When nature meets the soul of man, it creates magic. Arising from the depths of his heart is a music forgotten yet so much in sync with his instincts, he knows that this is the place where he belongs to. The vastness and depth in the blue of the ocean, the mysteries and whispers of the dense foliage or the crest of the mountain range – wherever it be, there is a spirit ; a single spirit that shares its enigma with the mankind too . But living amongst the tall concrete flats, takes those instincts and hides it deep that the man forgets the language of his relatives, and forgets to take a look at the green and hear those crickets in the field. But sometimes the heart longs for it – the clear lake, the chirping birds, the sound of the wild – silent yet mysteriously alive; especially once you have known it – and for me; I have seen the mystery, I have played with the confusing pieces of puzzle and has sat there alone in the wild listening to a single voice – the beautiful voice of nature.
When I reached Thekkady, I wondered about the closeness it shared with nature. The small town bustled with activity but as the car rolled past the Periyar Wild life reserve’s Big gates; I knew what they meant when they talked about being closer to nature. We were given a car pass and were informed that no matter what happens, the gates close at seven, and no one would be allowed inside or outside after that time. It was the animals, they came out at night and it was a protective measure against any dangers. I looked around at the thick dark green that surrounded me, trees that hid the view that it was impossible to find out what lay behind those massive woods. The road was a small trail and as soon as you enter the reserve, there is something that you notice – the mysterious silence that I mentioned. Sometimes it sounds eerie but I enjoyed it as if the nature suddenly was asking me to discover what it hid behind her green cloak – surely something I have never known.
KTDC has three most wonderful resorts inside suited for anyone’s budget… the only job we had was to choose…. And each time we were there… we chose differently….
Lake Palace
Twenty minutes in an exclusive boat with the two of us and we were in an island at the middle of Periyar lake. This was where we were going to spend our first night in the reserve. The hotel stood further inside with a wooden plank with a name Lake Palace. Lake palace had been a summer house for the King of Travancore as well as the British Governors and officers which was later revamped into one of the most luxurious resorts in India. There are only a few rooms which is booked almost all the year. We had a premium deluxe room and as soon as we got there, we were taken to our room. It was the best room of the lot. The balcony overlooked the lake and the distant forest and from there you could see the animals along the forest land. Elephants, bisons you name it. The entire place embraces silence and peace and the few number of guests make it a perfect get away from the world with sometime spent with the wild.
We got there by brunch and I swear I have never tasted anything more delicious than the breakfast that was served that day. We had an elaborate dinner that day with North as well as South Indian dishes, right there in the privacy of our room and slept peacefully. Next morning, a calm and cool sun welcomed us. If there is anything you shouldn’t miss here is the peaceful time you can spend on an easy chair reading while you sip on a steaming cup of coffee by the lake and the forest view.
The steps behind the house leads to the lake and is a beautiful place and should not be missed out. There is an office near by which was once attacked by elephants but that was long ago and nowadays a very deep trench runs all way around the Palace.
The boat ride took us across the periyar lake showing us elephants on its way. Sometimes you see tigers too but guess my lucky star was on holiday. Guests of Lake palace have all the facilities like Trekking, Hiking, Boating and Camping free of cost. You don’t have to pay a penny but plainly enjoy the stay…. Trust me I can guarantee you…. Life doesn’t get any more royal than this!!
Even when the Palace, isolates you from the main land, it has every facility that you can think of. There are always people at your service and there are ISD and STD facilities from every room.
Tariff 10000 to 25000
Aranya Nivas
Another Guest house at Thekkady but frankly speaking other than a luxurious room and facilities, Aranya Nivas has got nothing to boast about. It just makes a comfortable home and the food is not something outstanding. For boat rides and other activities, the guest need to get the tickets from the reception. The room was nice with small corridor and a bed room and a toilet. But if asked I would recommend Periyar house over Aranya Nivas for where it stands.
Tariffs : 3000 to 8000
Although I should confess that I have no idea about the suites here. They might be good. The breakfast and dinner is included but is usually buffet.