# Tolstoy Farm & Experience Centre – Kollengode, Palakkad, Kerala

Tolstoy Farm & Experience Centre is a family-run farmhouse offering an opportunity to experience natural farming, indigenous cows, mango orchards, trekking, village life and sustainable living.

Surrounded by greenery and the beautiful landscapes of the Western Ghats, our farm is ideal for slow travellers, nature lovers, eco-tourists, remote workers and international guests seeking an authentic rural experience.

## THE SPACE

The farmhouse is situated within a six-acre farm. The entire first floor, with over 800 sq. ft. of living space, is exclusively available to guests.

**Facilities include:**
- Two bedrooms and two attached bathrooms.
- Living/dining area and a small kitchen.
- Spacious balcony and outdoor dining area.
- Hot water facility.
- Electric kettle and coffee machine.
- Free Wi-Fi and good mobile network coverage.

Room 1 is a versatile living/dining space that can be converted into a bedroom with a queen-size bed. Room 2 is a separate bedroom.

The ground floor is reserved for the hosts and family. Please note that the staircase is steep, and the property may not be suitable for elderly guests.

## SUSTAINABLE LIVING EXPERIENCE

Our farmhouse is a passion project born out of our commitment to natural farming and sustainable living. We raise indigenous cows and nurture a diverse range of trees and plants.

The farm extends from the farmhouse to the base of a hill, providing direct access to a trekking trail.

Wake up to birdsong, enjoy your morning tea amidst greenery, explore our mango orchard and experience the simple pleasures of countryside living. Guests can also interact with and feed our indigenous cows.

The farm is home to mango, coconut, jackfruit and other trees, along with seasonal crops and diverse flora and fauna.

We believe in creating a sustainable ecosystem that future generations can experience and learn from.

## WORK FROM THE FARM

Tolstoy Farm is ideal for remote workers, independent travellers, writers and creative professionals looking for a peaceful working environment.

You can work from inside the farmhouse, the spacious balcony or under the shade of our large trees. We can arrange an easy chair in a suitable outdoor location.

Wi-Fi, sufficient electrical sockets and good mobile network coverage are available.

We encourage longer stays so guests can slow down, concentrate on their work and reconnect with nature. We recommend a minimum stay of five nights for a serious work-from-farm experience.

## THINGS TO DO

**Trekking:** Our in-farm trekking trail is one of our main attractions. Enjoy a morning or evening walk to the hilltop and experience majestic views of the Western Ghats and surrounding greenery. The trek is free for our guests.

**Nature walks:** Guided walks can be arranged on request, subject to weather and guide availability. Additional charges may apply.

**Farm experiences:** Explore the mango orchard, identify different fruit trees, learn about natural farming and spend time with our indigenous cows.

**Relaxation:** The peaceful surroundings are perfect for meditation, reading, writing, painting, photography or simply doing nothing.

**Village experiences:** Explore nearby villages, paddy fields, local temples and traditional Kerala life.

## FOOD

Our caretaker can arrange simple Kerala-style breakfast, lunch and dinner at an additional cost. Please order in advance.

An electric kettle and coffee machine are provided. A refrigerator and induction cooker can be arranged for long-stay guests on prior request.

We encourage guests to appreciate local vegetarian food.

## GUEST ACCESS

Guests have exclusive access to the entire first floor and can explore the six-acre farm, subject to our safety guidelines.

The farm has mango, coconut and jackfruit trees and a variety of seasonal flora and fauna. You may also visit our nearby satellite farm, which has paddy fields and mango trees.

Farm workers and caretakers will be around to look after the farm and cows, but we respect your privacy.

**Important:** Please wear gumboots or suitable sturdy footwear while walking around the farm.

## HOUSEKEEPING AND FACILITIES

- Housekeeping, laundry and linen changes can be arranged at an additional cost.
- Cleaning materials are provided. Guests are expected to maintain cleanliness and wash their own dishes.
- A cleaning person can be arranged at an additional cost.
- We do not provide a television, encouraging guests to enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Toilet rolls are not provided as part of our effort to reduce waste.
- There is no power backup, although electricity supply is generally reliable.

## WASTE MANAGEMENT

We follow a zero single-use plastic approach and request guests to minimize plastic consumption.

This is a small village without a regular garbage collection agency. Guests are requested to segregate waste and deposit it in designated places within the farm.

