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| Kerala |
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The lush and serene southern state of Kerala, one of our favourite areas of India, has a wonderfully slow and relaxed pace, in contrast to much of the rest of the country. From the Malabar Coast and its impressive network of rivers, canals and lakes that form the backwaters, a lush blanket of palm trees leads up to verdant hills covered with tea and spice plantations. Cochin is the oldest European settlement in India. From the quaint Jewish quarter to the bustling spice bazaars it has a seamless blend of diverse architectural and religious influences.
Cochin is the starting point for the romantic and unique backwaters of Kerala, with their winding waterways that are the backbone of rural existence in this region. As you drift along the backwaters on your own private houseboat, you can witness daily village life unfolding before you, with women washing their clothes and fishermen casting their nets, as small boys swim alongside your boat shouting excitedly. Rising up from these coastal waters, the hills of Kerala are rich with densely forested valleys and wildlife reserves as well as spice plantations that perfume the air with cardamom and eucalyptus.
In the northern hills you can fully appreciate the stunning beauty of the rainforests, from the forest canopy itself, whilst living 90 feet up in a tree house.
Alternatively, you can pamper yourself with ayurvedic treatments, be a guest at one of the fantastic home stays on a private coffee or spice plantation, or head down to one of the beautiful sandy beaches for a blissfully relaxing time. |
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| Taj Garden Retreat – Kumarakom |
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Often referred to as the little jewel of Kumarakom, it still maintains the beauty of its surroundings. The 123 year old colonial bungalow houses newly built Luxury Villas, heritage rooms, charming cottages and quaint houseboats, anchored in the private lagoon. The setting is peaceful and idyllic. |
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| The Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach |
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With 181 rooms and suites dotted over many verdant acres, Kerala’s largest beachside resort is cradled between two sweeping beaches. Perched on a rock-face, this 5 star deluxe resort offers the most panoramic views of the famed Kovalam shoreline. |
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| Kumarakom Lake Resort |
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Located on the banks of the serene Vembanad Lake, the Kumarakom Lake Resort, a luxury heritage resort and a privileged member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is renowned for its aesthetic ambience. With over 50 traditionally styled, luxurious villas, the resort’s much acclaimed Ayurveda spa, the Ayurmana, its sensuous meandering pool and its fleet of luxury houseboats are famed not merely for architectural excellence but for the personalised service available as well. |
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| Estuary Island |
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Estuary Island Resort is a world class resort located in Poovar, near Trivandrum. The uniqueness starts from the natural setting – where a lake, river, sea and beach meet. It maintains the perfect balance between a rare ecology and an exclusive heaven. The resort consists of 71 rooms and all modern amenities. |
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| Malabar House |
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The Malabar House in Fort Cochin, a 16th century Portugese trading post, is the rare exception that combines elegance, style and comfort. It is a 17 room colonial villa. Located in the middle of a historical preservation zone, it faces India’s oldest church St. Francis. The Malabar House, as it’s name suggests, is less a boutique hotel than the home of a well travelled aesthete boasting wit and warmth and eye for whimsy. |
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| Poovar Island Resort |
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The Poovar Island Resort Thiruvananthapuram offers you the very best in luxury and hospitality. Traditional Keralian architecture has been used to construct the floating cottages. The cottages though traditional in outlook is replete with all modern facilities.Set amidst the verdant green of coconut plantation and overlooking the cobalt blue sea. |
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| Taj Malabar – Cochin |
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Situated on Willingdon Island and offering a magnificent view of Cochin harbour and the beautiful backwaters, the Taj Malabar combines old-world elegance with modern day convenience. In its heritage wing, built in 1935, graceful Victorian interiors aptly reflect the inherent beauty of Cochin. Its tower wing houses newly renovated guestroom suites, each a delicate mix of the classic with the contemporary. The hotel boasts 3 banquet halls that seat from 30 to 300 persons, 250 for a reception on the lawns facing the backwaters and luxurious yacht cruises for 15. |
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| Taj Garden Retreat – Varkala |
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Perched atop a majestic red cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, this charming retreat offers warm hospitable service as well as fantastic views. Guests are only minutes away from Kappil beach, and Janardhanaswamy Temple, a famous 2000 year-old temple. Meeting rooms can accommodate 40 for cocktails or receptions, and the lawns can host receptions for up to 150 guests.
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| Taj Green Cove Resort - Kovalam |
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Located on one of India’s most popular beaches, Kovalam, the property is spread across 10 acres of land, offering a breathtaking view of the backwater, lush landscapes, coconut palms, and unspoiled beaches. Taj Green Cove Resort is located just 12 km from Trivandrum airport and 14 km from the station. It’s 2000 sq. ft meeting room can accommodate up to 150 guests theatre style and offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. |
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