Traditional Ayurveda massage and wellness retreat
Authentic Kerala Ayurveda experience focusing on personalized traditional massage therapies, detox, and rejuvenation. Available statewide with popular centers in Kovalam and Kumarakom. Programs combine physician consultation, daily tailor-made therapies (Abhyanga, Shirodhara, Kizhi, Njavara Kizhi, Pizhichil), Ayurvedic diet, yoga, and meditation.
Location
Kerala (popular centers: Kovalam, Kumarakom), Statewide - focus on Kovalam & Kumarakom, India
Duration
Typically 3 days to 21 days. Most effective programs: 7–21 days (7-day introduction, 14-day therapeutic, 21-day intensive Panchakarma).
Best Time to Visit
September to March for pleasant weather. Note: Monsoon (June–August) is traditionally favored for certain cleansing therapies by Ayurvedic practitioners — check with the center.
Pricing
Typical pricing ranges:
- Budget / Ayurvedic guesthouse: INR 2,000–4,000 (USD 25–50) per person per day
- Mid-range Ayurvedic resort: INR 5,000–10,000 (USD 65–130) per person per day
- Luxury wellness resort: INR 12,000–30,000 (USD 160–400+) per person per day Package examples:
- 7-day wellness package: INR 25,000–1,20,000 (USD 330–1,600) depending on accommodation & treatments
- 14-day Panchakarma-style detox: INR 55,000–2,50,000 (USD 730–3,300+)
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Personalized Ayurvedic consultation with a licensed Vaidya (Ayurvedic physician)
Classical treatments: Abhyanga (full-body oil massage), Shirodhara (oil poured on forehead), Pizhichil, Kizhi/Njavara Kizhi, Nasya, Vasti
Panchakarma options for deep detox (available at certified centers)
Therapeutic diet: sattvic, physician-prescribed herbal meals to support treatment
Daily gentle yoga and meditation sessions
Beachside relaxation in Kovalam and backwater serenity in Kumarakom
Options for luxury spa resorts or authentic traditional ashrams/guesthouses
Itinerary
Check-in, welcome drink, meet the Ayurveda team.
Initial health intake forms; rest and hydrate. Light evening walk (if at Kovalam/Kumarakom).
Comprehensive Ayurvedic consultation & pulse diagnosis (Nadi Pariksha); treatment plan created.
Physician prescribes therapies, diet, and duration. Minimal activity recommended after consultation.
Daily Abhyanga (full-body oil massage) followed by steam and medicated enema/Nasyam (as prescribed).
Therapy timing usually morning and/or evening. Rest after oils to allow absorption.
Combination therapies: Shirodhara, Pizhichil, Kizhi (herbal poultice), medicated baths, and yoga/meditation sessions.
Therapies tailored daily. Light Ayurvedic meals and herbal decoctions provided.
Review with physician; optional Ayurvedic body scrub and revitalizing session.
Assessment of progress; adjustments to diet and post-care instructions.
Panchakarma elements intensified (Vasti, Snehana, Swedana) and deeper detox; more rest days.
Longer programs may require lifestyle adherence and phased reintroduction of regular foods.
Final consultation with aftercare plan, medicines/herbal packs provided, check-out.
Advice on home routine (dinacharya), diet, follow-up schedules, and precautions.
Safety Requirements
Pre-treatment medical screening and disclosure of chronic conditions or medications
Not recommended during early pregnancy; consult both an obstetrician and the Ayurvedic physician for late pregnancy therapies
Inform center about allergies (oils, herbs, foods)
Certain intensive treatments (Panchakarma) may be contraindicated for severe heart disease, uncontrolled hypertension, advanced diabetes without physician clearance
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs before and during the program
Hydrate well and follow post-therapy rest recommendations to avoid adverse reactions
Tips
Pack light, breathable clothing and modest swimwear if staying in Kovalam beach resorts.
Bring a copy of medical records and a list of current medications.
Choose centers with certified Ayurvedic physicians (check qualifications) and good reviews; ask about sanitation and staff training.
Book at least a week in advance for popular centers during peak season (Dec–Feb).
Be prepared for a gentle daily routine: early mornings, calm meals, and limited heavy exercise during therapy.
If you prefer a more authentic local experience and lower cost, consider traditional Ayurvedic guesthouses in and around Kovalam and Kumarakom rather than high-end resorts.
Respect local customs and dietary rules; many centers follow strict dietary regimes during treatment.
