Azure backwaters, swaying palms, and floating houseboats. These are a few of the things that inspired English Missionary Henry Baker, in the late 19th century, to acquire land on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Today, it is known as the Taj Garden Retreat, Kumarakom.

Often referred to as the little jewel of Kumarakom, it still maintains the beauty of its rustic surroundings. The 123-year-old colonial bungalow houses newly built Luxury Villas, heritage rooms and charming cottages. At this idyllic retreat, guests can look forward to practicing the art of doing nothing or keeping themselves busy with a variety of experiences, from nature to adventure, from culture to cuisine, and from rejuvenation to religion.

Accomodation

Rooms & Suites Designed with distinctive native materials and building techniques for rustic comfort and relaxation. Luxury villas with Private pools Designed to offer the utmost in privacy, these villas perfectly blend Edwardian and Kerala décor with private sit-outs, private plunge pools with Jacuzzi amid lush greenery, and the exhilarating experience of open-air garden showers. These spacious rooms are equipped with large glass doors that open to a verandah, offering panoramic views of the Vembanad lake. Include guest amenities like international direct dial facility, color television, mini bar, and hair dryer. Luxury Villas Designed to offer the utmost in privacy, these villas perfectly blend Edwardian and Kerala décor with private sit-outs amid lush greenery, and the exhilarating experience of open-air garden showers. These spacious rooms are equipped with large glass doors that open to a verandah, overlooking a tranquil lily pond. Include all of the above guest amenities. Deluxe cottage Rooms Located in the Ayurveda block overlooking the swimming pool, these deluxe cottages have played host to heads of governments and leading lights of industry. Offering décor with old-world charm and modern facilities. Include all of the above guest amenities. Cottage Rooms A row of charming cottages, each with its own patio, fronts the lagoon with full-length picture-window bathrooms for the ambience of an outdoor bath. Include all of the above guest amenities. Standard Rooms Guests journey back in time with décor inspired by old-world styles including wooden floors and high wooden ceilings. Well equipped with guest amenities like international direct dial facility, channel music and color television with satellite programmes.

Culinary

Food and Wine From casual, all-day eateries to formal, fine dining, guests can look forward to a wide selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks. At Taj, we offer a distinctive dining experience, one that explores the nuances of the finest Indian and international cuisines, serving traditional and contemporary favourites. Baker's Dining Room This 123-year old bungalow offers ample colonial charm as well as alfresco dining amid picturesque surroundings and backwaters. Attire: Smart Casual Sunset Bar This bar offers an array of exotic cocktails with a magnificent view of the Vembanad lake. Attire: Casual

Facilities

Hotel Business Services include:  Broadband Internet access Business Centre Mobile phones on hire Multimedia computers Portable printers on hire Secretarial services

Meetings

Spacious guest room can be arranged for meetings and cocktails for up to 14guests Indian, continental and local cuisine available

Accessibility

Known as the “little crown jewel of Kumarakom,” the Taj Garden Retreat sparkles with indescribable beauty. Located next to the Vembanad lake and a bird sanctuary, the Taj Garden Retreat is 14 km from Kottayam, and is accessible by both land and water. The hotel, equipped with Internet access, can convert a guest room into a meeting area for up to 14 for conferences or cocktails.