Elephant Court: Call of the wild

The very sound of the word Thekkady conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice scented plantations. In the Periyar forest of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India, and spread across the entire place are picturesque plantations and hill towns that hold great opportunities for treks and mountain walks. As you go up the hills through the twisting roads sandwitched between the valleys and the hills to Thekkady, your mind becomes cool and light as the breeze around. The nature's bounty in 777 sq. kms. is the repository of rare, endemic and endangered flora and fauna that constitute the rich biodiversity of the place. You can spot wild elephants, tigers, leopards, gaurs, Nilgiri languars, otters, etc in this wildlife sanctuary. This home of 62 species of mammals, 320 species of birds, 45 species of reptiles, 27 species of amphibians and 38 species of fishes, is also the homeland of three ethnic tribes - Mannas, Paliyans and Ooralis.

The Elephant Court is situated right here at Thekkady. When you are here, you will understand that in designing this resort, the architect was exploring the relationship between nature and man. When you sit on the Charupady, that runs almost a couple of kilometers around every private and public space in the resort, you will get a feeling that you are sitting on the threshold of civilisation and nature. The traditional Kerala architecture and the craft in wood in every corner of the resort establishes the cultural identity of the place. You are on a holiday and even being in the wildlife retreat is not justifying enough to hold you back from relaxing in water. So, almost in the middle of the resort, you will enjoy the swimming pool with jacuzzi and the kid's pool. If you are more interested in private pools, the three pool studios with piano shaped pools will add more colours to your holiday.

When you are taking time off for leisure, you are ready to wander away from your normal course, even in food. Catering to the international palate, honouring their exquisite tradition of fine culinary skills, they will take you on a journey into wonderful land of spices and aromas. From the traditional lunch, the Kerala Sadhya to the delicate breakfast dishes, the journey is an unforgettable experience. As you stroll down the stone-paved pathway, through the greenery of creepers lawns, trees and shrubs, you will find the tiled roofs and buildings embracing Mother Nature.

And to choose from, you have 52 patio rooms, 3 pool studios, 3 garden suites, 2 honeymoon suites, 4 executive enclaves with a private area to arrange small informal meetings and a family enclave spacious enough to house a large family. The Ayurveda centre offers special massages and treatments practised in the most authentic and traditional way. The health club and the yoga/meditation area will be of convenience to those inclined to this way of life. The activity area has facilities for indoor games like table tennis, carom, cards etc.