Please help us protect the soil and natural environment for future generations.

## SAFETY AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION

This is a countryside property surrounded by nature. You may encounter insects, ants, bees, spiders, lizards and other small creatures.

Wildlife encounters are possible. For your safety:
- Do not walk around the farm between 6 PM and 6 AM.
- Remain within your accommodation during these hours.
- Keep windows closed in the evening.
- Always wear suitable footwear when exploring the farm.

The property is not completely secluded, and there are neighbouring houses nearby.

## HOUSE RULES

We request all guests to be responsible and considerate towards the farm, its people, animals and surroundings.

1. Smoking is permitted only in designated areas, preferably the balcony.
2. Maintain cleanliness and wash your own dishes.
3. Switch off lights, fans and electrical appliances when not in use.
4. Avoid loud music and respect the peaceful environment.
5. No parties or events without prior approval.
6. Be kind and respectful to our staff and farm workers.
7. Do not litter with plastic, glass bottles or other waste.
8. Use water responsibly.
9. Report any damage immediately.
10. No visitors without prior permission.

Pets may be permitted with prior approval, provided they do not disturb the cows or damage the property. Children are welcome to experience and connect with nature.

## WHO WILL BE THERE DURING YOUR STAY?

I do not live at the farm, but I will make a genuine effort to meet you personally.

A family member, usually my father, will always be staying downstairs while guests are at the farm. Our farm manager, Mr. Manikandan, lives about 1 km away and is available to assist whenever needed.

My brother operates the farm with the support of our team. He has deep knowledge of the local flora and fauna and enjoys sharing it with guests.

On request and subject to availability, he can also arrange trips to Nelliyampathy Hills and Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary.

You will have your own private space, with someone nearby to assist you whenever needed.

## NEARBY ATTRACTIONS AND DISTANCES

- Kollengode – 3.5 km
- Nemmara – 8 km
- Varishtapuri (Tapovan Ashram) – 15 km
- Palakkad – 27 km
- Nelliyampathy Hills – 35 km
- Malampuzha Dam – 38 km
- Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary – 50 km
- Coimbatore Airport – 81 km
- Cochin International Airport – 97 km
- Cochin – 134 km

The nearest ATM is approximately 2 km away, the nearest supermarket is 3 km away, and a shop for daily essentials is about 1 km away.

Other attractions include Chinganchira Prakruthi Temple, Kudilidam and scenic paddy fields with Palmyra trees and Western Ghats views.

## TRANSPORTATION

Guests can explore the surroundings using their own vehicles. We can arrange taxis, auto-rickshaws, bicycles or two-wheelers on request. Pick-up and drop services are also available.

Trips to Nelliyampathy Hills and Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary can be organised subject to availability.

## ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES

The following experiences can be arranged at an additional cost. Please book in advance.

- Traditional Kerala Sadya and traditional attire.
- Forest trekking.
- Yoga on the Rocks.
- Fireless cooking experience.
- Village and local sightseeing trips.


Please contact us for special long-stay offers.

## WEATHER AND SEASONS

- **Summer (March–May):** Warm weather, with daytime temperatures generally between 30°C and 38°C.
- **Monsoon (June–September):** Rainy, cool and lush green, with temperatures around 24°C–30°C.
- **Post-monsoon (October–November):** Pleasant weather, ideal for trekking and exploring.
- **Winter (December–February):** Comfortable temperatures, generally between 20°C and 30°C.

## A FEW THINGS TO BRING

- Comfortable walking shoes with sturdy soles or suitable boots.
- An additional pair of slippers.
- Sunglasses and a cap.
- A spirit of adventure and lots of goodwill!

## OUR PHILOSOPHY

**This is not a resort. This is an uninhibited space for free people.**

Tolstoy Farm is a passion project that grew out of our desire to live closer to nature and encourage sustainable living. We have practical limitations, and the property will always remain a work in progress as we move towards a more harmonious relationship with our environment.

We welcome independent travellers who appreciate simplicity, nature and meaningful experiences. We may not have every modern facility, but we will always be honest about what we can offer and do our best to make your stay comfortable.

We invite you to slow down, experience the tranquility of farm life, explore the hills, connect with nature and create your own unique experience.

**Welcome to Tolstoy Farm & Experience Centre, Kollengode – where nature meets tranquility!**