Tucked away in the timeless charm of Fort Kochi, a coastal town where colonial histories sleep and sea breezes carry stories from faraway lands. IDHA is more than a destination. It is a living, breathing space where the world's languages, rhythms, and colors find harmony.
Here, in the heart of a city that hosts the celebrated Kochi-Muziris Biennale, art is not just displayed, it is lived. Idha is a sanctuary for the curious soul, the wandering artist, the quiet observer, and the passionate creator.
Whether you're looking to stay awhile, immerse in local and global art, meet artists from around the world, or simply let inspiration find you, Idha welcomes you.
OUR GALLERY
Drag to explore, click an artwork to view
DISCOVER OUR ACTIVITIES
Engage your creativity through a variety of hands-on experiences, from serene painting sessions to dynamic collaborative workshops.
Pottery
Connect with the earth through the timeless art of clay, guided by our in-house potter.
Self - Painting (Unguided)
Create freely — your space, your pace, your vision.
Scuplting
Shape your ideas into tangible, expressive forms under expert guidance.
Painting Sessions
Unleash your inner artist with personalised guidance from our in-house artists.
Art Therapy
Heal, express, and reconnect with yourself through mindful creativity.
Residential Workshops
A fully immersive creative retreat to inspire, energize, and reconnect with your artistic spirit.
Painting Sessions
Unleash your inner artist with personalised guidance from our in-house artists.
Sculpting
Shape your ideas into tangible, expressive forms under expert guidance.
Art Therapy
Heal, express, and reconnect with yourself through mindful creativity.
Residential Workshops
A fully immersive creative retreat to inspire, energize, and reconnect with your artistic spirit.
OUR ART-INSPIREDROOMS
Each room is uniquely designed to inspire creativity and provide a memorable stay experience, blending comfort with artistic expression.
Attic Room
Tucked away beneath sloping wooden ceilings, the Attic Room feels like a secret hideout in the heart of Fort Kochi.
Studio Apartment
Tucked away with its own private entrance, the studio apartment at Idha feels like a world of its own - your little retreat in the heart of Fort Kochi.
Courtyard Room
Opening into a serene inner courtyard, this room feels like a gentle retreat in the heart of Fort Kochi.
Garden View Room
The Garden View Room is a serene escape where mornings begin with sunlight filtering through green leaves and evenings are softened by the gentle sounds of nature.
THE ARTISTIC HEART OF FORT KOCHI
A Living Canvas
Fort Kochi is more than a place; it's an experience. Its narrow lanes whisper tales of ancient mariners, while iconic Chinese fishing nets and vibrant colonial architecture paint a scene of timeless beauty. Art is not just displayed here; it's lived and breathed.
Your Creative Retreat
At Idha, we provide a sanctuary inspired by this rich artistic tapestry. Our space is thoughtfully curated to connect you with Fort Kochi's creative spirit, offering comfort, inspiration, and a unique window into the local culture.
ABOUT US
A Living Art House
Idha was born from the shared dream of contemporary artists Sidharthan and Sandhya—a dream that came not from the mind alone, but from the heart. Here, art is not locked behind frames, it breathes in every corner. When artists sit and paint at Idha, guests watch the strokes take form, see ideas shift and evolve, and join conversations that flow as naturally as colors across a canvas.
The Soul of Fort Kochi
Set in Fort Kochi, a town shaped by history and steeped in cultural exchange, Idha reflects the spirit of this ancient port where Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and British merchants once arrived with spices and stories. Just as Fort Kochi became a meeting ground of worlds, Idha has become a meeting ground of souls through art.
A House of Peace & Joy
At Idha, connections are built—not only between guest and host, but between strangers, between art and everyday life. Visitors often describe leaving with more than memories; they carry a sense of peace, happiness, and inspiration that lingers long after. It is a sanctuary where the brush meets the story, where cultures meet each other, and where every person can find themselves part of a greater canvas.
WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY
Don't just take our word for it — hear from those who have experienced the magic of Idha Art Stay
“Absolutely magical experience! Idha Art Stay is where art truly comes alive. Waking up surrounded by stunning original artworks and having breakfast while watching artists paint was surreal. The hosts are incredibly warm and the Fort Kochi location is perfect.”
“A hidden gem in Fort Kochi! The attention to detail in every corner shows the passion of the owners. I attended a pottery workshop and it was therapeutic. Already planning my next visit. Highly recommend for art lovers.”
“Idha exceeded all expectations. The blend of traditional Kerala architecture with contemporary art is inspiring. Sidharthan and Sandhya are wonderful hosts who share their artistic knowledge generously. A truly immersive art experience.”
“Perfect stay for creative souls. Every room is a gallery, every meal is an experience. The painting sessions offered here rekindled my love for art. Fort Kochi's charm combined with Idha's artistic ambiance is unmatched.”
“Found my peace at Idha Art Stay. The serene environment, beautiful artworks, and genuine hospitality made this the most memorable vacation. Participated in the art activities and discovered a creative side I didn't know I had!”
“My wife and I spent a week at Idha and it was transformative. The personal touch, the stories behind each artwork, and the cultural experiences arranged for us were exceptional. This is not just accommodation, it's an art residency.”
FEATURED ARTISTS
Meet the creative souls who bring life to Idha through their extraordinary vision and artistic mastery.
Sidharthan
Artist & Mentor
A revered artist whose masterful strokes have left an indelible mark on the artistic landscape. His generous mentorship has inspired countless aspiring artists, nurturing their creative spirits and guiding them on their artistic journeys. His works reflect decades of dedication to the craft, embodying both technical excellence and profound artistic vision.
Sandhyambika
Artist
The creative soul behind Idha, Sandhyambika beautifully blends her banking profession with her deep love for art. Idha represents the realization of her lifelong dream - a space where her own vibrant paintings create an immersive artistic experience for guests. Her artistic journey, inspired by mentors like Sidharthan, reflects her passion for creating beauty and sharing it with the world.
