Oxygen Resorts Thekkady

First Impressions

When I first pulled up to Oxygen Resorts Thekkady, honestly, the name made perfect sense — you’re literally breathing in some of the cleanest air I’ve encountered in India. This five-star retreat sits in Murikkady, about fifteen minutes from the main Thekkady action, which actually works in its favor. The property sprawls across spice-scented hills, and you know what struck me most? The silence. Not the kind of forced quiet you get at some resorts, but this natural, almost meditative calm that settles over everything.

The Setting

The location is honestly spectacular — perched where you can see the Periyar forests stretching endlessly ahead. I mean, Thekkady itself can get pretty touristy, especially around the wildlife sanctuary, but here you’re removed enough to feel like you’ve discovered something special. The resort’s positioning means you get those misty morning views over the Western Ghats, and the spice plantations literally border the property. You’ll catch cardamom and pepper scents drifting through your window — it’s like natural aromatherapy.

Accommodations & Amenities

My room was this beautifully appointed space with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the forest views perfectly. The interiors blend contemporary luxury with subtle Kerala influences — think rich woods, handwoven textiles, but nothing feels overdone or touristy. The spa facilities here are genuinely therapeutic rather than just pampering — they use traditional Ayurvedic treatments with herbs grown right on the property. There’s also a game room that’s surprisingly well-equipped, though honestly, with all the hiking trails starting right from the resort, you might not spend much time indoors.

Dining Experience

The breakfast buffet deserves its own mention — it’s this wonderful mix of South Indian specialties and international options, but what I loved most was how they incorporated spices and ingredients from their own gardens. The restaurant overlooks the valley, and there’s something almost ceremonial about starting your day watching the mist lift off the mountains while sipping filter coffee that’s actually grown nearby. The evening meals lean heavily into Kerala cuisine, which makes sense given where you are, but they handle dietary restrictions really well if you need them to.

Why Guests Love It

What sets this place apart is how it manages to feel both luxurious and grounded — if that makes sense. The parking is free and ample, which matters more than you’d think when you’re exploring the area. But really, couples seem to gravitate here because it strikes this perfect balance between having enough activities (the hiking trails are incredible) and enough peaceful spaces to just… breathe. The staff understands that people come here to disconnect, so they’re attentive without being intrusive. It’s the kind of place where you actually sleep better than you do at home, probably thanks to that mountain air and the complete absence of city noise.