kochi

Bolgatty Palace

It is less than10 minutes boat journey from the High Court Junction enjoying the cool breeze blowing across the waters. Or you can have a ride through the Goshree Bridges to reach the property. The narrow roads may lessen your expectations about the magnificence of the property to be seen, but once you reach here, you will be amazed by the quaint grandeur of the property, which is known as Bolgatty Palace.

History
The Bolgatty Palace was built by a Dutch trader in 1744. The palace, overlooking Lake Vembanad, is one of the oldest Dutch palaces outside Netherlands. The King of Kochi leased the property to the British in 1909. Till the time of India’s independence, it was used as lodging for British Governors. In 1976, Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) took over the management of the property and converted it into a heritage hotel.

Architecture and ambience
The palace, housed in an 8-acre property with well manicured lawns and old trees, carries the scent  of Dutch architecture. The wooded property with large halls, strong pillars, tiled roofs and wooden-framed glass windows, standing in the backdrop of the idyllic setting, is a sight to behold. The palace is encircled by a nine-hole golf course which was set up in 1923. A  sprawling park too is situated near the property.

Facilities
Bolgatty Palace has a swimming pool, luxurious suites, a golf course, ayurvedic spa facility, a multi cuisine restaurant etc. The spacious rooms, part of the original structure, has antique furniture reminiscent of a memorable past. The KTDC organizes Kathakali and other cultural performances at the palace. Horse riding and boat cruises are arranged on request.