A Day at Chittoor Kottaram: Royalty, Serenity, and Soulful Kerala

Tucked along the quiet backwaters near Kochi, Chittoor Kottaram is not just a stay—it’s a step back in time. Once the private retreat of the Cochin Royal Family, this one-key royal mansion whispers stories of heritage and tradition at every corner. Arriving by boat through serene canals, we were greeted by lush greenery, swaying coconut palms, and the still waters that mirror Kerala’s soulful rhythm.

The mansion itself is a work of preserved elegance. Traditional wooden architecture, antique furnishings, and intricate detailing made us feel like time had paused in the most graceful way. With only one guest party allowed at a time, it felt like the palace was truly ours for the day—a rare kind of solitude wrapped in history.

We started our morning with a traditional Kerala breakfast served on banana leaves, followed by a quiet walk along the water’s edge, the air filled with the sounds of birdsong and temple bells in the distance. The day unfolded slowly, as Kerala days do. A boat ride through the backwaters offered views of everyday life—fishermen casting nets, women washing clothes by hand, children waving from the shore.

Inside the palace, the silence was beautiful. It gave space to think, to breathe, to feel connected to the land and its heritage. As the sun set, casting golden hues over the water, the scent of jasmine and incense filled the air. Dinner, prepared in traditional style, felt less like a meal and more like a ceremony of flavors and hospitality.

Our stay at Chittoor Kottaram was more than luxury—it was a deep cultural immersion into Kerala’s royal past, its timeless nature, and its quietly powerful spirit. A truly unforgettable experience in just one perfect day.