Retreats
Come and create
Small groups, expert tutors, and the whole estate to write, paint or simply restore.
Retreats
Small groups, expert tutors, and the whole estate to write, paint or simply restore.
Each year the house opens its doors to a handful of hosted retreats — for writers, for artists, and for anyone in need of deep Ayurvedic rest. Days begin with yoga on the lawn, unfold through workshops and one-on-one coaching, and close by the pool under the coconut lounge fans. Everything — rooms, meals, boats, staff — is included; all you bring is your work in progress.
Led by Dr Caroline van de Pol
The time and space to write your own story. Bring your ideas, drafts or half-finished manuscript — whatever stage you're at — and find your own peaceful corner to write, reflect and create. Our tutor guides you through daily workshops, one-on-one sessions and exercises to refine your craft and keep you motivated long after you leave.
Evenings are for sharing: gather by the pool for relaxed reading sessions, exchange feedback, and connect with fellow writers in a warm, supportive circle.
Plus
A private visit to view the original handcrafted Sanskrit writings of the revered Swami Neelakantha Theerthapada, in his traditional home.
Led by Jen Redford · Village Art Studio
Immerse yourself in creativity, surrounded by beauty. With lush gardens and private villas on every side, there's always a perfect corner waiting for your easel. Bring your brushes, ideas or unfinished pieces — our tutor offers workshops, one-on-one sessions and hands-on exercises to refine your technique and develop your style.
Explore watercolour, gouache and pastels; learn composition step by step, layering colour, texture and shape into harmonious designs. Evenings bring everyone together to share work and critique in a generous, encouraging space.
Plus
A Fort Kochi day tour, including a three-hour introduction to tapestry weaving with Save The Loom.
Rejuvenate & Immerse
A five-day journey designed to restore balance and vitality, blending authentic Ayurvedic therapy, daily yoga and Kerala's living traditions. At its heart are fifteen therapeutic treatments, carefully sequenced to detoxify, rejuvenate and energise — from full-body Abhyanga and warm-oil Shirodhara to herbal Podikizhi and Swedana steam.
Meals are fresh, farm-to-table and vegetarian, crafted along Ayurvedic principles to support your journey. Mornings begin with tailored yoga; afternoons drift into Kerala's rivers, temples and kitchens.
Plus
Canoe river crossing with afternoon tea at Mohanan's tea shop, a sunset temple tour with Pushpanjali blessing, and a cooking experience with our chef.
Every Retreat Includes
Your Tutors
The Writers' Retreat
Author · Journalist · Editor
Caroline is the author of the memoir Back to Broady and two non-fiction books, a journalist and editor with a PhD in creative writing. A university lecturer who teaches internationally, she guides writers from first spark to finished draft.
The Artists' Retreat
Artist · Village Art Studio
Art and design have been Jen's passion since childhood. She loves seeing people of all ages explore their creative side and relax through the meditative nature of art — across watercolour, gouache and pastels.
Rates & Booking
Each retreat can be taken as an on-site stay or a five-day pass without accommodation. Private-double, twin-share and non-participating-partner options are all available.
Rates are confirmed on enquiry — tell us which retreat and dates suit you, and we'll send current pricing and hold your place. Write to don@indiansummerhouse.co or use the enquiry form.
Enquire about a retreatIn Their Words
Unscripted — straight from guests who came to write, paint and unwind.
Retreat guest
Retreat guest
Retreat guest