ILLIKKALAM Lakeside Cottages Kumarakom Kerala

Courteous staff, great view from lake side room

Placed by the Vembanad lake, this place opens to a fantastic view of the seemingly endless lake. Surrounded by gardens, the ambience is lovely. Supportive staff - especially the manager Mr.Salim was a very helpful and forthcoming gentleman. The frequent power cuts were a bummer though, something I wish they fix.

Travelled with my wife and parents and stayed for 3 nights. One check in the staff did not seem to under English well and there was confusion as to whether we were to be checked or not. They had originally put us in particular rooms then changed us to rooms that faced a wall. We had to have a LONG debate before they gave us the rooms that they had originally selected for us. Throughout the stay the staff did not seem to understand us, we ordered water because we were going for a walk and they took the water to our room even though we had order and waited in reception for the water. We told that there was no wifi in the rooms and went to reception to make Xmas phone calls via Skype to family and the reception staff asked us to make the call in our room, not long after the internet "was not working anymore". When we returned the internet was working fine. We dared not eat at the restaurant on site after all the communication problems. The rooms were a bit damp and we had to open the door during the day to air it. Overall the rooms were okay, nothing fancy but comfortable. If I returned to the area I would stay elsewhere.

Bed was small to accommodate 2 adults and 2 kids. No extra bed provided and asked for extra payment of 950 Rs. Breakfast was not complimentary. Room rent is high if you compare the facility available. They have a good view of the lake.