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]]>Text credit: Charishma Thankappan
Spiralling up the hills, I craned my neck each time the car slowed down at the 14 hairpin bends, to glance at the cloud-speckled peaks in the distance. I wondered if there would be an equally beautiful view at the destination where I was headed to – The Tamara Kodai.
My first glimpse of newest luxury resort in Kodaikanal was of its imposing stone walls.
The entrance of The Tamara Kodai
The reception I received from the staff was one of the warmest, as I was taken in by their kindness and endeavour to put me at ease. The feeling was also imparted by the lobby, which is done up in an immensely cosy ambiance. Plush tan chesterfield sofas surround a fireplace on either side of the entrance. Grey stone walls with muted warm yellow lighting bring alive the colonial aura that the place is historically steeped in.
The Lobby at The Tamara Kodai
The absorbing history
The Tamara Kodai is a luxury heritage resort, the only one of its kind in Kodaikanal. It is the second property from Tamara Leisure Experiences Pvt Ltd. after The Tamara Coorg, which has been in operation since six years.
Built in the 1840s, the resort was originally the residence of a British judge called Mr Baynes, who sold it to a priest called Father Louis Cyr in 1860. In 1861, the cleric converted it into a retreat for the priests from St Joseph’s College in Nagapattinam. It was renamed La Providence.
The resort has preserved the old structure, where the remains of the arches of doors and windows are still seen. The pillars, windows, grilles, frames, have all been retained from the era, with slight touches given by the resort.
Exploring the haven
My room – one of the 44 luxury suites – was a sheer pleasure. It comes with 24 hour Wi-Fi connectivity, a 49” LED television, a mini-bar, and an in-room heater. Wooden floors and a host of rich, wooden furniture instantly warmed me to the charming atmosphere. The exquisite writing desk and chair caught my fancy and I lost my heart to it immediately. The colonial style furniture in the resort is made from plantation Teak imported from Indonesia. The resort also has eight Superior Luxury Suites and a Neelakurinji Suite. The suites offer spectacular views of the mist-laden hills from their balconies.
The Luxury Suite
The resort lays emphasis on sustainability. The wooden floor panelling outside the suites is made of reclaimed wood from old sleeper coaches of Indian railways. The bathrooms are provided with reusable toiletry bottles of shampoo and body wash; while the cisterns use only 6 litres or less per flush. The campus harbours a rainwater harvesting facility of 36 lakh litres capacity. There are three greenhouses as well.
Facilities at The Tamara Kodai include two conference halls, named after the first two tribes who settled in Kodaikanal. The 1,700 sq. ft. Puliyan Hall can accommodate 200 people and can be used for weddings and business needs. The 365 sq. ft. Paliyan Hall is ideal for board meetings, team briefings, etc.
The resort provides two dining areas. Bistro 1845 is a French style à la carte bistro and bar. La Providence is the all-day dining restaurant, serving buffet and à la carte menu. It also has an outdoor deck. The area above the restaurant used to be a chapel, which has now been converted into a library cum-recreational space. It has a collection of classic Indian and Western literature, board games like chess and caroms, and a crèche for children.
The resort also boasts of the only swimming pool in Kodaikanal, and it is temperature controlled. The Levinge Lounge near the pool will be used for Yoga and they plan to introduce astronomical instruments where guests can indulge in stargazing, as it is the highest point in the area.
Temperature controlled swimming pool
Out and about
The first day at The Tamara Kodai began with a trek to the Rainbow Forest. Led by Syed Mehaboob Aalam Kusugal, Manager Unique Guest Experience, the 2.5km long trail was replete with the bounty of the Western Ghats. Herbs and medicinal plants such as Eucalyptus, Wild Tobacco which actually cures lung related ailments, orange creeper – the leaves and roots of which are used as anti-fungal and anti-bacterial medicine in traditional Ayurveda; to fruit bearing trees such as juicy wild Passion Fruit, Inca Berry, Jerusalem cherry – commonly known as Sundakaai in Tamil, beautified the path. We deftly avoided the Indian Stinging Nettle that Syed warned us against, even as he showed us how the plant grew alongside its antidote knotweed.
