Facilities

I recently spent two weeks at the Agasthya Ayurvedic Medical Centre and cannot speak highly enough of the treatment and all-around care I received. While I have previously had ayurvedic treatment both in Australia and in India, this was my first experience of Marma Chikitsa.

The centre is a calm, healing environment housed in what was originally a beautiful traditional Kerala style private residence. The limited number of inpatient rooms meant that I could get to know both staff and other patients, and it genuinely felt like living in an extended family environment rather than in a hospital. All staff — from the doctors, through the cleaning, kitchen, reception and treatment therapists — were friendly and welcoming, and I especially enjoyed the traditional Kerala meals. It was especially lovely being at the centre during the Onam festival, where we enjoyed two Onam Sadya meals prepared by the kitchen staff, the beautiful pookalam (flower carpet arrangement designed by Dr Nishad) and an afternoon of traditional dancing and games.

Over the two weeks of the carefully planned individualised treatment plan my energy levels progressively increased, headaches were gone after two to three days, and the sleeping problems are under control! I will be returning — hopefully on an annual basis.

In addition, Mr Shreedish (night staff) organised for me to spend an afternoon on a backwater trip on the canals of Alappuzha. As I had to return to work as soon as my treatment finished, this was especially welcome.

Finally, I found the information on the website really helpful, and by far the best I came across when researching ayurvedic centres in Kerala. Based on the website, and before travelling, I was able to gain a good understanding of the history of the centre, of the different treatments, an introduction to staff, an idea of cost and of the different accommodation options.

Thank you to Dr T.D. Bose, Dr Sreeju Bose, Dr Tessy Daliya K.J. and Dr Nishad Naushad for the exceptional care and treatment provided; to the highly skilled female treatment therapists (including Prakashini and Peakasi); to the kitchen and dietary staff for the lovely meals; to the cleaning staff (including Bini and Vena) for their attention to detail; and to the reception staff for their prompt responses and helpfulness.