SOUTH INDIA - Kerala, Cochin
Tradition, myths and untouched natural beauty meet here at Kayal, a resort hidden in a quiet island on Vembanad lake, India's largest lagoon. On a soul searching trip to this island, Maneesha Panicker, the founder of experiential travel outfit, realized she had to share the authenticity of this unexplored land with her guests. At Kakkathuruthu, the Island of Crows, she built Kayal, an intimate space where fisherfolk and farmers share their life with guests. Though not far from the ancient port city of Kochi, the island, connected only by traditional rowboats, is off the maddening rush of modernity.While experiencing the luxury at Kayal, you will be taken back to time when life was simpler.
Tucked away on the secluded shores of Kakkathuruthu, the Island of Crows, Kayal mirrors the undiscovered, unspoiled natural beauty of Kerala. The only way to get here is by traditional rowboats. And when you're here, all you've got to do is give in to the moment. Take a pause. Put your dizzying routine on hold. And experience life as it were a hundred years ago.
Each cottage is inspired by the local architecture and curated with reclaimed and recycled material. The air-conditioned waterfront cottages have been furnished with old teak cupboards, a reading area and desk for quiet contemplation and an ensuite bath garden for some serious rejuvenation. The walls are adorned with narratives of local history in art.
All in all, the cottages are aesthetically designed with plush comforts for the city slicker in you.
Before the concrete jungles took over our land, we celebrated our roofless, open baths – enjoying long, indulgent showers. The Malayalees are known to have an elaborate bathing ritual, which is preceded by a good massage. At Kayal we return to this tradition. Enjoy your bath in the sun and rain, allowing the gentle breeze to cool your skin into a natural, luscious radiance.