The trek led to the breathtaking Rhino Nose Viewpoint from where the village of Vellagavi can be seen far away. Surrounded by Neelakurinji, I drank in the ethereal beauty of the moment, wishing for time to freeze. The Pambar Waterfall is another interesting point in the trek. The short trek turned out to be an educational walk as Syed regaled the trekkers with nuggets of Kodaikanal’s history and about the flora and fauna found in this part of the Western Ghats. Next was the trip to Berijam Lake. The 20-odd kilometre ride took us along the Madigatta Shola Forest and a few viewpoints.
Rhino Nose Viewpoint
Source: Charishma Thankappan
Back at the resort for lunch, we were gratified by the sumptuous fare belted out from Executive Chef Dibya Ranjan Samal’s kitchen. A most delectable spread, it consisted of not just heavenly Indian cuisine but also encompassed exotic international tastes. The delightful dining experience continued at dinner.
La Providence – the all day diner
Next morning began with a cycling expedition to Poombarai village. The picturesque ride was followed by a visit to Manavannoor, another stunning hamlet overrun by verdant meadows and lush rolling hills. The place also houses a sheep and rabbit farm.
We returned to the resort for some rest and relaxation, which was augmented by a reinvigorating session at The Elevation Spa. The spa area, which was the erstwhile resting quarters of the priests, has been converted into five fully equipped massage rooms including a couple’s room and a room for manicure and pedicure. Indulging in a 60 minute Deep Tissue therapy by my therapist Lucy was the ultimate way to wind up my immensely joyous stay at The Tamara Kodai.
Responsible tourism
“Tamara Leisure Experiences was established with a vision of creating world-class resorts and hotels around the world with a focus on responsible tourism and unique experiences for our guests. The Tamara Kodai is all set to establish a new benchmark in the hospitality industry in India as one of its premiere luxury heritage resorts,” says CEO and Director Shruti Shibulal, who has been instrumental in leading the Tamara Leisure Experiences projects. The establishment is aware of its responsibilities towards the local community. “The first church was built in 1854 and its cemetery is in a bad shape. We have petitioned the Church of South India to allow us to restore the graves,” says Syed. The Tamara Kodai also promotes local artisans by displaying their products in their shop called ‘The Verandah’ inside the resort.
The first premier hotel in Kodaikanal, The Tamara Kodai has so much to offer. It not only caters to both international as well as local tourists, but is also experiencing heavy footfall from eager visitors from within Kodaikanal, who have awaited the coming up of this luxury experience. With the resort looking forward to the liquor license and live music, the place promises to become the reigning queen of ‘The Princess of Hill stations’.
How to reach
Address: #22, La Providence, St. Mary’s Road, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu – 624101
By air: Madurai (136km)
By train: Kodai Road (100km)
By road: Easily accessible from all major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Coinbatore, Kochi
Contact: 04542248800, reservations@thetamara.com, info@thetamarakodai.com
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]]>The post Wake Up To Captivating Views At These 8 Camping Spots This Summer appeared first on FWD Life | The Premium Lifestyle Magazine |.
]]>Text Credits: Gayathri Prasannan
When it comes to planning a trip outdoors, camping offers some of the most affordable options. It is a popular choice for those who love to wake up to beautiful views and wish to be far from the mad rush of city life to relax, escape stress, and clear their minds.
Whether it is the wildlife, verdant tea estates, breathtaking viewpoints or cool hill stations; choose where your heart leads you and escape to one of these picturesque destinations.
Suryanelli
Situated 40km South East of the popular tourist location of Munnar, Suryanelli is located in Chinnakanal village in Idukki. It is surrounded by tea plantations and many resorts. The place gives you an astonishing view of Anayirangal Dam. It is recommended for all those who crave for a harmonious gateway.
