Privacy at Sanctuary Bay

One of India’s most exclusive boltholes, this waterfront boutique place on the western shores of Vembanad Lake is a peculiarly Keralan kind of paradise. Its piece de résistance is a three-roomed antique nallukettu bungalow whose pillared verandah steps straight on to the lakeshore, where fish eagles patrol the shallows and canopied kettuvallam houseboats drift dreamily past. Inside, pieces of modern Indian art and vibrant textiles add pizzazz to the darkwood interiors. The rear-side windows open onto a lawned garden with a large pool and terrace where meals are served by uniformed staff. Just behind, a second bungalow of more recent vintage offers more of the same.