Fodor's Expert Review Spice Village

One of Thekkady's finest resorts, with top-notch service, Spice Village is also eco-friendly, running partially on solar energy and recycling all its waste within the premises. You are staying in the center of the small town of Kumily town, just outside the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. So attractive is the spirit of the village that some wildlife have made the hotel their home—don't be surprised to bump into a shy, black-faced langur feasting on mangoes, or a richly colored Malabar giant squirrel. Spice Village's well-maintained thatch-roof cottages are built into a hillside. Lush plantings, including a spice garden, add fragrance and privacy. Interiors have knotty pine furniture and trim, white walls; red-tile floors; and hand-loomed upholstery and bedspreads. The 50 Mile Diet restaurant serves Indian and Continental dishes using only produce grown within 50 miles). Jungle treks, paper-making lessons, and Indian cooking classes are among the activities available.