How far is Tamarind from Trivandrum airport, Kovalam beach and Ponmudi?

Trivandrum International Airport is about 40 minutes away. Kovalam Beach is around 45 minutes; the misty hills of Ponmudi are roughly 1.5 hours. Sasthampara and Kadumbu Para sunrise viewpoints are a 5-minute drive, and Neyyar Dam is 15 minutes.

Can I host a small event, photoshoot or workshop at Tamarind?

Often, yes. We host intimate gatherings, art workshops and small photoshoots when the property feels right for it. Message us on WhatsApp with the date and what you have in mind, and we'll let you know.

Brick farmhouse and tropical garden at Tamarind, a Laurie Baker–inspired farm stay in Vilappilsala near Trivandrum, Kerala

Where the world slows down.

Q: Is the indoor pool an actual swimming pool?

No. Tamarind has a small indoor stone dip pool with a waterfall, designed for cooling off and soaking rather than swimming laps. Think of it as a deep, beautifully built plunge pool — perfect for floating with a book, not for serious swimming. The pool is private to your group during your stay.

Q: Are pets allowed at Tamarind?

Yes, Tamarind is a pet-friendly farm stay, with prior notice. Please let us know about your pet when you book so we can prepare the space and share a few simple house rules.

Q: Is Tamarind a good place for a workation?

Yes. Tamarind has a dedicated workspace, high-speed Wi-Fi and reliable power, plus the quiet of a 32-cent plantation. Many guests come for longer slow-work weeks, with Trivandrum city only 25 minutes away.

Q: Is self check-in available?

Yes. Check-in is from 2:00 PM and checkout by 11:00 AM. Keys are placed in a number lock for self check-in, so late arrivals are easy.

Q: What is the best season to visit Tamarind?

October to March is cool, dry and ideal for outdoor sit-outs. June to September is monsoon — the brick walls, filler slabs and indoor pool feel especially atmospheric in the rain, and the garden is at its greenest. April–May is hotter but quieter, and mango / jackfruit season in the garden.

Tamarind is an eco-friendly farm stay and private villa in Vilappilsala, Trivandrum — where birds speak louder than traffic and life gently reminds you of what really matters.

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Honest Architecture

Set on a peaceful 32-cent plantation, Tamarind is an architectural 3 BHK farmhouse designed to blend into nature, not disturb it.

Soft light flows through brick walls, breezes pass through every room, and every window frames a little moment of green. It’s a home that doesn’t try to impress; it simply invites you to feel at ease.

The Garden

Step outside to fruit trees and the quiet hum of the hills. If the season is right, pick a mango, banana, or jackfruit straight from the garden.

The Indoor Dip Pool

A small natural stone dip pool and waterfall tucked inside the house — meant for a cool soak rather than swimming laps. Floating here, under the reflection of brick arches, is the ultimate way to rediscover stillness.

The Space

Open spaces for yoga, meditation, journaling, or simply breathing deeply. Evenings bring cool breezes and a sky filled with stars.

The soul of Tamarind

Open living hall with exposed brick walls and filler slabs at Tamarind, a Laurie Baker–inspired farm stay near Trivandrum

Morning light streaming through a Baker jali brick screen onto the indoor dip pool at Tamarind farm stay

Reading loft with timber roof beams in the Tamarind farm villa in Vilappilsala, Trivandrum

Cosy bedroom with cotton linens and brick walls in the 3-bedroom Tamarind villa

32-cent fruit plantation and private garden surrounding Tamarind farm stay in Vilappilsala

Curved brick staircase and lush green surroundings at Tamarind, an eco-friendly Kerala farmhouse

Indoor stone dip pool and waterfall lit at night inside Tamarind villa, Trivandrum

The Spirit of Laurie Baker

Tamarind is a living testament to the architectural legacy of Laurie Baker—the pioneer of organic, sustainable building in India. Every corner of this farmhouse reflects his philosophy of honesty in materials and harmony with nature.

