Before you arrive

Camp Instructions

Everything you need to know before an Aatrral camp at Iyal Farm — what to pack, how to reach us, how we eat and live together, and our cancellation policy.

Farm-stay cottages at Iyal Farm

Camp Life at Iyal

About Aatrral Edu Camps
  • Welcome to Aatrral Edu — a nurturing space born from a visionary idea.
  • Our camps offer a glimpse into the interconnectedness of science, art, philosophy, and literature — all while enjoying the retreat activities.
  • They are more than a retreat: an opportunity to connect and grow through an integrated educational experience.
  • We are both trainers and learners here, committed to an inclusive learning environment.
  • We are not solely an entertainment provider — but we promise a joyful, fun experience throughout.
The Camp Site — Iyal Farm
  • Nestled at the foothill of Topslip in the Western Ghats, Iyal Farm spans 16 acres of organic land surrounded by hills and trees.
  • Free from synthetic chemicals, the farm thrives with biodiversity.
  • Please engage in pollution-free activities and keep the space free from plastic and litter.
Food
  • Freshly cooked, farm-to-table vegetarian meals with no added preservatives.
  • We strictly avoid white sugar and maida.
  • No tea or coffee — instead, healthy refreshments and hot drinks.
  • Food is mildly spiced to suit the many children participating.
  • Daily rhythm: health drink early morning · three meals · juice mid-morning · snacks mid-evening.
  • Have a food allergy? Inform the organizers at registration so we can try to arrange alternatives.
Dining Responsibility & Mindful Consumption
  • All participants clean their own plates and tumblers after use — it keeps things hygienic and lightens the load on farm staff. Cleaning is a valuable skill; enjoy the process!
  • Scrape food scraps into the compost bin; never put non-biodegradable items in it.
  • Water is abundant here, but please use it wisely.
  • Use electricity responsibly — switch off lights and fans when not needed.
Accommodation
  • Shared accommodation for all participants — women share cottages; men share the dormitory.
  • Cot, mattress, pillow, and bedsheet are provided. Pack an extra blanket if you feel you might need one.
  • Keep doors closed when you're not in the space, for safety and privacy.
Camp Activities & Schedule
  • Activities follow a schedule, though we may occasionally deviate and return to it.
  • The schedule flexes with weather and engagement — activities are interactive and shaped by participant involvement.
  • Embrace the flexibility and enjoy being in nature.
Mobile Network at the Farm
  • Airtel: decent network across the farm; good data signal in some areas.
  • BSNL: decent for calls; weak data.
  • Jio / Vodafone: feeble network in only a few places; limited to no data.
Important Notes
  • Participants are kindly requested to stay at the campsite throughout the event.
  • Non-participating visitors: please limit visits to drop-off and pick-up only. For exceptional circumstances, inform us in advance.
  • Parents — please help your children know and follow these instructions, promoting mindfulness and respect for the surroundings.

Packing & Essentials

What we provide · What to bring

We provide

  • Cot, mattress, bedsheet, and pillow · a few umbrellas · well-lit common areas at night.

Please bring

  • Personal toiletries, towels, and health essentials — minimal or no chemicals, since we're on an organic farm.
  • Extra clothes for river play, mud bath, and tank time. Days are warm and sunny — pack comfortable clothing.
  • Footwear suited to a farm environment; comfortable slippers/shoes for walking and trekking.
  • Water bottle (thermal is great) — there's plenty of outdoor activity.
  • Torchlight for convenience, and an umbrella if you're driving.
  • Healthy snacks or fruits if needed — please avoid packaged food items.

Gadgets for kids

  • Network is limited and kids will be fully engaged in activities — best to leave gadgets at home.

How to Reach Iyal Farm

Coimbatore → Pollachi

Public transport

  • Take a bus or auto to Ukkadam Bus Stand (3 km from Coimbatore Railway Station).
  • From Ukkadam, buses to Pollachi run every 10 minutes · ~1 hour journey.

Private transport

  • Cab directly from Coimbatore Railway Station to Pollachi — Red Taxi is a popular option (~₹2,000, ph: 0422-4567890).
  • Travelling from Chennai or Bengaluru? Consider pooling a cab with other participants.
Pollachi → Sethumadai → Iyal Farm

Public transport

  • At Pollachi, head to the bus stand opposite where you get down.
  • Buses to Sethumadai every 30 minutes (bus nos. 11A, 11C, 34) · ~45 minutes.
  • From Sethumadai bus stand, take an auto to the farm (3 km). For auto assistance, contact Ganesh: 95242 36922 — a local driver who knows Iyal Farm.

Private transport

  • Hire a direct auto or cab from Pollachi to the farm.
📍 Iyal Thottam, Mannam, Sethumadai, Pollachi — 642133

Cancellation & Refund Policy

  • Cancel at least 3 weeks before the camp start date → full refund.
  • Cancel within 2 weeks of the camp → 50% refund.
  • Cancel within 1 week of the camp → we're unable to offer a refund.

This policy helps us manage logistics and gives us a better chance to offer the spot to another participant, which becomes increasingly difficult as the camp date approaches.

Register for a Camp   See Camp Calendar