Navarang Villa in Wayanad: A family run home stay that reveals the amazing soul of Kerala
Navarang Villa in Wayanad, Kerala is both a family property and a passion project. Jeritte, a 32-year-old from Kalpetta, Wayanad is the man behind the stay. He says, “We’ve always loved hosting people and sharing the beauty of Wayanad, so turning our home into a welcoming stay felt like a natural extension of that. I own the property — it’s been in our family for years.”
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The journey of Navarang Villa
The family have been welcoming guests since October 2007. It’s been a rewarding journey of meeting people from all walks of life at Navarang Villa. It’s very much a family effort. “I manage the day-to-day operations, and my parents are actively involved too. Along with our dedicated staff, we make sure every guest feels welcome and comfortable,” he shares.
Jeritte loves hearing the stories from guests and seeing the joy they experience exploring Wayanad. It’s amazing how travel brings people together, and he feels lucky to be part of their journey.
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Set apart
Navarang Villa is simple, clean, and homely. It’s budget-friendly without compromising on comfort or hygiene. The Ayurvedic wellness center next door adds a touch of healing and rejuvenation that many guests appreciate.
“We maintain a warm, friendly atmosphere and pay close attention to cleanliness. We’re always available to assist with local tips or travel needs. Many guests have told us they feel like they’re staying with extended family,” Jeritte says.
Guests often begin their day with a relaxed morning on the balcony, followed by local sightseeing, nature walks, or Ayurvedic treatments. Evenings are peaceful — some guests like to unwind on the balcony, read, or chat with the family about local culture.
While they don’t offer cooking classes, they do collaborate with trusted local guides and taxi drivers to help guests explore Wayanad comfortably and meaningfully.
The homestay itself reflects traditional Kerala hospitality — quiet, respectful, and warm. Guests often get a feel for local life just by being here, and the family’s connections with local guides allows them to experience cultural highlights more deeply.
Food for thought
“We don’t currently offer food service at the villa, but we’re always happy to recommend great local eateries where guests can enjoy authentic Keralite cuisine,” shares Jeritte.
Wayanad has a rich cultural heritage, and guests often enjoy experiencing it firsthand. One of the most vibrant festivals there is Onam, celebrated with floral designs (pookkalam), traditional music, and cultural performances. Another unique tradition is the Valliyoorkavu Festival in Mananthavady — a tribal festival with folk dances, rituals, and music that offer a rare glimpse into the customs of Wayanad’s indigenous communities.
At Navarang Villa guests get to experience these and more. “We keep things simple but comfortable — clean rooms, calm surroundings, and personalized care. Our guests get the peace of a traditional homestay, with the convenience of modern basics,” reveals Jeritte.
Eco plans
At the moment, the stay does not have any sustainable practices but they are exploring options like using solar lights, reducing plastic usage, and encouraging rainwater harvesting to do their part for the environment.
“We regularly work with local taxi drivers and guides, which helps support their livelihood. We also recommend nearby local services and experiences to our guests,” says Jeritte.
Memories for a lifetime
A couple from France once stayed at Navarang Villa for a week. They came looking for peace and healing after a stressful period and ended up trying the Ayurvedic treatments at the wellness center next door. “Before leaving, they gifted us a little handmade souvenir and said they now had ‘a second home in India’. It was a simple moment, but it really touched us,” shares Jeritte.
Like any long-term venture, Navarang Villa has had its share of ups and downs — from managing bookings during unpredictable times to maintenance challenges. But consistency, guest feedback, and support from family have kept them going strong.
Guests often appreciate the cleanliness, peaceful environment, and the family’s helpful nature. Many say they feel at home, which is the best compliment they could ask for.
“We try to communicate with warmth and patience. Simple English usually works, and gestures and smiles go a long way! When needed, we use translation tools or help from our network,” he shares.
Keep growing
The family would love to introduce more curated experiences and possibly add eco-friendly upgrades. “Our goal is to keep evolving while staying rooted in the values that make Navarang Villa special. We’re thinking about adding optional cultural or nature-based experiences, and perhaps partnering with local experts for Ayurveda sessions, heritage walks, or plantation visits,” Jeritte reveals.
When it comes to some words of wisdom to share, the homestay owner says, “Be patient and focus on the guest experience. A clean, welcoming environment and genuine hospitality go a long way. Also, build good relationships with locals — they’re your strongest support system.”
Stronger over the years
When they first started Navarang Villa back in 2007, they had very basic amenities — no online bookings, no fancy setup, just a few rooms and a lot of heart. Most of the guests came through word of mouth or local contacts. Over time, as travel trends changed, they adapted too — upgraded the rooms, focused more on hygiene, and started collaborating with guides and drivers to offer better experiences.
One small but meaningful shift has been how they connect with their guests — from handwritten notes and guestbooks in the early days to heartfelt Google reviews now. Some guests who stayed with them more than a decade ago have returned with their families, and seeing that kind of bond and loyalty has been incredibly fulfilling.
It’s still the same home, but now with more experience, care, and a deeper understanding of what travelers truly seek.
“Our USP is the blend of affordability, cleanliness, and personalized care — along with the bonus of Ayurvedic wellness options. Guests get a peaceful home away from home in the heart of Wayanad,” ends Jeritte.
To book a stay at the Navarang Villa in Wayanad contact 6361575496
