The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has opened its second hotel in Kerala, The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel. The new addition joins The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel, and builds on the brand’s presence in the coastal state with the two resorts offering very distinctive and unique backwater and beach experiences, completing the much sought-after and serenely beautiful Kerala itinerary. Both additions were previously flagged by LATTE in early 2022.
The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel is a tiny hamlet perched on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake, formed by the confluence of the eight lakes, offering a magical backwater experience that flawlessly balances barefoot luxury with rustic charm. Placid, serene waters, surrounded by lush greenery and swaying coconut trees create a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Thoughtfully curated experiences unlock the magic and mystery of the locale and offer an enriching cultural immersion into the destination amidst an awe-inspiring setting.
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“Kerala has historically been one of our key markets and strategically significant to our growth in the region,” says Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts. “The resort marks another milestone in our journey as we continue to grow in the most alluring leisure destinations across the country.
“This expansion is in lockstep with the growing demand from the discerning global leisure traveller to experience meaningful and transformative journeys that are an authentic expression of a region’s beauty, heritage and culture,” Bhatnagar said.
Commenting on the opening, Dr Ravi Pillai, Chairman RP Group said,” I am excited to see our partnership with The Leela brand evolve and I am confident that together we can play a key role in transforming the tourism sector in the region. The coming together of Raviz and The Leela provides the unique opportunity to place Kerala at the heart of global leisure and wellness travel and further reimagine and elevate the high standards of hospitality that exist in the region with unparalleled levels of luxury and warm and gracious service – both of which The Leela brand is known for.”
Integrating the foundational principles of environment and sustainability, the resort is elegantly poised in harmony with local history, evidently enchanting and magnifying the culture and heritage of the destination through inspired design narratives that reference Kerala’s rich architectural heritage.
With 93 rooms that reflect the traditional Nalukettu aesthetic of Kerala, the resort offers accommodations including rooms, suites and experiential houses, embodying historic charm that seamlessly blend the old and the new and serve as a window to the resort’s breath-taking natural settings. A charming décor permeates each room and traditional artifacts and furnishings steeped in culture, pay homage to the history and culture of the locale.
Guests can choose between the Tower Wing or the Heritage Wing or elevate their experience by upgrading to one of the two available private plunge pool villas. The resort also features two unique traditional experiential houses offering the THARAVADU Experience – namely Erattupetta and Anchal which have a rich history of more than 200 years.
Those seeking ultimate luxury can reserve a private getaway with a tranquil backwater cruise on Mahayana – the quaint houseboat that comes with all the comforts of a hotel and is evocative of everything that is quintessentially Kerala.
The resort houses four unique dining venues and a spa. To find out more, see theleela.com/ashtamudi.