As you stumble left of the Alappuzha- Trivandrum highway in the town ofKollam, a network of winding roads takes you to the Kureepuzha area. Even though the proximity to the Ashtamudi backwaters appears to be close, you can be rest assured that one cannot reach this scenic locale without guidance. About 50 meters before the local boat stop jetty, Mr. Rajesh and his wife Preetha have constructed their home, ‘Nalukettil’. Flanked by backwaters on three sides, the house is a fairly new construction of about eight years old. Named after their ancestral house, ‘Nalukettil’ greets you with a charming garden and a rather inexplicably located well near the gate. Clearly the centre of attraction for many visitors, the house- well caters to most of the water needs and has acquired credible testimonials of the water being absolutely delicious.
On entering the house, what strikes first is the mantle piece adorned by pictures of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar of Art of Living. A devout follower of his philosophies, Rajesh’s home emanates exceptional warmth and peace. Extremely inclined to learn more about the spiritual and cultural disposition of other countries, the couple strikes an easy conversation and readily share their own experience and knowledge of the country. The conversation flows easily on the dinner table over a sumptuous traditional Kerala meal. The couple’s initially shy but spritely kids are especially endearing and affectionately contribute to the conversations, which routinely shift to the old swing in the living area.
The two rooms available for guests are equipped with an air conditioner each, though the tall wide windows allow ample cool breeze from the backwaters. The bathrooms are spacious and have both hot and cold water available.
One can easily dismiss a hectic itinerary of visiting places and settle down in the coir hammock or the swing in the garden with a good book.
Activities:
Having been in Kollam for the last forty years, Rajesh is well acquainted with areas in an around the town and can arrange a number of activities for you:
- Walks in the village
- A trip to the languid Kollam beach
- A trip to the historical ‘Jadayu’ rock, an ancient lighthouse and numerous temples and churches around the area
- Backwater cruises
Facilities:
- Internet
- Pick up and drop facilities