|
|
Golden
Waters
Kumarakom- Kerala.
India, the land
of ancient civilisations, is famous the world over for its northern wonders.The
South, howerver, is equally if not more attractive, especially the South Indian
state of Kerala (God's own country), Kumarakom is currently one of the top ten
international tourist destinations. And here is Golden Waters, a luxurious
waterfront resort and ayurvedic centre Kerala is well known for its scenic
diversity. The land of coconuts and coir, spices and sandalwood has attracted
attention for centuries. Bringing traders, explorers and colonists from distant
shores. And in recent times an influx of holidaysmakers too.
|
|
Through
all this, Kumarrakom, Kerala's heartland of lagoons, palms and paddy
fields has retained its virgin flavor and consequently is a hot
favourite with city dwellers, yearning for a return to Nature. In a
landscape unique to Kerala, hundreds of interlinked canals weave
their way between paddy fields spilling into plam-fringed lakes. The
water abounds with special varieties of fish like pearlpot or 'karimeen'
and shellfish such as crabs, prawns, clams and mussels. The native
folk are fishermen and farmers, earning their living from the bounty
of Nature. The canals provide the most important means of transport
and communications. And a common sight is that of low-slung country
craft, poled along by bare-chested men and often by women, clad in
cool while cotton. The boats are used to carry passengers as well as
goods, like paddy, coconuts, coir and spices. |
Kumarakom lies
in the hinterland between Kochi and Kottayam. The nearest airport is at
Kochi and there are railway stations at both Kochi and Kottayum. Once in
Kerala and off the plane or train, the visitor is transported to a
different world. No pollution, no pressure. And the magic is retained as
one approaches and enters Golden Waters, Whether by boat or by road. |
 |
 |
|
|
| Golden
waters |
|
The
perfect location gives the Golden Waters a special ambience. An
intricate lacework of canals intersects the 17-acre waterfront property,
flowing beneath swaying coconut palms, fruit and spice groves. The land
belonged originally to an English man named George Baker who reclaimed
it from the backwaters and planted it with coconut trees. He sold it to
a prominent Kottayum family from whom it was acquired by Alex Resorts
& Hotels and developed into Golden Waters. However, the original
character of the property has been retained and canals that are seen
today are the same that once served barges laden with Mr. Baker's
coconuts and other commodities.
Golden Waters boasts of 28 delightful cottages, constructed on the banks
of the canals. Some of the cottages are actually on silts in the water.
And all are accessible both by boat, as well as by land, over cobbled
pathways and rustic bridges. The heritage style architecture is
reminiscent of the traditional Kerala Tharavad or ancestral house. While
the sir-conditioned interiors are quaint and cosy, with all modern
amenities for a luxurious stay and a few extras such as the fact that
you can fish out of your cottage window
|
The elegant
Reception area and restaurants also reflect the locale. Nalukettu is the
multi-cuisine eatery, while at the Meenkulam- 'The hook and cook', you can get
the fish of your choice from the pond and savour it freshly cooked in
succulent spices along with other Kerala delicacies. Near the swimming pool is
Madhusala, the elegant louge, serving beer and wines The panoramic swimming
pool includes a cascade and is only the beginning of the recreational
activities at Golden Waters. Boating, canal and lake cruises, fishing,
trekking and birdwatching at the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, inhabited by
avians of all description, some arriving from as far away as Siberia winter.
All manner of indoor games has been laid on for the visitor. There are also
trips to coir factories, nearby villages and the famous R-Block
R-Block is a
3000 acre stretch of land, once owned by the Murickan family who were the
kings of the backwaters. The unique fact is that the land is actually lower
than the water and, as in Holland, dykes were constructed to prevent water
from flowing in. Another interesting spot is Thanermukkam, the site of one of
the oldest dams, built by the British to stop water from entering Vembanad
Lake. Even today, the ancient locks are opened to allow boats to pass through.
And every year, at particular time, sea water is let and the lake turns
saline.
Back at Golden Waters, regular cultural programs are specially organised to
add a touch a local colour. Acient dance froms like Kathakali, Mohiniattam,
Barathnatyam and Kalaripayattu are demonstrated by accomplished artistes.
