As I scrolled through limited options online in search of a quick getaway, one destination kept appearing on my screen—Kollam in Kerala, which I scrolled past.

My immediate reaction was, “Why would anyone visit a lesser-known place in God’s Own Country, leaving the popular, postcard getaways — Trivandrum/ Kovalam/ Thekkady/ Munnar?” I wondered.

What if there weren’t many touristy things to do there and I got bored?

But I was wrong!!

All my doubts soon faded, thanks to my stay at a luxurious, nature-friendly resort nestled on the banks of the magnificent Ashtamudi lake, in Kollam, the real star of my 3-day escape.

Stepping Into A Blissful World

The resort opened up like a secret, as I stepped inside — lush greenery, coconut palms swaying lazily, and the vast expanse of the lake shimmering beyond. The air felt different. Slower. Kinder.

Post a traditional ceremonial welcome with a `chandan tilak’ put on the forehead, a fragrant garland, and a refreshing welcome drink, it was time to surrender to the timeless charm of Kerala at the serene backwaters of Ashtamudi. The cool breeze from the lake not just stirred hair strands but something deeper inside me.

All this, plus a seamless check-in with just a signature as I lounged on a plush sofa in the foyer, dissolved minor glitches like a no-show for pick up at the airport, or a balcony door latch in the room not working.

The beautiful premises had all the ingredients required for a relaxing break, where still backwaters reflecting endless skies, soothing the senses, quietening the mind, and allowing oneself to immerse in nature’s gentle embrace. Where evenings offer you a sunset cruise across the lake, followed later by a traditional cultural performance of Bharatnatyam at the foyer. It was the perfect opportunity to shut the mundanity of the outer world and simply be.

A range of indoor and outdoor games, along with the swimming pool, completed the experience, making it an ideal getaway for guests.

The stay was not just about enjoyment, rejuvenation, and healing the body, mind, and soul from within; the resort, with its traditional Kerala decor, was a perfect amalgamation of art, natural beauty, and creativity.

The foyer, decorated using natural materials — jute, leaves of plants, spices, reflected the region’s essence, which I love.

A wooden fishing boat -used commonly in Kerala- had been carefully polished, filled with different aromatic spices, and a glass top added, was transformed into a beautiful piece of decor. Isn’t this creativity at its finest? Luxury that was felt as much as it was seen.

Finding Kollam’s Coastal Appeal

Kollam beach, I was told by the hotel staff, is skippable, so I didn’t go there. But what attracted my attention as we drove through the quaint streets was the residential localities with their neat houses, charming bungalows, and surprisingly clean streets. The laid-back town of Kollam was, after all, impressive!

The floating restaurant at the water’s edge became the setting for  a grand finale dinner on the last evening of my stay—soft lights, a cool breeze, gentle ripples on the backwaters, and authentic flavours from the fresh seafood made the evening memorable and fulfilling.

What began with a hint of uncertainty soon transformed into utter contentment, making the stay truly memorable.

RATNA SINGH

Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss

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