Azure backwaters, swaying palms, and floating houseboats. These are a few of the things that inspired English Missionary Henry Baker, in the late 19th century, to acquire land on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Today, it is known as the Taj Garden Retreat, Kumarakom. Often referred to as the little jewel of Kumarakom, it still maintains the beauty of its rustic surroundings. The 123-year-old colonial bungalow houses newly built Luxury Villas, heritage rooms, charming cottages, and quaint houseboats, anchored in the private lagoon. At this idyllic retreat, guests can look forward to practicing the Art of doing Nothing or keeping themselves busy with a variety of experiences, from nature to adventure, from culture to cuisine, and from rejuvenation to religion. Pick up and drop from Kottayam railway station. Buffet/ fixed menu breakfast, lunch or dinner. A backwater cruise in a motor launch. Trek to bird sanctuary. Stay for two children under the age of 12 years in the parents room with maximum one extra bed at no additional charge.-room only- Once known as Baker��s Bungalow. Now refurbished, it retains a colonial flavour. 14 km from Kottayam, accessible by land and water. 33 rooms include luxury villas with a private pool.