What to See

Kerala is blessed with unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought after tourist destinations of the world, prompting National Geographic Traveler to include it among the fifty must see destinations of a life time. Mesmerizing mountains, countless rivers that criss-cross the land, pristine beaches awash with sugary sand, and vast expanses of placid backwaters, all add up to make Kerala an idyllic get-away destination.

On Kerala's eastern flank is a long mountainous ridge running parallel to the Arabian Sea and leveling off into the Deccan plateau. Nestled among these mountains are numerous resort towns. Best known among these resort towns is Munnar, a land of gently undulating hills carpeted with meticulously manicured tea plantations that lies about 150km from Teak House. Impossibly green and breathtakingly beautiful, Munnar is perhaps the most popular hill station in South India.

A unique feature of the state is its extensive backwater system. No trip to Kerala can be called complete without experiencing these waters. There is a Kerala that thrives here, rural, rustic, laid back.
It is like being transported back in time. The sheer beauty of the sweeping vistas that open up before you as you skim these waters is beyond words.

If it’s history that interests you, Cochin has numerous sites that are of historical importance. These include the 16th century Dutch Palace, the Jewish Synagogue built in 1662, the Church of St. Francis originally established in 1503 and renovated in 1779, the Santa Cruz Basilica built in 1558, and a lot more.

Few other States in India can match the grandeur and creativity of Kerala's performing arts. The most representative dance form of Kerala is Kathakali, a spectacular classical dance drama, which combines the performing art forms of opera, ballet, masque, and pantomime, with themes drawn from mythology

Kerala is known for its spectacular boat races featuring magnificent snake boats or 'Chundans', each of which is manned by over a hundred sinewy oarsmen accompanied by boisterous and rhythmic boat songs and the frenzied shouts of spectators.
The months from August to October witness these regattas being conducted in different parts of the state.

The state has a handful of wildlife sanctuaries, the most popular of which is the Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady which is located 185km from Cochin International Airport. Spread over 925 km² of thick evergreen forest, the reserve is home to wild elephants, tigers, leopards, and the endangered Nilgiri tahr.

If Kerala is skirted by the Western Ghats on the one side, it has the Arabian Sea on the other, running along the entire length of its western flank. Numerous beaches dot the coastline, the most popular of which is the Kovalam Beach that lies about 250km from Teak House, and offers a magical mix of sun, sand, sea and sky.

What our Client's says

Testimonials

Teak House is tastefully furnished and very well equipped. The family were most welcoming.

Mr. & Mrs. Neave, UK

The accommodation was spacious and comfortable, and Sunil took us out bird watching to marshland where the birds were plentiful in the evening. He shared his photography passion with us, and we were so interested to know more about Indian life.

Alice Everard

Teak House was a beautiful, tranquil place - unsurpassed hospitality - Sunil and family made us so welcome. It was the highlight of the tour - there were tears in my eyes as I left, it was so lovely.

Janine Page

"A wonderful final 2 days stay at the end of our amazing holiday in India. Thank you to Sunil, Suja & Sagina for your wonderful hospitality, delicious food and most informative tour of your garden. We've loved our stay here within your family"

Mark & kathryn

"We have had magical four days with your beautiful family in your stunning house.It has been a privilege and a joy. So many things were outstanding, the comfort of the house, the AMAZINGLY good food, the views of the back waters, the pool and your gorgeous grandchildren Saira and Samatha. Nothing was too much for you Sunil and your kindness was very, very much appreciated. You deserve huge success at Teak House and I'm sure it will come. With love and thanks R.C"

Ruth Cowen

Its a privilege to stay at your amazingly beautiful property. Thank you Sunil and family for the wonderful spread of food and being there as one among us spending time. But for the tight schedule, would have spent more time with you enjoying the beautiful garden, the quiet flowing river and of course the company of your adorable dogs...but we know, we will be back for more!

Hari & Sujatha, Aneesh & Lakshmi

We have loved being part of the Elias family for 4 days. Your generosity incomparable and the spice tutorials have been hugely enjoyable. Here is many more duck roasts in the future.! Thank you for being an outstanding host and cherished contributor to my next book.

Roopa Gulati

What a lovely surprise after a day cycling to end up in such a beautiful and peaceful house and to be made so welcome by a hospitable family. Our only regret it was just one night! The food was also special and worth a return visit.

Trevor Yuonne Mason

What can I say! A wonderful home, a fantastic host and a lovely family. The food is just the best. Sunil Elias made our visit very special and we will never forget our stay here at Teak House.

Gina & Craig

What a wonderful way to end our Indian adventure! Great hospitality and food, some of the best we have had. Feeling sad about going home. Wish we had more time here!

Dick, Linda. Gary, Lindsey, Ave & Jackie

It's been a pleasure to stay in this beautiful villa with such scenic settings.Sunrise is spectacular. You got the calmness and serenity of nature here. Sunil and family has been a lovely host. Nw Year party has been fun. Thank you for letting us stay in your lovely home.

Dr Anu & Gerald

Its been a sheer pleasure to stay in this heavenly place. Peaceful river side and wonderful hosts.Such a thoughtful architecture and facilities.Food is yum- be it traditional mutton or beef- absolutely enjoyed.

Amrita S

Nothing prepares for the sheer delights of Teak House. Excellent hospitality of Sunil and his charming family. In this day of large corporate hotels and impersonal service, Teak House is indeed a welcome contrast. The food was 5* and was the comfort of rooms.

Glen and Brenda

I read in this book that we are not the only people to arrive here with jet lag and as I said, it was a wonderful place to adapt to our new environment in Kerala through the kindness of Sunil and family. The garden with a range of spice trees and vegetables provided a great introduction to birds. The wonderful home cooking showed us how these foods and spices can best be used, Thanks also for the trip out to see the birds on the wet lands. We now feel prepared to see what the rest of Kerala has to offer!!

Mr&Ms; Gilham

What a gem of a place- the location is perfect and the hospitality second to none!

John & Fiona Worby

Could not have asked for a better place to spend our last 2 nights in Kerala. Such a lovely, tranquil quiet spot. Loved the orchids and your choice of music ! Thank you very much for your hospitality and excellent food.

Mr/s Fayers

What a lovely welcome to a beautiful home. The setting is superb with the river as a backdrop. I was lovely to hear the bird sounds, so different to those in England. Thank you for the lovely food. We would recommend you to anyone.

Mr/s O'Donohue