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

The post The Tamara Kodai: A Luxurious Symphony In The Woods Of Kodaikanal appeared first on FWD Life | The Premium Lifestyle Magazine |.

Words by Maya Lalchandani    Photographs from Carmelia Haven Plantation Resort and Spa

Was Kerala just named God’s Own Country? Or did they just build it into one? One has to travel there to find out. The South of India has a flavour quite unlike anything that people will ever get to know. Kerala is filled with more than just the romantic backwaters that people have made it famous for. There are also virgin beaches, chilly mountains, and wild tropical jungles to be explored. Let’s not forget that this multicultural land is filled with vibrant art forms, festivals, and Ayurveda, and is gifted with the abundance of Mother Nature.

The winding way to the hills

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Kerala has now become famous for its Plantation Tourism. The- Carmelia Haven Plantation Resort and Spa, is one such property that belonged to the Jose family (the Cardamom Kings of that area). Here, one can be one with nature, adding trekking, fishing, swimming, bamboo rafting, and elephant rides and many other recreations to the experience. A view of the lakes, waterfalls, mountains and fragrance from the spice trees all around create the magic for a picture perfect setting! And so on to Kumily and then Vandanmedu making way towards a verdant cardamom plantation. The air is crisp and the clouds are inviting, the roads are winding, leading all through a tropical forest landscape. Waterfalls dot the way as afterthoughts, being part of a returning monsoon amidst the lush green scenery. This eco-chic resort comes into view after a 23 km drive from the Periyar National Park (Thekkady).

Wide Vistas from Comfy Nooks

Widely spread over acres, one steps happily into the slickly done lobby, giving the guest a sense of comfort and simplicity. Buggies take on the transfer through the leisure area, passing through some suites and villas along the way. Gazebos are sighted on the manicured lawns and the unsuspecting guest is taken through an area of beauty that would later act as a refuge for their digital needs. The property follows its eco friendliness by not encouraging WiFi in the rooms thus promoting a semi detoxification of sorts. The accommodation offers deluxe rooms, deluxe cottages, tree houses, jacuzzi villas and even a cave room. Every accommodation is equipped with flat TVs, kettles, mini-fridges, etc. If the guest is looking for an old favourite – the balcony, the veranda or a hot tub, the resort makes sure that it offers that as well.

Cradled in Nature

The tree houses are the perfect choice for the eager honeymooners and the avid nature lover. Built on stilts, they reach out into the dense foliage, plunging the guest into a world of the birds and the bees. All the cottages and the villas are all vast and elegantly furnished and have access to the leisure areas. The Cave room stands apart from the others and is built like an underground cellar, appropriate for people who love their privacy and who find their peace in seclusion. The nicest aspect of the resort is that it keeps nature in mind and works well with it, offering solar power and encouraging low wattage with old fashioned lanterns everywhere, taking into account the radiant foliage all around. A curious combination of scents and smells envelop the area. The mix is clove, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg jostling with oranges, mangosteen, jackfruit, rambutan, butter fruit, papaya and rose apple.

A Resort Catering to All Tastes

In-house activities include tennis, swimming, books in the library, culture shows and tribal dances. Outdoor activities include trekking, guided plantation walks, cardamom factory tour, and fishing. The children-friendly resort has a kid’s park and also has a very active games room. Kolumban, the multi cuisine restaurant, proves to be the focal point of the stay as it offers the guest multi cuisine, but room service can also be enjoyed as a luxury. Buffet and A’la Carte with recipes from the Syrian Christians from the region are welcome. Nattukoottam, a 300 seater takes care of all the conference facilities. Kerala without ayurveda is not Kerala. The Rithgeham Ayurvedic Spa offers holistic healthcare that encourages physical, mental and spiritual harmony. Non-invasive and non-toxic treatments are used as an alternative therapy. Kerala’s equable climate and the presence of abundant forests, herbs and plants aid treatments to be successful. The following treatments are helpful – anti obesity, stress management, rejuvenate and detox, Panchakarma, Back pain, Slipped disc, Spondylitis, Migraines and Sinusitis. Yoga and meditation enhance the whole holiday.

Out and About

Round and about the plantation resort is Vandanmedu, a village in the Idukki District, an area ideal for sighting wildlife, trekking and a spot of fishing. Anamudi, being the highest peak in India, south of the Himalayas, is right there. The Periyar Tiger reserve in Thekkady is also open to nature and wildlife lovers, for an adventurous stint. Kailasam, which is exceptionally beautiful, is part of the Carmelia Haven terrain, full of tea and cardamom plantations. A trip through a teaprocessing factory and a trip to see how cardamoms are readied through a smokehouse procedure creates some unforgettable memories. The Idukki Arch Dam is just 32 kms away from Carmelia, and has the Periyar River happily flowing through it. The Carmelia Haven Plantation resort is situated amongst all this finery, beckoning to the eager tourist, making a promise of calmness.

