Hotels in Kumarakom - Hotel Golden Water Retreat

India, the land of ancient civilizations, is famous the world over for its northern wonders. The South, however, is equally if not more attractive, especially the South Indian state of Kerala (God's own country), Kumarakom is currently one of the top ten international tourist destinations. And here is Golden Waters, a luxurious waterfront resort and Ayurvedic center.

Kerala is well known for its scenic diversity. The land of coconuts and coir, spices and sandalwood has attracted attention for centuries. Bringing traders, explorers and colonists from distant shores. And in recent times an influx of holidaymakers too.

Through all this, Kumarrakom, Kerala's heartland of lagoons, palms and paddy fields has retained its virgin flavor and consequently is a hot favorite with city dwellers, yearning for a return to Nature. In a landscape unique to Kerala, hundreds of interlinked canals weave their way between paddy fields spilling into palm-fringed lakes. The water abounds with special varieties of fish like pearlpot or 'karimeen' and shellfish such as crabs, prawns, clams and mussels. The native folk are fishermen and farmers, earning their living from the bounty of Nature. The canals provide the most important means of transport and communications. And a common sight is that of low-slung country craft, poled along by bare-chested men and often by women, clad in cool while cotton. The boats are used to carry passengers as well as goods, like paddy, coconuts, coir and spices.

Age-old traditions dictate the flow of activity and prime importance is accorded to preserving the culture and customs of land. Several colorful annual festivals like Oman and Thiruvathira mark the passage of time and are a source of interest to the tourist. The annual snake boat races, a rare and exciting spectacle, involve fierce competition between the different teams in their swift vallams.

Kumarakom lies in the hinterland between Kochi and Kottayam. The nearest airport is at Kochi and there are railway stations at both Kochi and Kottayum. Once in Kerala and off the plane or train, the visitor is transported to a different world. No pollution, no pressure. And the magic is retained as one approaches and enters Golden Waters, Whether by boat or by road.

The perfect location gives the Golden Waters a special ambience. An intricate lacework of canals intersects the 17-acre waterfront property, flowing beneath swaying coconut palms, fruit and spice groves. The land belonged originally to an English man named George Baker who reclaimed it from the backwaters and planted it with coconut trees. He sold it to a prominent Kottayum family from whom it was acquired by Alex Resorts & Hotels and developed into Golden Waters. However, the original character of the property has been retained and canals that are seen today are the same that once served barges laden with Mr. Baker's coconuts and other commodities

Hotel Specifications Accommodation Golden Waters boasts of 28 delightful cottages, constructed on the banks of the canals. Some of the cottages are actually on silts in the water. And all are accessible both by boat, as well as by land, over cobbled pathways and rustic bridges. The heritage style architecture is reminiscent of the traditional Kerala Tharavad or ancestral house. While the sir-conditioned interiors are quaint and cosy, with all modern amenities for a luxurious stay and a few extras such as the fact that you can fish out of your cottage window! Dining The elegant Reception area and restaurants also reflect the locale. Nalukettu is the multi-cuisine eatery, while at the Meenkulam- 'The hook and cook', you can get the fish of your choice from the pond and savour it freshly cooked in succulent spices along with other Kerala delicacies. Near the swimming pool is Madhusala, the elegant lounge, serving beer and wines.

Recreation & Health

The panoramic swimming pool includes a cascade and is only the beginning of the recreational activities at Golden Waters. Boating, canal and lake cruises, fishing, trekking and bird watching at the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, inhabited by avian of all description, some arriving from as far away as Siberia winter. All manner of indoor games has been laid on for the visitor. There are also trips to coir factories, nearby villages and the famous R-Block. R-Block is a 3000-acre stretch of land, once owned by the Murickan family who were the kings of the backwaters. The unique fact is that the land is actually lower than the water and, as in Holland; dykes were constructed to prevent water from flowing in.

Another interesting spot is Thanermukkam, the site of one of the oldest dams, built by the British to stop water from entering Vembanad Lake. Even today, the ancient locks are opened to allow boats to pass through. And every year, at particular time, seawater is let and the lake turns saline.

Back at Golden Waters, regular cultural programs are specially organized to add a touch a local color. Ancient dance forms like Kathakali, Mohiniattam, Barathnatyam and Kalaripayattu are demonstrated by accomplished artistes. Kathalali is the hallmark dance of Kerala, in which the entire message is conveyed through nuances of expression and dancers' faces are made up to resemble masks. Kalaripayattu is the name given to the Kerala form of martial art, practiced by the warriors of old. Barathnatyam and Mohiniattam represent the traditional Indian school of dance. Troupes of musicians provide insight into the very different and haunting Indian classical lyric and melody. And once all possibilities have been exhausted, you can still the resort's handicraft shop, Kada, for souvenirs, or simply while away the hours in a hammock slung under palm and sky.

For those in search of rejuvenation, Golden Waters is the ideal perspiration. Vaidyasala, the resort's Ayurvedic center is fully geared to aid travelers in distress.

City Information

Welcome to the holiday at Kumarakom the ornithologist's paradise. Bask in the beauty of nature amidst marvelous mangrove forests, coconut canopies and Pulsating paddy fields sprinkled with enchanting waterways and canals decked with while lilies. For everyone looking forward to a lazy and laid back holiday Kumarakom is the place to be at. While at Kumarakom visit to the Vembanad Lake is a must. The fresh water lake acts as an integral part of the backwater cruises in Kerala. At the water-bird sanctuary you can spot domestic birds like cuckoo, wild duck, egrets, darters, herons, teal, and waterfowl as well as migratory birds like the Siberian storks. Further ahead from Kumarakom you may visit the backwater town of Kottayam. At Kottayam you must check out the rubber plantations and the old churches. While Kumarakom the boat races, houseboat cruise, canoeing and fishing are something not to be missed. A stay at the houseboat, called Kettuvallom is an unparallel and unique experience. The scintillating beauty of nature and the simplicity of the people will not fail to touch you at Kumarakom.