The monsoon had set in early...thunder, lightning and rain... perfect scenario for the car to break down while returning from Trivandrum at Alleppey !!! Late Friday evening the Mechanics had gone back and we were stuck for the night. A blessing in disguise !!
The Auto Driver, took us to a gorgeous place called Kayaloram on the Backwater. A Heritage Hotel that transplanted 100 year old Home Units from Kuttanad and remodelled it for todays life style. Open to the sky toilets makes bathing in nature a rewarding experience in the privacy of your room.The backwater is just a few feet away from the doorstep, and the everlasting sound of the waves is a divine lullaby. The sunrise early morning was spectacular. The Monsoon Rainbow against the background of Dark Rain clouds, is a sight beholden. And then the rain, incessant pitter patter of water. Just 12 living units , Kayaloram has a very friendly atmosphere about it. The Chef, will spoil you with Pearl fish ( Karimeen ) or anything you want and for the first time helped me cook too!!! The prices are moderate and definitely value for money.
Mid day and at lose ends we took a stroll. There are numerous low budget living units on the canal front. So good that it costs Rs 500 / - for a night with food.We liked Malayalam near the Punnamada jetty the best !!
For lunch our friendly Auto Driver recommended Allai’s ... Its an old restaurant managed by a Muslim family and their Biriyani was out of the world. Cost .. Rs 70 / -.Having tasted success we asked for more. Took the boat ride into the Backwater and went to a place called the Marthandam Island next to R Block. A real country side joint, with a view thats exotic. It was Fish and more fish !!! Off the beaten track, not many go here but for the locals. So those of you planning a trip .. do jot it down !!
Back at Kayaloram, we sat on the lakefront and had dinner.Off season, we were the only occupants !!! The rain, croaking of frogs and the smell of earth, no wonder they call ..Kerala .. Gods own country !!!