Araiya Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Soul by Araiya Paithalmala – A Vihaara Resort, the latest addition to its growing portfolio of boutique hotels and retreats across India.
Owned by Subhakaran K V and family, the new property strengthens Araiya Hotels & Resorts’ focus on delivering thoughtfully curated hospitality experiences across emerging leisure destinations. Furthermore, the resort aims to celebrate authenticity, wellness and a deep connection with its natural surroundings.
Nestled amid the scenic landscapes of the Western Ghats, Soul by Araiya Paithalmala offers guests a tranquil retreat where nature sets the pace. Moreover, the property invites travellers to slow down, reconnect and experience the restorative beauty of one of Kerala’s most serene mountain destinations.
Surrounded by cool mountain air, panoramic valley views, and lush forests, the resort offers a sense of quiet luxury. Moreover, this tranquil setting continues to attract discerning travellers seeking immersive and nature-led experiences.
The resort features 18 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, including 17 Deluxe Rooms and one Honeymoon Suite. Each accommodation offers expansive views of the surrounding hills while prioritising privacy and comfort.
Furthermore, warm interiors, contemporary amenities, and nature-inspired design come together to create an experience that seamlessly balances luxury with relaxation.
Beyond accommodation, Soul by Araiya Paithalmala encourages guests to explore the destination and, in turn, experience Paithalmala beyond its scenic landscapes.
The resort offers curated experiences, including guided nature walks, sunrise and sunset trails, stargazing sessions, and mindfulness programmes. Moreover, these experiences allow travellers to immerse themselves in the rhythms of the surrounding landscape while also fostering a deeper connection with nature.
Furthermore, guests can explore nearby mountain treks, visit coffee estates, and discover the region’s rich biodiversity. These experiences offer travellers an opportunity to explore northern Kerala at a slower and more meaningful pace.
Amruda Nair, founder and director – Araiya Hotels and Resorts, said, “Soul by Araiya began with a simple observation: Indian travellers are done paying for the ceremony. Soul promise is quality without theatre good rooms, honest food, and places worth the journey. Most of India discovers Kerala from the backwaters up; we wanted to introduce it from the hills down. Paithalmala is one of the state’s most cherished highland escapes, with shola forests, rolling coffee estates, and mornings that arrive through mist, and it deserves hospitality at its own scale: eighteen rooms, a spa, and trails in every direction. We are pleased to partner with the Shubakaran family to bring Soul by Araiya to Kerala. The best properties come from owners with deep roots in their destination, and Vihaara’s commitment to Paithalmala matched with Araiya’s operating discipline is exactly that pairing. There was no better address for Soul’s debut, and no better way to bring Araiya to Kerala.”
Subhakaran KV, director, Vihaara Resort, said, “Paithalmala is one of the most extraordinary yet undiscovered corners of South India, and Soul by Araiya, Paithalmala, A Vihaara Resort was built to honour that — its landscapes, its culture, and the sense of calm that defines this hill retreat. Our vision has always been to create a retreat where guests can reconnect with nature without compromising on comfort, wellness, and thoughtful service. We are delighted to announce that this property will be managed exclusively by Araiya Hotels & Resorts, whose expertise and commitment to exceptional hospitality will bring this vision to life. We look forward to welcoming guests to experience the unique charm of Paithalmala and the warm hospitality that defines Soul by Araiya, Paithalmala, A Vihaara Resort.”
With the opening of Soul by Araiya Paithalmala – A Vihaara Resort, Araiya Hotels & Resorts marks its entry into Kerala while expanding its boutique hospitality portfolio across emerging leisure destinations in India.
The new resort also reflects the growing demand for experiential travel, wellness-focused stays, and nature-led hospitality, particularly among travellers seeking destinations beyond conventional tourist circuits.
