CGH Earth Saha has announced the opening of Isai Karai, a five-room coastal bungalow in the historic seaside town of Mahabalipuram. Located just steps from the shore, the boutique retreat blends the warmth and privacy of a traditional bungalow with the comforts of contemporary hospitality, set amid one of India’s most celebrated heritage landscapes.
Surrounded by lush greenery and serenaded by the rhythmic sounds of the sea, Isai Karai meaning ‘musical shore’, offers a tranquil sanctuary overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Located only 50 m from the shore, and close to Mahabalipuram’s iconic landmarks, including the UNESCO-listed Shore Temple and the monumental rock relief of Arjuna’s Penance, guests can expect a sublime blend of nature, heritage and understated luxury.
Designed as an intimate coastal retreat, the property features five rooms spread across a three-bedroom main residence and a separate two-bedroom unit – while rooms can be booked individually, the space is also perfect for larger families and small groups to enjoy shared spaces while maintaining privacy. Well-appointed rooms draw inspiration from the flowering trees and plants that flourish across the property’s grounds. The Parijatham room on the ground floor, for instance, takes its name from the coral jasmine plant growing just outside in the garden. Rooms come with exquisite ensuite bathrooms with further bring the outdoors inside – open showers, greens, and sunlight. Stone pathways weave through expansive lawns and shaded courtyards, framed by tropical fruit trees such as papaya, mango and star fruit, creating a relaxed garden setting that opens out to the sea breeze.
The bungalow’s interiors celebrate Mahabalipuram’s artistic and cultural legacy. Bright, cheerful hues, curated art pieces and striking paintings complement locally sourced stone textures and sculptures that echo the region’s long-standing stone-carving traditions. While kitchen serves flavours of the Tamil coast as well as other cuisines and dishes that can be personalised and customised as per needs. Guests can enjoy authentic South Indian cuisine alongside freshly caught seafood prepared using locally sourced ingredients. Evenings take on a relaxed charm at the poolside barbecue station, where the day’s catch is grilled and served amid the tranquil surroundings of the bungalow’s leafy garden.
Beyond the property, Mahabalipuram offers a rich tapestry of experiences – the UNESCO Shore Temple, the historic Mahabalipuram Lighthouse for sweeping views of the Bay of Bengal, the fascinating India Seashell Museum, or visit the region’s sculpture schools where generations of artisans continue the legacy of stone carving. The town’s beaches, known for their surf-friendly waves, also make it a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, especially the surfers.
Easily accessible from both Chennai and Puducherry, Isai Karai Bungalow is an ideal setting for weekend escapes, extended coastal stays and intimate family holidays.
https://www.cghearth.com/saha/