Kathalali is the hallmark dance of Kerala, in which the entire message is
conveyed through nuances of expression and dancers' faces are made up to
resemble masks. Kalaripayattu is the name given to the Kerala form of martial
art, practiced by the warriors of old. Barathnatyam and Mohiniattam represent
the traditional Indian school of dance. Troupes of musicians provide insight
into the very different and haunting Indian classical lyric and melody. And
once all possibilities have been exhausted, you can still the resort's
handicraft shop, Kada, for souvenirs, or simply while away the hours in a
hammock slung under palm and sky. For those in search of rejuvenation, Golden
Waters is the ideal perspiration. Vaidyasala, the resort's ayurvedic center is
fully geared to aid travelers in distress
|
|
|
| |
|
|
The
ultimate waterbed experience is an overnight cruise on a traditional
Kerala rice boat. Golden Waters offers an exotic stay on these
enormous floating barges which were once used as transport along the
back-waters . The charming cocoon-shaped silhoette has been retained
and the interior converted into an elegant suite, complete with
bedroom, living and dining area, toilet and kitchenette. The boats
ate manned by experienced crew, well versed in local lore and ready
to dish up delectable fare as the boat navigates the still waters. A
houseboat is truly an exclusive taste of Kerala hospitality |
|
Surrounded
by its all-natural decor, the houseboat provides the ideal
observation platform. Not just for underwater life, flora and fauna,
but also for the charming rural lifestyle slipping by in slow
motion. Lulled by the waves into a state of delightful euphoria, you
can return to daily routine, refreshed and rejuvenated |
|
|
|
|
|
| Vaidyasala |
|
Thousands
flock to India all over the world in search of ayurvedic healing. At
Golden Waters, it is ayurvedic with a difference. Kalari treatment, like
ayurvedic, has its roots in an age-old tradition, but only a few
exponents remain today. Golden Waters is proud to offer you a rare
privilege of kalari treatment at the hands of experts. In an exlcusive
arrangement with the foremost Kalari institute in Kerala.
More than three millennia ago, the knowledge attained by the sages and
yogis of acient led to enlightenment about the 107 vital points on the
human body. Using these insights, they developed a unique system of
healing, combining herbal oil massages or uzhichil with marma chikitsa
or the application of ressure on specific nerver points In Kalari,
treatment, the technique of pressure is employed to sure and rejuvenate.
And can give instant relief in a wide range of ailments. In addition,
the uzhichil or massages aid in promoting with special oils, using both
hand and feet, sometimes with suspended ropes for support Some of the
disorders where Kalari treatment has proven a effective are wounds and
fractures, rheumatism, paralysis, spinal and muscular problems, sexual
disorders, blood pressure, stomach ailments, asthma, headaches, nervous
complaints, irritability, anxiety, insecurity, agitation, etc.,
depression, insomnia, psychosis, obesity and problems associated with
with-drawal from alcohol and drugs.
The
Seven salient features of Kalari massage are :
-
Balancing
of the chakras or circular energy centers that are located on the
human body
-
Balancing
of the saptadhathu, or seven tissues namely blood, plasma, muscle,
fat, bone marrow, and semen.
-
Stimulation
of nadisuthra points ovr ayurvedic acupressure
-
Stimulation
of foot points opr foot reflexlogy
-
Awakening
of prana or life energy
-
Awakening
of of the five senses
For the
most effective treatment o course of 7,9,11 or 14 days should be adhered
to. Howerver, this can be adapted to suit individual preferences. At the
physical level, Kalari massage rejuvenates the sense and vital organs,
improves circulation, increases muscular flexibility, enhances vitality,
tones up and heals every aspect of the body. On the mantal plane, the
treatment instills new energy, increases awarness, relases emotional
stress and provide total relaxation.
Kalrai treatment makes use of only natural herbs
in freshly prepared oils. As in the rest of the ayurvedic system, both
physucal and mental planes are accorded equal importance. And patients
reap the benefits of this pure form hiolistic healing with none of the
harmful side-effects of alopathic medicine.
You can also delve into the mysteries of
Kalaripayattu, panchakarma, marma chiikitsa ands yoga with guidance from
experienced gurus or teachers. A great research opportunity! And with
your good health restored, it's times for an unforgettable and exclusive
journey - on an authentic Kerala houseboat.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