Vagamon
Vagamon is a hill station located on the Kottayam-Idukki border of Kerala. With a never-ending line of lush green hills, breathtaking narrow steep-sided valley and windy rivulets, it is definitely one of the most charming locations for camping.
Yellapatty
At a little distance from Munnar and close to Top Station and Mattupetti Dam lies Yellapatty. The hills here offer a stunning view of the tea plantation and has a natural vibe that will impress you. The beautiful valley surrounded by forests and the panoramic mountains, offer mesmerising views to wake up to.
Kolukkumalai
Kolukkumalai is the world’s highest tea plantation. To visit Kolukkumalai is to touch the sky. It is without argument one of the world’s most beautiful scenic destinations.
Mankulam
Mankulam is a village in Idukki district. Experience a proper farm house ambiance and wake up to splendid views of the Mankulam valley. Explore this delightful part of Munnar and enjoy trails like the famous Royal Route.
Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal is a hill town in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is in an area of granite cliffs, forested valleys, lakes, waterfalls, and grassy hills. The Kodaikanal region and especially the Kodai-Camp offers a unique atmosphere of peacefulness.
Coorg
Kodagu, also known as Coorg is one of the top destinations of Karnataka Tourism. Kodagu is the largest producer of coffee in India. Undulating hills covered in lush green forests and a landscape dotted with coffee plantations, tea gardens and orange groves, this hill station has breathtakingly stunning scenic beauty.
Gokarna
Gokarna is a town on the Arabian Sea, in the southwestern Indian state of Karnataka. It attracts a crowd for a chilled-out beach holiday and is an alternative option to the crowded beaches of Goa. Most accommodation is in thatched bamboo huts along its several stretches of blissful coast.
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]]>The post Best Destinations In India To Cool Off This Summer appeared first on FWD Life | The Premium Lifestyle Magazine |.
]]>Text credit: Charishma Thankappan
With the heat soaring higher each day, we can’t wait to head out of the city to some place cooler and refreshing. FWD Life gives you five best options to head to in Kerala, South India, and the rest of the country.
5 Fine Places to Run to in Kerala
Vattavada
Source: campper.com
With its pleasant climate throughout the year, Vattavada is a lesser known retreat near Munnar. It will be an ideal option to go to avoid the rush that will be there in Munnar during the peak months of summer. Known as the ‘Market of Kerala’, don’t forget to relish the fresh fruits and vegetables that grow here, which are sent to the other parts of the state, such as apple, blackberry, egg fruit, gooseberry, passionfruit, peach, and plums.
Kumarakom
Source: WikiCommons
While beaches are not the best option to go to in the scorching heat of the summers in Kerala, you can still be closer to the refreshing waters of lagoons. Give a pass to Alappuzha which will be crowded, and instead choose Kumarakom. Spend a perfect family time lounging on the serene waters of the Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala.
Vagamon
Source: WikiCommons
Listed by National Geographic Traveler in their list of ’50 Most Attractive Places to Visit in India’, Vagamon is a green heaven. The cool climate of the place allows a fun lolling over its gentle, rolling hills, called ‘mutta kunnu’. Natural beauties like green meadows, pine forests, orchid flower gardens; and adventurous activities like paragliding, trekking, and rock climbing, are the main attractions here.
Kalpetta
Source: WikiCommons
Rich with history and blessed by nature, Kalpetta offers a withdrawal into peace and calm. Historically rich, Kalpetta has a number of ancient Jain rock temples, most of which are in a dilapidated state. Learn about the several rare species of butterflies at the Botanic and Butterfly Garden. The place is also a hub for trekking enthusiasts, who can trek to Myladippara for an enchanting trail.
Ponmudi
Source: WikiCommons
The most popular hillstation in the south of Kerala, Ponmudi is favoured for cheerful climate. The place offers beautiful scenic landscapes that are popular with backpackers. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Golden Valley, Deer Park, Meenmutty Falls, are some of the main attractions. The ride to Ponmudi is equally breathtaking, with the Kallar River lining the route.
