Travel
The Tamara Kodai: A Luxurious Symphony In The Woods Of Kodaikanal
Rising from a historical foundation, the five star resort in ‘The Princess of Hill stations’ – Kodaikanal – is the answer to those looking for a slice of culture, adventure, and relaxation wrapped in luxury
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, [email protected], [email protected]
Travel
Travel Wellness: Staying Healthy and Fit While Exploring
Travelling is an enriching experience that broadens horizons and creates lasting memories. However, maintaining your health and fitness while on the road can be a challenge. Whether you’re navigating busy city streets, lounging on a beach, or embarking on an adventure, staying well and fit is crucial for enjoying your travels to the fullest. Here are some practical tips to help you stay healthy and active while exploring new destinations.
Plan Your Travel Meals
Eating healthy while traveling can be challenging, but with a little planning, it’s entirely achievable. Research local cuisine before your trip and seek out restaurants or markets that offer nutritious options. Opt for meals that include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. If you’re staying in a place with a kitchen, consider preparing some of your meals to maintain control over ingredients and portions.
Stay Hydrated
Travel can easily disrupt your hydration routine. Always carry a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly. Drinking enough water helps with digestion, energy levels, and overall well-being. If you’re traveling to a place with different water quality, consider bringing a portable water purifier or sticking to bottled water.
Incorporate Physical Activity
Finding time to exercise while traveling can be tough, but it’s essential for maintaining your fitness and energy levels. Here are a few ways to stay active:
- Use Hotel Gyms: Many hotels offer fitness centers. Utilize these facilities to keep up with your workout routine.
- Explore on Foot: Walking or biking around your destination not only provides exercise but also allows you to experience the city’s sights more intimately.
- Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of local outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, or even a beach workout.
Maintain a Sleep Schedule
Adjusting to new time zones can disrupt your sleep pattern, which affects overall health. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule by setting consistent bedtimes and wake-up times. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or listening to calming music, can also help you wind down and improve sleep quality.
Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management
Travel can be exciting but also stressful. Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to manage stress and maintain mental well-being. Many travel destinations offer wellness retreats or classes where you can participate in mindfulness activities.
Pack a Travel Health Kit
Prepare a travel health kit with essentials like vitamins, medications, and first-aid supplies. Include items such as hand sanitizer, travel-sized disinfectant wipes, and any prescription medications you may need. Having these on hand can help prevent illness and manage minor health issues.
Stay Active During Travel
Long flights or car rides can lead to stiffness and discomfort. Take breaks to stretch or walk around every few hours. Simple exercises like seated leg lifts, neck stretches, and shoulder rolls can help improve circulation and reduce muscle tension.
Adopt Local Wellness Practices
Explore and embrace local wellness practices and traditions. Whether it’s a traditional Thai massage, Japanese hot springs, or Ayurvedic treatments in India, incorporating local wellness practices can enhance your overall travel experience and contribute to your well-being.
Avoid Overindulgence
While it’s tempting to indulge in local delicacies, moderation is key. Balance indulgent meals with healthier options and be mindful of portion sizes. Enjoying treats in moderation allows you to savor local flavors without compromising your health goals.
Stay Social and Connected
Social interactions and maintaining connections with loved ones can boost mental health and overall happiness. Make time to connect with fellow travelers, locals, or family and friends back home to keep your spirits high and your travel experience fulfilling.
By integrating these wellness tips into your travel routine, you can ensure a healthier and more enjoyable journey. Staying active, eating well, and managing stress will help you feel your best and make the most of your travel experiences. Safe travels and happy exploring!
Travel
Real House of the Dragon Location You Want to Visit
Returning to Westeros for the battle between the Blacks and Greens in “House of the Dragon” season two. A civil war within the House of Targaryen over who should inherit the Iron Throne is the subject of the television drama series, which is based on George R. R. Martin’s Fire & Blood and takes place two centuries before Game of Thrones. Along with other important members of the season one ensemble, Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower, Emma D’Arcy as Rhaenyra Targaryen, and Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen are returning for the presently running second season.
We can’t wait to explore all of the amazing filming locations that this series has brought us. Considering how rich the universe is, it makes sense. Rather than depending solely on computer-generated scenery and soundstages, several of the actual filming locales contribute to the world of Westeros’ distinctive atmosphere.
Here, a guide to House of the Dragon filming locations you can visit:
Castleton, Derbyshire, England
In the first season of the show, Castleton, a village in high-peaked Derbyshire with one of the oldest lead mines, was transformed into The Vale of Arryn. Those who watch Game of Thrones would recall this as the location of House Arryn and the Eyrie, a stronghold where adversaries can be driven to their deaths via a moon portal. The region, which was once inhabited by Celtic people, is well-known for its traditional English hamlets and the limestone valley of Cave Dale, which is located inside the national park.
