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Homestay
India

Philipkutty's Farm
The Backwaters of Kerala

Philipkutty's Farm, The Backwaters, India
Philipkutty's Farm, The Backwaters, India
Philipkutty's Farm, The Backwaters, India
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Philipkutty's Farm, The Backwaters, India

Highlights

  • Authentic Farm Stay: Philipkutty’s Farm offers a unique experience on a working farm, where visitors can stay in traditional, eco-friendly cottages surrounded by lush coconut groves and backwater canals.
  • Backwater Location: Nestled on the serene Vembanad Lake, the farm provides direct access to Kerala’s tranquil backwaters, ideal for boat rides, kayaking, or just enjoying the peaceful scenery.
  • Farm-to-Table Dining: Feast on delicious home-cooked meals prepared from fresh, organic ingredients grown on the farm, with a focus on traditional Kerala cuisine.
  • Cultural Immersion: The farm offers opportunities to engage with local culture through cooking demonstrations, farm tours, and interactions with the family that runs the property.
  • Private and Peaceful Cottages: The accommodation includes private, waterfront cottages designed in traditional Kerala style, offering comfort and relaxation in a natural setting.
  • Sustainable Tourism: Philipkutty’s Farm promotes sustainable practices, emphasising eco-friendly living, organic farming, and responsible tourism that supports the local environment and community

Good to know

How to get there

The farm is located approximately 75 kilometres (47 miles) from Cochin International Airport, which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.

Are children welcome?

Yes, children are welcome at Philipkutty’s Farm. The farm provides a family-friendly environment where children can enjoy various activities, such as farm tours, interacting with animals, exploring the backwaters on boat rides, and learning about organic farming. The peaceful setting and open spaces make it an ideal place for families to relax and experience the natural beauty of Kerala together.

Sustainability

Philipkutty’s Farm follows a strong sustainability policy, focusing on eco-friendly practices and promoting responsible tourism. Here are the key aspects of their sustainability efforts:

  1. Organic Farming: The farm operates as an organic, sustainable agricultural property, growing crops like coconuts, bananas, and vegetables without harmful chemicals. They use natural fertilisers and traditional farming methods to preserve the soil and ecosystem.
  2. Farm-to-Table Dining: The farm’s meals are prepared using fresh, organic produce grown on-site, promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. They also source local ingredients from nearby farmers and markets.
  3. Water Conservation: Located on Kerala’s backwaters, Philipkutty’s Farm is mindful of water usage, implementing water conservation techniques, such as rainwater harvesting, and using efficient irrigation systems for their farming needs.
  4. Waste Management: The farm reduces waste through composting organic materials and recycling wherever possible. They avoid single-use plastics and encourage guests to use eco-friendly alternatives.
  5. Energy Efficiency: The farm uses energy-efficient lighting and appliances and strives to reduce its reliance on non-renewable energy sources, encouraging sustainable practices throughout the property.
  6. Community Engagement: The farm supports local communities by employing local staff, sourcing from local markets, and engaging in cultural preservation. Guests are encouraged to learn about local traditions, further fostering respect for the region’s culture and environment.

How to spend your time here

At Philipkutty’s Farm, there are plenty of activities that immerse you in the local culture, nature, and farm life. Here’s what you can do during your stay:

1. Farm Tours and Agricultural Activities

Explore the farm and learn about organic farming practices, including the cultivation of coconuts, bananas, and spices. You can participate in daily farm activities and see how traditional Keralan farming is done.

2. Backwater Boat Rides

Enjoy scenic boat rides along the serene Vembanad Lake and the intricate network of Kerala’s backwaters. Traditional wooden boats or motorboats can be arranged, offering a peaceful way to experience the unique waterways and wildlife.

3. Cooking Classes

Take part in traditional Keralan cooking classes led by the family. Learn how to prepare local dishes using farm-fresh ingredients and master authentic recipes, such as Kerala-style fish curry, appams, and coconut-based dishes.

4. Birdwatching

The farm is home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching. From kingfishers to herons, you can enjoy observing the vibrant birdlife around the farm and nearby backwaters.

5. Local Village Exploration

Visit nearby villages to experience the local lifestyle. You can take walks through the scenic countryside, interact with local families, and witness traditional village activities, giving you a glimpse into rural life in Kerala.

6. Relaxation and Wellness

Spend your time unwinding amidst the serene surroundings of the farm. You can relax on your cottage veranda, take leisurely walks around the property, or enjoy a peaceful afternoon reading or meditating by the water.

7. Kayaking and Fishing

Explore the backwaters at your own pace with a kayak, or try your hand at fishing. Both activities allow you to engage with the local environment and enjoy the tranquil waterway experience.

8. Excursions to Local Attractions

Take short trips to nearby attractions such as the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Alleppey for a houseboat tour, or the historic Vaikom Temple, allowing you to explore the cultural and natural richness of the region.

9. Local Cultural Performances

Experience local culture with performances like Kathakali dance or Kalaripayattu martial arts. The farm can arrange for traditional performances to be enjoyed in the serene setting of the backwaters.

10. Ayurvedic Treatments

Indulge in traditional Ayurvedic massages and treatments, known for their rejuvenating and healing properties. The farm can organise sessions with local experts, perfect for relaxation and well-being.

Supporting the community

Philipkutty’s Farm supports the local community in several meaningful ways:

  1. Employment: The farm employs local residents, providing them with stable jobs in various roles, from farming to hospitality. This helps boost the local economy and provides families with sustainable livelihoods.
  2. Local Sourcing: The farm sources ingredients and materials from nearby markets and farms, supporting local farmers, artisans, and businesses. This ensures the community benefits from the farm’s activities and promotes the use of fresh, local products.
  3. Cultural Preservation: Philipkutty’s Farm actively promotes the region’s cultural heritage by organising local cooking demonstrations, farming tours, and encouraging interaction with the local community. This helps preserve and celebrate Kerala’s traditional ways of life while educating visitors.
  4. Knowledge Sharing: By offering farm tours and educational experiences, the farm shares sustainable farming techniques and organic practices with locals, contributing to the spread of environmentally-friendly farming methods.
  5. Supporting Local Artisans: The farm showcases and promotes local crafts and goods, offering guests the opportunity to purchase handmade products, thereby supporting local artisans and preserving traditional craftsmanship.
  6. Community Integration: The farm works in close partnership with its surrounding community, fostering positive relationships and encouraging a sense of shared responsibility for the environment and cultural heritage.

Why we love Philipkutty’s Farm

It has to be the food that we love the most. A true farm to table experience with fresh, organic ingredients and traditional Keralan recipes and personalised menus make this such a special place. You can even learn how to make them when you get home.

Charlotte 130 cta Shakti
Charlotte Winter

Specialises in

Asia, Australasia & The Middle East
Philipkutty's Farm, The Backwaters, India

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Auriole Potter
Charlotte Winter
Charlotte Winter
Flora Sweeting-Philips