Recommended Travel Wear

Winter:  Mid – October – Mid – February | Woollens

Summer:  March – May | Cotton

Monsoon:  June – August  | Jackets/ Wind-shielders/ Umbrellas

Resort Details

Carmelia Haven Plantation Resort and Spa
Vandanmedu,
Thekkady
Idukki-685551
Tel – +914868270252
www.carmeliahaven.com

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Words by Maya Lalchandani    Photographs from Various Sources

The vast landscape of India offers plenty of little hideaways and paradises for a short getaway or a longer holiday. Somewhere in the Blue Mountains we discovered the Kurumba Village Resort, an offering from Nature Resorts and situated 969 metres above sea level. Pretty much off the trail and in the middle of nowhere so to speak, this picturesque resort rests in a lush and green destination, exactly in between Mettupalayam and Coonoor in Tamil Nadu. The resort is named after a forgotten tribe – Kurumbas, one of five ancient tribes in the Niligiris. The property is considered a tribute to this tribe, since they are believed to have been protectors of Mother Nature.

Nature’s Welcome

A flight to Coimbatore is where the resort’s hospitality begins, where 56 km later, you will be transported by road into the 10-acre former spice plantation. The air is thick with the aroma of spices such as pepper, nutmeg and cloves. Amidst all this, the mist seeps in like a blanket over the hills. The surroundings are surreal in the evening light as we are escorted to the cottages. Dinner is served on a treetop, looking out into a green carpet of majestic mountains. The sun settles into slumber, providing warm hues. The chef then gets busy and whips up a meal to satiate the travellers’ palate. Tree top dining is one of the most exclusive experiences that Kurumba Village offers – with all the works including a lantern-light ambience. Back at the room, you get to choose your own pillow from an enriched menu! The day thus ends, with the senses satisfied and the soul pampered.

The cottages consists of spacious Jacuzzis and bathtubs. The verandahs are cosy, so much so that monkeys from nearby treetops jump down to join us for a chat and tea with snacks. A whistling thrush makes for the morning music, running amidst ageold jacaranda, rosewood and jackwood trees. Lush earth, snuggled in the warmth of pure green, stretches far and as wide as the eye can possibly see. The cottages are styled in a tribal fashion, with natural materials. As the sun dawns on a new day, the weather outside is 20 degrees and looks like it is going to be fun.

Spoilt for Choice

Breakfast by the PakkaSuran Mountains, beside a gurgling stream, and astride a noisy waterfall is quite a sight especially during the monsoons. The wind rustles the leaves on the trees as the smell of coffee wafts in the air and permeates the day’s breakfast at the all-day dining restaurant – Bevine. In the not-so-far distance, the fabled Droog Fort of Tipu Sultan looks back at us menacingly. The day brings its own activities, from cycling in the plantations, to tribal cooking classes, forest and spice plantation treks, a PakkaSuram Jeep and trek tour (a picnic lunch), a dip in the picture perfect pool and a chauffeur driven ferry to the tea plantations to witness a tea ceremony first hand. You can even plant your own tree on the premises and come back to see its progress. In such a manner, Kurumba Village encourages a symbiosis between nature and man.

The evening brings relief from all the treks and adventure and you will be tempted to agree to the wonderful choices of a romantic candlelit bath in clove scented water/ eucalyptus leaves or a rose milk one. Dining is an interesting experience again; a personal chef choses a menu that you can enjoy in the private setting of a cave. Enjoy the unique ambience with crickets chirping in the background. The lanterns add to the aura of the cave, and the flowers burst forth with colour. The soft breeze completes the experience.

The third day has a plethora of things on its agenda. Spending the daylight hours in a hammock sipping mock tails while finishing a favourite author or a blissful leisurely stroll through the lovely Kurumba Village Resort shows that it’s a friendly place for native elephants. The security guards, who are also mahouts, gently sway the animals away if they happen to stray into the resort. Government laws prevent the resort from any kind of barbed wire or electric fencing. All is in accordance with nature and providence.

Reclaim the Calm

Cool afternoons are enhanced with a visit to the Ayurshala – the Ayurveda Spa. To balance the doshas and reroute one’s chakras the Spa offers Abhyanga (herbal oil), Udwarthana (exfoliation and cellulite buster), Unmardhana (Swedish), Shirodhara (thread of bliss), Shiroabhyanga (crowning glory), Padabhyanga (foot) Netra Trapana (lotus eye), Greerbasti (stress buster) to name a few. Completely refreshed post the Spa one can choose whether to have dinner at the Chai Kadai, barbeque by the pool, or in-house. The third night encompassed all the feelings of calm and serenity that the resort offered.

The Kurumba Village Resorts makes sure to give guests not only topnotch hospitality it can afford, but also the utmost authentic experience. They minimise the use of plastic, the overuse of detergent, have an excellent waste management system and aim to keep the earth as pristine as they can. They encourage minimal noise levels and vehicle movements in the resort. The resort has planted more than 3,000 trees on their property and have kept optimal lighting to minimise disturbing nocturnal wildlife. This is undoubtedly a magical place to visit and explore. Word of advice, don’t forget your walking shoes.

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