St. Michael’s Mount in Mount’s Bay, Cornwall, England
St. Michael’s Mount is a rocky tidal island with a 12th-century mediaeval church and a small, intimate village connected to the island of Marazion by a causeway that visitors can cross on foot during low tide. Blackwater Bay, a sizable body of water at Kings Landing’s edge, is home to House Velaryon, the fictional Driftmark of House of the Dragon, which is housed in the island’s main fortress. A prior appearance of Driftmark occurred in the Battle of the Blackwater in Game of Thrones.
La Calahorra, Granada, Spain
Reimagined as Pentos, one of the cities bordering the seas of Westeros, the imaginary continent at the heart of the world of Game of Thrones, is the municipality La Calahorra in eastern Granada. At the base of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, on the solitary hill in the region, lies a mediaeval fortress known as Castillo de La Calahorra, one of the region’s most iconic monuments. The exterior of the castle, which serves as the seat of House Targaryen on House of the Dragon, defies the rules of Gothic design, making it one of the first buildings in Spain to be influenced by the Renaissance between 1509 and 1512. Its exquisite split-level interior features a centre courtyard, four corner towers, and marble.
Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain
The province of Cáceres, in western Spain, is a veritable time capsule. Ancient structures that date back hundreds of years nevertheless look substantially the same, displaying a variety of architectural influences, such as Roman, Moorish, and Gothic. Several locations in the region were used to film the King’s Landing sequences, including the walled city of Plasencia in season one, Trujillo in season two, and the capital city of Cáceres in both seasons.
Bourne Wood in Farnham, England
Bourne Wood was the location of one of the largest fight scenes from season two of House of the Dragon. Large clearings in the forest make it perfect for expansive combat scenes and large film crews, while the absence of newer, more contemporary buildings or power lines gives the location a timeless sense. According to London Cult’s documentation, the forest was outfitted with a tent camp and certain areas were covered in artificial snow. The woodland is about an hour’s drive away, making the setting very handy for films like House of the Dragon that are headquartered out of the Warner Bros. Leavesden studio.
Gaztelugatxe, Basque Country, Spain
An island in Biscay called Gaztelugatxe has a hermitage that goes back to the tenth century. The iconic stone bridge was used for filming House of the Dragon. In season seven, the islet served as a stand-in for Dragonstone during filming for Game of Thrones. the location of the initial season’s encounter between Rhaenyra and her dragon on Dragonstone Bridge.
Travel
Essential Summer Travel Bag Must-Haves
As the summer sun beckons, it’s time to dust off your travel bags and embark on exciting adventures. Whether you’re jetting off to exotic destinations or exploring hidden gems closer to home, packing the right essentials can make all the difference in ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable journey. Join me as we explore the must-have items to pack in your travel bags for a memorable summer getaway.
Sun Protection Essentials:
Beat the heat and safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays with sun protection essentials. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses to shield your eyes, and a wide-brimmed hat for added protection. Additionally, lip balm with SPF and aloe vera gel can provide relief from sunburns and keep your lips hydrated.
Lightweight Clothing Options:
Embrace the spirit of summer with lightweight and breathable clothing options that keep you cool and comfortable on your travels. Pack versatile pieces such as cotton shirts, shorts, flowy dresses, and swimsuits for beach outings. Opt for wrinkle-resistant fabrics to minimize the need for ironing and save space in your luggage.
Hydration Essentials:
Stay hydrated on the go by packing a reusable water bottle in your travel bag. Fill it up whenever you have access to clean drinking water to quench your thirst and reduce plastic waste. Consider packing electrolyte packets or tablets to replenish lost minerals during outdoor activities or hot weather.
Travel-Friendly Toiletries:
Streamline your toiletry bag with travel-sized essentials that meet TSA regulations and save space in your luggage. Pack items such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and moisturizer in leak-proof containers. Don’t forget to include a compact travel towel and wet wipes for quick refreshment on the go.
Tech Gadgets and Accessories:
Capture unforgettable moments and stay connected with essential tech gadgets and accessories. Pack your smartphone, camera, or GoPro along with chargers, power banks, and adapters for international travel. Consider investing in a lightweight and portable Bluetooth speaker for impromptu beach parties or outdoor picnics.
First Aid Kit and Medications:
Be prepared for minor emergencies and health-related issues by packing a well-stocked first aid kit in your travel bag. Include items such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antihistamines, and motion sickness tablets. Don’t forget to pack any prescription medications you may need during your trip.
With these essential items packed in your travel bag, you’re ready to embark on a summer adventure filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. From sun protection essentials to tech gadgets and first aid supplies, being prepared for every situation ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey wherever your travels may take you. So, grab your bags, soak up the sun, and let the summer adventures begin!
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