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Discover the art of luxury and leisure in the heart of Tamil Nadu

Svatma

Svatma

Thanjavur
, Tamil Nadu
, India

Svatma’s soul is the 100 year old residence, built as a low two storied structure, with tiled roofs, open terraces and arched doorways, old stone columns and arches accentuating its colonial design, yet traditional and contemporary in its decor and features. To its left is built a four storied structure which houses more suites and rooms, spa, pool, restaurants and other features. Behind the heritage residence is a program venue called the Mandapam ideal for performances, small events and weddings. The traditional style of architecture combined with the modern comforts makes Svatma an excellent choice for a local immersion as a traveller.

Our Rating: Premium
Property Type: Boutique

Destination

Thanjavur stands at a point of confluence of arts, music, culture and dance leading you to explore other temple towns like Thiruvaiyaru, Srirangam, and Kumbakonam. You are in the very heart of Tamil culture. Here as it was centuries ago you will discover expressions of grace and richness of life…in its temples and sabhas, in its music and lost wax sculptures, in its specific style of Bharatanatyam, its soulful Carnatic music compositions that every proud Tamilian will wake up to every day of his life even as the aroma of filter coffee wafts around him and the fragrance of sparkling jasmines beckon him to prayer. Each day begins here in the wee hours waking up even as the gentle light of the morning sun lights up ‘peria kovil’ – the Brihadeeswara temple. Suprabatham and classical music nights here are as sacred as night-life is to any metro dweller.

Precisely why Svatma – The Heritage Residence will be your perfect address to experience Thanjavur as it stands today reflecting the glories of a past that it proudly sustains. Svatma aspires to beguile you with all of the regions’ charms in one singular experience you will surrender to.

Accommodation

Comprising of a central restored Heritage building, built as a family residence some hundred years ago, Svatma’s 38 suites faithfully follow the architectural framework of the heritage home. Each guest accommodation has been designed as large private suites within family homes leading to large open verandahs, hallways and secluded nooks, shaded and lit with natural light at the same time. There are seven categories of rooms and suites, spread between the heritage residence and the new block. The base category rooms are Deluxe rooms and are in the new block referred to as the Millennium block. All rooms are air-conditioned with modern ensuite bathrooms, a tea/coffee station, antique furniture and object d’art which give the rooms a period charm. All the rooms have an individualistic style, though keeping with the Tamil heritage charm. Period furniture, handwoven fabrics and hand-picked curios in the well-lit rooms make an ethereal ambience.

Dining

Vegetarian Tamil Cuisine is the highlight of Svatma’s dining experiences and is flavoured with the well-known Thanjavur hospitality. Dining at Aharam, Palaharam and Nila named to reflect its ambience will highlight the rich and elegant cuisine of the region. All day dining at Palaharam which is located under the shade of trees and the arched doorways of the Heritage Residence will serve all the well-known snacks and ‘tiffin’ (small in- between meals) from the region while Aharam, their main dining will serve traditional cuisine of the region and some interesting fusion recipes. Moonlight picnics out in the open or by the river were popular once upon a time and Svatma’s terrace restaurant recreates this magic for guests. Both Nila and Aharam have a bar which aims to serve quality wines and beers.

Experiences

An enclosed pool is located in the Millennium block with a brief deck and provision of service being located adjacent to the Aharam restaurant. The Spa is also in the Millennium block on the first floor with four treatment rooms including one which is for a couple, largely following the traditional ayurvedic wellness therapies and treatments. A Sound Spa to gently lull you to relaxation, gym to help you continue with your regime should you want to, banqueting facilities and meeting rooms are some of the other facilities integral to Svatma, hence inviting everyone from conference organisers to leisure seekers, culture buffs to art enthusiasts. Every world traveller who wishes to touch upon an era of the past will find his soul seeking to rest in Svatma.

However it is the experiences that Svatma lays out which completes your in-depth understanding and enjoyment of this region. From classical music and dance performances to narrations to demonstrations of the art of Chola bronze casting to chanting of the Vedas and discussions on its relevance and meeting crafts people who struggle to keep craft traditions of the region alive, Svatma’s list of inclusive experiences are many and each one offered to guests to enhance their travels with learning opportunities. You can sign up for a culinary immersion or a walk-about in the hood with a seasoned guide to get under the skin of town. It’s an excellent base to visit the grand Chola temples.

Perfect For
the history and culture buff. Although the food served is vegetarian only, the choices and tastes ensure the other kind is not missed

Why we love this place

The in-house concerts and Bharatanatyam dance performances are just two of the reasons which makes Svatma stand out from the other luxury properties in the region. An experience at Svatma knitted with Tamil heritage and culture so delightfully, that it throbs in every part of your stay – in the dining, architecture, decor, furnishings and of course, the evening concerts and dance performances.

About your host

Behind Svatma is Krithika Subrahmanian, an architect, designer and a classically trained dancer. Her passion to open up this slice of Tamil Nadu to the tourists with warmth and an individual style, resonates in every aspect of the Svatma experience.

Responsible/Sustainable Tourism

Svatma’s rootedness in the local culture ensures in-depth immersion to the traveller. Responsible tourism is priority and naturally in the DNA of the hosts, who ensure hospitality with a warm and personable human touch, and ensuring participation of the local community.

Our Recommendation

Heritage and culture come alive at Svatma with intimate special chamber Carnatic music concerts at the property itself. Stay in and get acquainted with the traditional music of the region and even participate in discussions.

Can’t find a suitable itinerary that features a destination, experience or accommodation you fancy? All our group tours and holiday ideas can be personalised, or we can create a tailor made itinerary for you.

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Our Accommodation Ratings

Opulent: Exceptional, unashamedly the best of sheer luxury. (£££££)

Luxury: Outstanding levels of 5* comfort, hospitality and facilities. (££££)

Premium: Excellent levels of comfort and hospitality and a wide range of facilities. (£££)

Mid-Range: Good levels of comfort and hospitality, with a reasonable range of facilities. (££)

Simple: Clean and simple, no frills. Often in areas of natural beauty or near wildlife reserves. (£)