My husband and I have just returned from our trip to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India. There were so many incredible things we did and saw while we were there. But one of the highlights for us was our stay at Anantya Resorts in Travancore, north of Kanyakumari, on the last night of our trip.
Related: Why It’s Worth Visiting Kanyakumari, The Southernmost Tip of India
Now that we’ve returned, I want to share all the details with you about this wonderful boutique hotel. If you are planning a trip to Kanyakumari and the surrounding area, I highly recommend staying at this property for an experience you won’t forget.
Our Stay at Anantya Resorts near Kanyakumari, India
Have you ever arrived at a hotel and instantly knew you found paradise? That’s exactly how my husband and I felt upon our arrival at Anantya Resorts.
From the moment the gates of the resort opened and our taxi drove down the treelined path, we knew we had come to a special place. A walk to our private, lakefront cottage confirmed our first impressions. As we took in the surroundings, all of our cares and worries slipped away. We were ready to tap into the tranquility and Zen vibe of this place.
Where exactly is Anantya Resorts?
The infinity pool at Anantya Resorts
This luxury resort is located in Travancore, on the southern border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Hence, it’s a great jumping-off point for sightseeing in both states of India.
Approximately 45 km northwest of the city of Kanyakumari, it took us about an hour and forty minutes by car to get to the resort. Getting back to the airport in Trivandrum, (where we flew in and out from), also took us about an hour and forty minutes.
Pro Travel Tip: Many local roads in India are not paved well so always factor in extra time when driving from one location to another.
Our Accommodations
The entire property consists of lakeside cottages. Some offer private plunge pools and Jacuzzis. Room rates start at approximately $120 per night. We opted for a Chakra cottage with a private verandah. I have to admit, that’s where we spent most of our time, admiring the view of Chittar Lake and the mountains beyond.
A view of Chittar Lake from our private verandah
Our room was comfortable and spacious. The bathroom had unique design elements like a deep soaker tub and a rustic vessel sink.
What we were most impressed with, in our cottage and at the resort in general, was the attention to detail. The minimalist design aesthetic is completely harmonious with the natural surroundings. From the use of raw materials to the plantation-like feel of the property and the water-lined walkways, everything blended together seamlessly.
In short, staying here was a meditative experience.
The Food at Anantya Resorts
We ate all of our meals at the hotel. (Breakfast was included with our room.) We were happy to do so because the food was delicious. The menu has everything from Indian and Ayurvedic dishes to more Western-style and East Asian options.
Even better than the food was the friendly staff. Everyone went out of their way to ensure our comfort. We had a great time getting to know some of the waiters and chatting with them about life in South India.
Things To do at Anantya Resorts
The Ayurvedic Spa
Did somebody say Ayurvedic spa? Sign me up!
I love a good spa treatment and the resort offers plenty to choose from. I opted for an Ayurvedic facial which left my skin glowing. (The resort also offers various Ayurvedic programs under the supervision of an Ayurvedic doctor.)
Learning how rubber is made during a plantation walk
Adventure Activities and Sight Seeing
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, the resort has plenty of activities to choose from. Take a spin on one of the complimentary bikes or a dip in the infinity pool. Do a morning yoga class or go on the morning plantation walk to learn about the hotel’s sustainable rubber tree plantation.
The resort also offers many day trips including a visit to the city of Kanyakumari (home to the famous Vivekananda Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar Statue), or Trivandrum, Kerala’s capital. You can also hike the nearby twin peaks Kali Malai and Kuruchu Mala, or tour the famous wooden Padmanabhapuram Palace and the nearby Tiruvattar Temple.
Or, Simply Relax and Enjoy The View
We chose this option! After spending two days running around Kanyakumari, we just wanted to sit still and take in the magnificent views.
Once my husband and I settled in, we spent most of our stay luxuriating in the verdant surroundings, either from our private verandah, or the open-air restaurant. We listened to the creatures of the forest, watched the birds swoop and soar, and observed the swirls of mist in the mountains across the lake.
We left, feeling restored and renewed.
Are You Ready for a Stay at Anantya Resorts?
If you love to travel like me, then I’m guessing you have a bucket list…and a hotel list…and a restaurant list. (Yep, I’m guilty of all 3!)
So do yourself a favor, and add Anantya Resorts (and a visit to Kanyakumari!) to your list.
It is a truly special place that we can’t wait to visit again.
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Interested in more travel guides for South India? Check out these:
The Best Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu
1 Comment
Ann
November 11, 2019 at 1:02 amWhat a place of beautiy, anyone would be lucky to stay there =)