Chai @ Vagamon: A platform to savour the essence of Kerala travel

Last summer, Lakshmi Menon was on a casual drive through the serene roads of Kerala's Vagamon. Amidst the lush greenery, she came across an old, crumbling building with a vintage charm that seemed to whisper tales of a bygone era, evoking the timeless beauty of Tuscany in Italy. To most, it might have been just another relic in Kerala’s scenic landscape, but for Lakshmi, it struck a deep chord, sparking a vision for something new.  

A year later, the chance 'encounter' inspired Lakshmi, known for her revolutionary initiatives like the Chekkutty dolls, symbolising Kerala's resilience during the 2018 floods, to create 'Chai @ Vagamon.' This green cultural initiative is designed for travellers seeking a deeper connection with nature, the local community, and the timeless beauty of Vagamon.
Set to take place from February 7 to 9 at the Pullikkanam Tea Estate, the premium event will host only 20 to 25 participants per session. Co-curated with Rekha Nair, her creative partner in their initiative 'Lakshminrekha,' the event promises an exclusive and meaningful experience.   

Chai @ Vagamon features myriad sessions like craft workshops, art installations, Ayurveda sessions, and curated dining experiences blending traditional and international styles. Participants can also enjoy breakfast walks, culinary conversations, story sessions and even the chance to assist local families as part of the initiative.  "I’m collaborating with local tea pluckers too to make this happen. The platform will also allow them to connect with people outside their world," Lakshmi says.

Recalling her stay in Vagamon, Lakshmi shares, "I spent three months here with my mom last summer. When I spotted this location, its rustic beauty reminded me of Tuscany." The building she spotted used to be a small hospital in the region. Upon learning that the property owners planned to demolish and replace it with a homestay, she urged them to preserve its vintage allure. "You can always build something new, but recreating the soul of an age-old structure is nearly impossible," explains Lakshmi, adding that even the natural weathering on its walls will remain untouched, preserving its raw, timeless charm for Chai @ Vagamon.

To illustrate her vision, Lakshmi hosted a small, one-day event at the location in April last, attended by ten people. The intimate gathering not only resonated with the participants but also changed the minds of the property owners SVPL, who embraced the idea of preserving its charm. "They told me they’d been searching for a concept like this for years and were thrilled to join in," she says. 

Even during summer, Vagamon’s cool, misty hills make it a perfect retreat from the heat of neighbouring regions. Lakshmi believes that Chai @ Vagamon offers a wholesome and rejuvenating experience for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the essence of the destination. She plans to continue hosting similar events until May, with plans to include dance, music, and even a mini biennale show in the lineup.  Chai @ Vagamon will accept bookings till February 2.