Shinshiva Ayurvedashram

A Family Ayurveda Ashram above the Arabian Sea

Shinshiva Ayurvedashram is a small, family-run Ayurveda retreat with a relaxed, ashram-like character. It was founded by Dr. K.V. Franklin and is today directed by Dr. Shanthi Franklin, who continues a long family tradition of Ayurvedic medicine. With around eighteen rooms, a team of four doctors and some twenty therapists, guests receive close and personal attention.

Location

The ashram sits on a green, palm-covered cliff at Chowara, south of Kovalam, with wide views over the Arabian Sea. A quiet fishing village and the beach below can be reached on foot. Trivandrum International Airport is approximately 20 km away, about a 45-minute drive, and return airport transfers are included.

Accommodation

Rooms are offered in four categories — Shin, Shiva, Ayur and Veda — and range from traditional Kerala-style cottages among the palms to rooms with a balcony facing the bay. Layout and furnishing vary from room to room, keeping a simple, natural style. Air-conditioning is available on request.

Ayurveda Treatments

The doctors examine each guest on arrival and plan the treatments day by day. The centre offers classical Panchakarma as well as programmes for stress, weight reduction, joint and arthritis problems, diabetes, skin conditions and general rejuvenation. Treatments take place in ten separate rooms for men and women. Meals are full board, vegetarian and prescribed by the doctor according to the therapy, served in a restaurant overlooking the sea. Group yoga and meditation are held every day except Sunday, and stays of 14 nights or more include an excursion to Trivandrum city. A Russian-speaking translator can be arranged for consultations.

Facilities

• Ayurveda treatment centre with ten treatment rooms
• Open-air yoga and meditation sessions
• Sea-view restaurant with vegetarian Ayurvedic food
• Medicinal plant nursery and herb gardens
• Palm garden with hammocks and sun beds
• 24-hour room service and tour desk