Singapore-based hotel group Banyan Tree is to launch its first Indian all-villa resort on a private island in the Alleppey district later this year.

Banyan Tree Kerala is an hour south of Kochi International Airport and a 10-minute boat ride from the resort’s private jetty in nearby Vaduthala. Each of the resort’s 59 villas will house a private pool and expansive views of the waterways and canals.

The Indian retreat will feature the group’s first dedicated Ayurvedic Centre which will offer personalised consultations by qualified ayurvedic doctors who will recommend tailored treatments based on individual need.

The Banyan Tree Spa will have four dedicated ayurvedic treatment rooms and six spa pavilions.

Drawing on time-honoured Asian spa traditions, the retreat aims to blend romance and serenity with exotic sensuality.

The architecture of the spa blends seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment.

Massage treatments are based on centuries-old evolving techniques. The health and beauty remedies make use of aromatic oils, herbs and spices with ancient healing powers.

Treatments will include Podi Kizhi to fight off cellulite, Ela Kizhi to ease arthritic pains, Valuka Kizhi to relieve sports injuries and tone the body while Udvartanam is used to reduce cellulite, strengthen muscles and improve circulation.

A range of three-to-seven day wellness programmes are also available and feature lifestyle consultations, treatments, yoga and in-house activities.

Other wellness facilities include a gymnasium and yoga pavilion to enable fitness-minded guests to continue their routines while on holiday.

Dining option include south Indian cuisine at the all-day dining venue, the groups Saffron restaurant featuring Thai cuisine and The Pool Bar offers a swim up bar and refreshing cocktails.

There is also The Spa Café, which will feature a menu inspired by the tri-dosha concept of ayurveda and was created with the input of ayurvedic practitioners.

Special dining experiences include dinner aboard a local palak boat typically used by royalty on which Keralan fish curry and a variety of other traditional dishes are served.