Going "banana" over coconuts...

"A coconut drink a day keeps the doctor away”, but at Kumarakom Lake Resort, the paradise on Earth with coconut groves shrouding its surroundings, this drink is surely sold dearly with a price tag of 50Rs, which gastronomically bombed my thirst.

But, the resort set on the banks of the Vembanad Lake is a true paradise made by man….a feast to the eyes from all corners. Bedecked with sprawling greenery and dedicated to centuries-old heritage, the resort features ancient traditional boats and cooking wares like the stone grinder, which are found all across its verdant grounds. It also houses some of the most distinguished luxury rooms and pool villas, each with a private alcove.

Amidst these beautiful natural surroundings, I found myself lost without reason; where Nature seemed to be the culture, well complimented by the hushed rhythm of the lake and the musical renditions played softly through out the property, mesmerizing my senses even further to simply enjoy its tranquility. Oblivious and transfixed, I seated my solitary self on one of the wrought iron chairs found on the lake facing lawn space, and inhaled free and unadulterated O2... …Absolute nirvana!

A whiff of fried coconut spruced with chilly interrupted the tranquility of my sensory glands and charmed me towards the Ettukettu, a fine dining outlet, adjacent to the lawn. Authentic Kerala cuisine was on display right from the famous Papadum fried in coconut oil to boiled rice and the deep fried Karimeen, each wrapped in green leaves. There was also the spicy Thermidor sea-food dish, Padavalanga Koottu, Vellari Mango Curry, and last but not the least the Ada Pradhaman, the traditional sweet preparation that ended the feast on a sweet note. I came to know of a fact that in olden times after the main course was done, diners would eat curd rice so that they could make some space in the stomach for Ada Pradhaman, as disclosed by an elderly diner from the adjacent seat. What a cool way to gorge on to some more of the yummy delights.

Fully satiated and tummy tucked with the scrumptious fare, I forced myself to take a walk along the garden path, which housed a craft center, selling jute bags of all sizes and shapes, and ranging from 50Rs for a wallet to 150Rs for an organizer. Further along the path and a wooden bridge away I came across the Ayurmana Spa. A tour through its interiors made me want to know more about its rejuvenation secrets and rich ayurveda heritage…..

The soothing and stimulating treatment offered at the spa are taking my senses all over again. Tempted? ….head on here this season, for some good times….