As first-time visitors to India, these two sisters sought a transformative journey focused on rejuvenation and reconnection, all while experiencing the vibrant culture of South India. Here’s what Jennifer had to say about their incredible adventure.
Greaves: Jennifer, welcome! Thank you for sharing your experience. As first-time visitors to India, what initially drew you to this itinerary?
Jennifer: Thank you! It was the perfect blend for us. My sister and I really wanted a wellness-focused trip, a chance to truly reset, but we also craved an authentic cultural experience in India. The idea of combining a hill country retreat with the deep Ayurvedic traditions of Kerala, plus seeing places like Kochi, sounded ideal. Being our first time, having everything so beautifully organised by Greaves was a huge comfort.
Greaves: Your journey began in the hills of Maharashtra at Dharana Shillim. What was that initial retreat like?
Jennifer: Dharana Shillim was an amazing start. After the long flight to Mumbai, arriving there felt like stepping into an instant calm. It’s truly a sanctuary in the Sahyadri mountains. We immediately felt a shift in pace and had no idea how green and lush the surrounding Maharashtra countryside is. The Programme we were booked onto was fantastic, we were very impressed by the in-depth consultations, and our constant monitoring throughout by the caring doctors. We loved the yoga sessions, the peaceful meditations, and the fact that everything felt so integrated with nature. The guided trek to Shillim Peak was a real highlight; the views were just breathtaking, and it felt so good to be active amidst such beauty. The rooms here were also beyond expectation with our own plunge pool and the food was also a real highlight, always healthy and yet always filling and varied.
Greaves: From the tranquillity of the hills, you then moved to the historic port city of Kochi. How was that transition and what were your impressions?
Jennifer: Kochi was a wonderful contrast! After the deep relaxation at Dharana, stepping into the vibrant energy of Fort Kochi was invigorating, and great to experience a bit of real life. Brunton Boatyard Hotel was charming and steeped in history. We loved exploring the old streets, seeing the Chinese Fishing Nets, and the tuk-tuk ride was such fun! We also loved the Kathakali dance performance – so dramatic and colourful, it really brought the culture alive. And having an Ayurvedic treatment at the hotel was a lovely way to keep the wellness thread going as well.
Greaves: Your itinerary then took you into the famous Kerala backwaters in Kumarakom. What was that experience like?
Jennifer: Oh, the backwaters were magical. Kumarakom Lake Resort was just idyllic – so peaceful and beautiful. Our wellness programme there was delightful, with more Ayurvedic treatments and morning yoga by the lake. It was also great to experience the more traditional treatments, but the absolute highlight was the houseboat cruise. Drifting slowly through the still canals, watching local life unfold, surrounded by that incredible greenery – it was like being in a living watercolour painting. Utterly serene and unforgettable.
Greaves: And finally, the immersive Ayurvedic Rejuvenation Package at Somatheeram in Kovalam. How did that feel as the culmination of your wellness journey?
Jennifer: That was the deepest dive into Ayruveda for us, and exactly what we needed to truly reset. Somatheeram felt like a proper healing sanctuary, a clinic really – right by the beach. The personalized Ayurvedic treatments were incredible, and the doctors were so thorough. It wasn’t just about the massages; it was the tailored diet, the consultations, the whole holistic approach. We both felt profoundly revitalised, balanced, and so much more energetic by the end. It was the perfect way to conclude our wellness journey.
Greaves: It sounds like a truly transformative journey. Would you recommend this itinerary?
Jennifer: Absolutely, without a doubt! Especially for anyone wanting to experience India for the first time, but with a strong emphasis on wellness and a slower, more conscious pace. It perfectly balances cultural exploration with deep rejuvenation. We reconnected with ourselves and each other, and came home feeling completely refreshed. It’s an adventure we’ll cherish forever, and can’t wait to start planning our next.
