A Gathering of Elephants

Anaikatti – By the Siruvani, a Sterling Holidays resort, takes inspiration from its surroundings to craft a relaxing getaway.

Opened last September, Anaikatti – By the Siruvani is one of Sterling Holiday Resorts’ 28 properties in India. It is a quiet retreat that overlooks the Siruvani River, on the Tamil Nadu–Kerala border, and attracts guests from both states, including the nearest city, Coimbatore, in Tamil Nadu, which is reachable by air and rail.

“Anaikatti strikes the perfect balance between being well-connected and easily accessible and being a quaint and serene property that can give you the ‘away from the city’ experience,” says resort manager Pravish Kuttickat. As a result, it’s popular with both day-trippers and travelers interested in a longer escape. Stays range from a weekend to two weeks, and the resort’s menu of amenities and activities allows guests to create the vacation they want. There are half- and full-day excursions to choose from, including trips to the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and Silent Valley.

The resort draws its aesthetic from the river and the wildlife around the area (Anaikatti means a gathering of elephants). The architecture is thoughtful and inspired by nature. “Guests can choose from aesthetically designed classic rooms or chalets, which give an experience of living in the wild while at the same time having modern amenities and furnishings,” Kuttickat says.

That blend of nature and comfort is key. In addition to its natural wonders, Anaikatti offers an on-site multi-cuisine restaurant, pool, spa and miniature-golf course. And the resort aims to expand its offering of experiences even further. (Click here for more on why resorts should provide experiences.) “We have a lot of exciting plans,” Kuttickat says. “Sterling aims to bring new experiences to a lot more people, and being affiliated with RCI helps Sterling achieve that goal.”

Image credit: Courtesy of Anaikatti – By the Siruvani