On the bank of the
backwaters of Kerala, a lovely
couple Byju and Lyma set to describe nature in the most romantic
and unique way with their proud possession-the Gramam
Homestay. Nestled amidst a rustic ambience away from the
noise and pollution of the city, the home makes a favorite
stay for those who respect nature and knows to appreciate
its beauty.
Keeping in mind the
fragile ecology of today- Gramam
Homestay speaks volumes on part of the couple’s
dedication towards maintaining and preserving the same. With
the willful assistance of the locals living there they practice
various methods so as to retain the ecological balance of
Kumbalagi Village, 10km on the outskirts of Cochin (Kochi).
A variety of fish, prawn, crab,
oil, coconut, vegetables and fruits are produced and collected
locally and the villagers were benefited . Local
materials and organic manure form the basic ingredients of
house and gardens, like locally
produced lime is used for white washing the house. The use
of plastic is minimized and recycling
of old materials is strongly favored. Locally
made traditional country boat are used in the backwater
instead of mechanized boats. Homemade
wine and local brew are used for drinking purposes.
Built in the typical Keralan architectural style, the house is surrounded by nature in bounty, be it the small garden that runs into the backwaters or the farmland around the house with coconuts, areca nuts, a variety of mangoes, pepper, pineapple and medicinal plants. A 200-year-old mango tree ‘Chandanakaran’, which incidentally is the biggest tree in the village, forms the major attraction among visitors.
When it comes to accommodation the house never fails to see to its visitor’s comforts. It greets you with two en-suite rooms tastefully furnished with private entry and laundry services. The bathrooms comprise of modern plumbing and western style toilets. There is a wide choice of menus to whet your appetite. Lyma cooks herself in true Keralan style for the guests. It’s needless to say how delicious the food is, when somebody described it as "heaven".
Such is the stay at Gramam Homestay that you feel completely at home, with Byju and Lyma play ing the perfect host. Right from picking you up on arrival, the couple assists you throughout the stay- arranging transportation, provide assistance during shopping spree, arrange for Ayurvedic massage and treatment from qualified doctors and also helps in providing access to the Internet.
Some of the important activities you can enjoy during the stay include: A day trip to Kochi heritage zone and shopping around; watch Kathakali-dance drama and famous Keralan martial arts; boating on Backwaters; cycling through countryside; visit the Chinese Fishing Nets; visit the nearby choir; learn about crab and prawn farming; trip to 350 year old Nalukettu House and Kavu (sacred grove) with its snake god, and learn Keralite cuisine from Lyma.
