Guest Info
A few things to know before you come — house rules, timings, what to pack, and how we keep Karuna simple and quiet.
Before you arrive
A yoga retreat, not a resort
Karuna offers a full experience — boarding, lodging, and the chance to witness and join our yogic life. We employ minimal labour to keep the atmosphere quiet and the room prices low. Please assist us by keeping your room and surroundings clean.
House rules
- No alcohol. If you bring alcohol or arrive drunk, you will be asked to leave immediately.
- Strictly vegetarian. No non-veg food on the premises.
- Dress modestly at the restaurant.
- Quiet after 10 pm. No loud music.
- No pets. Dogs or otherwise.
- Minimum stay: 2 nights.
- Bookings are non-refundable and non-reschedulable.
Check-in & check-out
- Check-in: 11:20 am – 4:00 pm (latest)
- Check-out: 10:30 am
In rare cases we may need to change your assigned room on arrival. If that happens, you'll only be moved to a room of equal or greater value. Thank you for your cooperation.
Electricity & power
All power at Karuna comes from solar panels and a micro-hydro generator — we don't use the national grid. Charge your devices during the day; evenings run on the battery, mostly for lights. On cloudy days there may be no power beyond basic lights, which means cellphone charging may not be possible.
Cooking & food
Most rooms have a basic kitchen with gas and utensils. If you want to self-cater, bring your own provisions — oil, spices, flour, snacks. There's no shop close by. Or order from Govinda's Café, where the menu is fresh and vegetarian.
A bundle of firewood is ₹200.
Getting here
Call Sathish on +91 99523 79620 the evening before you arrive to arrange transport from Kodaikanal. Don't drive to Karuna yourself — Forest Department penalties are serious.
The journey happens in three legs: an outside jeep from Kodaikanal to the bridge (₹700), our farm jeep from the bridge to the farm entrance (₹200 — outside vehicles aren't allowed past the bridge), and a short walk from there to your cottage. Staff will meet you and help with luggage. See How to Get Here for full details.
What to bring
- LED torch
- Waterproof clothing and footwear
- A warm jumper — evenings are cool
- Basic food items and snacks (if self-catering)
- Candles
- Towel, soap, shampoo
No trolleys, please
Karuna sits on a steep mountain with rough paths. Soft bags work best. Trolleys don't.