104 ReviewsThe history of Kodianthara, located in the heart of the Kumarakom on the banks of one of the many backwater canals that criss-cross this scenic village, dates back to 1852. Under the supervision of Uthup Ittiyavirah, a magnificent house was built which was to become the Tharavadu -- or ancestral home -- for later generations of the Kodianthara family.Since then, this property, which is more than 154 years old, has been passed down over five generations to the present occupant -- Crispin Kodianthara. A Hotel Management graduate, Crispin has worked in the Merchant Navy as a Catering Officer for over 25 years. And now he brings his immense experience in the hospitality industry to his ancestral home, set amidst over two acres of palm, rubber and mango trees.
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Behind St.John Knanaya Church, Kumarakom P O,Kumarakom,Kerala,India
The history of Kodianthara, located in the heart of the Kumarakom on the banks of one of the many backwater canals that criss-cross this scenic village, dates back to 1852. Under the supervision of Uthup Ittiyavirah, a magnificent house was built which was to become the Tharavadu -- or ancestral home -- for later generations of the Kodianthara family.Since then, this property, which is more than 154 years old, has been passed down over five generations to the present occupant -- Crispin Kodianthara. A Hotel Management graduate, Crispin has worked in the Merchant Navy as a Catering Officer for over 25 years. And now he brings his immense experience in the hospitality industry to his ancestral home, set amidst over two acres of palm, rubber and mango trees.
Rating from 104 reviews
Sleep QualityRooms
ServiceValueCleanliness 
josephchandy70 on 09/11/2017 13:05
"Kodianthara Heritage home" is a Jewel in the heart of Kumarakom. The property has been done up very tastefully, whilst retaining the old world charm, the rooms have been updated well to suit modern day living. They have 2 House boats which take you on a tour of the natural beauty around [Vembannad Kayal].
Crispin & Soni, owners of this beautiful property are excellent hosts and made our stay with 2 kids an absolute delight.
The property has the backwaters flowing in the front and kids can go on a snake board rides.
Home cooked food is finger licking good. All in all a wonderful holiday destination for families with kids.
Will definitely recommend to everyone.
Manas R on 08/11/2017 05:51
Very pristine and beautiful house and farm which is in the premises. The area is also suitable for beautiful walks. Lovely hosts. Helped us throughout our stay. We would definitely come back and refer to our friends.
alfredocareaga2015 on 23/09/2017 16:17
We spent only one night with Maryann and Crispin. Their house is a beautiful example of Kerala vernacular architecture. Their company was very friendly and the food excellent. We highly recommend the Kodianthara Heritage Home.
Saurav D on 09/09/2017 12:37
Great place to stay... You would feel right at home.. I did
I remember while I there, it was theirs daughter's wedding anniversary and I genuinely felt like a part of the family.
Looking forward to being there again asap.
OnlyVivianFernandes on 01/09/2017 14:29
This is a property that was established in 1850. The house was renovated and extended in 2002. We were six of us who stayed four nights till 13 Aug, three in single rooms and the rest in an adjacent cottage, which has two rooms and two baths. It was fascinating to see the old, elegantly designed doors with ornate locks; the low-ceiling original rooms which have just enough space for a bed; the square in the centre of the house for sunlight to filter in and the cool, hollow recess in the drawing room where fresh produce used to be stored in days gone by.
The house is now a sprawl, shaded with a variety of trees: nutmeg, bay leaf, clove, mango, jack, and, of course, coconut palms. Kottayam town is 13 km away and costs Rs 200 one way by autorickshaw. It is cheaper to travel by buses and there are plenty of them. A trip by houseboat on Vembanad lake is mandatory. I would urge you to visit a toddy shop and imbibe the mild intoxicant. The better ones serve a variety of meat and fish dishes.
A relative of the host demonstrated an art form which can be called "minimally-invasive mixology." He drew about 90 ml of water from a tender coconut with a large syringe and injected an equal quantity of vodka. The nut was put in a freezer for a couple of hours during which we went by boat to an island in the Vemabanad and had a swim. Upon returning, it was a delight to sip the chilled, spiked potion.
The lady of the house, who had a day job, is warm and welcoming. It is obvious that the host takes pride in the property: he has maintained it well. This is a homestay, so do not expect people to be on call. It might be a good idea to pack snacks, especially if you have kids.
It might be a good idea for the host to keep fluffy towels, soap and shampoo in the baths, for the sake of those guests who do not arrive with these. Take mosquito repellents in summer. Though the surroundings are clean, mosquitoes like thick vegetation.
Overall a visit to remember.
