Nirvana. The blissful state. Where the body, mind and soul are passive to the world passing by. There is no past, no present, and no future. Only the sublime ecstasy of inner awareness. In such a state, the entire being is at peace. Tranquil and sedate.

Nirvana is hard to come by in today's demanding world. But put the body in the right surrounding and the experience comes close. Kuteeram offers you one such surrounding.

Kuteeram. The temple of tranquillity.

A one-hour drive from Bangalore, and you reach Kuteeram. Cut away from the city civilization, it blends in perfect harmony with the surrounding nature. Designed by the award winning architect the glory of ancient Indian art. Made of stone, mud and bricks, it is a silent testimony to perfection in impression. Complementing this ancient grandeur is the profound, reverential silence that pervades the retreat. All that breaks it would be your footsteps on the gravel or the wind, unremitting, whistling past the bamboo shoots.

Rest likes an Indian King

As a place of stay, Kuteeram has a timeless appeal. There are nine cottages out of which three are suites, each one different from the other. Reminiscing the retiring chambers of the bygone Indian Royalty, they exude a rare, old-word charm. The rock-hewn walls are adorned with ancient cave art, murals and paintings. Ethnic furniture and original artisan work also enhance the touch of antiquity. However, there are simple modern day luxuries to put you at utmost ease.

For the gourmet in the connoisseur

One of the finest ingredients of Kuteeram's medieval allure is its unique restaurant. Here, the choices is not just between authentic Asian, European, Mediterranean and eclectic cuisine, it is also between sitting indoors and outdoors. The taste is complemented by the healthy cooking style adopted, with less oil and fat.

For the body, mind and soul

In keeping with the rich Indian tradition, Kuteeram offers the holistic system of rejuvenation-Ayurveda. The science of life and longevity, Ayurveda is perhaps the oldest existing body of knowledge on the healing process. It not only addresses the problems of the body and the mind, but also of the human spirit and consciousness. At Kuteeram, there will be sessions on lifestyle consultations and oil massages undertaken by Ayurvedic professionals. Moreover, there is also a unique meditation center, where you can attend sessions and lectures on yogic exercises and spirituality.

A rendezvous with relaxation

Kuteeram is as much about Nature as it is about ancient India. Here the air is fresher and the flora, greener. You could be tourist excited to experience the rich Indian cultural heritage or a casual visitor eager to release the stress valves of workday life. Whatever be your motive, Kuteeram beckons you with its innate charm.

The mystique of Kuteeram is also enriched by the presence of Nrityagram Next door. Founded by Protima Gauri, the world famous exponent of the Odissi form of Indian classical dance, Nrityagram is now on the cultural map of the world. The institution teaches all forms of Indian Classical dance through the ancient Gurukul system. Here you can see them at its original best.

Part of the Taj Group of Hotels, Kuteeram is located 32 km/20 miles from Bangalore. An ideal weekend getaway, here you can while away your time cycling or trek the enchanting vicinity. And once the sun sets, you can even warm up to the thrills of a barbecue. A trip to the Hesaraghatta Lake could also be conducted, if you should so desire.

Kuteeram. A location so different and exotic, you mind, body and soul would be enriched and eager to come back. Again and again and again......

Address: Kuteeram, Hessaraghatta, Bangalore Rural District, Karnataka-560 088.