Nestled in the tranquil village of Kollengode in Kerala’s Palakkad district, ‘Kudilidam’ is a serene farm tourism destination that blends nature, culture, and simplicity. Surrounded by the majestic Nelliyampathy hills and golden paddy fields, the location offers an escape from the digital noise of modern life. The retreat, conceptualized by Zakir Hussain, invites visitors to experience calmness in rustic thatched huts while soaking in the stunning countryside. Visitors, especially young people, are drawn not by loud parties or gadgets but by the allure of quiet reflection and reading in nature’s lap. Kudilidam’s charm lies in its ability to connect tourists with the rhythm of rural life — a refreshing model of tourism that emphasizes peace over luxury.
The turning point came when the Instagram page ‘Colours of Bharat’ featured Kollengode as one of India’s top 100 most beautiful villages. Anand Mahindra, chairman of the Mahindra Group, praised the village, pushing it into the spotlight. As tourist interest surged, Hussain had to implement visitor regulations to preserve the ecological balance of his farm. A nominal entry fee and controlled access now help keep the fields clean and intact. From a reader’s haven to a sustainable tourism hub, Kudilidam is more than just a tourist spot — it’s a movement that redefines how we engage with rural landscapes and heritage.
What began as Hussain’s personal retreat for farming, reading, and reflection evolved into a community-led initiative supported by local authorities. Inspired by nearby literary legends like O V Vijayan, Hussain’s story is one of personal passion transformed into social impact. Over time, diverse paddy varieties were introduced, and symbolic elements like water wheels and boats were added to enhance the traditional aesthetic. Although food isn’t served on-site, Kudilidam draws thousands each weekend who crave authentic rural experiences. Hussain now earns more from tourism than from farming, offering a model for how Kerala’s farmlands can become sustainable, culturally enriching travel destinations — without compromising their natural essence.