Rather than fighting the tropical climate of Trivandrum, the house breathes with it. Using the iconic Baker Jali (perforated brickwork), we have created a space where light and shadow play across exposed brick walls, and the natural breeze replaces the need for artificial cooling.

From the signature filler slabs to the fluid, curved masonry that mimics the contours of the land, Tamarind isn't just a stay—it is an immersion into truth in architecture. Here, the luxury lies in the simplicity of earth, stone, and the quiet rhythm of a home built with a conscience.

Organic Design Sustainable Living

Thoughtful Touches

A home designed for slow living and complete comfort.

🛌

Restful Living

Cotton linens, extra pillows, and blankets for cool nights.

🛁

Essentials

Hot water, shampoo, body soap, and fresh towels provided.

🌳

Private Garden

Fully fenced 32-cent fruit plantation. If you are lucky, you can pluck a few.

📚

Slow Afternoons

A collection of books, reading material, and board games.

🍳

Farmhouse Kitchen

Gas cooker, Haier fridge, kettle, and all essential cookware.

📶

Stay Connected

Dedicated workspace with high-speed Wifi and power access.

👗

Convenience

Iron, hair dryer, and hangers for a seamless stay.

🍷

Dining

Wine glasses, dinnerware, and a dedicated patio space.

🛡️

Safe & Private

Private entrance with outdoor cameras for total peace of mind.

🏠

Extended Retreats

Equipped with laundry essentials like a drying rack and iron for long-term stays.

A Taste of the Farm

We believe that slow living includes slow eating. While our kitchen is fully equipped for your own cooking, we also offer authentic, home-cooked Kerala food on request.

🍲 Authentic Kerala food: Local delicacies served with love.
☕ Al Fresco Dining: Morning tea enjoyed under the Tamarind shade.
🥬 Organic Sourcing: Fruits freshly plucked from our garden when available.

*Please request food 24 hours in advance to help us source the freshest ingredients.

Traditional Kerala breakfast at Tamarind Farm Stay

Great for short stays, weekend trips, workations, and longer slow breaks in Trivandrum.

Property Summary

Stay Type Private 3-Bedroom Farm Villa
Suitability 6-8 Guests
Sleeps 8-10 Guests Max
Bathrooms 3 Full Baths
Outdoor Spaces Terrace + Balcony + Garden Edge
Pool Indoor Dip Pool
Parking Available On-Site

House Rules

Check-in After 2:00 PM
Checkout By 11:00 AM
Self Check-in Available ( keys placed in number lock )
Smoking / Drinking Allowed ( not in bedrooms )
Pets Allowed with Prior Notice

*We kindly ask our guests to respect the quiet nature of Vilappilsala.

Flexible Seasonal Rates

Rates vary based on season and length of stay.
Starting from ₹6,500 per night.

*Check your specific dates on Airbnb for accurate real-time pricing.

Explore South Kerala

The Vilappilsala Trails: Things to Do in Trivandrum

5 MINS AWAY

Sasthampara & Kadumbu Para

Experience the best sunrise trekking in Trivandrum. These hidden hilltops offer panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the city skyline.

15 MINS AWAY

Neyyar Dam & Elephant rehabilitation center

A must-visit for nature lovers. Explore the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, elephant rehabilitation center, and enjoy a quiet boat ride on the reservoir.

25 MINS AWAY

Trivandrum City & Temple Trail

Discover the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple (the world's wealthiest temple), the Napier Museum, and the historic Chalai Bazaar market.

1.5 HR DRIVE

Ponmudi: The Golden Peak

A breathtaking drive through 22 hairpin curves leads you to misty grasslands and tea estates. At 1100m above sea level, it is the perfect day trip from Trivandrum for cool winds and mountain views.

45 MINS AWAY

Kovalam: The Lighthouse Beach

Escape to the iconic crescent coastline of Kovalam Beach. Perfect for a sunset dip, surfing, or exploring the vibrant beachside cafes. It’s the ideal way to balance our farm’s greenery with the Arabian Sea.

