Kerala, a Southern state in India known in other words as “God’s own Country, is famous for its stunning nature, rich cultural heritage, and diverse history. Exploring this beautiful state requires just the right place to stay and rejuvenate after a day of adventure.
Kerala was the first state I visited in India and the quality of some of the hotels we stayed at while moving around left me breathless. Here are a couple I would recommend to give it a try.
1. Gokulam Grand Resort & Spa, Kumarakom: Lakeside Luxury Resort of Kerala
Placed on the banks of Vembanad Lake, this 5-star hotel is a peace of paradise. As soon as we stepped out of our car we were welcomed by hotel staff gifting us with flowers. While waiting for our to get ready we had a nice glass of lemon water.
From the entrance area, the view stretches all the way across the lake. The resort had elegant rooms and villas with uninterrupted views of the backwater, ensuring that tranquil escape most of the travelers are waiting for.
Things to do when in and around Gokulam Grand Resort and Spa, Kumarakom?
Gokulam Grand Resort and Spa has various facilities and activities. I indulged in a couple of below I would highly recommend: 1) An infinity pool with a bar placed in the center where we spent the sunset watching the sun dive behind the lake. It was probably one of the most memorable scenes during my stay in Kumarakom. 2) Gym 3) A free yoga class is provided every morning within the grounds for all levels. 4)Waterfront restaurant with a buffet of South Indian Foods. 5) Ayurvedic spa treatment and full body massage.
The resort is pretty close to the Backwater experience everyone comes to experience in Kumarakom, only a 20-minute car ride. It definitely worth visiting for a group of friends, on honeymoon or just passing by. I would recommend a couple of days to experience all the activities and truly rejuvenate.
2. Zuri Kumarakom: Romantic Riverside Retreat
This riverside oasis offers a direct view of Kerala backwaters. Located as well as Gokulam on the banks of Vembanad Lake it offers lush wooden cottages surrounding a pool at the central area of the property and stretching towards the lakeside.
Things to do when in and around Zuri Kumarakom?
If not ayurvedic, treat yourself with a 1)Maya Spa 2) Spend the afternoon in the lagoon-style pool 3) indulge yourself, friends, or partner with a romantic dinner by the lake.
Zuri is a perfect romantic riverside retreat to spend time with your loved ones.
3. Fragrant Nature, Munnar: Kerala Retreat Hidden behind the clouds
Munnar is famous for its picturesque tea plantation landscape and this hotel captures it perfectly. Reaching the hotel you are surrounded by tea plantations and green farmlands all along the way. The high altitude also makes the air crispy fresh here so when going up make sure to pack a comfy jacket.
What’s amazing about this hotel is the breathtaking view you can see from every single room in the hotel, restaurant, and coffee shop areas. It’s built smartly in a way that almost no room is facing the other side. The view all the way across the misty mountain hills and tea plantations.
The restaurant serves a mix of local Kerala and international cuisine. For breakfast, we had a good amount of European and Middle Eastern options and the hotel staff is pretty nice to adjust is for you.
Things to do when in and around Gokulam Grand Resort and Spa, Kumarakom?
The hotel staff can guide you to a couple of destinations around the area including tea plantations, wild elephant resorts, and folklore villages. My recommendation would be not to miss:
a. Waking up Early morning to experience the sunrise. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to see much if it’s misty. However, the tranquility of that morning in the mountains, hearing only birds waking up is worth it.
Read or Sip a coffee inside the clouds. Think of taking some time to just grab a book, sit at the restaurant, and enjoy while clouds are passing over you.
4. Elephant Passage Munnar: Nature Playground
Elephant passage as the name says provides a unique natural experience. It’s nested in the forests of Munnar and known for its eco-friendly cottages nestled amidst the lush greenery.
Pretty similar to the experience in Munnar Fragrant Nature Resort, Elephant Passage is a tranquil oasis.
Things to do when in and around Elephant Passage Munnar, Kumarakom?
Wake up for the early morning walks and immerse into the surroundings. Experience the infinity pool with a mountain scenery or visit the nearby tea gardens.
This resort while offering similar amenities as Fragrant Nature excluding the pool is known for its commitment to sustainability and wildlife preservation making it perfect for eco-friendly travelers.
Things to do when in and around Elephant Passage Munnar, Kumarakom?
The resort offers 1) wellness treatments and 2) gourmet dining experiences. Perfect place to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Kerala and experience the sheer strength of natures tranquility.