5 Top Destinations to Escape to in South India
Kodaikanal
Source: WikiCommons
Nicknamed ‘The Gift of the Forest’ and ‘Princess of Hill Stations’, Kodaikanal is one of the most beloved havens for rest and relaxation. The cool climes of the city invites people from all over to its mist laden hills. It is a touristy place with a number of attractions such as Kodaikanal Lake, Pillar Rocks, Pine Forest, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park, Guna Caves, Dolphin’s Nose, Silver Cascade, etc.
Coonoor
Source: WikiCommons
Well known for the production of Nilgiri Tea, Coonoor is the second largest hillstation in the Nilgiris after Ooty. It is therefore a perfect alternative to Ooty, which can be teeming with the summer rush. Sim’s Park is a botanical garden with over 1,000 varieties of plant species. Don’t miss the annual fruit and vegetable show that is held in May.
Araku Valley
Source: famousplacesinindia.in
Blessed with natural formations, Araku Valley is an up and coming tourist attraction in South India. Located in Andhra Pradesh, it is an area inhabited by tribals. Borra Caves are a 1mn year old limestone caves that form the main attraction in the place. Ananthagiri Hills and Chapparai are the other major allures the place offers.
Yercaud
Source: WikiCommons
Known as the ‘Jewel of the South’, Yercaud is an attractive hill station for Summer travellers looking to run away from the heat. Prominent for fresh native fruits such as bananas, jackfruit, orange, and pear; it also offers enticing picturesque locations. It is also celebrated for its flavoursome coffee, the shrubs of which begin blooming in April to present a scenic view.
Kotagiri
Source: WikiCommons
Among the plentiful hill stations that the South of India offers, Kotagiri is a lesser known gem that will be a perfect hideaway for travellers looking to beat the crowded and more fashionable hill stations. Encounter the tall, double cascading Catherine Falls, explore the John Sullivan Memorial, take a mesmerising look at the Dolphin Nose View Point, probe the Bison Park, and inspect the Ralliah Dam.
5 Terrific Summer Getaways Beyond South India
Shimla
Source: WikiCommons
Get your dose of summer snow at this erstwhile capital of British India. Be awed by the Tudorbethan and Neo-Gothic architecture from the colonial era through the copious churches and buildings of importance. The Kalka-Shimla Railway line dating back to the British times is a must-see allurement that is also listed among UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is also host to the MTB Himalaya mountain biking race, considered to be the biggest event of its kind in South Asia.
Rishikesh
Source: WikiCommons
Introduce yourself to the mighty Himalayas at Rishikesh, known as the ‘Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas’. Not just a splendid hill station, the place in Uttarakhand is also a crowd pleaser for yoga enthusiasts, being known as ‘Yoga Capital of the World’. Other than being a pilgrimage destination, it also has an adventurous side to it, providing an impeccable site for white water rafting, paragliding, and skiing.
Darjeeling
Source: WikiCommons
Situated in West Bengal, Darjeeling is in demand during the summer months. The birth place of the world famous Darjeeling Tea, the place also has the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO Heritage Site, which has one of the few remaining steam locomotives in India. Touted the ‘Queen of the Hills’, Darjeeling is the most leading tourist destination in the East of India, and according to the 2015 India Today survey, was the third most Googled tourist destination in India.
Dharamshala
Source: eragenx.com
Surrounded by a thick coniderous forest consisting of impressive Deodar trees, Dharamshala offers a peaceful retreat to enjoy quality time in communion with nature. In vogue with international tourists and hippies, the place important as the base of the Tibetan community in India, being the headquarters of Dalai Lama. The place is really famous for treks, with the most popular being the day trek to Triund, where you can also camp overnight.
Nainital
Source: WikiCommons
A classic hill station renowned since the colonial era, Nainital has been an exalter summer retreat for Indian and international travellers. Nainital Lake, Naini Peak, Snowview Point, Gurney House, Naini Devi Temple, Cave Garden, Sat Tal, Hanumangarhi, Mall Road, are some of the most extraordinary features of the place. Well-equipped libraries are also another characteristic attraction of the place.
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