45 MINS TO BASE

Agasthyakoodam Peak

A pilgrimage for trekkers and nature lovers. Part of the UNESCO Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, this majestic peak is famous for its rare medicinal herbs and the most challenging mountain trek in Kerala.

Traveler's Tip: Most guests head to Ponmudi Hill Station early in the morning (6:00 AM) to catch the mist at the summit, returning to the Tamarind shade by lunch.

Living under the Tamarind

Candid glimpses shared by our guests.

Planning a small gathering?

From intimate get togethers to art workshops, this space provides the perfect quiet backdrop for your next event.

Enquire about Events →

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Is the indoor pool an actual swimming pool?

No, and we like to be upfront about this. Tamarind has a small indoor stone dip pool with a waterfall, designed for cooling off and soaking rather than swimming laps. Think of it as a deep, beautifully built plunge pool — perfect for floating with a book, not for serious swimming. The pool is private to your group during your stay.

Is the whole villa private, or is it a shared homestay?

The entire 3-bedroom farmhouse is yours — bedrooms, kitchen, indoor dip pool, garden, terrace and balcony. We don't host other guests on the property during your stay. It comfortably suits 6–8 guests, with a maximum of 10.

Are pets allowed?

Yes — we're a pet-friendly stay, with prior notice. Please let us know about your pet when you book so we can prepare the space and share a few simple house rules for their comfort and ours.

Do you serve food, or is it self-catering?

Both. The kitchen is fully equipped if you'd like to cook. We also serve authentic, home-cooked Kerala meals on request — please ask at least 24 hours in advance so we can source the freshest ingredients from nearby. Morning tea on the patio under the tamarind tree is a Tamarind tradition.

Is Tamarind a good place for a workation?

Yes. We have a dedicated workspace, high-speed Wi-Fi and reliable power, plus the quiet of a 32-cent plantation. Many guests come for longer "slow work" weeks — open spaces for calls, a balcony for breaks, and Trivandrum city only 25 minutes away when you need it.

How far is Tamarind from the airport, beach and hill stations?

Trivandrum International Airport is about 40 minutes away. Kovalam Beach is around 45 minutes; the misty hills of Ponmudi are roughly 1.5 hours. Closer to home, the Sasthampara and Kadumbu Para sunrise viewpoints are a 5-minute drive, and Neyyar Dam is 15 minutes.

Is parking available on-site?

Yes — free, private, on-site parking inside the property. The driveway can comfortably fit two cars; let us know if you're arriving with more.

Is self check-in available?

Yes. Check-in is from 2:00 PM and checkout by 11:00 AM. Keys are placed in a number lock for self check-in, so late arrivals are easy. We're always reachable on WhatsApp if you need help finding the place.

Is the property safe and family-friendly?

Yes. Tamarind is a private, fully fenced 32-cent plantation with a private entrance and outdoor security cameras around the perimeter (none inside the house). Vilappilsala is a quiet residential village; families with children and elderly guests stay with us regularly.

What's the best season to visit?

Honestly, every season has its mood. October to March is cool, dry and ideal for outdoor sit-outs. June to September is monsoon — the brick walls, filler slabs and indoor pool feel especially atmospheric in the rain, and the garden is at its greenest. April–May is hotter but quieter, and mango / jackfruit season in the garden.

Can I host a small event, photoshoot or workshop here?

Often, yes. We host intimate gatherings, art workshops and small photoshoots when the property feels right for it. Drop us a note on WhatsApp with the date and what you have in mind, and we'll let you know.

How do I book? What are the rates?

Rates start from ₹6,500 per night and vary by season and length of stay. The simplest way to see live pricing for your dates is on our Airbnb listing. For longer stays, multi-night discounts or a direct enquiry, message us on WhatsApp — we usually reply within the hour.