The hype
A magical, impeccably maintained heritage property with top-tier hospitality and incredible backwater views.
Coconut Lagoon
$150-250 / night
Book this if You want an authentic, eco-friendly Kerala backwater experience in a restored heritage mansion accessible only by boat.
Why People Love It
- Accessible only by a scenic 10-minute boat ride across Vembanad Lake
- Restored 150-year-old traditional Kerala tharavads (mansions)
- Exceptional Ayurvedic spa and on-site butterfly garden
Quick Take: It's a stunning step back in time, but the traditional open-to-the-sky bathrooms mean you'll be sharing your shower with the occasional frog or mosquito.
Reviewed by @TravelwithSmi: My stay at Coconut Lagoon was the peaceful escape I desperately needed. The traditional wooden bungalow was so cozy, but the real star was the open-air shower—showering under the sky was unreal! If you love nature and quiet vibes, you'll adore this place.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The traditional wooden architecture means sound travels easily between floors, and the outdoor bathrooms aren't for the squeamish.
- Nature lovers and bird watchers
- Couples seeking a romantic, off-the-grid escape
- Fans of authentic, spicy Keralan cuisine
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.2
- Housekeeping: Immaculate daily cleaning, though the outdoor nature of the property means you'll still encounter some leaves or bugs.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless, but keep in mind that the open-air design in bungalows/mansions means dealing with humidity and nature.
- Maintenance: Extremely well-maintained heritage property; they quickly address any plumbing or AC issues.
- Linens & towels: Clean, crisp, and comfortable premium bedding.
- Odors & scents: Fresh, natural scents of the backwaters, tropical flowers, and Ayurvedic oils.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Footsteps from the upper floors in the two-story Heritage Mansions
- Wildlife and nature sounds (frogs, birds, insects)
Before you book
Good to know
- You must park at the Kavanattinkara boat jetty and take a 10-minute complimentary boat transfer to the resort
- The resort is highly eco-conscious, so expect organic toiletries and a ban on single-use plastics
- To comply with local law, no alcohol is served on the first day of every month
What to pack
- Mosquito repellent (essential for the backwaters and open-air bathrooms)
- Light, breathable linens or cottons for the humid Kerala weather
Room Genie
Best picks
- Lake Front Villas with Private Pool for ultimate privacy, widescreen Vembanad Lake views, and enclosed bathrooms
- Heritage Bungalows for a cozy, single-level traditional experience
Rooms to avoid
- Heritage Mansions if you have mobility issues (bathrooms are downstairs, bedrooms upstairs)
- Rooms closest to the main walkways if you want absolute privacy from passing guests
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Hi team, we are so excited for our stay. If possible, could we request a Lake Front Villa with an unobstructed view of Vembanad Lake, or a single-level Heritage Bungalow away from the main walkways for maximum privacy? Thank you!”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
How do I get to the resort?
You will park your car at the Kavanattinkara boat jetty on the mainland and take a complimentary 10-minute boat ride across the lake to the property.
Are the bathrooms really outside?
Yes, the Heritage Mansions and Bungalows feature traditional partially open-to-the-sky bathrooms. If you want a closed bathroom, you must book a Lake Front Villa.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available, though the connection can occasionally be spotty given the remote backwater location.
What is the food like?
Exceptional. The Ettukettu restaurant serves authentic Kerala cuisine on banana leaves, and Vembanad Grill offers fresh local seafood.
Is the hotel wheelchair accessible?
Not very. The grounds feature many canal-spanning humpback bridges, and the Mansions have stairs, though one Heritage Bungalow is adapted for wheelchair users.
Can I swim in the lake?
No, swimming in the lake isn't recommended, but the resort has a beautiful outdoor pool and a separate children's pool.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Don't miss the complimentary sunset cruise on Vembanad Lake—it's a highlight for most guests.
- ✨
Ask for the 'catch of the day' at the Vembanad Grill; they'll cook it right in front of you.
- ✨
Wake up early for the guided bird-watching tour; the property is right next to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
5 things to know before you go
💡The resort has its own sacred forest grove and a dedicated butterfly garden.
💡Alcohol is strictly not served on the first day of every month due to local Kerala laws.
💡The Heritage Mansions are authentic 150-year-old homes that were dismantled and meticulously reassembled on-site.
💡You might find a 70-foot coconut palm growing right through the middle of your enclosed courtyard bathroom.
💡The resort employs a team of naturalists who are incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about the local ecosystem.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Coconut Lagoon is located and what's nearby.