This resort is all about terraced gardens, forest, blooming flowers and cottages with a touch of warmth! I am the first guest to the newest suite of Raj A. Sukumar's resort that boasts wooden flooring, mirrors on the walls and a big disco light on the roof.
I wake up early and take a walk around the impressive estate, where greenery alternates with neatly-arranged flowerbeds in all hues. Later, a simple but tasty breakfast of poori-masala and idli sambar awaits me in the open-air dining area.
Sukumar's charming American wife Nina joins me.
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It was during a visit in 1979 that Sukumar, who holds a Canadian citizenship, spotted this place, and fell in love with it. Then, it only had a cottage built in 1901, and a natural spring. Sukumar retained both, and added to them. Now, there are 20 independent cottages divided into suites and deluxe and standard rooms, accommodating couples, small and large families, student groups (dormitory) and corporate groups.
The kitchen provides a made-to-order menu for guests.
How to get there
The resort is 120 km from Madurai. Located in a quiet suburb, the property is roughly two km from the main town. One needs to go on the Sivanadi Road, past Hotel Tamil Nadu.
Tariff
Ranges from Rs. 1,950 to Rs. 5,950 depending on the room size, and number of people. For reservations, call 04542-244307/240558/241558/241798.
Things to do
Revel in the glorious weather and take long walks inside or around the property. The green cover all around, including the three acres of terraced gardens, is refreshing.Shop, watch birds, boat on Kodai Lake, and go horse riding, roller skating or biking.
Check out the regular tourist spots, or stay indoors and catch up with your reading.