The resort has also been named India’s Leading Green Resort in the first ever Green Edition of the World Travel Awards.

SI readers will be interested to know that Kumarakom Lake Resort's selection of premium wines includes the Big Banyan range which is another division of Bangalore based Paul John Enterprises. Big Banyan's two elegant whites and three reds are produced in consultation with Italian vineyard manager Luca Toninato and winemaker Lucio Matricardi from the University of Milan.

Speaking from my personal experience a year ago, the award comes as no surprise. A luxury retreat set on the shores of Lake Vembanad, Kumarakom Lake Resort reflects both the heritage and natural beauty of Kerala. Elements from ancient homesteads were transplanted from across the state and painstakingly reassembled to create 59 authentic heritage villas and luxury rooms. Travellers will find all their senses pampered at this unique resort.

Two of its newest offerings are Heritage Villas with personal plunge pool and Jacuzzi within their own private courtyard and Luxury Pavilion Rooms secluded amidst lush greenery. The villas and suites are spread over 15 acres while their authentic local cuisine can be enjoyed in the resort’s main restaurant which is part of a 200-year-old ‘Ettukettu’ or 8-sided mansion. The waterfront seafood restaurant and bar is ideally located to watch stunning sunsets across the lake with a glass of Big Banyan wine by your side.

— Reva K Singh