The Bungalow

The Bungalow is found on the island of Vypeen, just a five minute ferry ride from Fort Cochin. It is the home of Neema Veliyath who lives with her husband, daughter and parents. It is an enormous house, built in 1930 by Neema’s great grandfather, and fascinating for anyone interested in architecture or Keralan history. It has an interesting story behind its creation and is in the architectural style specific to Cochin, with a Portuguese style ground floor, a Dutch style first floor and Keralan style sloping attic! The Bungalow is renowned in the area and people always used to stop and ask to have a look inside the house, which made the family decide to start up a Homestay. Neema’s husband was a Captain in the Merchant Navy and the couple has photograph albums full of their travels, and friends all over the world. Neema is an exceptional host and many of her guests keep in touch.

The floors, staircases and ceilings of the house are made of dark rosewood in the typical Keralan style. The family lives downstairs, and the two guest rooms are on the first floor which has a remarkable Dutch style landing. The whole house is refreshingly ventilated by the many windows and high ceilings and is kept very clean. The house has several antiques such as the old wooden beds in the guests’ rooms and there are several historical features which make it incredibly atmospheric.

The beach is just round the corner, where guests can walk along the promenade and see the Chinese fishing nets; everyday the family buys fresh fish from here which forms part of their delicious Kerelan meals. There are several historical churches and temples in Vypeen, as well as the famous Cherai beach. The area profits from being central to both Fort Cochin and Ernakulam, whilst retaining a secluded sense of calm.

• Cooking lessons given by Neema
• Guests can learn how the Chinese fishing nets are used, down by the beaches
• Guests can go to an arts and craft centre in Ernakulam
• There is an ayurvedic centre nearby where guests can get massages and have ayurvedic treatment
• There is a yoga centre nearby
• The family can advise guests on places to go to see traditional dancing and music displays, in both Ernakulam and Fort Cochin
• Cycling and walking in the local area
• Visits to the elephant training centre and elephant rides can be arranged
• The family can take guests to see local historical churches, beaches, temples and the synagogue
• Guests can get involved in local temple and church festivals, the family can inform guests of which festivals are going on
• Taking the ferry to visit the sights of Fort Cochin
• Going to Ernakulam by road or ferry, to go to the cinema and shopping malls
• Shopping in Fort Cochin and the antique shops of the Jewish town
• Backwater tours can be arranged
• The family can arrange for guests to go on trips to the Athirampilly waterfalls

• 2 bedrooms
• One bedroom has ensuite, the other has a separate bathroom
• Superior Room - AC
• Premium Room - Non AC
• 24 hour hot running water
• Attic with two rooms
• Downstairs sitting room
• Lounge area
• Dining room
• Front garden
• Indian or continental breakfast served, lunch and dinner are additional
• Large kitchen, self catering available
• Laundry service
• Internet Access
• Doctor on call
• Pick up from the airport and railway and bus stations can be arranged