SVATMA, THANJAVUR

Accommodation: The 38 Rooms and suites are in four categories and are spread between the heritage residence and the new block. The base category rooms are all the Deluxe rooms and are in the new block referred as the Millennium block. All rooms are air-conditioned with modern ensuite bathrooms, a tea/coffee station, antique furniture and object d’art which give the rooms a period charm. The suites are larger but follow the same lines of décor and amenities while the rooms in the Heritage residence are on three levels and have interesting variations that use the available space to the maximum. Bathrooms in the Heritage residence are provided with a dressing room and separate enclosures for toilets and showers.
The Heritage residence as well as the main block have lounge areas which are well decorated and air- conditioned to serve as informal sitting and reading areas as well as places to enjoy the art and antiques which Svatma uses to decorate its spaces as well as narrate its story and that of the region.
Dining : Svatma proposes to highlight the vegetarian Tamil Cuisine flavored with the well-known Thanjavur hospitality. All day dining at the Palaharam which is located under the shade of trees and the arched doorways of the Heritage Residence will serve all the well-known snacks and ‘tiffins’ ( small in- between meals ) from the region while Aharam, their main dining will serve traditional cuisine of the region and some interesting fusion recipes. Moonlight picnics out in the open or by the river were popular once upon a time and Svatma’s terrace restaurant recreates this magic for guests. Both Nila and Ahaaram have a bar which aims to serve quality wines and beers.
Pool and Spa: An enclosed pool is located in the Millennium block with a brief deck and provision of service being located adjacent to the Ahaaram restaurant. The Spa is also in the Millennium block on the first floor with four treatment rooms including one which is for a couple, largely following the traditional ayurvedic wellness therapies and treatments.
When to go / Climate: Weather wise winter months between October and March are the best times to travel to Thanjavur. This is also the time when some important events take place like the Thiruvayur festival of music that pays homage to the saint “Thiyagaraja”.
Things to Do: Thanjavur forms the hub for exploring some important temples and the towns they are situated in. The Brihadeshwara temple in Thanjavur itself, other temples in Tiruchirapalli, Dharasuram, Gangaikonda Cholapuram are easily done as day excursions.
However it is the experiences that Svatma lays out which completes your indepth understanding and enjoyment of this region. From classical music and dance performances to narrations to demonstrations of the art of Chola bronze casting to chanting of the vedas and discussions on its relevance and meeting crafts people who struggle to keep craft traditions of the region alive, Svatama’s list of inclusive experiences are many and each one offered to guest to enhance their travels with learning opportunities.
Concept: Svatma’s soul is a 100 year old residence, built as a low two storied structure, with tiled roofs, open terraces and arched doorways, columns and arches accentuating its colonial design, yet traditional and contemporary in its décor and features. To its left is built a four storied structure which houses more suites and rooms, spa, pool, restaurants and other features. Behind the heritage residence is a program venue called the Mandapam ideal for performances, small events and weddings. The Svatma experience aims to weave together the region’s cuisine, art, music, dance and culture with a stay at one of Tamil Nadu’s most talked about boutique hotels as one perfect showcase.

MECH Review : We have longed for a hotel in the south that would serve up the essential contrast between the south and the north of India while highlighting the reasons for it. We now have our answer in Svatma of Thanjavur. An offering of a development, design and construction group from Chennai, Svatma has been ideated, curated and designed by Krithika Subramaniam, a dancer, art curator and an Architect.
Set amidst the curious lanes of residences and offices that invariably leads to the ‘big temple’, Svatma offers 35 Rooms and suites and a collection of experiences linked closely with being in the city of Thanjavur.