Coconut Lagoon Kumarakom - a CGH Earth Heritage Lake Resort

Authenticity, in its truest form, is the unadorned truth, devoid of any embellishments. It necessitates a firm belief that reality possesses its own enchantment and that the true magic lies in what already exists, without the need for additional adornments and extravagances.

By this definition, Coconut Lagoon embodies an authentic portrayal of Kerala and its backwaters—a celebration, one might say, of a land seamlessly connected to its very essence.

Coconut Lagoon Kumarakom represents our endeavour to encapsulate the quintessential Kerala experience and present it in a distinctive ambience. We have introduced nothing that doesn't naturally belong here. Even when modern comforts find their way in (as they must), they do so in a manner that preserves the inherent harmony.

This approach is, perhaps, why Condé Nast Traveller recognized Coconut Lagoon Kumarakom among the top 25 getaways globally.

May I invite you to share a moment with us? Join us as you recline in a hammock by the lakeside, and permit your senses to be enraptured.

Before you stretch the grandeur of Vembanad Lake, its waters shimmering beneath an expanse of boundless sky. Sunlight dances on the lake's surface, fracturing the reflection of a passing houseboat into glistening fragments. Darter birds diligently carry out their fishing duties, and the air is heavy with the fragrance of nature.

Peace? Indeed, peace resides here, but not silence. Silence isn't nature's way. Just next door lies the boisterous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, teeming with lively avian neighbours.

As you sway gently in the hammock, the scene transforms.

You find yourself before a timber and tile mansion, one that seems as though it's an intrinsic part of this earth, yet from another era. If you were to forsake the comfort of your hammock for a closer examination, you'd realize that this is an authentic reconstruction. Some of its timbers have stood for two centuries, moved here piece by piece—a testament to Kerala's bygone "tharavads." Observe the intricate brass detailing on the doors and the intricate woodwork on the verandah ceilings—these are hallmarks of a different age, resurrected by master craftsmen. This shall be your abode tonight.

"The journey is the reward," goes the ancient Chinese adage (perhaps they gleaned it from Kerala, in exchange for the famous fishing nets). Your arrival at Kumarakom Coconut Lagoon is a departure from the usual airport coach transfer—a distinct experience in itself.

The reception area, like the ancestral homes we alluded to earlier, represents a living piece of Kerala's history. It dates back to 1860, with an open courtyard design reminiscent of days long gone. In 1993, the entire mansion was painstakingly relocated from the nearby village of Vaikom. Take a moment to relax on the wooden swing before you check in, or meander around while sipping on a fresh coconut, soaking in the ambiance.

At Kumarakom Coconut Lagoon, you have a choice of three types of accommodation. The Heritage Bungalows are cozy standalone cottages nestled in lush lawns along the canals. The Heritage Mansions are more spacious, featuring an upper floor distinguished by wooden ribs that resemble the sides of a boat. Many offer splendid views of the lake. Further along the tranquil lakefront are the Pool Villas, ensuring peace and privacy with their private pools, unique interiors, and your very own hammock on the front porch.

Upon closer inspection of any of these accommodations, you'll notice the intricate architectural details that render each of them unique. A trellis pattern here, a row of dainty brass knobs there, an ornate deity adorning a 200-year-old column—no two houses are identical.

Of course, these old-world touches conceal none of the modern conveniences within. Air conditioning, telephones, hot and cold running water—all the comforts of a contemporary resort are yours to enjoy.

With one notable exception: television. The cacophony of channel surfing and the serenity of nature simply don't harmonize, as you'll soon discover. (However, for the ardent CNN enthusiasts, a television is available in the recreation room. May we kindly request you to keep the volume subdued?).

Lastly, we must highlight the bathrooms. This vital facet of hotel living has received a unique twist at Coconut Lagoon. The bathrooms are open-roofed, reminiscent of the al fresco facilities of traditional Kerala, but naturally, equipped with all modern amenities. So, you can shower beneath the sheltering sky while maintaining complete privacy.