Periyar Tiger Reserve

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Ho-hum. Maybe it was because the water in the lake was low, maybe it was because both my food and shower were cold; maybe it was because there were 40 mosquitos in our room upon arrival; maybe it was because the hotel treated us this way despite the fact that they charged more than most four star hotels in Europe, Japan, or the USA, but I do not recommend staying at the Lake Palace in the Periyar Tiger Reserve. http://www.lakepalacethekkady.com/

The Lake Palace is the former summer palace of the King of Travancore, but it can only be visited by guests of the hotel. Given that the hotel service is so bad but the grounds are worth a visit, the palace would better serve the public if it were turned into a museum that everyone could visit. The service is so poor that it just isn't functional as a hotel.

I would recommend an elephant ride, a boat ride around the lake, a trek, or an ayurvedic massage. For the massage, try the Kalari Centre on Thekkady Road for an intensive traditional experience. Its just 2 km from the park entrance.

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