Nikki's Nest, where time seems to stand still and relaxation goes hand in hand with adventure.

Nikki's Nest has an almost pilgrimage-like quality, as Kerala’s largest Shiva statue stands right next door. Traditional chants and prayers take place there, and noise levels are monitored by both the resort and the government of Kerala.