Enchanting Kerala

KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

State Tourism Award Winners 2010 - 11

Coconut Lagoon Kumarakom

A property of CGH Earth Group, Coconut Lagoon is a backwater resort in Kumarakom offering accommodation in heritage mansions, heritage bungalows and private pool villas. The resort is caressed by the Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala and the longest in India. Coconut Lagoon can be reached only by boat.

Coconut Lagoon carries the legacy of the traditional architecture of Kerala. Some of the timbers used here are as old as 200 years. Some pieces were moved here piece by piece from some of the old tharavads (traditional ancestral houses in Kerala). The reception area of the resort with its four-cornered open courtyard design stands testimony to the brilliance of Kerala's architectural heritage. The restaurant is built in the old ettukettu style (a traditional architectural style of Kerala) with two roomy courtyards with dozens of slender supporting pillars. The class of another age is thus reconstructed here in its perfection as exemplified in the fretted woodwork on the verandah ceilings and the brass detail on the doors.

Among the accommodation options here, one would come across the Heritage Bungalows, Heritage Mansions and Pool Villas. The Heritage Bungalows are compact independent cottages, set in lush lawns along the canals. They are comparatively larger and have an upper story that resembles the sides of a boat. The Pool Villas with private pools, distinctive interiors and little hammocks offer peace and privacy. Along with the traditional wonders of Kerala, these accommodation options provide all the comforts and facilities of a modern resort.

Those who like fun and adventure can take a canoe out into the backwaters and explore this fascinating world just like the locals do or go fishing with one of the simple bamboo poles. One can even take a crack at waterskiing. Once tired, you can make use of the Ayurveda centre where expert ayurvedic masseurs would put your aching muscles back in action. A sunset cruise on kettuvallam (traditional rice barges of Kerala) is another thrilling experience one wouldn't want to miss.

The multi-cuisine restaurant in Coconut Lagoon is quite popular. Along with the local classic vegetarian food items, guests can also relish the delights of Kerala's seafood. The rice served here is cultivated in paddy fields owned by the resort. It would surprise you to know that nearly eight acres of land have been earmarked for paddy cultivation.

For its commendable services, Kerala Tourism recently honoured Coconut Lagoon with the Award of Excellence (2010-2011) in the category of Best Heritage Hotel in the state.