Learn more
Named after globally renowned designer Isla Van Damme, Isla’s Ridge perches in the Palani Hills 1,200 metres above sea level, surrounded by the diverse beauty of the Shola Forests.
The hotel’s four rooms, kitchen and dining areas span two bungalows, and Isla skilfully designed each space, selecting each furnishing, photograph and tapestry to tell a rich story of Tamil Nadu’s heritage. A large pool sits in the lush garden, and the hotel balconies overlook the valleys of the Western Ghats. Tour the local villages, the plantations and vegetable gardens, the markets and the farms to get a true sense of life in rural India.
What we love
- A charming, authentic homestay without the pomp of luxury hotels, but that gets the basics spot on
- If you’re looking for peace and quiet, coupled with endless vistas of India’s natural beauty, then look no further
- Bird lovers should bring their binoculars. The Shola Forests are teeming with cuckoos, parakeets, peacocks and more.
- Immerse yourself in the culture by meandering through the villages, horse riding, sipping herbal teas from local stalls, or losing yourself in the Anna Salai market
Being so remote, there are no restaurants nearby - though the open-plan kitchen and authentic home-cooked food provide an immersive and memorable dining experience
While there is a pool, there are no sun loungers available. But there are still plenty of places to curl up with a book, be it your balcony, or a bench overlooking the valleys
While spacious, the rooms don’t have too much natural light, though there are plenty of cosy outdoor spaces to relax in too
Families are welcome, but amenities are not designed with families in mind.
As a CGH Earth hotel, it follows the company’s mantras of sustainable and ethical tourism. They operate with a farm-to-table ethos, where all food is freshly prepared using local ingredients
Located in Manalur in the Palani Hills, surrounded by the beauty of the Shola Forest, an hour’s drive from the city of Dindigul, and a 2-hour drive to Madurai airport.
What our travellers say
Choose your adventure
Speak to one of our team to get started. After all, your travel journal won’t write itself.
